In today’s society, it is not at all unusual to hear stories about students (both those with and without disabilities) being bullied. There is no doubt that bullying is becoming a serious problem in the school-age population, leading to students’ lower self-esteem, heightened anxiety, depression, fear, isolation, and even suicide. A growing issue within the…
Triangle Run/Walk for Autism is a Family Affair
For the Ludwig family of Holly Springs, autism awareness is a family affair. Mason Ludwig, who was diagnosed with autism when he was 3, is now an “active 11-year-old who loves YouTube, French fries, Mickey Mouse, and most of all, his family!” said his mother, Kelley Ludwig. “Mason’s brothers are both amazing advocates for spreading…
Guilford Team Gives Back at Greensboro Run/Walk for Autism
College is a time for young adults to learn more about the world around them and their place in it. Tom Carmean, head coach of the Guilford College men’s lacrosse team since 2010, wants to help the young men he works with gain perspective on people who are outside of their usual spheres. So last…
WNC Run/Walk for Autism is Chance to Share Their Story
Wyatt Ogden was not diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder until he was 7 years old. He had been referred for an autism evaluation by his preschool when he was 3, but he was high-functioning, and his parents did not want to limit him with a label. But Wyatt had some challenges in elementary school, and…
The Opinions of Others: I’m No Longer Concerned
When my son was first diagnosed with autism at the age of four and a half, I was truly concerned about what others thought about his different and strange behaviors. My son looks very much like his typical peers, as many children with autism do. People stared and gave me disapproving looks when he would…
Join Our Campaign for Acceptance
Join us this April as we again focus on acceptance and inclusion, not just awareness, for National Autism Awareness Month. The #A2AforAutism campaign to move communities from Awareness “2” Acceptance, started some conversations last year, and we can’t wait to see how it builds this year. We want people with autism, and their families, to…
Surviving the Season: Tips to Help You Enjoy the Holidays
The holidays are anticipated by many, yet when the temperatures cool and bells start jingling, we will all be likely to hear people around us talking about the added stress and strain they can bring to families as well. This can be doubly true for families with a loved one on the spectrum, who must…
What Would Acceptance Mean to You?
More than anything, the Autism Society of North Carolina’s IGNITE program is a community where young adults on the autism spectrum find the acceptance and friendship they want and deserve. For the first time, they are going out with friends, driving, and dating. They are embarking on new educational journeys and landing jobs. The…