Families raise awareness on autism [1]
Friday, April 1, 2016 - 18:17
Tonga will mark World Autism Awareness Day on Saturday, 2 April with a special ceremony at the Mango Tree Center for disability in Houmakelikao.
Autism, is a lifelong development disorder that affects how a person communicates. At present, 16 children have been diagnosed with autism, an increase from 12 in 2014 in Tonga.
‘Ilaisaane Siale Faka’osifolau a mother and program coordinator said their program will include a keynote address from Dr Flora Lutui and a balloon releasing ceremony by the children aimed to raise more awareness about autism in Tonga.
"We the families stand together to raise awareness on how to best understand and to address the development of these children. We are thankful to the Mango Tree Center, churches, private sector, families and friends for their support," she said.
In 2007, the United Nations General Assembly adopted a resolution designating 2 April as World Autism Awareness Day to encourage the world to take measures to raise awareness regarding children with autism throughout society with particular attention paid to families whose members are diagnosed with autism.