Sibling with autism??

Question

my 8 year old sister is a relatively high functioning autistic and we are very close. i am 13 and according to my mom, have been a huge part in her life. she is mainstreamed and is definately smarter than me, and i am an A student. most people dont understand this disease and are often afraid to meet her. how do i spread the word about autism? is there a way to explain things simply? where can i find out more about autism? do you have any advice for me? anything you can tell me is greatly appreciated!

Answer 1

I really respect you for asking to help your sister. There are two organizations that will give you a wealth of information. These organizations are:

Center for Autism and Related Disorders (CARD)

Autism Speaks also provides help. Depending on where you live, they may also provide you with a speaker. They also have a series of videos that you can download and watch. With their permission, you may be able to show them to your student body at an assembly.

For your own information, I suggest you read one or two of Dr. Temple Grandin's books. Like your sister, she has high functioning autism. She has written some fascinating books letting you inside the mind of a person with autism. They are "Thinking in Pictures" and "Animals in Translation." They are so interesting, you can't put them down! Your local library should have them.

Answer 2

Here is what I did

hopeezinetoday.com

My son is 11 and has high functioning autism.  How awesome you are to be inquiring. Ask your mom if you can write a little article about what it has been like for you and I will post on the ezine.

Awareness is SO important.

I use myspace too

There are articles stories and a major booklist you might find helpful.

Answer 3

Feed "Asperger's Support Group" into your yahoo search engine.

Answer 4

first, good for you for being such a great sis.

second, HFA/Asperger's is not a disease.

third, visit www.wrongplanet.net

Answer 5

It is so difficult having a sibling with autism. I have a daughter with high functioning autism and it is really difficult at times for my other children. Like you they are very proud of her and very protective. They sometimes find it really difficult with their friends as my daughter can appear quite ordinary and will then say or do something really outrageous. They get really embarrassed and have often asked me what do they tell their friends. I have told them they should try to be as honest and straightforward about her condition as they can be. She does see the world differently from everyone else and will never conform. If their friends cannot accept this then perhaps they are not such good friends. If you are in the UK then try looking at the National Autistic Society website, NAS.org.co.uk which does have a section for siblings of autistic children. Whatever you do don't hide your sisters condition as I am sure she is proud to have you as a sister. Good luck.