Bilal Helps Little Ones with Autism Speak!

AUTISM AFFECTS 1 OUT OF EVERY 110 CHILDREN IN THE U.S.

Since April is Autism Awareness Month, I thought I'd blessed you with this Grammy-nominated classic from Bilal, entitled "Little Ones", a dedication to his son. I send this out to my nephew, Khalil, good friend and award-wining author, Jacqueline Williams-Hines and all of the little ones that deal with Autism on a daily basis. You are truly a gift from God to help the world understand that we are all different for a reason. God Bless You!

Bilal on "Little One" from Centric TV on Vimeo.

According to Austismspeaks.com, "Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and autism are both general terms for a group of complex disorders of brain development. These disorders are characterized, in varying degrees, by difficulties in social interaction, verbal and nonverbal communication and repetitive behaviors. They include autistic disorder, Rett syndrome, childhood disintegrative disorder, pervasive developmental disorder-not otherwise specified (PDD-NOS) and Asperger syndrome. ASD can be associated with intellectual disability, difficulties in motor coordination and attention and physical health issues such as sleep and gastrointestinal disturbances. Some persons with ASD excel in visual skills, music, math and art. Autism appears to have its roots in very early brain development. However, the most obvious signs of autism and symptoms of autism tend to emerge between 2 and 3 years of age."

Celebrities such as Bilal, Sylvester Stallone, Dan Marino and Toni Braxton are all advocates and have children that live with autism. Rodney and Holly Robinson-Peete have a foundation dedicated to both Parkinson's and Autism as well. Inspired by a father and a son, HollyRod Foundation was founded in 1997 by actress, author and philanthropist Holly Robinson Peete and her husband former NFL great Rodney Peete. The HollyRod Foundation is dedicated to providing compassionate care to those living with Autism and Parkinson’s disease. Efforts of the HollyRod Foundation are providing a better quality of life for individuals and their families.

These people are all playing a leading role in Autism awareness, but we can all can help make a difference. Support your local and National initiatives for research to help find a cure, help Autism Speak!

Until next time,

Mara signing out!

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