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This week I was introduced to something I had not heard of yet and so I am sharing it with all of you. I had a parent tell me about a wonderful organization that provides service dogs for autistic children. If you have seen a service dog before it was probably related to a visually impaired person, a seeing eye dog. These dogs undergo extensive training and are specially prepared for those on the autism spectrum. This sounds like a great concept and perhaps after my patient receives his dog I will be able to give you some follow up on ” A boy and his dog.” Here is the link, check it out http://www.4pawsforability.org/dream.html#Hung
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Autism spectrum disorders affect every part of our being. It is our very children that are affected and what is there that is more precious to us than our children. It involves our entire lives. I have seen a lot of single moms in my office dealing with one or several children who are on the autism spectrum. I have seen parents that have been able to stay together dealing with one or more children on the autism spectrum. I am always in awe of those with children on the spectrum, how they cope and sometimes embrace with the situation. I find that parents with autistic children are a model for the rest of us and the definition of true unconditional love. Couples that have managed to stay together definitely have something that they could teach the rest of us. The statistics for divorce among parents with children on the autism spectrum are not encouraging. This is another aspect of life with a child with autism doesn’t seem to get enough attention. Yet, a divorce will affect the lives of the parents and the child, not just with regard to financial resources but clearly emotionally as well. Here is a post from a blog where they discuss some strategies for working together as a parental team.
http://autismisnottheboss.com/category/engaging-your-husband-spouse/
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Last night we had our monthly support group meeting here in Tampa at Casa Mexicana in Tampa. As usual, I got to enjoy myself and learn more about the community. We have a group of parents that know so much about things such as I.E.P.s, home schooling and parking permits. One of our most experienced parents with an adult child who has been all over the country and has tried various treatments told me that even she picked up a few tips. A Few good pediatricians and therapist will be added to our resource list as some new names were recommended by new members of the group. I answered a few questions , mostly regarding Hemispheric Integration therapy. The best part is always the sharing and fellowship. Its nice to see the look on some faces who usually do not get a night out and if so not with others that understand their situation. If you are in Tampa remember that next week we are having a family outing at planet bounce for support group members. This is a special time reserved for our group for just families with children on the spectrum. Another outing for the parents and some much needed social time for the kids. For more information about our support group go to www.hitautism.net
