Cochranite Mike Séguin is starting a support group for people living on the autism spectrum, with the first meeting to take place this Friday.
“I want to help people on the spectrum – this group will allow people to gain some answers and give them a place to turn to and help them in a variety of ways,” Séguin said.
“The group will allow people to make friends and meet in town, instead of going to Calgary. So far the response has been really positive.”
The Cochrane Alberta Autism Spectrum Social Support Group will meet on Friday, every second week, at a public place (to be determined before the meeting) at 7 p.m. The founder is also encouraging people with family or friends on the spectrum to attend the meetings, saying everyone is welcome.
Autism affects one in 68 children in Canada, according to the Autism Speaks Canada website.
“Autism and autism spectrum disorder (ASD) are both general terms for a group of complex disorders of brain development. These disorders are characterized, in varying degrees, by difficulties in social interaction, verbal and nonverbal communication and repetitive behaviors,” – Autism Speaks website.
The group’s mission is to offer support, friendship, and will attempt to have activities that everyone can participate in.
“Cochrane is small but growing. We really need a group here – autism is something families struggle with,” Séguin explained.
“I’m excited and a bit nervous for the first meeting. I think it should be really good and I am hoping more people will join the group – I hope once it takes off, it helps as many people as possible.”
Since Séguin’s diagnosis, he said it has helped him learn more things about himself.
“(Since being diagnosed) it has allowed me to recognize stuff about myself that I thought was negative before. It has allowed me to make friends with other people on the spectrum and given me a better understanding of what it is like to be autistic,” Séguin said.
“It helped me see myself in a different light… a positive light.”
The inaugural meeting will take place this Friday, March 18, at 7 p.m. For more information contact Séguin at 403-923-8244 or by email at [email protected]
Or go to the Facebook Page at “Cochrane AB Autism Spectrum Social Support Group.”
