Times have changed. I can remember when doctors were apprehensive about giving a diagnosis and support groups were new. Now different disabilities are lining up under the autism umbrella and the support groups have members in the hundreds.

I have heard autism called an epidemic. The scientists are trying to learn the causes. We try to blame our toxic environments and immunizations as we delve deeper into understanding brain sizes, chromosomes and inheritance. It is truly wonderful that we can take pictures of brains, analyze DNA and study growth patterns. So many are raising funds for research to find the answer why. More celebrities come forward as the big "A" seeps into the lives of their relatives and friends.

My mind often wanders past where the answer is. Once the masterminds come to a conclusion and we can understand the reasons, we would still find ourselves with loved ones that are affected.

I fear that people are so busy trying to find the answer that we may lose sight of the services that are needed right now. Some parents have not had success with early intervention or their children have multiple disabilities. These parents soon will have autistic adults and may not have the resources or stamina to care for them.

The waiting lists for group homes and care centers continue to grow. The crisis centers needed for adolescents and young adults are still too few and far between. Our police and first responders to the wanderings and situations that require intervention are just now being trained about autism. The budget for our state's mental health department seems to be a runaway train. We need to focus more on the present.

I like the idea that funding is being sought for research. It helps in educating others and raising awareness. However, I would love to know that there was a bit more attention on what is needed in the near future for services and care.