By Samar Yahya
Saudi Gazette
JEDDAH — Al-Faisaliya Women Welfare Society, represented by Jeddah Autism Center, held a three- day activity to mark the International Autism Day.
The activity was organized at Red Sea Mall and aimed to raise public awareness about autism and highlight the skills of autistic individuals. It also aimed at organizing programs and activities to boost the morale of families who have members with autism.
During the three days, the activities included trials of autism feelings through VR technology and providing consultations and counseling to families.
To sustain the autism global campaign "Light It Up Blue", 1,000 blue bulbs illuminated the autism logo during the event.
Omaima Maghrabi, president of Jeddah Autism Center, explained the importance of holding the activities that aim to assimilate autistic people in community and give them a chance to achieve self-realization. The autism initiative needs the support and response of media and the collaboration of all private and governmental establishments, she added.
According to international statistics, one out of every 88 children is born autistic. In Saudi Arabia, an estimated 587,825 individuals are suffering from the condition.
