Area mother discusses challenges of raising child with autism

April 26, 2012

Photo submitted - Lisa Witherite, center, sits with her two boys. Her son Ryan, left, was diagnosed with autism at age four.

As the parent of a child with autism, Lisa Witherite of Sykesville is part of a rapidly growing group. With autism diagnoses up sharply in the U.S., 23 percent over two years according to a Center for Disease Control study, more parents than ever before are faced with the difficulties associated with raising an autistic child.
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) encompasses a variety of developmental disorders impacting most aspects of parenting, from the way a child is educated, fed, socialized, and disciplined. Witherite said the challenges it creates include "dealing with behavior difficulties, lack of communication, frustration, and daily living skills."