AutismADHD's topics - tribe.net

Exciting news

Lisa — Thu, 29 Jan 2009 09:02:09 GMT

Hi Everyone!

Let me start by saying this is a looooong post, so really you only need read the first couple of paragraphs if you want. Friend or stranger, please feel free to contact me any time, and please feel free to forward this as far and wide as you'd like.

My husband and I have an 8 year old son who was diagnosed with Autism when he was four years old. Over the last four years, we have spent tireless hours researching possible causes and treatments, talking to parents and doctors, participating in research studies and trying new, progressive and sometimes even controversial treatments. It has been a long, hard road full of exhasting days and frustrating moments, but even more than that many grand moments of inspiration and victory.

Our latest and most incredible news is this:
Last month Ricky was re-evaluated by his psychologist, occupational therapist, speech and language pathologist and others to determine how he is progressing. I was called in to a meeting to discuss the test findings and I was told this: Ricky no longer meets the criteria designated to qualify as Autistic. Let me say that again. Our son is no longer Autistic. I asked if they had ever heard of anyone "losing" an autism diagnosis. They all said no. Never. The Psychologist said she considered it "nothing short of miraculous" and wouldn't believe it if she hadn't seen it for herself. At the end of the meeting I left the room and as I was walking away tears began to stream down my face. This is what we believed in, this is what we worked for, this is what we did. Autism is NOT a lifelong sentence. How could it be so if we reversed it?

Now, these professionals had never heard of someone "recovering" from Autism, but let me tell you - I am hearing it more and more. Our research led us to a fast growing and forward thinking group of parents and doctors who believe that Autism and related disorders like Aspergers, PPD/NOS, ADD/ADHD, speech delay etc are treatable and even reversible. I know of hundreds of families who are using the treatments we used and who are getting their kids out of the fog of these horrible afflictions.

Most parents will report that their Autistic children are born healthy and develop normally for the first year or two of life and then something happens.. something that takes their child away. They begin to regress, to slip away. Eye contact stops. Smiles and laughter go away. Language stops developing and often disappears. They aren't interested in other kids, in toys, in social interaction and emotional reciprocity. They become preoccupied with specific things or parts of things, become sensitive to touch, bright light or sounds. They exhibit self stimulatory behavior like hand flapping, spinning and rocking. The list goes on and on.

What happens that causes these kids to slip away? Western medicine will say this is a genetic life-long illness with little hope of improvement. How can that be if Autism has gone from 1 in 10,000 to 1 in 150 in just a few short decades? How can that be if our kids were fine for the first year or two of life and then lost them? Why can't we get them back? These were the questions I asked. We refused to believe that there was little to be done. We knew our son, we knew he was in there and we were determined to get him back. If he was fine, and then suddenly he was not... how do we fix it?

We have come to believe that Autism and related disorders are often illnesses of the body that become so bad they affect the mind. Heal the body, heal the mind. The treatments we have done are nothing radical in our opinion, they make sense. We feed him healthy food and use quality vitamins, minerals and other supplements like probiotics and digestive enzymes. We use B-12, cod liver oil, glutathione (a naturally occuring anti-oxidant made by the liver) and most importanty in our case, treatments for out of control viral infections and chelation therapy to remove toxic levels of heavy metals. Our son was tested by doctors and found to have toxic levels of lead, mercury and aluminum in his body. Why? He wasn't exposed to any more than any other kid his age, but we found his body is unable to remove these metals on it's own. Look on the internet for the symptoms of heavy metal poisoning and they are nearly identical Autism. With each round of chelation we did we saw huge leaps in his social interaction, eye contact and social language. His fine motor skills improved and he started to write and draw. His recovery happened so fast and the reason became obvious to us.

I know this is getting long so I will stop here. There are so very many things I could share and so many stories to tell, but this is a post and not a novel. The point is this:

Autism is preventable, treatable and reversible. We did it. Many other parents have too. It isn't always as simple as removing heavy metals or changing diet as each child is different, but sometimes the simplest seeming littlest things can make such a huge difference. I am more than happy to share our story with anyone anytime! Please feel free to cross post or forward this to anyone you know and I will gladly talk to anyone - friend, family or complete stranger - about what we have done. Parents need to know there is so much that can be done, and they can do most of it themselves. There is a huge network of parents worldwide that are out there doing these things and supporting one another. There is hope.

with much love
Lisa Mize
Ricky's mom
lkmize@yahoo.com

Resources:
www.generationrescue.org
www.autism.com
www.safeminds.org

posted in AutismADHD - 9 replies

High Fever

heatheroni — Fri, 29 Apr 2005 22:29:27 GMT

My son had a 106.2 degree fever when I got home from work today. This is not an unusually high fever for him. Do other parents of autistic children have the same problem? His highest recorded fever is 107. Is this just him? Or is it common in other autistic individuals?

posted in AutismADHD - 11 replies

This made me so mad...

lloydg — Sun, 01 Jun 2008 16:46:03 GMT

Article in the news...

--------------------------

Hundreds of parents of autistic children are signing an online petition to get Florida teacher Wendy Portillo fired for her alleged tactics toward a 5-year-old boy that mirror the reality show “Survivor.”

Morningside Elementary School in Port St. Lucie, Fla., alerted Melissa Barton this year that her son, Alex, suffers from a high-functioning form of autism called Asperger's Syndrome, FOX 29 reported.

Barton claims that Alex was punished for symptoms of his disability, such as humming and eating his homework. She says Portillo went too far last week when she kicked Alex out of class, and then allowed the other students to vote on whether he should be allowed back in.

Each student was also allowed to say what he or she did not like about Alex. By a 14-to-2 margin, the students voted Alex out of class, according to The South Florida Sun-Sentinel.

“She said this was her way of correcting his behavior,” Barton said. “I asked him how that made him feel and he said, ‘I feel sad.’”
Related

Barton has filed a complaint with Morningside's school resource officer, who investigated the matter, Port St. Lucie Police Department spokeswoman Michelle Steele told the Sun-Sentinel.

But the state attorney's office decided the matter did not meet criteria for emotional child abuse, so no criminal charges will be filed, Steele said.

The teacher has been disciplined, however.

“Ms. Portillo has been reassigned outside of the classroom at the district offices until any further action may be determined," St. Lucie County School District said in a statement.

Alex has not returned to school since the incident, and Barton says he won’t be going back.

"He was incredibly upset," Barton told the Sun-Sentinel. "The only friend he has ever made in his life was forced to do this."

Video link: http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,358956,00.html#

I don't know what to think. I guess this kind of thing happens all over even if there is not a "legal" reason to bring it to the news attention. The world is so harsh. I wish people were more understanding, but its all "survival of the fittest"...only perfect people allowed.

