Media Advisory - Staggering costs associated with autism overwhelming families - Solution needed, now

CALGARY, Jan. 14, 2014 /CNW/ - Financial burden is only part of the challenge for families dealing with autism. But it is a significant part and is often underestimated. Support costs vary depending on the severity of the disorder, but can be upwards of $200,000 per year. Since this is well above the average annual income for a Canadian family, how can that gap be filled?

Media are invited to an upcoming press conference where Professor Herb Emery and Carolyn Dudley will present their findings of a report devoted to quantifying the costs of autism spectrum disorder on families. A parent of a child with autism will also be available for comment and will help explain the impact of the disorder on everyday life. Several policy recommendations for relieving the financial stress on families will also be presented.

What:	Costs of autism report release and media conference
When:	Wednesday, January 15, 2014 10:30 a.m. MDT
Where:	The School of Public Policy University of Calgary, Downtown Campus 906 8^th Avenue SW Calgary, AB

SOURCE: The School of Public Policy - University of Calgary

For more information or to set up an interview, media should contact: Morten Paulsen, 403.399.3377, [email protected]