"We wanted to help law enforcement and any first responders to realize that maybe this person is a little agitated because he falls within the autism spectrum disorder and to reflect and help this individual through the process,' said Jamey Durham, Director, Bureau of Professional and Support Services for the Alabama Department of Public Health.
The state health department and the Autism Society of Alabama rolled out the Autism ID cards, helping both first responders and those who fall within the spectrum communicate.
"The police, if I ever got in contact with any law enforcement it would help understand me better and treat me better,” said Willis.
Durham says the cards were initially created for autistic drivers but the response has been so great, parents of autistic children want them. “We've had parents call and say listen, I have an autistic child and I would just like to have one of these cards so they can have it at school if something excites them, it would be nice to know they had that card in their purse or pocket that they could share,” he said.
To obtain a card, print up the form at http://adph.org/disability take it to your diagnosing physician. After it's been filled out, verifying that you have been diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder, take the signed form to any county health department to obtain a card. There is a $10 dollar fee.
WSFA.com Montgomery Alabama news.
