On the occasion of World Autism Awareness Day, a candle march through "blue" Banska Bystrica took place on Tuesday. Landmarks, including the Clock Tower, the historic Town Hall, the Barbakan Castle and the SNP Memorial were lit up with symbolic blue light in the dark.
The Monoštor Bridge in Komárno was also colored blue on Tuesday evening.
These events were intended to draw public attention to a serious developmental disorder that affects the way people with autism perceive the world and communicate with others.
"Every person with autism is unique, which calls for special individual treatment. Autism doesn't mean isolation from society. On the contrary, with support and understanding, people with autism can find their place in the world and employ their skills," stated Health Minister Dolinkova to mark the day.
The impacts of autism on those diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and their families are significant, and our society should be more forthcoming towards the needs of people with autism, stated President Zuzana Caputova on Tuesday.
On this occasion, Caputova visited the Andreas Autistic Centre and praised its workers as well as everyone who makes an effort to integrate people with ASD into society.
"In Slovakia, unfortunately, there is a shortage of specialised facilities, even though the future of children on the spectrum hinges on whether or not they receive proper intervention at an early age," said the president.
Source: TASR
