Autism affects about one in every 150 kids.

The numbers are quite alarming, and it's considered one of the fastest growing developmental disabilities out there.

It impacts about 35 million a year, and roughly 67 children will be diagnosed in one day alone.

April 2, marks the first ever International Autism Awareness Day. The day is designed to spread knowledge about this puzzling disease.

Last year we first told you about then two-year-old Daniel Kay, a young boy with Autism who struggled with talking and eating. Over the past year, the toddler has made some incredible gains through therapy at the Brazos Valley Rehabilitation Center and school.

Wednesday we re-visited the toddler and his mother at one of his therapy sessions to see what a difference a year can make in the life of someone with the spectrum disorder.

In Daniel's case, he went from barely talking at all, to now being a little chatterbox.

"A lot of people think, 'oh this child couldn't possibly have Autism since he doesn't sit in the corner and rock, or he doesn't flap his hands'," Daniel's Mother Bonnie Kay said.

However, it isn't only talking Daniel is doing these days, he's also running, and also reading.

"T is for turtle," Daniel said.

"With Autism, there is often the tendency to focus on details, but not all kids with autism will be early readers, his fixation is with letters and numbers, that's where he's showing it right now," Kay said.

As part of Daniel's therapy he sits down and works on finding all the pieces to a small puzzle. With ease he's able to identify the different animals and their corresponding spots.

For many, the disease is one giant puzzle itself.

As part of Daniel's therapy he walks on a treadmill, rides a tricycle, does a little bowling, drawing, and even eating. Each small step he makes is one big gain.

"Everyday I'm aware about Autism because it's the life we live," Kay said.

Daniel can keep track of what he's doing in therapy by using a picture schedule, where he can view several pictures of different actions on a board. The pictures tell him what he will be doing each day, and when he completes one he takes the picture down.

The pictures have given Daniel a good understanding of his day-to-day activities.

One thing his family and therapists are still working with him on, is eating.

If you're a parent or loved one of someone with Autism, there is a place you can turn to for support.

The Brazos Valley Rehabilitation Center hosts F.A.C.E.T.S: Families of Autistic Children Engaged Together for Support, meetings every second Tuesday of the month from 6:30 to 8:30.

Dinner and childcare is provided at the support meetings free of charge.

For more information call 979-731-1484