Various city groups observed the occasion by conducting exciting events for autistic kids. Experts opined that early intervention was the best way to tackle the disorder
BHUBANESWAR: Children and officials of Centre for Autism Therapy, Counselling and Help (CATCH) celebrated their annual day on the occasion of World Autism Awareness Day at IDCOL Auditorium here Tuesday.
The United Nations General assembly passed a resolution in the Third committee December 18, 2007 designating April 02 as World Autism Awareness Day. Autism refers to a lifelong brain development disorder that affects social interactions, learning, routines and communication.
Founder, Centre for Autism Therapy Counselling and Help, Reeta Jena, who is also the mother of an autistic kid, said, “Awareness on the condition of autism is badly needed as even doctors are not aware of it.”
An organisation started in 2003 for a few autistic children by their parents, CATCH has been observing this day since 2008 and this year, the event clocks in a decade. It is the first organisation to start observing the day besides motivating and inspiring other organisations to do the same.
“The disease is spreading at an alarming rate in the state as most of the people have no idea about autism. By the time they realize that their children are suffering from autism, it is too late. Delay in detection makes the treatment process complicated. An autistic patient can be cured if it is detected before three years of age,” said Reeta Jena, secretary of Catch.
Sridhar Behera, banking ambassador of the state, was present as the chief guest of the occasion. The crowd witnessed people from all walks of life. The evening which began with the formal meeting was followed by colourful and entertaining performance from the Children of CATCH.
They were actively involved in yoga, ramp show and Odissi dance. Parents also took time to be a part of the cultural event. This performance by the students of CATCH showcased how these autistic kids are making an effort to move out of their comfort zone and try and integrate into our mainstream society. The vocational unit of CATCH also put out its products on display sale at a stall in the auditorium.
An autistic patient faces some unusual symptoms like monotonous behavior, fear to make eye contact, lack of attention, tendency to not engage in too many activities, common repetitive behaviors such as hand-flapping, rocking, jumping and twirling, arranging and rearranging objects and repeating sounds, words or phrases.” Early intervention is the best way to cure such a disorder. If the patient is diagnosed before three years, there is 90- 95% chance of cure.
Occupational therapy department of Nirtar called upon citizens to celebrate the occasion with them. Man Trust’s Chairman Swarna Lata Mishra was the chief guest of the occasion. Children participated in a short marathon of one kms where students, parents and officials participated.