What is Blues for Autism About?

Blues for Autism - is in it's4th year. The previous years have been truly amazing, exceeding all expectations. For those of you participating for the first time, our purpose is to not only to raise money for the Autism Society of America, but to raise awareness about Autism. Each year we learn so much and hope to share any and all information with as many people in SL that we can.

IMPORTANT: Every linden collected is filtered into the BLUES FOR AUTISM account, held by avatar Blu Waters, and at the end of the fundraiser all funds are given the Autism Society.

Autism is a complex developmental disability that typically appears during the first three years of life and affects a person’s ability to communicate and interact with others. Autism is defined by a certain set of behaviors and is a "spectrum disorder" that affects individuals differently and to varying degrees. There is no known single cause for autism, but increased awareness and funding can help families today.

In December 2009, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention issued their ADDM autism prevalence report. The report concluded that the prevalence of autism had risen to 1 in every 110 births in the United States and almost 1 in 70 boys. The issuance of this report caused a media uproar, but the news was not a surprise to the Autism Society or to the 1.5 million Americans living with the effects of autism spectrum disorder. Nonetheless, the spotlight shown on autism as a result of the prevalence increase opens opportunities for the nation to consider how to serve these families facing a lifetime of supports for their children.

Based on statistics from the U.S. Department of Education and other governmental agencies, autism is growing at a startling rate of 10-17 percent per year. At this rate, the Autism Society estimates that the prevalence of autism could reach 4 million Americans in the next decade.

Autism knows no racial, ethnic, or social boundaries; family income levels; lifestyle choices; or educational levels, and can affect any family and any child.

And although the overall incidence of autism is consistent around the globe, it is four times more prevalent in boys than in girls.

Attached is the link for the Autism Society and the Blues For Autism 2010 blog from last year. You can read more there about our fund raising efforts and the great events that bring us all closer in this meaningful cause.

Link to Autism Society
Link to Blues for Autism 2010 and Blues for Autism 2009

We thank you in advance for your interest and support,
Magi McBride - Founder

and the incredible BFA team
Leanna Chaffe
Yordie Sands
Breeze Windrum
Tippy WIngtips
Dillon Janus
Thor Effingham
Takamatsu Soke
Merrymay Lorsgval
Kitten Lytton

Autism Information

**WHAT IS AUTISM
Autism is a complex developmental disability that typically appears during the first two years of life and is the result of a neurological disorder that affects the functioning of the brain, impacting development in the areas of social interaction and communication skills. Both children and adults on the autism spectrum typically show difficulties in verbal and non-verbal communication, social interactions, and leisure or play activities.

Autism is one of five disorders that fall under the umbrella of Pervasive Developmental Disorders (PDD), a category of neurological disorders characterized by “severe and pervasive impairment in several areas of development.”

**PREVELANCE
Autism is the most common of the Pervasive Developmental Disorders, affecting an estimated 1 in 110 births (Centers for Disease Control Prevention, 2007). Roughly translated, this means as many as 1.5 million Americans today are believed to have some form of autism. And this number is on the rise.

Based on statistics from the U.S. Department of Education and other governmental agencies, autism is growing at a startling rate of 10-17 percent per year. At this rate, the Autism Society estimates that the prevalence of autism could reach 4 million Americans in the next decade.

Autism knows no racial, ethnic, or social boundaries; family income levels; lifestyle choices; or educational levels, and can affect any family and any child.

And although the overall incidence of autism is consistent around the globe, it is four times more prevalent in boys than in girls.

**MOST COMMON CHARACTERISTICS OF AUTISM
Every person with autism is an individual, and like all individuals, has a unique personality and combination of characteristics. Some individuals mildly affected may exhibit only slight delays in language and greater challenges with social interactions. They may have difficulty initiating and/or maintaining a conversation. Their communication is often described as talking at others instead of to them. (For example, a monologue on a favorite subject that continues despite attempts by others to interject comments).

People with autism also process and respond to information in unique ways. In some cases, aggressive and/or self-injurious behavior may be present.

