Today marks the 8th annual World Autism Awareness Day. The day is dedicated to raising awareness, and funds, for Autism. Autism organizations celebrate this day on the 2nd of February since it was designated by the United Nations General Assembly.

Autism is a neurodevelopmental disorder, whose symptoms vary, but usually affect social interaction and communication. 

We were delighted to know that the Great Pyramid will light up blue for the occasion. This will be happening thanks to the Egyptian Autistic Society. 

There are plenty of common misconceptions about Autism. Those who help shatter such misconceptions the most are Autistic individuals who spend their lives raising awareness, while doing what they love. Here is a list of individuals with Autism, whose inspirational work has helped the Autistic community, and mankind as a whole.

 

Luca Brecel

Luca is one of the most promising up and coming snooker players, and he is only 20! He was born in 1995, and is now competing professionally. 

 

Matt Savage

This is another prodigy, only his talent lies in the field of music. Matt started reading by the age of 18 months, and taught himself to read piano sheets by the age of six. Now, he has released several Jazz albums.

 

Ladyhawke

Otherwise known as Phillipa “Pip” Brown, was diagnosed with Asperger Syndrome, an Autism Spectrum Disorder. She is also a famous rock musician/singer whose work is celebrated in her home country, New Zealand, and all over the world.

 

Ari Ne’eman

His main focus was to help others with Autism. Ari is an outspoken Autism Rights Activist. In 2006, he co-founded the Autistic Self Advocacy Network. His bachelor’s degree in Political Science must have been a great help for him as he advocates autistic rights. Ari was also diagnosed of Asperger Syndrome, and he believes that autism is not a disease, and should be treated as a neurological difference.

 

Susan Boyle

Another lady musician who became an inspiration to people all over the world. Susan also has Asperger Syndrome. The Scottish singer first captured the world’s attention on Britain’s Got Talent. Her debut album went on to be one of the best selling albums all over the world.

 

There are a few organizations in Egypt that are solely dedicated to raising awareness about Autism. The Egyptian Autistic Society, as we’ve previously mentioned, is the one that worked on the great pyramid being lit up in blue. There is also ADVANCE, The Egyptian Advance Society for Persons with Autism and Disabilities. Their aim is to welcome those who are differently able in a community that will accept and include them. Last, but definitely not least, there is the Learning Resource Center, which provides diagnostics and therapeutic services to children and adults who face learning and development challenges.