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Autistic kids get a real treat
They get free reign of a Fenton theatre.
from ABC 12, April 13, 2003
Original URL:
http://abclocal.go.com/wjrt/news/041303_NW_.html
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In honor of Autism Awarenes month, moms and a local theatre
partnered for a screening for some very special kids.
It's been 2 years since the Hawkshaw family went to the movies,
because Dominick their 4 year old son with autism is usually
asked to leave.
Dominick's mom describes what its like "as a family you can't
take your kid to the movies because our kids cannot physically
sit still and be quiet," she said.
But Saturday was different! families with autistic kids had a
chance to be themselves at a private screening of the movie
"Piglet."
Leigh Stutesman was there with her son, "we want the kids to be
able to yell and scream, and it's ok."
Autism Awareness month hopes to bring light to the developmental
disability that affects 1.5 million Americans.
"People like you coming out and being willing to listen and
acknowledge our kids means a lot," said Anita Hawkshaw.
For the Hawkshaw's and many other families this event is a
chance to get out and connect with warm happy hearts that share
similar experiences, "to be able to take our kids to the movies
and let them do what they do you can't put a price on that...you
don't know, I'm so happy," said Hawkshaw.
The day at the movies for these very special kids was such a
huge success that organizers say they plan to make it an ongoing
tradition. | 
