On Friday I received a ‘phone call from the local newspaper asking my views on the new Adult Autism Strategy, which had been given legal force by the Autism Act.

I said I was pleased.

Anything, which tackles the ignorance surrounding autism can only be a good thing, and this new strategy aims to introduce major improvements in health, social care and other services.
 
Despite the rapid increase in the rise of people being diagnosed with autism and autistic spectrum disorders, there is still very little awareness about the needs of people with autism, or the problems faced by those who support and care for them.  Read more... (609 words, 1 image, estimated 2:26 mins reading time)

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One of the things I really like about the college my youngest son currently goes to is the way, despite all the individuals different problems, nothing is ruled out as impossible unless there is a real safety issue.

My son has autism, and the other college students have many and varied disabilities, but they’re all provided as normal a life as possible.

This week after we’d attended Jodi’s educational review, we went to the pub for a drink.  He likes to go for a “coke”, or “pepsi”, and soon gets his wallet out to pay, (which is something I wish his elder brother would take note of).  Read more... (362 words, 1 image, estimated 1:27 mins reading time)

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tetanus

After my fall down the escalator last week, I followed the hospital instructions to visit my local GP to get my wounds dressed and check on whether my tetanus was up to date.

Surprisingly, it expired seven years ago, so the nurse gave me one whilst I was in the surgery, and she told me something which I hadn’t realised before.

Apparently, the tetanus vaccination is only really beneficial if it’s already in your system BEFORE you have an accident.

Did you know that?

I always thought it took effect immediately.  Read more... (314 words, 1 image, estimated 1:15 mins reading time)

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