**KNOW THE SIGNS: Early Identification Can Change Lives
Autism is treatable. Children do not "outgrow" autism, but studies show that early diagnosis and intervention lead to significantly improved outcomes. Here are some signs to look for in the children in your life:

* Lack of or delay in spoken language
* Repetitive use of language and/or motor mannerisms (e.g., hand-flapping, twirling objects)
* Little or no eye contact
* Lack of interest in peer relationships
* Lack of spontaneous or make-believe play
* Persistent fixation on parts of objects

by Magi McBride

Blues for Autism Organizing Team

Blues for Autism 2009 Organizing Committe, from left:
Yordie,
Mathew,
Angellica,
Bluto,
Lucinda,
Magi,
Iron
and Leanna.
(photo by Magi McBride)




For the most part, the Blues for Autism organizers have operated in the background: planning, building, scheduling, fixing and leading the cheers. However, Magi McBride has told me that she could not have accomplished anything without them, starting with Bluto Brando and the rest of the BFA Organizing group including Lucinda Bergbahn, IronGut McCallister, Angellica Lemieux, Mathew Deerhunter and Leanna Chaffee. Following are some stories about them and their thoughts about the work they do for the Blues for Autism fundraiser.

Bluto Brando
Bluto is the man behind the scenes, making things work. Here are his comments: "I've been a BFA Organizer. I did whatever was needed to help organize and run the various events throughout the whole month+ long benefit. My interests in supporting MAgi in this stem from my very close friendship with her."

"Not long before BFA started we opened Shorty's Ice House. A labor of love that was, as was BFA. We're family, and if you've been around us, it's easy to tell that. Magi is one of, if not the most, caring, giving, compassionate people I've ever met in any life. Her giving nature amazes me, and her patience, understanding and personal connection with this cause, is something we all can benefit from. We've had countless talks, be it here or on the phone, about this benefit. It's been an interesting process, and full of ups and downs, laughs and pull-your-hair-out moments."

"In the end, everyone involved came together and realized the goal, to do everything we could to raise as much awareness, and money, as possible to further autism research and education. Magi has been our motivator, and our sparkplug. I love her dearly, a wonderful lady she is, and I am proud to have been associated with this great team of people that busted their humps to make this happen, my deepest thanks to all involved!"

Lucinda Bergbahn
Miss Luci is involved in non-profit managment in real life, but she is very passionate about this work in Second Life. Here are some of her comments.

"The diversity of our community and yet when the passion is a common one great things can be accomplished... the power of collocation that happens in relationships and in community in SL is tremendous... we are still only beginning to usderstand community here... the same things that motivate people to give in RL are also the case here but there is also an element of fun that isn't something that happens in RL events - like the challenge for Iron to get in a thong that also motivates."

For more insights from Luci, please link to her comments from last year.

IronGut McCallister
Iron had these thoughts to share, "Where to start... Well, when talking about Magi McBride, there's a lot to cover. First off, I've known her for over two years now and I must say, she's one of the few that has made it that long. I'm not sure if it's because they get tired of dealing with my BS, but she's endured. Does that mean she's umm.. 'touched'? Maybe, but I know one thing is for sure... she's a remarkable woman.

"Magi hates it when I say she's like my mom, but the truth is... she is kinda like my mom. She loves me unconditionally and looks out for me. However, I guess she'd have to be more like "Stacy's Mom" since she's pretty damn good lookin' and I'd have to say I've had a crush on her since I met her. Hmmm... do you have a daughter named Stacy, Magi?

"In all seriousness, when I tell people in RL about BFA, what it is, how it works, etc... they are always amazed. They're even more amazed when they find out that it came from the mind of a single person... the wonderful, caring, and absolutely amazing... My Magipie... Magi McBride."

Mathew Deerhunter
Mat had a lot to say about BFA: "The reason I decided to help out with Blues For Autism started last year. I remember when BFA was just a little idea Magi had, it didn't even have a name yet, but she and I were talking one day and she told me about her "Little Man", her grandson. Then she told me of an idea she had for Autism Awareness Month. I could see the passion in her discussions about her idea. Magi wrote letters and e-mails and tirelessly to get her idea going."

"During the last year's final event, I met someone affected by autism that really touched me and brought me to tears, and inspired me to participate in this year's fundraiser. I have always thought autism was only about the kids, but they grow into adults, and the autism doesn't go away. I never thought about what the families go through. And I never even had a clue of how all this would affect me; our most special and memorable moments always come so unexpectedly. Today I know what autims is really about and being a BFA Organizer has helped me get out of myself long enough to help someone else. Thank you Magi for having the drive, hard-headedness, and inspiration to make it all happen, all because of Magi's 'little idea'."

