Campaign to aid autism sufferers

Mar 17 2008 by Audrey Barton, The Journal

Chris tackles Asperger’s in positive way

ASPERGER’S syndrome sufferer Chris Mitchell has written two books on autism.

The 29-year-old counts meditation among his hobbies and is looking into the practice as a form of therapy.

He also takes exercise including walking to help manage his condition – a form of autism.

The Durham County Council clerical worker from Seaburn in Sunderland lives independently thanks to support from his family.

And the former university student of Cliffe Park, who regularly gives talks on the condition is helping the I Exist campaign which aims to improve access to support services for adults with autism.

“It is about understanding autism in a positive way. We have stereotypes of people with the condition such as Rainman and Roy Cropper from Coronation Street.

“Understanding the condition is about who people with autism are rather than what they are.”

Chris hopes through the campaign that more will be done in the workplace to understand disabilities like autism.

Chris added: “It is important people have a better understanding of the condition so there is support for us to live an independent and dignified life.”