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Don has created a wonderful and informative film on the subject called Beautiful Son. It has been through them that our circle of friends has become more aware of this disorder. Some very good friends, Don King and his lovely wife Julie-Ann have a young son, Beau who has autism. Presently more cases are being reported to the point where it is possible that 1 in 150 children have autism. Although controversial, it does appear that the incidence of autism is increasing or, it may be, that the diagnostics are improving. There is some evidence that the mercury preservative used in children’s vaccines may be a cause. The causes of autism are still unclear experts feel genetics and/or environment are to blame but are uncertain to what degree. Children with autism have difficulty communicating, interacting socially and are prone to repetitive behavior and rigid routines.Ĭurrently there is no effective way to prevent autism, neither are there effective treatments nor any cures. There are no boundaries ethnically, racially or socially and boys are affected four times more readily than girls. Autism is neurobiological, very complex and little understood. So many that it is believed to be more common than pediatric cancer, AIDS and diabetes combined. Here's how the paddle went down in Gerry's own words:Īutism is a dreadful brain development disorder that is diagnosed in many children today. All proceeds from the event benefited Surfers Healing, Autism Speaks, NJCOSAC and SEA. The event consisted of the first-ever 28-mile surf paddle around the island of Manhattan and a benefit auction for which Gerry shaped and donated some surfboards. Inspired by his good friend Don King – who is making a documentary about his son who has autism – Patagonia ambassador Gerry Lopez recently participated in the Surfers’ Environmental Alliance ( SEA) Paddle NYC White Water fundraiser to raise money and awareness for autism.