A sit down with Dan Marino during World Autism Awareness Day

World Autism Awareness Day is observed every year on April 2nd. How meaningful is this observance for you?

World Autism Month is significant to me for a number of reasons. As a father of a son with autism and having witnessed the number of families the Dan Marino Foundation has assisted, “Autism Acceptance Month” signifies the importance of accepting all people with autism. It is not only a time to raise awareness but, more importantly, promote inclusion, understanding, and support for the autism community. It’s an opportunity to celebrate the unique strengths and talents of children, teens, and adults with autism not only for a month but for a lifetime.

Autism is the fastest growing developmental disorder, yet most underfunded. 1 in every 36 children are diagnosed with autism in the U.S. daily. How important do you think autism awareness, advocacy, and acceptance are to create a more inclusive community for children and adults on the spectrum?

With more children being diagnosed with autism, teens aging out of the school system, and adults struggling to gain employment and independence, acceptance is more important than ever. This dramatic increase in autism diagnoses and the significant impact on individuals and families makes it imperative that we continue to prioritize funding, resources, and support services to ensure that everyone affected by autism can thrive. For 32 years, our Foundation, which provides clinical services to individuals with autism, has helped recognize and address these challenges and supported thousands of people with autism to lead the fullest life possible.?

When your son Michael was recently diagnosed, health insurance plans did not cover pre-existing conditions like autism or pay for applied behavior therapy services. How did that affect you and your family?

When Michael was diagnosed, we were surprised to learn that health insurance plans didn't cover pre-existing conditions like autism or the necessary applied behavior therapy services. We were very fortunate and in a financial position to cover the expenses and navigate the difficult process of finding the services for Michael. However, it was one of the main reasons why we created the Dan Marino Foundation: to help families who were not able to do what we did for Michael. We were fortunate to have a platform to advocate for policy changes and push for greater support for families facing similar struggles.

Under the Affordable Care Act (Obamacare), health insurance companies can't refuse to cover patients or charge more just because of a "pre-existing condition" like autism. This allowed millions of American children with autism to receive no-cost developmental screenings and qualify for continued therapy services, including applied behavior therapy. How do you think that impacts millions of American families and their children's future??

The impact of the Affordable Care Act (Obamacare) provision regarding coverage for pre-existing conditions, including autism, cannot be overstated and is a monumental step toward creating a more equitable and inclusive healthcare system for all. However, while some developmental screenings and therapy services are covered, many of the therapies and treatments vital to children and adults with autism are not. The Foundation continuously works on developing unique services and innovative technology to ensure people with autism have an opportunity to reach their full potential, but much more still needs to be done.

Dan, you have millions of fans who admire you and follow you. Many of them have had close experiences with children and adults with autism. But some of your fans might not be aware of the realities, challenges, and needs of families who have children with autism. What would you like to say to them during World Autism Awareness Day?

To my fans, as we observe World Autism Awareness Day, I want to shed light on the realities, challenges, and needs of families who have children with autism. While many of you may have had close relationships with autism, others may not fully understand the daily struggles and triumphs faced by these families. I urge you to educate yourselves, show empathy, and extend support to those affected by autism. Together, let's foster a more inclusive and understanding community where individuals with autism are embraced for who they are and given the opportunities they deserve to thrive. Thank you for your compassion and support.