SPARK Snapshots: A Window Into the Autism Journey
SPARK Snapshots summarize the data that we have collected. View our latest, which provides a window into the journey of SPARK participants.
Learn MoreTopic: Pregnancy and childbirth
When mothers describe their autism journeys, they sometimes mention their pregnancy or childbirth experiences. The articles that follow describe research related to pregnancy and childbirth. You can also read about the experiences of SPARK families.
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SPARK Finds New Class of Genes that Cause Autism
A study using SPARK data has uncovered a new class of genes that may expand what we know about autism and the way the brain works.
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When Autism Symptoms are Severe: The Escher Family Story
Jonny and Sophie share some severe symptoms of autism, but like any two siblings, they have their own preferences, from music to skiing.
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The Link Between Autism and Prematurity
Is there a link between autism and being born prematurely?
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The Preemie with a Fighting Spirit
Hunter came into the world 13 weeks early, a tiny preemie with a big spirit. Now a teen, Hunter, who has autism, continues to astound his family.
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The Autism Journey of the Rivera-Padua Family
Despite Hurricane Maria and a move, a family keeps its focus on helping a son, and others, with autism.
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First a Cleft Lip, then Autism
More than three years after a genetic diagnosis, Brody Eidam has surpassed doctor’s expectations. But he and his family still face lots of challenges.
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Getting a Genetic Diagnosis from SPARK Answers a Family’s Questions
When Mercedes Riggs opened the email from SPARK, she texted her husband, “You won’t believe this.” Learn how SPARK provided answers to one family’s questions about their son’s autism.
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The Fight for Tony: A Mother’s Quest to Unravel a Mystery and Push Autism Research Forward
Sandra Sermone refused to wait. She had seen her son Tony through heart surgery, a feeding tube, brain scans, countless blood tests, and medical appointments. This little boy who struggled to eat, talk, and play was getting worse. Sermone had three things: a telephone, a computer, and an inability to be discouraged. She would find an answer for what was happening to her child.
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Study Spotlight: GEARS Study
Scientists aim to uncover how genetic and environmental factors might interact to raise risk for autism.
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