General News
20 December, 2024
Local shines bright for autism
Once again Warracknabeal local Kerry Torney will be lighting up her house this Christmas to raise money and awareness for autism as she takes part in Shine for Autism run by Aspect (Autism Spectrum Australia).
The campaign is dedicated to raising awareness, acceptance and understanding for the one in 40 Australians on the autism spectrum.
Ms Torney has decorated her house with 70 metres worth of lights plus other Christmas decorations including Christmas spiders.
Ms Torney began supporting the campaign last year after she saw an advertisement on Facebook.
“I chose to do it because I have nephews and nieces who are on the autism spectrum, plus friends with children," she said.
"They're the reason I decorate for Christmas."
She said most of the decorations including baubles, a light up tree, skeletons and more were donated from friends in Horsham and Minyip.
"They gave me what they don't use," she said.
With a few setbacks due to weather and extreme heat, Ms Torney hasn't quite finished her display yet but aims to get it done soon.
"Hopefully by the end of this weekend it will all be done," she said.
Her house is located at 4 Franklin Street with her lighting switching on between 8.30 and 9pm and off around 11pm.
Donations collected will go towards research and can be made by scanning the QR code that is displayed at her home or cash can be put in the letterbox which is checked regularly.
Every autistic individual experiences the season differently. For some, sensory overload, social gatherings and disruptions to routine can be overwhelming; while others embrace the increased sensory environment of lights, music and social outings with relative ease.
If you want to make your Christmas display autism-friendly use soft, warm-coloured lights, dim the lights, avoid flashing or strobing effects, create a gradual transition, minimise noise, opt for static displays, quiet hour and incorporate sensory-friendly decorations.
For more information and to join Shine for Autism visit www.initforautism.org.au or call 1800 AUTISM (288 476).