Autistic Boy Survives 11 Days Riding NYC Subway
What is particularly remarkable is that Francisco Hernandez Jr. was able to survive for nearly two weeks away from home with little money and in an apparently confused state of mind.
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November 30, 2009
The country was recently stunned by the news of a 13-year-old boy who had spent 11 days wandering through the New York subway system after he got in trouble at school and feared a scolding at home. As more information became available, it turned out the youngster suffers from Asperger's syndrome, a form of autism.
What is particularly remarkable is that Francisco Hernandez Jr. was able to survive for nearly two weeks away from home with little money and in an apparently confused state of mind.
According to media reports, the boy ate snacks purchased at newspaper stands and used public restrooms underground for days until a policeman recognized him from a flyer posted in the neighborhood and contacted his family.
He is now reportedly in good condition at home, and although his mother admitted it is a challenge to raise an autistic child she said, "I love my son. He's a wonderful boy," quoted by WCBSTV.com.
According to the Centers for Disease Control, approximately 26,670 out of the 4 million children born in the U.S. each year will eventually be diagnosed with autism spectrum disorders (ASDs).
The cause of autism is not known, and genetic components are believed to play a role, but some cases have been linked to chemical exposure during pregnancy. Therefore experts say expectant mothers should not take unauthorized drugs and refrain from drinking alcohol.
Moreover, early and appropriate therapy can help affected children reach their full potential and thrive.
Families facing the challenge of Asperger's syndrome and other ASDs may consult the resources of the Autism Society of America which also accepts donations.
The country was recently stunned by the news of a 13-year-old boy who had spent 11 days wandering through the New York subway system after he got in trouble at school and feared a scolding at home. As more information became available, it turned out the youngster suffers from Asperger's syndrome, a form of autism.
What is particularly remarkable is that Francisco Hernandez Jr. was able to survive for nearly two weeks away from home with little money and in an apparently confused state of mind.
According to media reports, the boy ate snacks purchased at newspaper stands and used public restrooms underground for days until a policeman recognized him from a flyer posted in the neighborhood and contacted his family.
He is now reportedly in good condition at home, and although his mother admitted it is a challenge to raise an autistic child she said, "I love my son. He's a wonderful boy," quoted by WCBSTV.com.
According to the Centers for Disease Control, approximately 26,670 out of the 4 million children born in the U.S. each year will eventually be diagnosed with autism spectrum disorders (ASDs).
The cause of autism is not known, and genetic components are believed to play a role, but some cases have been linked to chemical exposure during pregnancy. Therefore experts say expectant mothers should not take unauthorized drugs and refrain from drinking alcohol.
Moreover, early and appropriate therapy can help affected children reach their full potential and thrive.
Families facing the challenge of Asperger's syndrome and other ASDs may consult the resources of the Autism Society of America which also accepts donations.
