www.insideHALTON.com | OAKVILLE BEAVER | Thursday, December 25, 2014 | 56 Health One hundred and fifty children who might not have had a chance to meet with Santa got the opportunity to deliver their Christmas wishes to St. Nick last week. The Halton Chapter of the Autism Ontario Society held a family holiday party for children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). The neurological disorder emerges in infants and young children and impairs the development of language, communication and social skills. It often results in sensory issues and behavioural problems. With short lineups, the assistance of trained professionals and sensory accommodations, the children were able to get their pictures taken with Santa. More than 340 people attended the holiday party. The party was made possible by the fundraising efforts of the Halton Region Police Association and the members of the Tactical Rescue Unit (TRU), who organized the TRU autism fundraiser, led by Sgt. Cole Repta. This year's fundraiser, held in October, raised $20,060 to support the Halton chapter. In addition to the holiday party, the money will allow the Halton chapter to offer many programs in the upcoming year that will target the development of language and social skills and the acquisition of many learning opportunities that would otherwise be unavailable. Early intervention is key and children with autism can make remarkable progress and successfully integrate into the community when programs are available. However, wait lists for funded programs can often take two to four years, according to the Halton chapter of the Autism Ontario Society. More than 100,000 people in Ontario have autism, including an estimated 6,000 in Halton. "Connected to your Community" Autism Ontario gives children chance to meet Santa healthy lifestyle STaRTS hERE.. · Physiotherapy · Massage Therapy an acTivE The Halton Chapter of the Autism Ontario Society recently held a family holiday party for children with Austism Spectrum Disorder and gave 150 boys and girls, who might not have otherwise had the chance, the opportunity to meet with Santa and tell St. Nick what they wanted for Christmas. Thanks to short lineups, the assistance of trained professionals and sensory accommodations, the children were able to get their photo taken with Santa. More than 340 people attended the holiday party. | submitted photo services available: · Athletic Therapy · Shockwave Therapy · Osteopathy, Acupuncture and Laser Therapy Happy Holidays from... 360 Dundas St. East Unit B2 at Trafalgar Rd., Oakville 905-257-1904 www.beinmotion.ca Isn't It About Time For A Hearing Test??? Come And Visit An Independent, Caring Family Hearing Aid Clinic All Services, Sales, Hearing Tests, Programming, Repairs, Batteries, Home Visits Jennifer Nolan Wendy Caswell Latest in technology, models and styles, blue tooth and accessories. Price ranges from $500.00 to elite levels. Over 25 y of know ears l e and exp dge erience. Lakeshore H E A R I N G Paramedical S E R V I C E S Have a safe and healthy holiday season and we look forward to seeing you in the new year! 905-849-8646 · 1276 A Cornwall Road Oakville www.aptmedspa.com Established Since 1979 113 JONES STREET, OAKVILLE, ON · 905-827-2902