HOUGHTON -- Nine-year-old Seth Carney has PDD-NOS which stands for pervasive developmental disorder not otherwise specified.
PDD-NOS is on the autism spectrum and Seth's parents say it wasn't always easy.
"When Seth was born, he's my third child, and as a mother, I just noticed there was something a little different about him. I kept taking him to the doctor a couple times, and I go, there's something wrong. He's not talking. He should be talking by now, and she dismissed it as a little delayed in that area. After a couple doctors, come to find out there were signs of autism but high-functioning," said Heidi Carney, Seth’s mom.
On Saturday, Seth got a chance to enjoy a Family Fun Day put on by four grandparents who started the Copper Country Autism Awareness group.
"Our goal was to have special events for children with autism and to help the parents in any way that we can. So we're always interested in parents' input to tell us what they need and what they want," said Kathe Lanctot, group member.
The group also wants to teach people about autism so it's easier for kids like Seth to be better understood and not judged by their behavior.
More children will be diagnosed with autism this year than with AIDS, diabetes, and cancer combined. The Copper Country Autism Awareness group wants parents with autistic children to know that help and support is available.
If you’re interested in helping out their cause, click here.
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