You know what? Fuck that.

posted in AutismADHD - 2 replies

Education

Starfaerie — Wed, 20 Feb 2008 18:05:53 GMT

Hi,
My name is Rachel. My son Sequoia is challenging the system, as those of us who are
unique always do. He is beautiful and creative. His teacher is cool. We talk a lot. He
is open to suggestions. I think that the school system for spectrum children should
be planned by and include adults with autism or at least have the influence of people
who understand the minds of children with autism a bit better. I always ask at our
annual IEP meetings if anybody has asked the adult autistic community for guidance,
since they seem to be guessing at what Sequoia and his classmates need to be the best
that they can be. What do you think?

posted in AutismADHD - 5 replies

Nutrition

Thu, 09 Aug 2007 04:47:39 GMT

My parents had recently recieved some information from a man who's grandson is autistic and anyone who has a child with Autism or Aspergers Syndrome, knows how damn fussy they are with eating. They don't always get the proper nutrition. This list my parents had recieved has the proper vitamins and mineral suppliments for children with this problem. So, here it is!

This is what to give daily:

1 - Cod Liver Oil
1 - Salmon Oil (Containing Omega 3)
1 - Formula IV (Multi-Vitamin)
1 - Super B
1 - Teaspoon Powdered C, 4 X a day
1 - Chelated Calcium-Magnesium Tablets
1 - Chelated Zinc
1 - Acidophilus Plus

On the off days of the TD-DMPS:

1 - Cruciferous Plus
1 - Flavonoid Complex
1 - Carotenoid Complex

With each mean 1 Beta Gest (Helps to break down proteins) and 1 Enzyme Digestive Aid (helps to break down fats and carbs).

The boy is 6 years old and weighs 50lbs.

posted in AutismADHD - 12 replies

My son can read!!!!!!

inhisg — Thu, 24 Aug 2006 05:45:24 GMT

It may not seem like a big thing to most people. But, my eight yr old son can read. Those of you who know me, know that my oldest, Nicky, is Autistic. Up until tonight, I thought that his obsession with books and magazines was just for pictures and numbers, but tonight when I was reading a Blue's Clues book to him, he just started to read the words to me BEFORE I could read them to him. AND HE WAS GETTING 80% OF THEM RIGHT!! And more than likely most of this is self taught. I am just blown away, and damn it's difficult typing through these tears.

posted in AutismADHD - 8 replies

My feelings and experiences

lloydg — Sat, 02 Feb 2008 07:33:30 GMT

I have lived with two kids that have autism. One was high functioning autism/asperger's and he is the brightest and coolest kid I have ever known. He has a wonderful sense of humor and is wise way beyond his years. Another was more advanced autism and my mother took care of him in her home daycare when I was in high school. I still think back fondly of him and the kindness and intelligence in his eyes.

I would love to have my own kids someday, and it is a scary thought at the same time. But I don't feel autism is something that should be scary or negative. In a lot of ways people with autism are more true and interesting than a lot of us.

posted in AutismADHD - 1 reply

Please help me out.......

Rosita — Thu, 31 Jan 2008 12:45:03 GMT

Hi, first I will introduce myself....I'm Rosita from Holland,( so there will be typos...and please don't use to much difficult words for me, I'll try to understand) I have a 5 year old son, who is born premature, with 26 weeks of pregnancy...He's been in the Hospital for 4 month's before he could come home, during his stay he got loads om med's to help him survive, the med's did do some damage to him brain, but he's turn out fine.
He's going to school now, and now the teacher want's to test him on ( hope i translate it ok) on a disabillity in the spectrum of autism....
I was really shocked!!! I admitt there are some things that could be autism related, he has a lot of fantasy, but he now's the difference between a fairytaile and reality, He's really social, he loves talking to everone, but he does not go with strangers, And he is a slow learner, but not in extreem.
He looks everyone in the eye, Not all the time but normal. He does now a lot about disney movies, but he is deffinatly not a walking enceclopie.....
All the people I know, are as shocked as I am, theyre like ; no way' Noah is not Autism!
I would like to know what you think. He has friends hey plays, he just can't read and write, but he's 5 and a half and born way to early! are they using the term 'dissabillity in the spectrum of autism' too soon???
I'm getting him tested.
No matter what I love him to death, he's all i've got. And he is really the sweetest kid alive, so there for I want to provide him with the best care he needs, but I'm also afraid he's diagnosed to early.....
Every checklist i do, he has one ore two, matches.....
And how does live look like in the future? On every site i see, there a messages of that people with Autism can't live on their own, and can't have relationships....
I'm ofcourse a little scared......

posted in AutismADHD - 4 replies

10 Things Every Child With Autism Wishes You Knew

inhisg — Sat, 11 Mar 2006 22:30:15 GMT

1. I am a child with autism. I am not "autistic." My autism is one aspect of my total character. It does not define me as a person. Are you a person with thoughts, feelings and many talents, or are you just fat (overweight), myopic (wear glasses) or klutzy (uncoordinated, not good at sports)?

2. My sensory perceptions are disordered. This means the ordinary sights, sounds, smells, tastes and touches of everyday life that you may not even notice can be downright painful for me. The very environment in which I have to live often seems hostile. I may appear withdrawn or belligerent to you, but I am really just trying to defend myself. A "simple" trip to the grocery store may be hell for me. My hearing may be hyperacute. Dozens of people are talking at once. The loudspeaker booms today's special. Muzak whines from the sound system. Cash registers beep and cough. A coffee grinder is chugging. The meat cutter screeches, babies wail, carts creak, the fluorescent lighting hums. My brain can't filter all the input, and I'm in overload! My sense of smell may be highly sensitive. The fish at the meat counter isn't quite fresh, the guy standing next to us hasn't showered today, the deli is handing out sausage samples, the baby in line ahead of us has a poopy diaper, they're mopping up pickles on Aisle 3 with ammonia. ... I can't sort it all out, I'm too nauseous.

Because I am visually oriented, this may be my first sense to become overstimulated. The fluorescent light is too bright. It makes the room pulsate and hurts my eyes. Sometimes the pulsating light bounces off everything and distorts what I am seeing. The space seems to be constantly changing. There's glare from windows, moving fans on the ceiling, so many bodies in constant motion, too many items for me to be able to focus - and I may compensate with tunnel vision. All this affects my vestibular sense, and now I can't even tell where my body is in space. I may stumble, bump into things, or simply lay down to try and regroup.

3. Please remember to distinguish between won't (I choose not to) and can't (I'm not able to). Receptive and expressive language are both difficult for me. It isn't that I don't listen to instructions. It's that I can't understand you. When you call to me from across the room, this is what I hear: "*&^%$#@, Billy. #$%^*&^%$&*" Instead, come speak directly to me in plain words: "Please put your book in your desk, Billy. It's time to go to lunch." This tells me what you want me to do and what is going to happen next. Now it's much easier for me to comply.

