According to The Autism News, some autism groups are upset over the tone of the video below. I do agree the beginning paints a stark picture, but watch the entire clip. The overall message is one of determination. Also interesting is how Autism Speaks, producer of the video responded:

Peter Bell, executive vice president of Autism Speaks, says the video got plenty of positive response from the autism community. “But we realized it did hurt a certain segment of the population, which is why we removed the video link from our website,” he says.

“I Am Autism,” which turns hopeful about halfway through its 3 minutes and 44 seconds, was created for a World Focus on Autism event that coincided with the opening of the U.N. General Assembly in September. “It was never intended to have a life beyond that event,” Bell said.

Uh, Mr. Bell, the video is posted on YouTube.

I added the About.com:Autism blog feed to the bottom of the home page. The site is well organized with tons of content not only for parents of children with autism, but also for families and friends. Worth checking out.

CNN programming will focus on Autism today.

The much anticipated Celtics drawing was held last night in front of a studio audience under the watchful eyes of accountants from our esteemed audit firm. The lucky winner? Danielle Ullrich! Her name was chosen randomly among all who have donated so far. Congratulations Danielle! Upon learning of her good fortune she exclaimed, “I never win anything!”, which may be true, but the real winner in all of this is John. To date Rob and I have raised an incredible $13,922.20 for NECC’s Annual Fund!

I believe that the most targetted and direct way to help a child with Autism is by providing the best learning environment possible, which is exactly what the Annual Fund is for. Yes, Autism research and awareness are important, but nothing will impact John’s immediate and long-term future more than pouring resources into what he needs the most to reach his fullest potential.

So, the next time you see John and he meets your eyes with a wave or a “bye, bye” please know that your donation has made this type of progress possible.

And, as Danielle and her husband Paul will attest after attending the Celts game this Friday, membership in the Marathon for John club has other rewards as well!

Set your Tivo now! Rob and I will be watching for sure.

“Night of Too Many Stars: An Overbooked Benefit for Autism Education” on April 13, live on Comedy Central (8 p.m. EST).