Brothers Promote Autism Awareness

VILLAS – For the last decade, Jacyn Pisieczko has addressed Lower Township Council during Autism Awareness Month (April) with the help of his mother, Lisa Bryant, and brother, Eric Pisieczko.
Jacyn Pisieczko was non-verbal and his mother would help prepare and read the annual statement. This year, Jacyn Pisieczko wrote his own statement and read it to council with brother, Eric Pisieczko, by his side.
Eric Pisieczko, who is a state-recognized high school musician, spoke to council first, talking about what it was like to be the sibling of someone with autism.
“We have our rough patches, like most brothers, but we love each other and we teach each other,” Eric Pisieczko said.
Eric Pisieczko explained that he recently taught Jacyn Pisieczko to shave, amongst other things.
“He teaches me kindness, caring, and compassion,” Eric Pisieczko said.
Eric Pisieczko said his brother has made great strides recently.
“Jacyn has gone from being non-verbal to performing Frank Sinatra tunes in the high school talent show. He’s come a long way,” said Eric Pisieczko.
According to the organization Autism Speaks, “Autism, or autism spectrum disorder (ASD), refers to a broad range of conditions characterized by challenges with social skills, repetitive behaviors, speech, and nonverbal communication.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, autism affects an estimated one in 59 children in the nation.
There are many subtypes of autism, most influenced by a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Because autism is a spectrum disorder, each person with autism has a distinct set of strengths and challenges.
The ways in which people with autism learn, think, and problem solve can range from highly skilled to severely challenged. Some people with ASD may require significant support in their daily lives, while others may need less support and, in some cases, live entirely independently.
Several factors may influence the development of autism, and it is often accompanied by sensory sensitivities and medical issues such as gastrointestinal (GI) disorders, seizures or sleep disorders, as well as mental health challenges such as anxiety, depression and attention issues.
Indicators of autism usually appear by age 2 or 3. Some associated development delays can appear even earlier, and often, it can be diagnosed as early as 18 months. Research shows that early intervention leads to positive outcomes later in life for people with autism.
Jacyn Pisieczko followed Eric Pisieczko in addressing the meeting and talked about how busy he has been and his plans for the future.
“I’m playing violin and I did sing in the talent show. Next month, I’m going to the prom,” Jacyn Pisieczko explained.
He also has serious plans for the future and has secured an internship this summer.
“I’m learning to be patient and responsible and that includes getting a job,” said Jacyn Pisieczko.
Jacyn Pisieczko explained that even though people with autism may appear different, they still enjoy the things that everyone else enjoys.
Jacyn Pisieczko asked that everyone pray for families who are dealing with a loved one who is autistic and proceeded to present council members with a handmade card and some cookies.
Council then issued a proclamation recognizing April as Autism Awareness Month.
To contact Carl Price, email cprice@cmcherald.com.