4. I am a concrete thinker. I interpret language literally. It's very confusing for me when you say, "Hold your horses, cowboy!" when what you really mean is "Please stop running." Don't tell me something is a "piece of cake" when there is no dessert in sight and what you really mean is, "This will be easy for you to do." When you say, "It's pouring cats and dogs," I see pets coming out of a pitcher. Please just tell me, "It's raining very hard." Idioms, puns, nuances, double entendres and sarcasm are lost on me.

5. Be patient with my limited vocabulary. It's hard for me to tell you what I need when I don't know the words to describe my feelings. I may be hungry, frustrated, frightened or confused, but right now those words are beyond my ability to express. Be alert for body language, withdrawal, agitation, or other signs that something is wrong.

There's a flip side to this: I may sound like a little professor or a movie star, rattling off words or whole scripts well beyond my developmental age. These are messages I have memorized from the world around me to compensate for my language deficits, because I know I am expected to respond when spoken to. They may come from books, television or the speech of other people. It's called echolalia. I don't necessarily understand the context or the terminology I'm using, I just know it gets me off the hook for coming up with a reply.

6. Because language is so difficult for me, I am very visually oriented. Show me how to do something rather than just telling me. And please be prepared to show me many times. Lots of patient repetition helps me learn.

A visual schedule is extremely helpful as I move through my day. Like your day planner, it relieves me of the stress of having to remember what comes next, makes for smooth transitions between activities, and helps me manage my time and meet your expectations. Here's a great web site for learning more about visual schedules http://www.cesa7.k12.wi.us/newweb/content/rsn/autism.asp

7. Focus and build on what I can do rather than what I can't do. Like any other human, I can't learn in an environment where I'm constantly made to feel that I'm not good enough or that I need fixing. Trying anything new when I am almost sure to be met with criticism, however constructive, becomes something to be avoided. Look for my strengths and you'll find them. There's more than one right way to do most things.

8. Help me with social interactions. It may look like I don't want to play with the other kids on the playground, but sometimes it's just that I simply don't know how to start a conversation or enter a play situation. If you can encourage other children to invite me to join them at kickball or shooting baskets, I may be delighted to be included.

9. Try to identify what triggers my meltdowns. This is termed "the antecedent." Meltdowns, blowups, tantrums or whatever you want to call them are even more horrid for me than they are for you. They occur because one or more of my senses has gone into overload. If you can figure out why my meltdowns occur, they can be prevented.

10. If you are a family member, please love me unconditionally. Banish thoughts such as, "If he would just ..." and "Why can't she ... ?" You didn't fulfill every last expectation your parents had for you, and you wouldn't like being constantly reminded of it. I didn't choose to have autism. Remember that it's happening to me, not you. Without your support, my chances of successful, self-reliant adulthood are slim. With your support and guidance, the possibilities are broader than you might think. I promise you I'm worth it.

It all comes down to three words: Patience. Patience. Patience.

Work to view my autism as a different ability rather than a disability. Look past what you may see as limitations and see the gifts autism has given me. I may not be good at eye contact or conversation, but have you noticed I don't lie, cheat at games, tattle on my classmates, or pass judgment on other people?

You are my foundation. Think through some of those societal rules, and if they don't make sense for me, let them go. Be my advocate, be my friend, and we'll see just how far I can go.

I probably won't be the next Michael Jordan, but with my attention to fine detail and capacity for extraordinary focus, I might be the next Einstein. Or Mozart. Or Van Gogh.

They had autism too.

posted in AutismADHD - 15 replies

New Here My child might be autistic

Tracy — Tue, 23 Jan 2007 23:26:53 GMT

I just joined tribe a few weeks ago. I have a 3 year old being referred to a specialist for being autistic. His first appointment isn't until June 19th but reading the many post here I think he is too. We had a hunch and a few friends have asked us too. We are just waiting now for this appointment. I'm looking for things I can do in the mean time.

Any help appreciated.

Tracy Russell
www.moneyfromcandles.com

posted in AutismADHD - 11 replies

Walk Around the World - A Benefit for the Treatment of Autism

ariesandrea — Fri, 12 Oct 2007 02:16:09 GMT

Walk Around the World, a 5K walk to benefit the Autism Treatment Center of America™ at locations throughout the US, UK, and Italy.

Seattle, WA (October 20, 2007)- A 5K walk in Green Lake Park on October 20, 2007 will be one of several walks in the Autism Treatment Center of America’s 5th annual Walk Around the World. Registration/check in at 8:30 am

The walk’s organizer, Dodge White of Preston, WA, is hoping to draw several hundred people to the cause. All money raised will go toward scholarships for families to attend the Autism Treatment Center of America’s parent-centered and home-based Autism treatment programs which are credited with helping thousand of families around the world.

Later this summer, thousands of people will gather at other locations in Scotland, Ireland, England, and Italy, as well as all across the United States to raise needed funds for children with autism. The prevalence of Autism Spectrum Disorder has skyrocketed in the last 5 years and currently as many as 1 in 150 individuals are diagnosed on the spectrum. Autism is a complex developmental disability that typically appears during the first 3 years of life. It may result in challenges in language, communication, emotion, cognition, behavior, fine and gross motor skills and social interaction.

You can help the Autism Treatment Center of America serve the increasing numbers of autistic children and their families by participating in the Walk Around the World at a location near you. 100% of the net proceeds will go to serve families seeking hopeful solutions to living with autism. As a nonprofit charitable organization, the Autism Treatment Center of America depends on philanthropic support to carry out its mission. The funds raised by the Walk Around the World will enable the Center to offer more scholarships and additional training for teachers and child facilitators.

Since 1983, The Autism Treatment Center of America has provided innovative training programs for parents and professionals caring for children challenged by Autism. The Son-Rise Program®, only offered at the Autism Treatment Center of America, teaches a comprehensive system of treatment and education that can enable children to dramatically improve in all areas of learning, development, communication and skill acquisition. It offers highly effective educational techniques, strategies and principles for designing, implementing and maintaining a stimulating, one-on-one, home-based, child-centered program.

Please walk with, or sponsor people who will set out to prove that “Recovery is an Option (Now)”.

For information visit the official walk web site at http://www.walkaroundtheworld.org

For more information about the Autism Treatment Center of America please visit the web site at http://www.son-rise.org.

posted in AutismADHD - 1 reply

Don't take this wrong

fallingawake — Sun, 30 Sep 2007 00:19:14 GMT

My 5 has apraxia and autism. I just found out I have been way off in how I was doing his behavior therapy, we can not afford it regulat. we just got a schlar ship for monthly for 3 monthes to show us. But i knew how, it just slipped away. He is regressing agian. He's been diagonisied since 18 monthes. He has a good prognosis if he learns to talk and I stop being an idiot.

