Understanding vaccines and autism |
By Stephen R. Anderson, Ph.D., BCBA-D |
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The link between vaccines and autism has become a concern of some parents who, understandably, want to keep their children healthy and safe. Unfortunately, misinformation has begun to erode public confidence in the value of childhood vaccines.
Where Did the Idea Come From?
The fear that vaccines might cause autism started with a paper published in 1998 by a British doctor named Andrew Wakefield. His study suggested a link between the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine and autism. However, there were several major problems: -
His study only included 12 children which was far too small to draw any real conclusions.
- Other researchers could not find the same results when they tried to repeat his study.
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In 2010, Wakefield lost his medical license because of ethical violations and misconduct related to this research.
The original paper was retracted by the medical journal that published it.
What Does Credible Research Indicate? Many large, well-designed studies have looked at whether vaccines are linked to autism. They have consistently found no link. Here are some examples:
- A study in Denmark followed over 650,000 children and found that the MMR vaccine did not increase the risk of autism.
Denmark Study - Journal of Internal Medicine (2019) - A review of 10 different studies, covering millions of children, concluded there was no relationship between vaccines and autism.
Review of Studies (Vaccine 2014) -
Research has also shown that the timing of the rise in autism diagnoses matches better awareness and changes in how doctors diagnose autism, not vaccine schedules.
Why Does This Belief Persist?
Even though science shows no link, fear has stuck around for several reasons: -
Parents often notice signs of autism around the same age children get their vaccines (12-18 months). This can make it seem like the vaccine caused it, even though the symptoms were developing earlier.
- Misinformation spreads quickly on social media.
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Autism is complex. While we know that genetics account for up to 80% of cases, scientists are still researching the causes. It’s natural to look for simple explanations when answers are uncertain.
It is understandable to have questions and worries when it comes to your child’s health. The good news is that decades of research around the world have shown clearly: vaccines do not cause autism. Autism is a condition that begins before birth, likely due to a combination of genetic and environmental factors — not vaccines.
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Walkers raise more than $280,000
to support autism services |
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Families and friends gathered under clear blue skies to celebrate loved ones at The Summit Center 2025 Autism Walk on May 10. More than 2,000 people came out to walk in support of the children and adults who receive Summit services.
The DeSimone family kicked things off by cutting the ribbon at the starting line. Tony and Kimberly DeSimone raised nearly $2,500 for their son Julian, a student at Summit Academy. |
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Walkers enjoyed visits from Sabretooth, Rax, and Buster Bison, Star Wars characters, and Elphaba and Glinda. Sweet Charlotte’s and the Aquarium of Niagara provided kids’ activities, including face painting and a sensory touch station.
Tom Rosenecker, who has served as the event chair for 17 years, announced this would be his last year spearheading the event. He was presented with a special painting signed by students at Summit Academy thanking him for his dedication to making lives better.
The Autism Walk is Summit’s largest fundraiser, with money directly supporting the 20+ programs that more than 1,000 children and adults depend on each year. Walkers, donors, and community partners have raised more than $280,000 so far. Donations can be made through June 13 at SummitAutismWalk.org.
This year’s top fundraising teams were: Claudia’s Clan, Team Charlotte, Théoden’s Fellowship, Walk for Our MattMan, and Team Maurer Power. The top individual fundraisers were: Claudia Rosenecker, Candace DeMarti, Théoden Chouinard, Team Davi, and West Herr.
Thank you to our presenting sponsor West Herr; premium food and beverage sponsor Tops Friendly Markets; t-shirt sponsor Independent Health; gold sponsors American Eagle Fireplace & Playsets and New Era Cap; silver sponsors Coca-Cola Beverages Northeast, GEICO, and Rich Family Foundation; mission sponsors Highmark BlueCross BlueShield of WNY, The Home Depot, and RBC Wealth Management; and community sponsors ACSI, Antonio’s Banquet & Conference Center, Barclay Damon LLP, Beechwood Continuing Care, The Bonadio Group, Copier Fax Business Technologies, EmergenceTek Group, Inc., Modern Disposal, North Forest Office Space, Summit Pediatrics, and WNY Beer Trail.
We would also like to thank all our amazing walkers, donors, sponsors, volunteers, and committee members who made this event possible. View photos from the day captured by Martin Malicki Photography and watch our thank you video!
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Thank you to our sponsors! |
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Bus monitor goes
above and beyond to help others |
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Each morning and afternoon, Pierce greets students on his bus with a smile and positive attitude. He works as a bus monitor for a local bus company that provides transportation to students with disabilities. Pierce participates in Summit’s Supported Employment Program, which pairs individuals with a job coach to develop and practice job skills, explore career paths, and assist in obtaining employment.
