This is an archived article that was published on sltrib.com in 2006, and information in the article may be outdated. It is provided only for personal research purposes and may not be reprinted.
I found this article (Tribune, July 22, Nephi family's sign calling neighbor's autistic son a "retard") on an Internet Web site about autism. I honestly don't know what to say - well, I do know what to say but I am a lady. I can't believe anyone would post a sign like that about anyone, let alone a disabled child.
I think this family should get on their knees and thank God that their children aren't autistic. It is people like this who make it difficult for my autistic child to get out and enjoy life like the other children can. Autistic children are persecuted for something they have no control over. I think it is absolutely pathetic.
I also believe this child's mother needs to take more precautions to make sure he doesn't wander the streets unattended. I am the mother of an 8-year old autistic child, and I never let him outside alone. Pure common sense would tell you to keep watch on a special-needs child. Something needs to be done. Someone needs to take a stand and protect this Nephi child.
Marlene Click
Clearfield, Ky.
