Autism a spectrum disorder, not 'illness'

Although I am glad to see that good people are responding to the needs of children with autism, I have to take issue with the use of the word "illness" to describe autism in your Feb. 14 "Thumbs Up" column.

Autism is not an illness, but a spectrum disorder. Some might even go so far to say that autism is a difference that should carry with it no positive or negative connotations. To refer to autism as an illness is to disregard the truth and fullness of what this condition represents in all of its varied manifestations to those who have it and their loved ones.

COLLEEN FOX-SALAH

GREECE