IMAGINE ALL THE CHILDREN – AFTER TWENTY-FIVE YEARS AND MILLIONS OF CHILDREN BORN WITH AUTISM – ON APRIL 11, 2025, ROBERT F. KENNEDY DECLARES, “A CURE WILL BE FOUND IN FIVE MONTHS.”

In the year 2000, autism rates in the United States were estimated at 1 in 150. By 2025, projections suggest that this figure has jumped to 1 in 31. This increase is not confined to the U.S.; similar trends are observed globally.

Picture mothers soothing their children, trying to provide comfort, as they hear the words: “Your child is on the spectrum. Your child is autistic.” Over the last twenty-four years, autism rates have consistently risen, yet there’s still no clear reason for this worldwide surge in a condition that isn’t new to humanity. Despite the lack of answers, countries around the globe are pouring millions into research to find out what’s behind this increase.

Then, on April 11, 2025, a surprising claim emerged from someone in the U.S., stating that in just five months, the cause of autism would be identified, and a cure would be discovered. The confidence behind this statement raises concerns about whether this person has truly understood the pain experienced by millions over the past twenty-four years while holding onto this potentially groundbreaking information.

 

In five months, those on the autism spectrum will continue their lives as usual. Yet, we now have a glimmer of hope from one individual that solutions and a cure might be on the horizon. Perhaps we should feel thankful for this announcement, even if it’s disheartening to think it took twenty-five years to reveal knowledge that could have spared countless lives from the challenges of being on the autistic spectrum. Just think of all the children.

 

I have to say, in fairness to him, he’s claiming he’ll do something that no one else seems to have attempted so far. Honestly, it’s something I’ve pondered for years. I’ve never quite understood why doctors and scientists from different countries haven’t collaborated to share their findings and work together to identify a cause, treatment, or even a cure.

 

So, credit where it’s due: Mr. Kennedy is at least saying he’ll bring people together for a discussion. However, it feels a bit harsh to suggest that the solution will be found in just five months, almost implying he already knows the answer and is just giving everyone a chance to chime in before he reveals it.

I’m sure the world would have welcomed this announcement with excitement and hope if it weren’t for those words “five months.” Still, if he follows through on his promise, we might be one step closer to finding some kind of resolution. I hope that if his words were just for show, someone—be it a country, organization, or individual—will take the initiative to gather doctors, scientists, caregivers, and parents from all over the world where autism is on the rise, and finally say, “Let’s talk.” (Marcia P. Samuels)