“Life, Animated” shown free for Autism Awareness Month
EVMS Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences will host a free screening of the critically acclaimed documentary “Life, Animated” at 6 p.m. Wednesday, April 19, in Lewis Hall’s Roper Auditorium. The event is being held in honor of April’s Autism Awareness Month and is open to the public.
Following the film, attendees will participate in an open discussion with faculty from the EVMS Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) Program and Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences.
“We are screening this movie in the hopes that it will entertain and stimulate discussion throughout our community about how people with ASD communicate, develop, and grow,” says Kathrin Hartmann, MD, Professor of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences and Co-Director of the EVMS ASD Program.
Co-Director of the ASD Program, Maria Urbano, MD, Professor of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences says the benefits of increased awareness often translate into earlier diagnosis for many of the children who suffer from the disorder. "An early diagnosis is important because the earlier treatment begins, the more effective it will be and the better the child will be able to function in daily life."
From Academy Award-winning director Roger Ross Williams, “Life, Animated” is a coming-of-age story about a young boy with autism who uses Disney animated movies to help express love, loss and an understanding of family. The film is based on the best-selling book by Ron Suskind. For more information, call 757.446.5176.