Comments on: Autism Society National Conference 2010

By: Sandy

Sandy — Thu, 15 Jul 2010 13:33:02 +0000

For me, it’s always the charger! Whether it’s the phone charger or the laptop charger.

It really spoke to the staff’s level of professionalism that they took every request in stride, even late at night when several of us approached the concierge and asked a million questions about restaurants that deliver. Elise, you know and I know that not every business is prepared yet to handle all the quirks that come along with autism, so this is a wonderful thing!

By: C. S. Wyatt

C. S. Wyatt — Thu, 15 Jul 2010 04:06:45 +0000

The problem with research on education for “older” students is that few people at conferences are focused on adults. I believe I had 10 or fewer people in the audience.

I fear that so much energy is still focused on children that the secondary students and adults seeking training / life skills will be overlooked.

I did have a good time away from the conference. I love the NorthPark Mall in Dallas. Quiet, with ducks and turtles. I didn’t go into any stores, which would mean dealing with clerks and people, but instead sat in the art gardens for two hours.

The vehemence of people debating some issues is too much for me. The “self advocates” are too angry, some are even bitter. That’s not good for me.

I’m anti-factional and would rather see people work together to help with life skills we need, regardless of age or situation. Sadly, my “anti-anger” leads me to be “opposed” to some protest methods and language.

I travel poorly as it is, so why seek out tension?

By: Sandy

Sandy — Wed, 14 Jul 2010 21:12:35 +0000

I wasn’t able to make the Townhall, although from what you describe maybe it’s for the best. There was one medical session I went to on neurology, but had I been given any description of the presenter or the material I would have chosen something else. They probably did not intend for someone who identifies on the spectrum to attend, and I will leave it at that.

You’re lucky you had the chance to get out of the hotel and explore! I saw on your blog that you got away.

How did your talk go?

By: Elise

Elise — Wed, 14 Jul 2010 10:34:22 +0000

WOOHOO great stepping out on your own. I hope you are really roud of yourself. Also not to worry about the toothbrush and charger. Every traveler, no matter who they are always forgets something. Invariably it is the toothbrushes and chargers. Its why the staff handed you that toothbrush and why the ipod dock is in the room. It actually had nothing to do with your autism and verything to do with hotel service and knowing travelers.

Also I had just read that the Hyatt in Dallas was trained and even had autism-friendly rooms for families with children on the spectrum. it is an intersting occurrence and one that bespeaks well of that hotel chain. Going to use Hyatts from now on when we travel.

By: C. S. Wyatt

C. S. Wyatt — Wed, 14 Jul 2010 00:51:09 +0000

It is a shame your panel was so early. I do wish the “keynotes” had been shifted to plenary / lunch — I simply cannot function that early in the morning. I did see Mr. Plank walking about with a camera, I believe. (It takes me a few hours to prepare for each day.)

I was too tense in the afternoons, after sessions, to deal with people, but I was able to spend a lot of time alone away from the conference. The people at the hotel were definitely great at helping locate places.

The Townhall (I think Saturday?) was too tense for me. There are strong (vehement) views on the medical and mental health presentations, especially the DSM-V and some other matters. I had to skip the panels after the Townhall to gather myself. I do not do well anywhere near conflict or anger.

It is good that you enjoyed your short time at the conference. I hope you consider presenting at future events, as well.