Tracey Thompson's Blog

Posted by Tracey Thompson

Researchers at the University of Washington are beginning to narrow down the genes that contribute to autism. They have discovered that different genes cause autism in girls than in boys and the research continues to state that they are understanding that more than one gene contributes to the condition. After 10 years of research, they are confident that they have discovered one of these genes. If after further studies and other researchers confirm the findings, autism genetic research will explode. If you have more than one family member that have been diagnosed somewhere on the autism spectrum you can be a part of this research by calling toll-free 1-800-994-9701. To read further go here.

Posted by Tracey Thompson

The US Autism and Aspergers Association has a conference August 9-12. If you are unable to attend the USAAA in partnership with ZenTv will be offering a Live Webcast. The fee starts at $19.95. For further information go here and to here and to the USAAA website, www.usautism.org.

Posted by Tracey Thompson

Autistic males have fewer neurons in the amygdala. This area of the brain deals with emotions and memory. The research is very significant because the information continues to help researchers focus on what exactly is different in the brain with those with autism. Go here to read further on the subject.

Posted by Tracey Thompson

It is evident that people with autism use their parietal cortex more than those free of the condition. Autistics will often express how they excel at visual detail but have difficulty with interpreting language. It causes them to see small details but be unable to focus on the big picture. Go here to read further.

Posted by Tracey Thompson

On July 31, Olivier Kozlowski will climb Washington's Mt. Rainier to raise money to go towards autism research for the organization Autism Speaks. His 7 year-old daughter was diagnosed with autism when she was three. Mr. Kozlowski will be accompanied by friend, Kevin Sweeney and professional climber, Peter Anderson. I feel that climbing a mountain on behalf of autism is a great metaphor. I know that anyone whose family has been affected by autism, feels like they are scaling Mt. Everest. For the full article go

>here.