MemorialCare Miller Children’s Hospital Long Beach Celebrates Autism Awareness Day

MemorialCare Miller Children’s Hospital Long Beach Celebrates Autism Awareness Day with “Light It Up Blue” Event

LONG BEACH, CA – April 2, 2024 – MemorialCare Miller Children’s & Women’s Hospital Long Beach marked Autism Awareness Day with a vibrant community event dedicated to promoting acceptance and understanding of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Organized by the Stramski Children’s Developmental Center, the event brought together patients, families, hospital staff, and community members for a day filled with activities, education, and celebration.

The hospital participated in the global “Light It Up Blue” initiative, illuminating its exterior in blue to honor individuals with autism. Attendees, including members of the Long Beach Fire Department and volunteers from the community, held 36 blue puzzle pieces and one white puzzle piece—symbolizing the 1 in 36 children diagnosed with autism in the U.S. The celebration also featured sensory-friendly activities such as slime-making and bubble stations, as well as interactions with the hospital’s beloved mascot, Millie the Dolphin.

Dr. Ioana Pal, a clinical psychologist at the Stramski Developmental Center, emphasized the importance of raising awareness, stating, “Autism is a spectrum, and every child’s journey is unique. Through events like this, we help build a more inclusive society.” The event also served as an opportunity for families to learn more about autism diagnosis and early intervention services offered at the hospital.

Sumer Temple, a member of the Board of Directors for the Long Beach Chamber of Commerce, highlighted the broad-reaching impact of autism, saying, “Autism is something that intersects many places, and so many people are also impacted. Also, LGBTQ and autistic individuals share overlapping experiences, so there are many connections across different communities. We all need to come together with acceptance.”

The Stramski Children’s Developmental Center, which has supported children with autism and other developmental conditions for nearly 50 years, continues to be a vital resource for families in Southern California. MemorialCare Miller Children’s Hospital’s dedication to autism awareness extends beyond April, reinforcing a commitment to acceptance and advocacy throughout the year.

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