Lighting up Ballito blue
World autism day was created to highlight the need to help improve the quality of life for those with autism.
More than 3000 iconic landmarks in over 50 countries turned their lights blue for the seventh annual Light It Up Blue Autism Awareness Campaign on April 2, and Ballito played its part.
The King Shaka International Airport, Ballito Lifestyle Shopping Centre and Netcare Alberlito Hospital all turned blue thanks to the efforts of the local Imbalito Hope College (IHC) and Connect Special Needs & Autism Forum run by power couple, psychologist Nirasha and Dr Basil Dhaniram.
“This world autism day was created to highlight the need to help improve the quality of life for those with autism. People with autism must be included at all times, as they can engage in life activities if given the opportunity with the correct support and interventions. We are grateful to our community partners for their ongoing support and getting the message out there,” said Nirasha Dhaniram, the mother of 14-year-old Mikhail with autism.
“Mikhail is a happy and delightful teenager and leads a full and productive life in academics, sports, swimming and horse riding.”
The Dhaniram’s journey, both trying and triumphant, brings together parents, professionals and community in the Connect model, to work together nationally and internationally to empower people with special needs and autism.
Dr Basil Dhaniram said Autism Spectrum Disorder is a generalised term for a group of neurological disorders.
“Parents must consult a pediatrician or their doctor if their children show signs of restricted repetitive behaviours, limited social interaction, and delays in language and communication development,” he said.
“The key challenge is early identification and diagnosis, so that the child can begin the early intervention programme, which is critical to a child making progress and living to his/her potential,” said Nirasha.
“The latest research showed that even adults with intervention can make progress, so there is always hope. Children and adults with autism may have exceptional abilities in visual skills, music, art, maths and certain academics.”
For more information on special needs and Autism treatments and education contact Nirasha on 032-5860200 or visit www.connectspecialneeds.co.za or look on Facebook Imbalito Hope College
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