Autism's most influential person to speak at Autism 2010

Temple Grandin, arguably the world's most successful person with autism, to speak at international autism symposium

TORONTO, Oct. 18 /CNW/ - Temple Grandin, one of TIME magazine's 100 Most Influential People of 2010 and whose inspirational life story was featured in the multi Emmy award-winning movie 'Temple Grandin', will be one of the many eminent speakers at this year's Autism 2010 - Geneva Centre for Autism International Symposium, to be held from November 3 - 5 at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre.

As a child Temple Grandin was diagnosed with an autism spectrum disorder as she struggled to speak and socially interact with other children. "When I was young, I can remember the frustration of not being able to talk. I knew what I wanted to say, but I could not get the words out, so I would just scream," says Temple. As an adult, Temple learned how to overcome her disability to earn a doctorate in animal science, become a Professor at Colorado State University, a ground-breaking animal behaviour expert, an inventor, a bestselling author and an inspiring champion for the autism community. At the Symposium, Dr. Grandin will share her unique and personal perspective on living a successful life with autism.

Autism 2010 will bring 1600 delegates to explore the most current research, treatment approaches and emerging issues in the autism community. "Autism is front and center in our communities and is recognized in the media as a prominent issue facing families, communities, social planners, politicians and educators alike. It is essential that we provide a forum for the dissemination of the most current research and intervention findings. Autism 2010 is just such an event. All the sector's leaders will be present and ready to share their perspectives," says Margaret Whelan, Geneva Centre for Autism's Executive Director.

Over the past decade autism spectrum disorders have increased by 600%. Today more children are diagnosed with autism than AIDS, diabetes and cancer combined. Autism 2010 will bring together the brightest minds in the field to discuss critical questions in order to improve the quality of life for individuals living with autism.

For further information:

For more information and Interviews:

George Ratnanather
[phone]
[email protected]
www.autism.net