How do I learn to sleep at night. Am I doing therapy right? Am I finding the right therapy? How can we be low income, what are we missing for him becuase we can not afford it? are his siblings getting enought attetion? His brother has speech apraxia too. What if I don't spend enough time and neither one ends up not ever talking? What if me going to school part time to raise our income (an be a spl so I can help him and others more) takes away too much time. What am I missing for him? What if.....

Most of the time, well part of the time I can breathe and know all I can do is my best. But others I am exhausted and distraught. I know it is wrong to feel this way. I love him as he is. He is one of the greatest loves and light in my life. I don't want to change him only I feel like I must do everything..... I thought you guys might have some tips. He needs all of me, not and exhausted mom.

posted in AutismADHD - 3 replies

Rant? Tirade? Controversy? Can of Worms? You decide

heatheroni — Mon, 06 Aug 2007 21:47:02 GMT

I am curious as to the opinions of others as to what is shaping up to be a fairly controversial topic. I have not been blind to the Autism Rights movement, though it has been pointed out to me in a rather forceful and ugly fashion of late, and though its presentation was unpleasant, it does not devalue the merits of the movement itself, and so I feel it is fair to give it some thought.

This is what Wikipedia has to say on the subject: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Autism_rights_movement

There basically seems to be a divide between autistic individuals who are able to represent themselves and those who seek to represent them. Autistic groups see groups such as Cure Autism Now, and therapies such as Applied Behavioral Analysis as a threat to autistic culture because they seek to remove the autism from the person. Individuals who identify themselves as autistic, however, feel that autism is such a pervasive part of their lives, that to remove autism would be to remove who they are and they do not feel that "curing" autism is correct.

Me, I'm divided, of course. I have recently been accused of standing in the way of the autistic rights movement, simply by virtue of being a parent of an autistic child. I suppose there is an air of "I could never understand what it is to walk a mile in their shoes" to that, and while I certainly see the validity of that sentiment, no one else knows what it's like to walk a mile in my son's shoes, either, and he can't share that experience with anyone, because he can't communicate it. So while I can't say with any certainty what his world is like from inside his head, I live with him, and see him every day and know what his personality is like better than anyone else in his life. Adult autistics who have never met him may share much with him, but they cannot claim to know him.

And I've seen the posters for Cure Autism Now, and we've been through that desperation phase when we were grasping at straws, willing to listen to any snake oil salesman who had convincing testimonials about how their patented technique or methodology had "cured" hundreds of kids. And I've given money to institutions of learning, in particular the ABA school that my son attended in which I felt he had the greatest number of triumphs language-wise. But I've also seen him struggling, unfocused, frustrated. He doesn't head-bang, fortunately, but he has melt-downs occasionally, and there are some stims that give him comfort, and at those times I want to allow him to stim, and melt into his own world and just be himself. I want him to be himself, and I accept that he cannot be separated from his autism. It is a part of who he is and I love him. Autism is a part of my life forever.

However. He cannot communicate, and at almost six years old, we are still wiping feces off of the bathroom walls. Does wanting my child to learn to read or speak or use language in some capacity make me "pro-cure"? Does wanting him toilet trained make me "pro-cure"? Where is the line drawn between trying to educate and raise a child with a disability and trying to eradicate autism from the world entirely? And where is the line drawn between autistics in the autistic rights movement who say "don't call us disabled" and people who are genuinely disabled? You can't tell me my son isn't disabled, and if the state ever got word of that, there goes the half-way decent education they're grudgingly agreeing to pay for anyway.

What I guess I like least of all is that I'm put on the defensive about the whole thing because I'm a parent, not an autistic. Everything I've read has been from the position of autistics who can speak for themselves and it seems to resent people like me, who just want what's best for our children. It seems to think that all we want is for them to fit in and be little stepford children. I have news for you, sweetheart, it's the 1950's anymore. Things have changed. Freaks and geeks are welcome in my world.

Sorry, I know this is really more of a ramble than a coherent question or anything. I guess I kind of needed to vent, but I am also quite interested in what others have to say on the subject, particularly other parents who have had run-ins with autistic rights movers (as I recently have), and especially adult autistics themselves willing to contribute, on both sides of the autism rights divide. I know this little tirade may come across as a bit abrasive, but I am looking into what I really think about it all and am forming opinions. I need as much input as I can get my hands on. Thanks so much!

posted in AutismADHD - 7 replies

Sample collection?

Pam — Mon, 30 Jul 2007 21:41:18 GMT

I need to collect a sample of my son's urine for heavy metals testing. Problem is, he is not even remotely toilet trained - he doesn't even indicate when he has to go. Does anyone have any suggestions for how to collect a sample short of wringing out his diaper?

posted in AutismADHD - 2 replies

Autism Resources ...

☼Sunshine☼ — Wed, 25 Jul 2007 17:44:16 GMT

Autism Resources:

http://www.autism.net/
http://www.autisminfo.com/
http://www.autismconnect.org/
http://www.autismeducation.net/
http://www.autismlink.com/
http://www.autismmedia.org/who.html
http://www.autismone.org/radio/
http://www.autism.org/contents.html
http://www.autismpodcast.org/host.html
http://www.autism-society.org
http://www.autismspeaks.com
http://www.autismtoday.com/index.asp
Online Autism Newspaper
http://www.autismwebsite.com/ari/index.htm
Autism Research Institute
http://www.advocates4children.com/Images/TenThingsEveryChild.pdf
http://www.advocates4children.com/Images/TenThingsYourStudent.pdf
http://www.advocates4children.com/index.php
http://childrenscornerschool.com/recoveries.htm
http://www.childnett.tv/
Internet web channel dedicated to autism and other neurological disorders
http://www.drakeinstitute.com/
The Drake Institute of Behavioral Medicine and medical associates is an innovative medical practice treating neuro-physical disorders, such as ADD (Attention Deficit Disorder), AD/HD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder), Autism, Asperger's Disorder, closed head injuries, and stress related disorders/diseases
http://home.san.rr.com/autismnet/research.html
Autism Network Resources for Physicians
http://home.sprynet.com/~schafer/
Comprehensive Autism Publication
http://www.myspace.com/songsofthespectrum
http://www.nationalautismassociation.org/
http://www.neuroimmunedr.com
http://www.parentsandcarersofautism.com/
http://www.rhinebeckhealth.com/rhc/index.php
http://www.tacanow.com/
Talk About Cure Autism Now
http://www.talkautism.com/
http://www.templegrandin.com/templehome.html
http://www.tonyattwood.com.au
http://www.usautism.org
http://unlockingautism.org/
Unlocking Autism is committed to teaching community leaders how to grow the grass roots right in the neighborhoods where they are planted!
Autism Organizations Worldwide:

