The Autism Society Event and Education Recordings Archive

Diagnosed with Asperger's, manic depression, head injuries, and PTSD, Mary is the mother of two adult, independent sons who were never diagnosed but exhibit ASD traits and grandmother of two. She is a also a former piano tuner, gemologist, actress and current artist and composer. She drove for almost three decades but no longer does because of health issues.

In 1982, at age four, Sue was diagnosed with autism and moderate mental retardation. At thirteen she tested at the 2½ year level. Sue remains echolalic, mostly non-verbal, obsessive/compulsive, with occasional self-abusive/aggressive behaviors. Using Facilitated Communication, Sue graduated from Whittier High School with honors, attained 1370 on the SAT and now is a junior at Whittier College. The recipient of numerous awards and honors, Sue is a published author and was the subject /writer of the Academy Award-nominated documentary “Autism is a World”. A dedicated advocate, Sue lives off-campus, with support, and enjoys an active social and cultural life.

Chantal Sicile-Kira is the author of 'Adolescents on the Autism Spectrum' and 'Autism Spectrum Disorders' (recipient of the 2005 ASA’s Outstanding Literary Work of the Year Award), both published by Penguin. Chantal has been involved with ASDs for over 20 years, first as a professional and then as a parent. She hosts a radio show on Autism One Radio (www.autismone.org) and is a national speaker and consultant on ASDs including adolescent issues and transition planning. Chantal is the founder of Autism: Making a Difference, Inc. and is active with various non-profits.

Diagnosed with "Atypical Development and strong autistic tendencies" & "too sick" for outpatient treatment Shore was recommended for institutionalization. Non-verbal until four, with support from parents, teachers and his wife, Stephen is now a professor at Adelphi University where research focuses on matching best practice to needs of autistic individuals.

Valerie Paradiz, PhD, is the Director of Education at New York University Child Study Center’s Asperger Institute. Her work developing pioneering educational programs for children with ASDs has been featured in the New York Times and Redbook Magazine. Valerie’s memoir, Elijah's Cup: A Family's Journey into the Community and Culture of High-Functioning Autism and Asperger's Syndrome (Jessica Kingsley, 2005) is the compelling story of the author's experiences raising her autistic son, their involvement together in the grassroots self-advocacy community, and her own ultimate diagnosis with Asperger's syndrome. The book offers readers an insider’s history and celebration of autistic culture.