Autism Speaks and Mass. General Hospital’s Lurie Center for Autism Host Documentary Film Premiere

NEW YORK, Jan. 6 -- Autism Speaks issued the following news release:

On Wednesday, January 15 at 5:00 p.m. ET, Autism Speaks, the world's leading autism science and advocacy organization, and Massachusetts General Hospital'sLurie Center for Autism, one of the few autism programs that provides comprehensive care to individuals over a lifetime, will host the premiere screening of "Sounding the Alarm," a Blockburger Productions documentary that provides a poignant look inside the lives of those touched by autism.

In 2001, the prevalence rate for autism was 1 in 250. Currently, that rate is 1 in 88. A recent government survey indicates the national rate of autism could be closer to 1 in 50. And, there is still so much needed in the way of support for the children, teens and adults living on the spectrum.

"Sounding the Alarm" gives viewers a look at the profound changes in the lives of 12 American families after their children receive an autism diagnosis--attending countless therapy sessions, moving from state-to-state seeking insurance coverage for treatments, and struggling with the insurmountable financial burdens of providing care for their loved ones. The film's focus on the many challenges faced by those with autism and their caregivers aligns with the Lurie Center's mission to provide comprehensive care and support for individuals with autism and Autism Speaks' commitment to improving the lives of families and individuals struggling with the disorder.

"Sounding the Alarm" features Bob and Suzanne Wright, co-founders of Autism Speaks, who discuss their grandson Christian's diagnosis nine years ago and their fight to make a difference not only for their grandson but for everyone throughout the world affected by autism. The Wright's daughter, Katie, is also interviewed about her experiences, and viewers are given a look at Christian's intensive daily therapies.

Over the next decade, approximately 500,000 adolescents with autism will transition into adulthood with minimal support systems in place. The film examines the concerns families face as they prepare for their children to "age out" of the system. Among those profiled are Massachusetts natives, the Martlings, whose son, Kent, will no longer be eligible to attend the Riverview School in East Sandwich, Mass. because he is approaching his 22nd birthday. Connecticut parents Jim and Kim Piatek are also featured in the film. Their 21-year-old son, Drew, continues to struggle with complex and difficult behaviors as he approaches adulthood.

In addition, "Sounding the Alarm" explores the impact state regulated health insurance has on families like the Lawrences. Their son, Bradley, needs applied behavior analysis (ABA) therapy to help him learn to communicate and develop his social skills. In order for Bradley to receive appropriate treatment, his family must move from North Carolina to Indiana. The film also speaks with retired marine Hardy Mills and his wife Danielle, who are barely scraping by in order to provide their seven-year-old son, Shane, with the ABA therapy he vitally needs. In the past two years, Hardy and Danielle have spent over $120,000 out of their own pockets for Shane's ABA services.

Also featured are experts Dr. Christopher McDougle, director of Mass General's Lurie Center, and Dr. David Amaral, research director of the UC Davis MIND Institute, who speak to the progress of autism research, autism risk factors and the lack of funding for resources and research. Joy O'Shaughnessy, Associate Director for East End Disabilities Associates, Inc., a nonprofit organization that provides a variety of supports and services to people with developmental disabilities, shares why these services are so vital and vulnerable.

Emmy award winning documentarian John Block, a 30-year veteran of NBC News, is the producer and director of "Sounding the Alarm."

TNS 24KuanRap-140107-30FurigayJane-4592046 30FurigayJane