India

http://www.autism-india.org/
Canada

http://www.autism.ca/
UK

http://www.nas.org.uk/
Asperger’s Syndrome

http://www.autism.org/asperger.html
http://www.autismasperger.net/
http://www.udel.edu/bkirby/asperger/
http://aarr.stanford.edu/
research reports Stanford University
Brain Spect Imaging

http://www.drspectscan.com
http://www.lifescanchicago.com/index.html
Brain Atlas

http://www.med.harvard.edu/AANLIB/

Hyperbaric Oxygen

http://www.oxyhealth.com/
http://www.wisconsinhyperbarics.com/index.html
http://www.ihausa.org
The International Hyperbarics Association, Inc. is an educational and charitable organization focusing on the needs of the hyperbaric community. Members come to us from all facets of the medical field, ranging from medical centers treating the hyperbaric needs of their patients, to individual hyperbaric chamber users, to corporate chamber manufacturers.
http://www.hbot.com/
International Hyperbaric Medical Association

http://www.hyperbaricmedicalassociation.org/
The International Hyperbarics Association, Inc. is an educational and charitable organization focusing on the needs of the hyperbaric community. Members come to us from all facets of the medical field, ranging from medical centers treating the hyperbaric needs of their patients, to individual hyperbaric chamber users, to corporate chamber manufacturers. Hyperbaric Therapy, also known as Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy, HBO or HBOT, is a specialized therapy that uses an increase in atmospheric pressure to allow the body to incorporate more oxygen into blood cells, blood plasma, cerebral-spinal fluid, and other body fluids.
Insurance

http://health.groups.yahoo.com/group/autism_insurance_information/
Join this group (it’s free) and gain access to the Links to obtain great resources

http://www.autismone.org/radio/
Archived radio programs featuring Andrea Unruh Sovern D.D. : Ensuring Your Child’s Future-The Ways and Means of Working towards Independence for Children with Autism – Excellent presentation of autism insurance issues

http://www.cms.hhs.gov/
Center for Medicaid and Medicare Services Information regarding Waivers-Specific

http://www.cga.ct.gov/
Insurance Coverage for Autism
Listing of states with insurance coverage for autism as of Dec 2006

http://a-champ.org/insurance.html
Legislative issues related to insurance coverage for autism
Education

http://wrightslaw.com/
http://trainland.tripod.com/sample.htm
EP (Individualized Sample Education Plan)
http://www.lovaas.com/
children with autism, pervasive developmental disorders, and related developmental disabilities. The Institute provides services nationwide.
http://www.teacch.com/
Legislation

www.a-champ.org
Lifespan Services

http://www.lifespire.org

http://www.lifespanservicesllc.com/

http://www.autism-society.org/site/PageServer?pagename=govt_lifespan

http://www.devdelay.org/
A nonprofit organization dedicated to meeting the needs of those working with children who have developmental delays in sensory motor, language, social, and emotional areas.

http://www.zerotothree.org/
Resource on the First Years of Life
Parent Advocacy

http://www.autismone.org/radio/
Laura Cellini : Parent Activist
Parent and Lobbyist shares tips and experiences
also see the following web page for tips on legislative advocacy for parents

http://a-champ.org/tipsfortalkingwithlegislators.html
For all legislative issues related to autism:

http://a-champ.org
Groups that advocate on autism issues, especially with respect to scientific research:

www.nationalautismassociation.org
www.safeminds.org
www.autismspeaks.org
http://caawatch.org
(Under construction – information on implementation of the Combating Autism Act)
Spanish Speaking Community

http://www.ninds.nih.gov/disorders/spanish/autismo.htm
Therapy

http://www.musictherapy.org/faqs.html
American Music Therapy Association

http://aotf.org/
American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA)

http://www.artsintherapy.com/
Arts in Therapy Network

http://www.gfcfdiet.com/
The Official GFCF Diet Support Group FREE Informative Website
Dietary Intervention Treatment For Autistic Spectrum Disorders This web site provides a central location for parents to find other parents who are also using Dietary Therapy.
Treatment

http://www.autismwebsite.org

http://www.generationrescue.org

http://www.safeminds.org/
Sensible Action For Ending Mercury-Induced Neurological Disorders
Vaccine Injury Claims

www.krakowlaw.com (will be live in February)
Robert J. Krakow’s Web Site
If he cannot help you he will refer you to an attorney in your location

If you cannot find an attorney you can file a claim on your own
(Always best to confer with an attorney)
http://www.attorneyaccess.net/ProSe.cfm
Vaccine Controversy

www.putchildrenfirst.org
www.a-champ.org
http://www.autismwebsite.com/ari/index.htm
(Click link to debate between David Kirby, author of Evidence of Harm and Arthur Allen, author of Vaccine)
http://www.safeminds.org/

posted in AutismADHD - 0 replies

Autism Debate Strains a Family and Its Charity

sonomacutey — Thu, 21 Jun 2007 21:06:30 GMT

Autism Debate Strains a Family and Its Charity
June 18, 2007, New York Times
http://www.nytimes.com/2007/06/18/us/18autism.html <http://www.nytimes.com/2007/06/18/us/18autism.html?ex=1339819200&en=9e51ad7f1fcc2a06&ei=5090&partner=rssuserland&emc=rss>

A year after their grandson Christian received a diagnosis of autism in 2004, Bob Wright, then chairman of NBC/Universal, and his wife, Suzanne, founded Autism Speaks, a mega-charity dedicated to curing the dreaded neurological disorder that affects one of every 150 children in America today.

The Wrights’ venture was also an effort to end the internecine warfare in the world of autism — where some are convinced that the disorder is genetic and best treated with intensive therapy, and others blame preservatives in vaccinations and swear by supplements and diet to cleanse the body of heavy metals.

With its high-powered board ... the charity was a powerful voice, especially in Washington. It also made strides toward its goal of unity by merging with three existing autism organizations and raising millions of dollars for research into all potential causes and treatments. The Wrights call it the “big tent” approach.

But now the fissures in the autism community have made their way into the Wright family, where father and daughter are not speaking after a public battle over themes familiar to thousands of families with autistic children.

The Wrights’ daughter, Katie, the mother of Christian, says her parents have not given enough support to the people who believe, as she does, that the environment — specifically a synthetic mercury preservative in vaccines — is to blame.

No major scientific studies have linked pediatric vaccination and autism, but many parents and their advocates persist, and a federal “vaccine court” is now reviewing nearly 4,000 such claims.

Note: For a treasure trove of reliable and verifiable articles on autism, click here <http://wanttoknow.info/vaccinesnewsarticles> .

posted in AutismADHD - 3 replies

Fun Facts About Autism

Dr. Awkward — Sat, 12 May 2007 06:27:41 GMT

1. Depending on the severity, people with Autism have to take two mercury injections daily (one in the morning and one in the evening). For Kanner's Autism, three units per injection is suggested. For Asperger's Autism, only two.

