Recently, Robert F. Kennedy Jr. referred to autism as part of a "chronic disease epidemic," calling it a “pandemic” in the modern age. While he may have intended to highlight concerns around healthcare or environmental issues, his choice of language is not only harmful—it’s dangerously misleading.
Let’s be clear:
Autism is not a disease.
Autism is not a tragedy.
Autism is not a pandemic.
It’s a neurological difference—a unique way of experiencing and interacting with the world. And just like any difference, it comes with both challenges and gifts.
As a mother to Noah Sheppard, my 12-year-old son who is both autistic and has Down Syndrome, I can tell you firsthand: autism is not something to fear. It’s something to understand, to embrace, and to honor.
Noah is the heart behind Noah’s Buddy Box and the inspiration behind so much of what I do. He touches the lives of everyone he meets with his joy, his spirit, and his unique way of viewing the world. Autism is part of what makes Noah who he is—radiant, expressive, intuitive, and deeply connected in his own incredible way.
Let’s Talk Facts: The Danger of Misinformation
Labeling autism as a “pandemic” implies that it’s something to be cured or eradicated, which not only spreads fear but devalues the lives of millions of autistic individuals around the world. It pushes outdated stereotypes and perpetuates stigma that autistic people and their families work tirelessly to overcome every day.
This kind of language can:
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Discourage inclusion
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Fuel discrimination
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Dehumanize neurodivergent individuals
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Ignore the incredible value and contributions of the autistic community
Celebrating Contributions from the Autistic Community
Throughout history, neurodivergent minds—including those with autism—have shaped science, art, technology, and society. While not every autistic person is a savant or genius (and they shouldn’t have to be), many have made profound contributions that continue to impact our lives today.
Here are just a few examples:
🧠 Dr. Temple Grandin – One of the most influential voices in both autism advocacy and the field of animal science. Her insights revolutionized livestock handling and she continues to educate millions on neurodiversity.
🧑💻 Satoshi Tajiri – The creator of Pokémon, who is believed to be autistic, used his unique way of seeing the world to build one of the most globally successful franchises of all time.
🎨 Stephen Wiltshire – A world-renowned autistic artist known for drawing complex cityscapes from memory after just one brief glance.
🧬 James Henry Pullen – A 19th-century autistic man dubbed “the Genius of Earlswood Asylum” who built incredibly detailed mechanical models, including a 10-foot ship carved entirely by hand.
✨ Countless everyday heroes – Autistic teachers, engineers, creatives, coders, advocates, parents, and thinkers making meaningful change in their families, communities, and industries every single day.
From Noah’s Buddy Box to the Bigger Picture
When I created Noah’s Buddy Box, it was more than just a comfort kit. It was a celebration of children like Noah Sheppard—children who are often misunderstood, underestimated, or talked about like they are burdens instead of blessings.
Autism is not a problem to be solved. It’s a perspective to be valued.
We don’t need less autism in the world.
We need more understanding, more inclusion, and more compassion.
What You Can Do
✔ Speak up when you hear harmful rhetoric
✔ Educate yourself and others on neurodiversity
✔ Support autistic voices, creators, and businesses
✔ Celebrate differences—not just tolerate them
✔ Be curious. Be kind. Be willing to unlearn
Autism isn’t a pandemic. It’s part of the beautiful spectrum of humanity. And in a world that constantly demands conformity, neurodivergent individuals remind us of the power of thinking differently.
Let’s continue to advocate for a world where Noah—and every person like him—feels celebrated, respected, and truly seen.
📦 Learn more about Noah’s Buddy Box and join us in creating comfort and inclusion for all children. Www.NoahsBuddyBox.com