April is Autism Awareness and Acceptance Month. One local mom has been on a mission to unite local governments, police departments, and community members to celebrate those with autism spectrum disorder (ASD).

National Institute of Mental Health describes ASD as “a neurological and developmental disorder that affects how people interact with others, communicate, learn, and behave.” Judy Thomas’ son, Lyle Vetare, is a young man living with ASD. As a result, Thomas has been trying to spread awareness and appreciation for those who live with ASD.

For a few years in Newtown, Thomas has organized department heads to get together in April to discuss ASD awareness. This year was no different for her as a few department heads popped into the Council Chambers at Newtown Municipal Center for a photo.

Thomas has collaborated with Southbury’s first selectman and police department to further recognize April as ASD Awareness and Acceptance Month. Thomas has also worked with Connecticut State Police Troop A and provided a few cruisers with ASD ribbon magnets.

But she did not stop at Connecticut state lines, however. Thomas has received a proclamation from the states of Maine, South Carolina, and Florida to recognize April as ASD Awareness and Acceptance month. Further down the East Coast, Thomas has also collaborated with the Manatee County Sheriff Department and Bradenton Police Department in Florida.

Her work is not yet over. In an e-mail to The Newtown Bee, Thomas said “I have a couple more police department[s] to add by the end of the month.”

=====

Reporter Sam Cross can be reached at sam@thebee.com.