2. Autism is caused by a monster which hides under the beds of small children. Since your children doubtlessly warned you about it, if you let Autism get your children, YOU'RE A BAD PARENT. BAD PARENT~! Interestingly, the Autism Monster wrote an essay entitled "My Name is Autism".

3. At least a hundred years ago, a dying N.T. and a dying Autie were put on two separate scales. When the N.T. died, a pound miraculously lifted off the scale. When the Autie died, the measurement did not change. This effectively proves that Auties have no souls.

4. Undocumented symptoms of Autism include: Compulsively editing Wikipedia; overusing semi-colons and hyphens; going to hell after death; and faggotry. Another common symptom is having pointlessly debated the Gaia Online member who coined the term "faggotry" and inadvertently started the corresponding meme.

5. Some new computers are made with the brains of Autistic people.

posted in AutismADHD - 2 replies

WH question contrivances

Vanessa — Fri, 23 Mar 2007 18:11:54 GMT

Hi everyone,
Can anyone help me out with creating some contrivances to help encourage a youth with autism to ask "WH" questions? We are trying to focus on 'how' and 'why' which are the most complex.
Any suggestions would be appreciated!

posted in AutismADHD - 3 replies

..so if you're not "neurotypical"

poopylungstuffing — Sat, 10 Mar 2007 05:37:26 GMT

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Neurotypical

does that mean that you are somewhere on the autistic spectrum?

I have mostly been diagnosed as an adult ADDer..after years of struggle and difficulty and whatnot.. but my weird qwirks are so deeply rooted..the toe-walking..the inability to drive...the extreme anxiety about just riding in a car..the fact that I sing at least as much as I talk..in everyday life...the way that in any photo of me where my hands are showing,my hands are always curled up in a weird akward way..the fact that I have never been good at looking people in the eye..the way my social interractions have always been really akward..inc.my ability to make friends...etc.....the way I've had constant difficulty all through childhood and adulthood...yada yada yada...

does that enable me to perhaps concider myself to be somewhere on the autistic spectrum and not a hypochondriac?

jus. curious..

posted in AutismADHD - 10 replies

how to help older sibling understand that his younger brother is autistic

Michelle — Thu, 25 Jan 2007 18:14:03 GMT

What do you say to an older sibling who is taking the majority of the biting and hitting? How do you tell him that his brother is autistic and explain to him why all of this is happening and that you are doing your best to try to resolve the situation as quickly as possible? I could really use some advice in this category. If anyone has any, it would be greatly appreciated because my older son is suffering with the result of my youngest sons condition.

Thank you,

Sassy

posted in AutismADHD - 5 replies

The Transporters is a fun new animation series designed to help children with autism discover the world of emotions.

☼Sunshine☼ — Thu, 08 Feb 2007 17:00:51 GMT

www.transporters.tv

Do you care for a child with autism between the ages of two and eight? The Transporters is a fun new animation series designed to help children with autism discover the world of emotions. Jane Asher, President of the National Autistic Society, said: "This is such a wonderful initiative. It's going to make a huge difference to some very vulnerable children."

A NEW cartoon animation which helps autistic children understand emotions has been launched thanks to research at Cambridge University. Stephen Fry narrates the free DVD, Transporters, which features the adventures eight toys in 15 episodes - each focusing on a different human emotion. Behind the fun animation lies cutting-edge research from the Autism Research Centre at Cambridge University. Prof Simon Baron Cohen, director of the centre, said: "Children are drawn to predictable, rule-based systems. "At the core of autism is an ability to deal effortlessly with systems because they do not change and a disabling difficulty in dealing with the social world because it is always changing unpredictably and is different every time." The DVD, which was commissioned by the Department of Culture, Media and Sport, will be sent out with a booklet.

Copies can be requested from www.transporters.tv

posted in AutismADHD - 0 replies

Fascinating video clip

Eos — Sat, 27 Jan 2007 04:52:34 GMT

This is a description of a short (8 min).movie which is quite fascinating.

“In My Language” is a youtube video in which a non-verbal person with autism "speaks in her own language" -- a combination of sounds and visual cues and gestures -- and then explains what this all means by means of a text-to-speech program. It's a fascinating and compelling statement from someone who's given the problem of communication a lot of good thought.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JnylM1hI2jc

posted in AutismADHD - 0 replies

Autism Caregivers Your SOS has been heard

☼Sunshine☼ — Thu, 25 Jan 2007 17:30:12 GMT

Go here to register: http://www.drspectscan.com/webinar/

Parents of autistic children live with tremendous stress. They need biomedical information, as well as personal assistance. When I helped a mother put a shoe on her resistant son and saw him immediately rip it off and throw it across my waiting room, I decided to act. That’s why I, J. Michael Uszler, M.D., assembled a team of Autism experts to discuss new developments and coping tools for Autism and Asperger syndrome. You can attend this information-packed, online event in the comfort of your own home. The specific, insightful steps and new strategies will make an immediate difference in your life, and in the life of your autistic loved one. I promise you, the “Autism Caregivers – your S.O.S. has been heard!” event will live up to its name. Don’t miss this amazing opportunity.

posted in AutismADHD - 1 reply

Touch Math

LOVEॐ — Tue, 07 Nov 2006 04:05:11 GMT

Ever tried it? Hows it for your kid and does anyone know of a math program that they liked for their kid with autism?
Love

posted in AutismADHD - 5 replies

Discipline HELP!!!

Christine — Fri, 29 Dec 2006 18:50:20 GMT

Hi... I am new to this site, and new to this group. I am 24 and I have a daughter named Jewel who will be 4 years old on January 6. She is in our school district's Early Intervention program. She just started talking at age 3, and even now her language is very limited. She will copy words you tell her to say, but she only has a few one or two word phrases that she'll use and the rest of the time resorts to screaming. She rocks when she's upset, overstimulated, or tired. She bangs her head really hard against walls when she's frustrated or to get herself to fall asleep. She is obsessed with balls and balloons and especially loves circles. She has a collection of balls (a tennis ball, some super balls, a couple golf balls, a mini basketball, 2 cat toy balls, and a few other miscellaneous balls) that she loves to arrange in order of size on top of the books on the bookshelf. And God help you if you dare touch any of them.

Anyway... she has not been officially diagnosed with anything yet. I have been avoiding that because I didn't want her to get stuck with a label, outgrow the behaviors, and still have this label for the rest of her life. At this point, however, it appears that she isn't going to outgrow this and it isn't just a phase. My daughter is clearly different, and the therapists in her Early Intervention program treat her as though she has autism. Her doctor suspects autism as well. She may be or may not be, but I find it very helpful to talk to parents of children with autism because raising her can be very challenging at times. Now that she is almost four, I'm growing increasingly concerned about one thing.

