"IT UPSETS me when I hear people define autism as behavioural issues – they cannot be any more wrong."
These are the words of Leanne Bucknole, 33, whose son Alex, 12, has Asperger syndrome – an autism spectrum disorder.
Yesterday, Leanne and Alex joined two other woman and their children for a short walk from Grimsby bus station to People's Park, in order to highlight World Autism Awareness Day.
Alex's condition means he finds it hard to socialise and is never left to go out on his own.
Leanne, of Pelham Road, Cleethorpes, said: "It is very hard looking after Alex at times, but it is even harder when there is so little understanding from others of what autism is. Alex is the most polite boy you could ever meet, he just does not take in what goes on around him.
"He wouldn't notice a road and, without guidance, would walk straight across it without looking first.
"His condition does not mean his behaviour is bad."
Sara Scrimshaw, 40, was diagnosed with autism at the age of 15.
She is now chairman of North East Lincolnshire partnership Board For Autism and works to encourage more people to join.
She said: "As part of the board, we go out and deliver training to people on how to communicate with an autistic individual.
"We have teamed up with Humberside Fire and Rescue to train firefighters on how best to deal with someone with autism."
Michelle Ward, 32, of Sherwood Road, Grimsby, is also a member of the board and her son Owen, 9, has dyspraxia – a condition which includes traits of autism.
She said: "As part of Owen's condition, he struggles using knives and forks.
"Autism is so misunderstood which is why I try and raise awareness wherever I go.
"I have autism as well, so I know just how much of a struggle it can be for those with the condition. I organised a short walk yesterday to mark the national awareness day."
