Quick links to other pages on this site | Still can't find it? see Site Index Christina Elmore/StaffPeter Gerhardt (right), education director for the New Yorks McCarton School for children with autism, speaks Saturday at the second Lowcountry Autism Forum at the College of Charlestons Sottile Theatre. Buy this photo
In the early 90s, Lowcountry Autism Consortium Executive Director Rob Scharstein found himself navigating rough waters as he ventured to learn all that he could of the disorder that afflicted both of his sons.
Back then, resources werent as readily available for parents who found themselves in need of answers and support, he said.
We constantly had to fly people in or go other places to get the care our kids needed. That was really, really difficult, Scharstein said.
Time has been kind in the effort to raise autism awareness. But there is still more ground to be covered, Scharstein said.
In its second annual Lowcountry Autism Forum, LAC brought state, regional and national experts to Charleston on Saturday to help parents and professionals harness resources while addressing such topics as early diagnosis and treatment, the development of social skills, occupational training and long-term care planning.
LAC collaborated with MUSCs Project Rex and Trident Academy to sponsor the forum.
Both Project Rex and Trident Academy provide treatment and other services for children on the autism spectrum.
The event featured keynote speakers Peter Gerhardt, education director for the New Yorks McCarton School for children with autism, Lorri Unumb, vice president for state and governmental affairs for Autism Speaks in Columbia, and Frampton Gwynette, a pediatric psychiatrist with Medical University Hospital.
I look forward to a time when autism is just another word, Gerhardt said in a speech. Its just autism thats all. Theyre people.
Originally posted here:
Lowcountry forum highlights resources in autism community