Recently, Pierce stepped up to help temporary bus drivers while his regular driver was out on medical leave. Pierce aided the new drivers in navigating the bus routes during pick up and drop off to ensure they stayed on schedule. While the constant change in drivers caused some stressful situations for Pierce, he used the breathing technique his job coach taught him to remain calm.
Not only has he helped new drivers to be successful, but Pierce also took it upon himself to assist students who have difficulties with verbal communication. One student speaks Hindi as his first language. Pierce went above and beyond by using Google Translator to learn words in Hindi so he could effectively communicate with the student. Pierce receives glowing performance reviews from his manager, and his job coach said he is an exemplary employee. |
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Wilson Legacy Funds
to improve fitness trail |
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The Summit Center has been awarded a $25,000 grant from the Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Legacy Funds* administered by the Community Foundation for Greater Buffalo. The grant will be used to renovate the Summit Academy Stahl fitness trail, a series of exercise stations around the campus. New rubber surfacing will be installed to provide a safer space for students to be active and build gross motor skills.
The fitness trail project is part of a larger initiative to improve and expand recreational opportunities at each of our school buildings. We are grateful to the Community Foundation for Greater Buffalo for recognizing the importance of recreational spaces tailored to our students’ developmental needs.
*The Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Legacy Funds were established at the Community Foundation to provide support to four areas that were important to Mr. Wilson: caregivers, community assets, design and access, and youth sports. Endowment funds, like these created to honor Mr. Wilson, are designed to grow over time and provide funding for charitable causes according to a client’s wishes. |
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Strengthening Summit's
financial sustainability |
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As uncertainty lingers regarding cuts to government funding, new sources of revenue are integral to maintaining exceptional services for children and adults with autism. That’s why the Stephen R. Anderson Endowment is such an important asset for The Summit Center.
Named in honor of former CEO Dr. Steve Anderson, the fund will provide perpetual income for the agency. Once it reaches $250,000, we will begin to receive yearly distributions based on the annual rate of return. The Stephen R. Anderson Endowment will be used to support services and initiatives that make The Summit Center such an effective resource for individuals and families, including: - Evidence-based programs like the Early Autism Program and the Behavioral Pediatrics Clinic
- Professional development opportunities for faculty and staff
- New technology
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Other initiatives that foster a culture of continuous improvement
With federal funding reductions on the horizon, it’s wise to be prepared. Consider supporting the Stephen R. Anderson Endowment — your gift will allow us to continue providing the support children and adults deserve, even during times of financial instability. To give to the Stephen R. Anderson Endowment, visit TheSummitCenter.org/AndersonEndowment. |
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Employee Spotlight - Presented by West Herr |
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Meet Julia Jaworski!
What is your role at Summit? I am a teacher at Summit Academy Hazelwood.
Describe what your day might look like. I spend my days helping shape little minds, hanging out with my sphynx cats, cooking new recipes, and spending time with people I love. What are you most proud of, personally and professionally?
Personally, I am proud of all I have accomplished so far in life, especially obtaining my master's degree. Professionally, I am so proud of the growth I have made over the past year as a teacher.
What is your favorite place to eat in Western New York? My favorite place to eat is at Fuji Grill Transit!
Name someplace on your bucket list.
I'd love to travel to Japan. |
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June 5: Transition Fair Time: 5-7 p.m.
Location: 30 Hazelwood Dr., Amherst, NY 14228
Connect with more than 22 agencies on resources to support students in the transition to adulthood. Parents from all school districts are welcome. For more information, visit our website. July 8 & 9: Summer Institute Session 1 Time: 8:15 a.m.-2:30 p.m.
Location: 75 Pineview Dr., Suite 200, Amherst, NY 14228
An in-person, two-day workshop for educators and school personnel covering a range of topics, including social emotional learning, responding to challenging behaviors, and building positive thinkers. Register today.
July 15 & 16: Summer Institute Session 2
Time: 8:15 a.m.-2:30 p.m.
Virtual Session
A virtual, two-day workshop for educators and school personnel covering a range of topics, including social emotional learning, responding to challenging behaviors, and building positive thinkers. Register today.
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Autism varies greatly from person to person, meaning no two people with autism are exactly alike. Autism impacts the development of the brain in the areas of social interaction, communication skills, and cognitive function. Individuals with autism may have difficulties in verbal and non-verbal communication, social interactions, and leisure or play activities. (Source: World Health Organization) |
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Our Mission
Guided by evidence-based practice, we maximize life success for people facing developmental, social, and behavioral challenges. |
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