This Monday, April 2nd, we celebrated World Autism Awareness Day; a cause that touches us and for which we, at Doucet Latendresse, commit ourselves wholeheartedly.
What is Autism?
This neurodevelopmental disorder is widespread: in 2015, 1 out of 66 Canadian children were diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (source: National Autism Spectrum Disorder Surveillance System Report 2018 (NSTST)) … but still remains too little known.
It is characterized by deficits in the spheres of language, communication and social interactions being often accompanied by behaviors, activities or interests restricted or repetitive.
Signs of ASD (Autism Spectrum Disorders) are usually detected in early childhood with prevalence in boys (diagnosis rate 4 to 5 times higher than in girls).
I invite you to visit the following page to learn more about ASD: https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/publications/diseases-conditions/autism-spectrum-disorder-children-youth-canada-2018.html
The figures for ASD in education, in Quebec, are, once again, particularly high:In 2015-2016, there were 14,429 students with autism in general education, a prevalence of 142 per 10,000 or 1 out of 70 children. As an indication, in 2010-2011, there were 8,318 autistic children enrolled in public school. In five years, between 2005 and 2011, the number of autistic students enrolled in the public sector in Quebec doubled. (Source: FQA)
Why and how Doucet Latendresse supports this cause?
Because unfortunately, families are too often helpless facing the emotional, educational and financial challenges of an ASD diagnosis.We speak about it knowingly because in our team, several collaborators live with a loved one suffering from autism. Lydia for example, our Marketing & Social Media Director who, with her 22-year-old son Aaron diagnosed with ASD, has been advocating to promote acceptance and understanding and to show us that anything is possible! An example of motivation and optimism that we hope to be contagious!
So, we decided to take action through Lydia’s determination, to support the cause! Thus, throughout the month of April, for each purchase of the “puzzle” necklace (the iconic autism symbol), we will donate $ 10 to various charities related to autism. Among them, is The Giant Steps School the only primary and secondary school for autistic children in Montreal.To support our initiative, you can buy this jewel by visiting the next page or by visiting your nearest Doucet Latendresse jewelry store.
For the occasion, in addition to this donation of $ 10, we wanted to mark our commitment by applying an additional discount on the price of this necklace. It is now reduced to $39.99 (until April 30) from the original price at $49.99.Together, we can make a difference and support children with ASD and their families !
Spotlight on these #autismwarriormoms from Quebec who are challenged daily to raise children with ASD:
Tracy Pennimpede and her son James (10 years old)
She is actively involved in the autism community and is co-founder of Montreal Autism in Motion. She is the Director of the Giant Steps Foundation and continuously strives to help the students at the school as well as the Montreal autism community.
Follow Tracy on Social Media: @traypen (IG) @tracypennimpede (FB)
Claudia Taboada and her son Nicolas (16 years old)
She is a former labor and employment lawyer who is now an athlete/marathoner and an advocate for autism rights. Claudia has run 20 marathons around the world, including the prestigious New York, London, Berlin and Tokyo Marathons. Claudia is now learning how to cycle and swim in order to participate in her first triathlon, Ironman 70.3 Mont-Tremblant on June 24. Claudia is also passionate about autism rights and awareness, being a member of a few Québec autism awareness organizations. She has also raised funds for Autism Speaks Canada and the Giant Steps Foundation which finances the Giant Steps School, where her son, Nicolas currently attends.
Follow Claudia on Social Media: @claudiataboada (FB) & @badassautismmomma (IG)
Lydia Mamane and her son Aaron (22 years old)
She is the Director of Marketing for Doucet Latendresse Jewellers as well founder and owner of joolzbar.com . She is as passionate about jewellery as she is about autism advocacy. A true Yogi at heart, Lydia applies the ‘’ Zen’’ philosophy in her daily lifestyle by promoting autism awareness and acceptance. She is a true believer that you are what you put out to the universe: Positive energy will create positive change for our autistic community. Namaste!
Follow Lydia on Social Media: @lydster_m et @lydiamamane (FB)
And finally, we would like to thank those women & men who helped us writing this article today:
Hair Dresser: @hairbystep
Makeup Artist : @sih_mua
Photographer @studiophotographos (IG) @studiophotographos inc. (FB)
Photo Shoot Production: @etc.comm (IG et FB)