A. Weatherford

Talk with Me: Experiences with Autism in the Lds Community A. Weatherford

When a group of caring parents got together and start talking about their experiences with autism, so much information was shared that those with newly diagnosed family members who had myriad questions wanted to be in on the conversations! Eleven authors who have children at various ages and stages with autism, and one adult with autism, have collaborated to give everyone a better understanding about the needs of families and people who are dealing with this disability. We began as friends sharing information on the LDS_Autism List serve through Yahoo! Groups on the Internet, and decided to collect our stories and ideas for the many others who are living with autism in whatever form. We are sure that this collection will be valuable to more than just members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, but to all families, friends, and teachers of people with autism. The ideas we have are certainly often a product of our beliefs, but anyone who knows anyone with autism can benefit from what we have written. We have high hopes that what we have written can give ideas, hope, and coping skills to everyone whose lives are touched by autism. So, from all of us, here is our effort to share our combined wisdom from living with autism so those who help us and touch our lives can understand.