How do I discipline her? She sometimes runs out into the road, whether or not cars are coming, and I have to run after her as fast as I can to catch her. It scares me to death. I have a 3 month old baby and it's hard to hold her hand and hold his car seat at the same time, yet she'll run off if given the opportunity. I have spanked her, but it doesn't seem to phase her. She actually laughed when I spanked her as hard as I could! (She's still in diapers, so as hard as I could still isn't really that hard). I have yelled at the top of my lungs. I have told her not to do that in a calm voice. I am at my wit's end... not only with this, but with every discipline situation. How do I communicate to her that something is not okay to do, and get her to stop doing it? Do any of you have any suggestions that have worked for you??? Please help!!!

posted in AutismADHD - 4 replies

JumpStart Learning to Learn Conference

Sara — Tue, 09 Jan 2007 01:41:07 GMT

Hello,
My name is Sara Houseman and I am helping with the organization of a
conference that I think the community of this tribe would be interested in.
The conference will be presenting evidence-based best practices for
young children with Autism Spectrum Disorders at home and school. The
speakers include Bryna Siegel, PhD and Lynn and Robert Koegel, PhD.
(A full agenda is available at:
http://www.autismjumpstart.org/conference) The material will be
directed towards both parents and professionals. I am putting
together a mailing list for a 'save the date' letter. If you are interested in further information, please contact me either via tribe or at teachersara@gmail.com and I'll add you to the list. I am really excited about hearing these presentors. I have worked with many of them and have found their methods to be practical and effective.
Sara

posted in AutismADHD - 0 replies

Crunchy food

HUNNYDUMELONS — Thu, 28 Jul 2005 22:36:14 GMT

alot of my kids will only eat crisp and crunchy food, avoiding anything sticky, runny or moist. Many of them will also reject any food, like a sandwich, that combines textures.

ANyone else have this issue?

posted in AutismADHD - 11 replies

RDI

Geodeezian — Thu, 27 May 2004 04:41:35 GMT

Relationship Developmental Intervention. Created By Dr. Steven Gutstein in Texas. Anybody in the field doing it? Any parents doing it with their kids? Our agency is just starting to look at it, and though it seems promising, Regional Centers are not all that interested in funding it (big surprise eh?).

Thoughts, comments, etc?

posted in AutismADHD - 8 replies

Comedy Central will host event to raise money and awareness about autism, October 15...

LOVEॐ — Mon, 09 Oct 2006 03:42:40 GMT

COMEDY CENTRAL TO AIR LIVE EVENT.

COMEDY CENTRAL TO AIR FIRST-EVER LIVE SPECIAL EVENT ---

"THE DAILY SHOW'S" JON STEWART, JACK BLACK, SACHA BARON COHEN ABOARD FOR LIVE ON-AIR STAR-STUDDED EVENT FOR AUTISM IN NEW YORK CITY

NEW YORK, May 2, 2006 -- Roll out the red carpet...COMEDY CENTRAL is gearing up for a live mega-watt event! The all-comedy network is partnering with Jon Stewart's Busboy Productions for its first-ever live on-air special event, it was announced today by Elizabeth Porter, senior vice president, specials and talent, COMEDY CENTRAL. "Comedy Love Call," a live benefit for Autism education and research programs, will feature Stewart and many of comedy's leading lights at New York City's Beacon Theater.

Mark your calendars; COMEDY CENTRAL is going live on Sunday, October 15 with "Comedy Love Call." Live from New York City's Beacon Theater, Stewart and a list of comedy and celebrity all-stars including Adam Sandler, Jack Black, Sacha Baron Cohen ("Da Ali G Show"), Stephen Colbert ("The Colbert Report") and Triumph the Insult Comic Dog ("Late Night with Conan O'Brien"), among many others, will perform to raise money to help ease the severe shortage of effective schools and education programs for autistic children and adults.

"Comedy Love Call" will also benefit Autism Speaks, an organization created to benefit Autism research. The Autism epidemic now affects 1 in 166 children, according to the Center for Disease Control. In addition to live performances, viewers will be treated to sketches and short films from some of the most talented names in the comedy world. Stay tuned - more names to be announced.

posted in AutismADHD - 1 reply

Did anyone watch The Blue Ribbon Commision thingy? Thoughts......?

LOVEॐ — Fri, 06 Oct 2006 21:45:47 GMT

I wondered if any of you got a chance to view the "6 HOUR" stream of the commissions thing thing. (ok i know im a bad speller and thing thing?)
But, I think its really good stuff and want to encourage my sisters and brothers to reach out to one another and this doesnt stop at the borders of california we need to make it universal......tell me what you think?

Love

posted in AutismADHD - 0 replies

My kid rewinds the vcr and dvd player hell,oh yeah and on demand!!!!

LOVEॐ — Wed, 01 Mar 2006 00:15:56 GMT

just curious if any of you have had to fix the problem of rewinding as we call it in our house.My kid loves to rewind the movie ,the same part over and over. I was just curious if anyone else deals with this and what are your solutions.....
Love

posted in AutismADHD - 20 replies

Pivotal Response Training

LOVEॐ — Sat, 30 Sep 2006 06:38:23 GMT

http://www.education.ucsb.edu/autism/prtbook.html

Hello to all my Peeps ,
I just got back from Santa Barbara where we did a 25 hour pivotal response training program, I urge all of you who have children with autism to look into this. It's completely research based and its really easy to follow the stuff thats involved and its AMAZING. These folks know what they are doing. FInally I found someone who could really help me and my son , our whole family for that matter. Its about pulling language out in a really fun way that targets whats motivating for the kid. Also they know how to target problem behaviors and really work them out which then of course helps our children learn more and reduces their fear and helps buld their self confidence. This is real stuff. I dont try to explain what it is , you will have to read about it . I dont want to try to do that, cuz ill inadvertently screw it up.

Love to you all
CHECK THIS OUT

posted in AutismADHD - 4 replies

Pediatric Autistic Dental Specialists??? HELPPPPP

inhisg — Thu, 13 Jul 2006 05:54:13 GMT

My Nicky is now 8 years old. It is probably time for him to have his first dental visit.

But . . .due to the severity of his autism, Nicky is unable to sit quietly while some masked stranger with rubber gloves and a face shield asks him questions and probes his mouth with mirrors and extremely pointed & dangerous objects.

Hell, those bastards scare me, and I'm unimpaired.

Does anyone know of any Pediatric Dentists who either specialize in this area or just even one in the Bay Area who understands enough about these types of children and maybe even a little about autism to know that they will have to either sedate or even knock my son out completely, to be able to perform even the slightest of dental examinations, never mind actual corrective work if needed?

