[Congressional Record Volume 160, Number 46 (Monday, March 24, 2014)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E420]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                HONORING NATIONAL AUTISM AWARENESS MONTH

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                        HON. THEODORE E. DEUTCH

                               of florida

                    in the house of representatives

                         Monday, March 24, 2014

  Mr. DEUTCH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor of National Autism 
Awareness Month, a special opportunity to highlight the growing need 
for concern and awareness about autism and to educate the public about 
autism and issues within the autism community.
  Autism is a developmental disorder that by some estimates affects 1 
in 88 children age 8. These rates mark dramatic increases from just 
decades ago, and I believe it is vital that more research be done to 
investigate the causes of autism and to determine prevention tactics, 
as well as treatments and possible cures for people already afflicted. 
As a member of the Congressional Coalition on Autism Research and 
Education, I have long supported increased funding for medical research 
to combat this unfortunate condition.
  I would also like to recognize Rising Tide, which will celebrate its 
first anniversary on April 1. Rising Tide embodies the spirit of 
National Autism Awareness Month. Founded by John D'Eri and his son 
Thomas to create a supportive environment for Thomas' autistic brother 
Andrew, Rising Tide is a carwash that employs forty-three men and women 
with autism. The mission of this company is to empower autistic 
individuals and inspire communities to redefine their perception of the 
capabilities that people with autism have. Rising Tide is the largest 
single store retail employer of individuals with autism in the United 
States.
  I am proud to recognize National Autism Awareness Month and the hard 
work that advocacy groups are doing in communities across the country 
to increase autism awareness in our community and make the world a 
better place for individuals with this diversity.

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