Sheriff Plants Tree for Earth Day
Written by Post Public Information Representative, Apr 22, 2010, 0 Comments
Picture – Sheriff Martin Cuellar helps children at Leyendecker Elementary plant a tree as they observe Autism month and celebrate Earth Day. Tree was donated by Hollywood Nursery.
Courtesy Maru De La Paz,
Laredo, Texas (Webb County) – On Wednesday, April 21, 2010, Sheriff Martin Cuellar showed up with a beautiful tree at Leyendecker Elementary as a gift to the Autism units as they celebrate Earth Day!
The Webb County Sheriff’s Office is working closely with the local Autism Society chapter in Laredo to team up with any efforts possible to better the lives of these children. Autism is a developmental neurological spectrum disorder that affects 1 out of 92 individuals. Autism affects socialization, communication, and the way a person perceives the world around them. Some people diagnosed with autism have a very difficult time interacting with others and prefer to be alone. They may exhibit several mannerisms; such as, rocking, finger flicking, hand slapping, inappropriate screaming, crying and laughing. Autism also affects sensory integration. Loud noises, bright lights, certain foods, and certain textures of clothing are not tolerated by some individuals diagnosed with Autism. As most of us know, Autism is treatable. Children do not “outgrow” autism, but studies show that early diagnosis and intervention lead to significantly improved outcomes.
Currently, the Autism Society estimates that the lifetime cost of caring for a child with autism ranges from $3.5 million to $5 million, and that the United States is facing almost $90 billion annually in costs for autism because of these high level costs that affect our families. Lets educate ourselves a little more, Know the Signs: Early Identification of Autism Can Change Lives.
Autism Awareness month- is a month to highlight our children’s uniqueness. The local Autism Society has several projected community events; including, April 1- Autism Awareness Family Pachanga, April 10- Fiesta Texas Trip, April 14- monthly meeting, April 21- Tree planting ceremony at Leyendecker Ceremony, April 24- Family picnic, April 25- Autism Trail Ride.
“The cause for Autism is not known, and up to now, there is no known cure. There are over 275 individuals diagnosed with Autism in Laredo. I encourage the community to get involved in helping the Autism organization so that together we can make a difference.” Sheriff Martin Cuellar stated.
