As you may know, a new edition of the Diagnostic Statistical Manual is coming out in May with changes to the definitions of certain disorders on the autism spectrum, which is used by medical professionals, government agencies and insurers.

There has been much talk about what this will mean to individuals and their families when it comes to obtaining a diagnosis and receiving services. But during Autism Awareness Month in April, The Arc of Mower County would like to refocus the conversation on the individuals living with autism day-to-day and ask, “What’s Your Definition of Autism?”

What does the word “autism” really mean to you on a personal and individual level?

This month, we invite you to join us in raising awareness about what autism really means. If you are not already familiar with Autism NOW, The National Autism Resource & Information Center, visit at www.autismnow.org for a wealth of high-quality, reliable information designed specifically for individuals on the autism spectrum, or with other developmental disabilities, their families and others who care about them. Autism NOW is a project of The Arc funded in part by the Administration on Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities.

Join us on Facebook, www.facebook.com/arcmc, and on Twitter, twitter.com/arcmc1952, to help further the conversation during Autism Awareness Month.

The Arc and Autism NOW will start a discussion on social media in April to find out what autism really means to people with autism. Jump into the conversation and be sure to share with your friends and family using hashtag #AutismAware.

Let’s get people talking and raise a little awareness this year!

You can find links to Autism NOW’s social media channels on www.autismnow.org and you can follow The Arc nationally at thearc.org.

Upcoming Events

•Monday: Cardinal of Minnesota Town Hall Meeting, 7 p.m.

•Monday, April 29: Dave Reedstrom, a Special Needs Planner and a parent of an adult child with Down syndrome, will be holding a free informational seminar that includes the following topics: Guardianships, wills, supplemental needs trusts, power of attorney, letter of intent, avoiding family conflict and reducing professional costs. The seminar will be held at 1:30 and 6:30 p.m. at The Arc of Mower County. Call 507-433-8994 to register.

•May 1-June 3: Fudge Sale

•May 2: Special Olympics Softball begins

•May 6: Unified Kickball begins

•May 14: First Annual Meeting and Awards