Angellica Lemieux
Angellica is another longtime supporter Magi's projects, here are some of her thoughts:

"When it comes to a Lady like Magi McBride where do you begin? With her loving nature, her kindness? Or maybe her generousity in all things. I dont know, because she is beyond words. Her tireless work for Autism Awareness is an inspiration and this year I was privileged to help. I'm not very good at expressing my feelings in words, but Magi is remarkable and I love her dearly."

Leanna Chaffe
Leanna Chaffe is another longtime friend and supporter from last year's BFA fundraiser. Here are some thoughts she shared: "Autism affects all our lives, whether it be through family, friends, co-workers or our community. Being part of this wonderful cause has been a true blessing.

My participation has brought me to tears and goosebumps at times, seeing the generosity of so many. Magi's determination made this possible and allowed us to make a difference. When I look at my children I realize how important it is to defeat this terrible disorder. The BFA fundraiser has helped me feel like I'm doing something to help fight back. From the bottom of my heart, Magi, thank you!"

Yordie Sands (me)
I've known Magi since Summer of 2007. I joined Magi's Blues for Autism project last year because I feel she is a strong woman who makes good things happen. I have personal real life experiences with friends who have children with autism. Frankly, my first encounter with an autistic child frightened me, but I've seen that there is hope for the stricken.

It is my great honor to be involved in this work, and like Miss Luci says, it really and truly gives you a sense of community. It brings out the best in the people of Second Life.

And Of Course,
Magi McBride
To understand Magi's commitment to autism awareness and research, please take a moment and read her comments before this year's fundraiser began.

Thank you Magi for giving all of us the opportunity to participate in such a worthwile cause. As we say in the sisterhood, HUGZZZ.

Missing Pieces

Beauty Pagent contestant Chantalelisa Jewell shared this video with Magi and we are presenting it for you. It speaks for itself.

Commentary by Magi McBride

This is an event that I started last year, and it is a cause that is near and dear to my heart. I have a 5 year old grandson that was diagnosed as Autistic at 18 months of age. This is a condition that can be very unsettling simply because there is no real answer as to what causes Autism or what if anything or ever will be a way to prevent or help solve this mystery.

My grandson Joey... is an amazing little man, and the most precious angel to walk the face of this earth. He has come so far since he was diagnosed, and the little everyday things that so many of us take for granted have become reasons for us to celebrate, almost on a daily if not weekly basis. Joey was provided with in home therapy until he was old enough to go into the public school system. Three days a week he had a therapist come into the home and work with him on, Speech, Physical and Occupational skills. He went from a child that would not look at you when you talked to him or even called his name, to one that will climb into your lap and hold your face in his hands and look you in the eyes and laugh with you. :) He feeds himself, dresses himself, he is learning computer skills at school which he really seems to enjoy, he doesn't talk yet, though he does say a couple dozen different words or phrases. He can't always express what he wants, but he'll take you by the hand and show you what he wants or needs. I find myself in awe every time I am blessed to be around him. He loves Nemo and Buzz Lightyear and will study things for hours, I would love to be able to step in his brain and find out all the wonderful things going on in there, I know I would be totally blown away.

I love Joey... more than I could ever express... and I find myself truly torn up and devastated at times when I think about what lies ahead for him. I think often of my daughter, Lara, her husband Joe, and their precious daughter, Joey's older sister Emma, and so many things they go through on a day to day basis and the sacrifice that is made at times because Joey doesn't function like other children.

I have met a few people here in Second Life that are Autistic and read a few fascinating and amazing stories of the efforts and strides put forth by them their selves and other organizations like ASA – Autism Society of America.

Last year we were able to raise $3,550.00 US Dollars for the ASA, through the wonderful and generous giving hearts of the people here in Second Life. We held a date auction and a 12 hour concert. This year, we are having a Miss Blues for Autism 2009 Pageant the lady with the most donations will be crowned Miss BFA 2009. We started collecting entries and donations the first of March, (the cut off for entries will be March 13th at 12:00 SLT) and thus far we’ve collected 150,000L with 6 more weeks before the actual pageant ends. Our goal this year is 1,500,000L. We also have the concert to be held the 25th of April… which will be 16 hours this year, with more than half of the performers being live artists. These people along with the awesome DJ’s are a big, big reason we do so well… Everyone is so in tune to the need.