Fran Swanson, Realtor^®

Brief Bio

• Native of Connecticut
• Graduate of Smith College, Northampton, MA and University of Genvea, Switzerland
• Lived and worked in Geneva, Switzerland for 10 years following college
• Returned to US, moved to Florida in 1998
• Became a Realtor and joined RE/MAX Realty Group in 2003
• Love foreign language study; fluent in French and Spanish, working knowledge of German, Italian, Portuguese, some knowledge of Arabic
• Community volunteer and advocate for children with special needs (son was diagnosed with Autism 16 years ago; now in high school doing wonderfully!)
• Hobbies include golf, fitness, writing, reading

What is Autism?

Few disorders are as devastating to a child and his or her family. While some people with autism are mildly affected, most people with the condition will require lifelong supervision and care and have significant language impairments. Many children with autism will never be able to tell their parents they love them.

Studies by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control & Prevention suggest that the prevalence of autism spectrum disorders has significantly increased, from approximately four in 10,000 in the early 1990s to as many as one in every 166 births today. Despite strikingly high prevalence, autism research remains one of the lowest funded areas of medical research by both public and private sources.

Currently, the causes of autism are unknown and there are no specific medical treatments or cure. Physicians have no blood test or diagnostic scan that can definitively diagnose the disorder. As such, the diagnosis of autism is based solely upon observations of behavior. Despite increasing national interest and high prevalence, autism research is one of the lowest funded areas of medical research by both public and private sources.

Advocating for Autism Spectrum Disorders

Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) encompass a group of neuropsychiatric disorders characterized by deficits in social interaction and communication, and sometimes, unusual and repetitive behavior. Some, but not all, people with autism are non-verbal. The degree of autism varies from mild to severe in different individuals. The cause (or causes) of autism are not yet understood. However, it is widely believed within the scientific community that there is a strong genetic component or pre-disposition to autism spectrum disorders. Researchers have proposed that the immunological, metabolic, and environmental factors may also play a part in the etiology of autism. Fortunately, research is advancing in this area and we are perhaps getting closer to unlocking the puzzle surrounding autism spectrum disorders.  One thing is for sure, though: intense early intervention, love, faith and commitment are necessary components in a positive proactive approach. There are countless websites organizations and publications where one can learn about ASD and approaches to intervention.

Testimonials