The Burt Bacharach Discussion Forum

Hi I would like to get a message to Burt in the hope of discussion with him regarding support for some vital work and a topic close to his heart. I set up & run a service for adults with Aspergers syndrome in the UK? I am increasingly finding adult females coming to me for help with similar issues.....they are being misunderstood, ignored by professionals when help is needed and this results in some pretty desperate situations. Something I believe Burt (& others in the forum) can possibly relate to? I am the only specialist independent social worker that I know of and set up a social enterprise, Rainbow Autism (please see our website rainbowautism.org), innovative service as a result of my frustration with the lack of support available. I also have an adult daughter with Aspergers (although that has never been formerly diagnosed). This has been a VERY challenging role, not least through the 'systems' lack of vision and support (more significantly due to our lack of funding). I come to you in an attempt that you may be willing to help in some way. I am not after funding but some recognition to make others listen to the vital work I believe we are offering. I am currently supporting a lady known to Burt (who I believe painted a portrait of his daughter Nikki) that has Aspergers & is being treated appallingly through professionals lack of understanding & an abusive ex. I sincerely hope someone is able to help for the greater good of those I'm trying to support. Kindest regards, Mandy

Hi Mandy!
Certainly wishing all good things in the work you do. I also work-in the United States-with kids & teens living with Autism. Interesting, how in this country (don't know about the UK), Asperger's Disorder has been removed from the list of disorders on the Autism Spectrum, as of 2015. Not exactly sure why this was done...In any event, it would be great if you could manage to get Burt's support in your efforts, though I don't know how much involvement he has had over the years with such organizations. I believe he was the first to admit that Nikki's mother, Angie Dickinson was far more the advocate on behalf of their daughter.

All The Best,
Jerry