PEI Autism Strategy – Part 1

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In February 2008, I began to volunteer my time and efforts to a group called Parents for Choice and Quality. Since this group has come together we have been able to accomplish a very important thing. We gave parents a strong singular voice which proved to be paramount when the Government attempted to change the PEI Child Care Facilities Act with extremely limited public consultation. This group has created an opportunity for parents to give their children a voice and bring to light what is missing in many of the arguements. The best interests of the CHILD.

I, along with Jane Boyd are the co-chairs for this group. After watching another parent’s video about what how the proposed changes would affect her family, I decided to create a video of my own with my own spin.

I have since received many positive comments regarding my video via Facebook and email. I also sent a personal email invitation to the Hon. Mr. Ghiz to take the opportunity to view the video. I was very happy to get the following response via email from the Premier.

April 3, 2008

Hi April,

Thanks for your e-mail. I had the chance to take a quick look at your
video. You did an excellent job. Your message was presented in a very
professional, thought-provoking and engaging manner.

I have forwarded your e-mail to both Minister Currie, Department of
Social Services and Seniors; and Minister Greenan, Department of
Education, for information. Both departments are working
collaboratively to update and further develop an Autism Strategy for
PEI.

I appreciate your taking the time to share your personal experiences
and comments regarding care and support, respect, and education for
special needs children.

Sincerely,

Robert Ghiz
Premier

I thank the Premier for bringing light to the fact that a Provincial Autism Strategy is needed. I question the comments alluding that the current strategy is being updated. I am not aware of any written documented Autism Strategy that is currently being implemented. Both Island parents and the Autism Society of Prince Edward Island have been calling on the government to create a Provincial Autism Strategy to address the challenges of Autism . To my knowledge this letter is the first written documentation that suggests there is hope from Government. How will this new Strategy unfold? Will affected families be directly consulted?

So what does a PEI Autism Strategy look like? Well, there four different aspects to consider: Diagnosis Services, Preschool Services, School-age Services, and Adult Services. I feel that I can only comment on the areas that have affected me so far, which are the Diagnosis Services and Preschool Services. How will the government meet the needs of the families while this new Autism Strategy is developed?

Part 2 of this story will unveil what an Autism Strategy might look like through the eyes of a parent.

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