Autism awareness is something near to the heart of Tara Ludlow, Financial Aid Student Support Representative from Ross Medical Education Center’s Roosevelt Park campus. Her youngest son was diagnosed with Asperger’s in 2013. Because of her personal experiences, it was an honor for her to educate over 100 future medical professionals on what to expect, how to recognize the signs, and to be compassionate for their future patients on the Autism spectrum. This was accomplished in several ways throughout the month of April, Autism Awareness Month.
During our first week, the students watched a presentation outlining what Autism is, including spectrum details and early signs. They discussed several areas including social, communication, sensory, and cognitive issues. Tara made all the staff and students a blue pin made out of a puzzle piece to wear on Thursday. In addition to the pin, staff and students wore blue to also show support.
The second week she shared resources available for parents, family, and friends of individuals on the spectrum. These included websites, mobile apps, and guides available in hard copy form.
The third week they completed a simulation to experience the difference between a mainstream student and one with difficulties commonly dealt with by a person on the spectrum. This included two students following “simple” directions to create a drawing. The student with special needs wore thick gloves to imitate fine motor skill delays, scratched safety glasses to represent difficulties with focusing eyesight, and they were given their instructions in a foreign language. This imitated a student’s ability to hear directions but not fully comprehend them. The results were interesting. Both students were able to complete the assignment, but there were obvious challenges for the student presenting Autistic traits.
During the fourth week the students shared on a more personal level. They were asked many questions including: How are you similar? What have you learned? What can you do to help? The response was incredible. Everyone on campus enjoyed lots of laughs and Tara shared, “I was touched by what the students absorbed and their ideas for helping.” Overall, it was a great month and everyone learned a lot about autism and how to support those they know that struggle with the disorder.