Autistic Spectrum Digest (Autism) Issue 13, November 2014 | Page 9

The News in Review . Leading Neuroscientist Claims ADHD is Not a “Real” Disease Dr. Bruce D. Perry, M.D., Phd., recently stated that attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder is not a “real” disease, and that too many children are being given potentially dangerous drugs in the name of treating it. In an interview with the Observer, he stated that the symptoms of ADHD are so wide-ranging and varied that all children and adults exhibit at least a few at one point or another. Pentagon postpones spending cuts of autism services for military families Washington, DC - The Pentagon has delayed plans to cut spending that would have resulted in a significant decrease in the amount of autism services that are provided to military families throughout the country. The government had initially announced its intention to implement policies geared towards reducing spending in several different sectors in order to lower costs. Gigi Jordan tells court of autistic son’s wish to die in suicide pact Gigi Jordan is the the mother accused of killing her 8 year old autistic son. She admitted in court to administering a lethal cocktail of drugs that ended his life.She had also taken the drugs herself as part of a suicide pact. Birdhouse for Autism App helps families with children on the spectrum DETROIT – An app specifically developed by Birdhouse, helps families and caregivers of children with autism to keep track of their children’s daily activities via the collection of important data. Montreal autism convention helps to raise awareness regarding services Montreal, Quebec – Montreal’s first The Birdhouse for Autism app was designed to monitor all the essential information needed to help families and health workers get a better understanding of what is working and what is not, regarding the interventions of a specific child. autism convention was held at the Cosmodome in Laval, drawing attendees from across the community, including individuals on the spectrum and the families of loved ones who are living with the disorder. 9