Breakthroughs at the Inaugural Autism Knowledge Gateway Evening to Advance Autism Care
On November 8, we hosted 50 attendees for the Autism Knowledge Gateway’s (AKG) first formal event, An Evening to Advance Autism Care. The evening was in many ways historic and felt much larger than the intimate group of 50 people who gathered to address gaps in quality healthcare for autistic patients.
The evening can be characterized by three distinct themes that capture what makes the AKG such a powerful initiative:
Bringing together a diverse community:
Among the 50 attendees was a wide cross-section and representation from nearly every part of the autism community. At the event and in preparatory conversations, we heard from autistic individuals, caregivers, physicians, scientists and advocates – all who agreed improving access to basic medical care for autistic patients is a glaring and urgent need. In an unprecedented manner, we brought together pillars of the autism community whose agendas have not always historically aligned and whose paths rarely crossed.
Unifying around a narrow, but profoundly important issue:
Attendees came to our event with deep passion and involvement in various initiatives that impact the autism community, including early childhood support, education, housing, employment and adult services. Attendees did not bring their own agendas into the room but aligned behind a narrow and critical need: improved basic medical care for autistic patients today – knowing this will ultimately enhance any other initiatives they may be working on.
Bringing energy and focus to the urgent but achievable aim of better health:
Attendees, who absorbed stark facts about poor health and wellness outcomes for autistic people, were also enlightened about the volumes of peer-reviewed research that exists today to treat the many conditions contributing to such poor health. While blockbuster research may still be in progress, Thought Leadership & Innovation Foundation (TLI) funded the first iteration of the AKG to make it possible to treat comorbid health conditions today.
The highlight of the evening was a panel discussion that struck a unique balance between expertise, information and emotion, featuring a parent perspective by Lisa Ackerman and Dawn Loughborough, a scientific view from Dr. Christopher D’Adamo and Dr. Neena Haider and thoughts from Kennedy Krieger neurologist, Dr. Deepa Menon.
Even those not in attendance can have an impact by joining our upcoming free pilot programs for patient/caregivers and clinicians or by donating to support outreach and enhanced platform capabilities. Click here for more information on how you can help or to share your ideas.