For those of you who do not know what Autism is, let me inform you. Autism is "a mental condition, present from early childhood, characterized by difficulty in communicating and forming relationships with other people and in using language and abstract concepts.

Many do not know, but there are several different types of Autism.

Asperger's Syndrome: These people do not have a problem with language. They actually tend to score above average on intelligence tests. But they have the same social problems and limited scope of interests as children with autistic disorder.

PDD: This is a category for those who have some autistic behaviors but don't fit into any other categories.

Rett Syndrome: Children with rett syndrome, usually girls, start developing normally but then begin losing their communication and social skills.

People with Autism and mental disabilities may be different.. however, they are some of the most kind-hearted and loving people that you will ever meet. Every single person that I have met with a mental disability has quickly became one of my friends. They are so caring and are more concerned about others than they are about themselves.

All my life, I have been very close with my uncle who was diagnosed with a mental disability at a very young age. He does not have autistic disorder, but he does not communicate or have the mental capacity that most people his age do. My uncle is most definitely my favorite person to be around. He is extremely loving and caring, constantly checking up on other people, and he never fails to put a smile on my face when I'm having a bad day. Although he may be different, he is a very special kind of different. He is, without a doubt, the best person I have ever met.

April is a month to raise awareness for those with Autism and mental disabilities, and it is definitely not one to overlook.