Autism Speaks Official Blog

This guest post is by Autism Speaks staffer Kerry Magro. Kerry, an adult who has autism, is a graduate student at Seton Hall University. He started the club Student Disability Awareness on campus to help spread awareness and raise funds for those affected by autism. Autism Speaks U is a program designed for college students who host awareness, advocacy and fundraising events.

In late September, The Combating Autism Reauthorization Act (CARA) was passed through Senate and was then signed into law by our President Barack Obama. One of the champions in Senate who helped us get there was New Jersey Senator Robert Menendez. Almost 2 weeks ago he came to an autistic school called Regional Day in my hometown of Jersey City, New Jersey to give a speech about the significance of the act. What I was amazed at though was when I received a call from his office to speak at the event! In front of countless media, family, and friends I spoke about my story with autism and what the impact an act like this will have not only for me but for countless others who are affected by autism.

The Combating Autism Reauthorization Act as some may recall will grant 693 million dollars to the autistic community for the next 3 years. Even though this is a great feat we still most continue to push forward as I stress in my speech as autism never takes a vacation so neither can we.

Below is a Youtube clip of me speaking at the event that I hope you all enjoy. Thank you!