Thursday, March 21, 2013

My Thoughts On The New Study: 1 In 50

     I am happy the media has shed light on autism. The study is great news to hear because now doctors will dx children even with milder symptoms. There still are many questions that need answers. Does this mean that families with an autistic child will get more resources and services? Will there be a study on what causes autism?  Will there be a study to find out the simililarities and differences each family has?
     I mean come on, if the rate keeps rising I would beleive it is not genetic. A persons genes do not change that fast. How about doing a study on the lowest rates in a particular area and find out what their lifestyle is and compare it to the lifestyle of families who live in a high rate area? How about looking at what all families have in common?
    Meaning we all get our children vaccinated. The vaccines change over time, the vaccines we received when we were younger are not the same dosage our children get. Our second, third etc. born didnt receive the same vaccines as our first born. What about hormones in the food? We need food to survive. If we are not vegetarians we buy foods that have hormones in them. A study should be done on families that grow their own food with no hormones and see what the autism rate is if any, and compare.
     How about the enviroment maybe an area with high pollution is the cause? Do a study on that and see what the results are. Something is happening and in my opinion I dont think its genetic. How will it be explained if the rate continues to grow at a rapid pace? The studies like these need to be done in order to rule out what its not.
     So lets try ruling out what its not and maybe we can find out what is. I dont want a cure for my daughters autism she is perfect the way she is, but it would be nice to know what causes autism and finally have some answers. If we know what causes autism maybe it could be prevented for future families. These are the questions that will stay in my head for a long time before I can have some releif. I'm sure we are all on the same page and want to know why this is happening. Hopefully there will be a breakthrough on studies and we will soon get anwers. Stay strong and remember have HOPE, you are not alone.

Wednesday, March 6, 2013

Keep Fighting And Never Lose Hope

       When my son was born in 2001 I was the happiest person. He lit up my world. I loved holding him in my arms and kissing him on the forehead. He was my bundle of joy. As the years passed I would see him progress a little but not where he needed to be at age 3. As he started talking he had slurred speech.He wasn't learning the basics, he struggled.
       I knew that something was wrong. I was very concerned so I discussed it with the pediatrician. I was told that my son was fine and because he is a boy it will take him longer to talk like a 3 yr. old should.Well I didn't like the answer the Dr. gave me so I switched pediatricians. I picked a pediatrician that was in another city. I had to travel 30 minutes to get there but it was so worth it. ( I still have the same pediatrician).
     When I discussed my concerns with the new pediatrician he right away reffered me to a specialist. Even the specialist was on board that there was something wrong and my son needed services. What I am trying to point out is if you have concerns about your child bring it to the Dr.'s attention.
      If the Dr. says there is nothing wrong with your child but YOU have concerns, go for a second opinion or find another Dr. that will listen to you. As parents we know our children best. Sometimes you have to disagree with the Dr. if you feel different about something. If I continued with the previous Dr. my son would have missed out on services to help him better his education.
    My son is 11 yrs. old and in 6th grade. His speech is clear due to intense speech therapy. His grades have improved.  He was diagnosed and was able to recieve the services to fit his needs. My son is finally on the right track to success. Thanks to my perserverence and determination and the Dr.'s willingness to provide us with the best care I never lost HOPE. Do what you think is best for your child, fight the fight and never lose Faith and Hope.