Families, world experts, and persons on the autism spectrum share their experiences in this collection of stories. With a focus on the positive aspects of autism and the importance of community involvement and early intervention, Autism: The Gift That Needs to Be Opened is a resource whose aim is to improve the lives of parents, educators, and persons who have autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Awareness and advocacy for early diagnosis and treatment of autism have grown substantially over the past decade. According to Stephen W. Scherer, Ph.D., D.Sc., FRSC, There are new studies that show that every child who undergoes intensive behavioural intervention therapy improves in some way. In fact, I have heard rare stories of some children having full or near-full recoveries. The most important factor leading to positive outcomes, however, is to start such interventions early and, in the best-case scenario, even before the first signs of autism appear. These stories are inspirational and informative, while also serving as a reminder—indeed, as a rallying cry—that individuals who have autism can, with the proper care and attention, lead full and productive lives and change the way we see the world. All royalties from the sale of this book will be donated to the Autism Society, Newfoundland and Labrador. Contributors: B. T. Hall Bridget Ricketts Dawn Haire-Butt Doug McCreary Dwayne LaFitte Heather Warner Jessica Butt Katrina Bajzak Krista Preuss-Goodreault Laura Hamlyn Michael McCreary Nicole Parsons Roseanne Hickey-Hatchett Sarah MacAulay Stephen W. Scherer Temple Grandin Tom Jackman Tori Oliver Tricia Teeft