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Today
1 in 150 children are diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder. Upon
receiving this heartbreaking diagnosis, parents begin their search for
the elusive cure that will heal their child, and return their family to
normalcy. Yet as these families explore the best ways to treat the
child they love, they encounter conflicting approaches and endless
barriers. This film is about families trying to navigate their way to a
better place, trying to understand what the future holds without
ready-made roadmaps or guides. This is a film about families who have
entered, and are living in, the maze of autism.
It gives me great joy to help promote the autism advocacy movement by making this film available to various groups, families, legislators, healthcare and educational professionals over the last few years. Discussing the message of the film, and creating an understanding of what autism is like for families has helped break down stereotypes on Autism Spectrum Disorders. Finally, autism is being discussed EVERYWHERE and parents are being recognized for the pioneering efforts they have made! We've been in a tailspin for many years not knowing how to handle autism and its through the grassroots efforts of parents everywhere that systems may begin to change. It is my very hope that life for people with autism will not be defined on what they can't do but rather what they are very capable of doing and becoming in their own right.
The film has also helped spur autism advocacy efforts in Vermont. Now an autism bill has passed the Vermont State Legislature, the next step being insured funding for the badly needed expert services all citizens with Autism Spectrum Disorder deserve throughout their lifetime.
This film was funded in part by
the Vermont Developmental Disabilities Council and Producer, Writer,
Co-Director Anne Barbano
Anne Barbano, producer,
writer, and co-director has produced and hosted the oral history
program LIFESTORIES, as well as having works screened on local public
television. This film was inspired by her journey as a parent of a
child with Autism.
Jeff Farber,
co-director, videographer, editor and associate producer is an
award-winning filmmaker with over 30 years of experience.This is their
first collaboration.
For more information about
LIVING THE AUTISM MAZE or for details about ordering a DVD or VHS of
the film contact:
abarbanovt@juno.com
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