Savannah autism conference emphasizes the positive

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The annual Autism Conference in Savannah Thursday brought together people who are living with the disorder and others who want to learn more about how to support their loved ones.

Hundreds came out for the first day.

“I am currently a psychology major in college and I want to do autism spectrum disorder research, so this is a good first step for me," said Emily Edwards, a conference attendee.

However, that's not the only reason Emily Edwards and her mom chose to come to the conference.

“I personally was diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder when I was 7 years old," she said. “Growing up for me, autism spectrum disorder was a curse.”

“Build on their strengths instead of focusing on the "can'ts," said Christina. "Sometimes with a child with a disability, you hear a lot of 'can'ts' and 'nevers' and it’s more important to focus on the cans."

That attitude has meant the world to Emily.

“It’s possible to do anything," said Emily. "I had so much trouble growing up doing anything and I’ve gotten this far. I work a full time job and I’m in college. That’s something; that’s a dream that we didn’t think we would ever do growing up.”

She hopes to use what she learned to help make dreams a reality for other living with autism.