[Congressional Record Volume 153, Number 114 (Tuesday, July 17, 2007)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1548]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                      COMMENDING THE WATERS FAMILY

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                       HON. JANICE D. SCHAKOWSKY

                              of illinois

                    in the house of representatives

                         Tuesday, July 17, 2007

  Ms. SCHAKOWSKY. Madam Speaker, I rise today on behalf of the 1.5 
million families who are living with autism in this country today. The 
Waters family, from my district is one of those families. They know 
firsthand about the difficulties of raising a child with autism. They 
have risen to the challenge, however, raising a beautiful, 6-year-old 
daughter, Candace. They have also dedicated their work to raising 
awareness about their daughter's condition and building a support 
network for other families around the country living with autism.
  Robert and Sandy Waters have created a radio show on Autism One 
Radio, a nonprofit, charity organization that was created by a small 
group of parents of children with autism. The Waters' radio show, ``The 
Candy Store,'' provides music, art, inspiration, and information to 
inspire, educate, and help parents guide their children. They have 
written a song titled ``Faith, Love, and Hope'' for their daughter. The 
song has inspired and influenced parents, organizations, and 
politicians around the world.
  People like Robert and Sandy Waters play an increasingly important 
role, as autism is one of the fastest-growing developmental 
disabilities in the world, and affects 1 in every 150 children born 
today. With proper education, training, and community living options, 
however, individuals with autism can lead productive lives, contribute 
to their communities, and reach their fullest potential. Unfortunately, 
however, understanding, services, and research lag behind the needs of 
our Nation's families.
  With further research, scientists hope to establish biomedical 
markers and environmental links that will allow for earlier diagnosis 
and treatment. Additionally, researchers intend to look into the 
possibility of a vaccine and attempt to find the treatment programs 
that are most successful. As research opens up new treatment 
possibilities, we must also provide education in order to change public 
perception of autism and those individuals living with the disease.
  Again, I would like to commend the work of the Waters family. I urge 
all citizens to become educated about autism and join in the effort to 
increase awareness and support for those living with this condition.

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