On Tuesday, April 2, World Autism Day, Virginia Baptist Hospital, along with thousands of schools, skyscrapers, landmarks, businesses and homes worldwide shone blue lights. The international campaign was begun by Autism Speaks after World Autism Awareness Day was adopted by the United Nations in 2007 to shine a bright light on autism as a growing global health priority. Individuals across the world also will be wearing blue to mark the day.

The goals of World Autism Day are to spread awareness and understanding of autism; celebrate and honor the unique talents and skills of people with autism; and bring attention to the needs of the millions of individuals and families affected by autism.

Just a few of the almost 20,000 buildings and landmarks that were lit up blue on April 2 were the Freedom Tower, The Great Sphinx and Pyramids of Giza, Madison Square Garden and The Suez Canal.

Centra will host its third Annual Autism Resource Fair at the Centra Alan B. Pearson Regional Cancer Center in Lynchburg on Saturday, April 6. The event, which is free and open to the public, will be held from 10 a.m.-1 p.m. and will feature child care and activities provided by experienced staff while family members visit informational tables and enjoy some pampering including chair massages. Lunch will also be provided. For more information, visit CentraAutism.com or call (434) 200-4447.