Any feedback would be greatly appreciated!!

posted in AutismADHD - 5 replies

The Blue Ribbon Commision on Autism

LOVEॐ — Wed, 20 Sep 2006 14:32:33 GMT

Did anyone see the hearings yesterday to discuss the issues and concearns for families and professionals who have kids with Autism? Well, if you are a mom like me, or a dad, or whoever, everyone should actually watch this and learn from it. Even if you dont have a kid with autism , or work with them...The whle idea is for the entire world to become educated and s even if youre not affected dirctly , we are creating a world thats sensitive and compassionate towards others..

http://www.calchannel.com/search.php?date=091306&source=All&type=All&title=&Search=Submitgo

go to this link, yu will have to copy and paste it into your address field in your browser. Then hit watch.

Please dont miss this.....Lets get excited that the state of Californi is hopefully going to increase their awareness and broaden understanding for our loved ones .

Love

posted in AutismADHD - 0 replies

Chelation is Helping

LOVEॐ — Wed, 14 Jun 2006 15:25:24 GMT

Hi all,
Its been a while since I spoke to anyone here but, we just started chelation on my son and hes showing results from it. We saw an applied keniesiologist who determined he had Mercury and Lead in his brain. We did blood tests but they werent detectible. Through muscle testing we were able to find that his brain does have mercury as well as his organs in them. So.....
We are doing chelation. The process of removing heavy metals from the body. It is a process for us of rubbing this laser over his head and his feet remain in this foot bath and there is a coil in the bath that helps draw the toxins down through his body and out through his feet.
I wouldnt have believed it myself, but something you just have to experience.
After one treatment their was a noted difference in his behavior. He was the calmest ive seen him...EVER. And he started to just act CLEAR. Not stimming, tv talk was greatly reduced and he was communicating and giving amazing eye contact. Needless to say we are going to do this til the mercury and lead are gone. About eight treatments.
I will keep all posted and please say your prayers for XAVIER MOORE and his family.
If any questions feel free to ask me.

Love

posted in AutismADHD - 6 replies

SAM-e, DMG and TMG

wowandflutter69 — Sat, 02 Sep 2006 02:10:26 GMT

Hello all.
Glad to find you. :o)

Thought the two links posted here might help someone.

http://tinyurl.com/hm4yf

http://tinyurl.com/fq3uh

On a serious hunch, I have spent the last few days looking for any and all connections to how DMG(Di-methyl-glycine) and SAM-e(S-adenosylmethionine) when taken together, can help with cognitive issues(ADD/retention) and chronic anxiety/depression/fatigue.
Maybe with a nod to allergies/asthma and tumors. The very issues that I am working on myself.
Also, TMG(Tri-methyl-glycine).
Really hoping to find an all natural combination that is not only safe for children, but animals with these problems,too.

I found a whole bunch of positive stuff. Interestingly, autism is mentioned over and over again.

All are considered nutrients, not medications. All are easily found at any good health/vitamin store.
So far I have had amazing results with just the SAM-e. Just started with the DMG this week. Both taken at the beginning of the day.
Found out that TMG when taken alone, will result in the body naturally creating both SAM-e and DMG in the body.
I am adding 5-HTP to my night time, for added mental clarity and mood support. But only every other day or as needed.

Has anyone else worked with this combination?

If so, what results have you seen?
For how long?

Thanks !

posted in AutismADHD - 2 replies

MDMA and autism

ellencatalina — Mon, 31 Jul 2006 05:09:09 GMT

I hope people don't get really angry at me for asking this, but has anyone ever done a study about what the outcome would be if some one with autism took MDMA (ecstacy). I have meet people who were relieved of catatonic states by being giving mushrooms by healers. I am curious about MDMA because it appears to have the property of helping people move closer to one another, focus on peope in their prescense, etc.

Of course, it would be very difficult from an ethical perspective to do such a thing because consent couldn't be given by a child with autism. Is this just a totally crazy idea? (mind you it is not something I am thinking of doing or anything just FYI)

posted in AutismADHD - 2 replies

StevenMannette's Bio&SelfAwareness&RelaxingTechniques&Hobbies

stevencoolcat — Thu, 03 Aug 2006 16:21:15 GMT

http://sitepalace.com/StevenMannettetje/
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/selfawarenessthinkingrevolutionlistening-
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/realize2actualize/
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/lovefriendz/

posted in AutismADHD - 0 replies

Choosing schools - Is gut reaction more important than logic?

Dez — Thu, 06 Jul 2006 13:56:37 GMT

Our 7-year old was diagnosed with PDD a month ago and we have been looking at schools in our area under significant pressure to make the choice within a few days.

We have seen three different schools that vary significantly in atmosphere and approach. Here where we live special education classes are intermixed with regular classes in the same school.

The first one (which is probably too far away to be practical) had a small concentrated class that works a lot with the kids in a small group then they join full regular classes for general subjects. The teacher was very good but she is leaving to take a supervisory post.

The second school has a class of some six kids but the teacher had big problems controlling the group - in short she looked out of her depth. The kids join some regular classes on their own.

The third school has a very impressive teacher who obviously puts her all into her group of 5 PDD kids. What happens is that they attend regular classes in the mornings (with the special education group with them in the class to help). Then in the afternoons they go into their class of 5 kids to learn socialization skills. The aim in this school is to immerse the kids very deeply with the normal classes and this can be a big challenge for some children.

We were very impressed with the first school and had our hearts set on it. The third school is very different in atmosphere, but we sense that it could present a fine balance between the challenge of the real world and a very vibrant teaching atmosphere in the small group.

On balance we feel that the third school is probably the best and that is where are intuition lies. Our child is loud and outgoing but will misbehave when things get tough. He met the teaching staff at the third school and took to them and they to him.

Just wondered if most parents would choose to go with what they think feels right rather than what might seem the safest most logical choice.

posted in AutismADHD - 10 replies

my journey

Tue, 16 May 2006 17:15:31 GMT

I was diagnosed with ADD or ADHD when I turned around 50 yo. I mostly have learned to cope with this - which I apparently have had most of my life. I have a tendency to get involved with too many things, projects, etc and often get to a point of getting overwhelmed. When I get to the overwhelmed place I usually start unloading some of my projects or whatever I'm doing. Well, this is a perfect example here at tribe. I joined a lot of tribes to check them out and also created a few myself. Already I'm feeling uncomfortable with what I've done so I left most of the tribes and plan to dissolve the last two tribes that i've created. Probably many do this anyway but perhaps without the feelings of being overwhelmed. I love to make all kinds of art and music projects and sometimes get overwhelmed when I have too many projects happening that I have trouble getting down to just focusing on just one. It's kind of ironic as I work with autistic, mentally handicapped people as my full time work. I've also worked with some of those folks who have some intense ADHD symptoms. So, I take my med mid day just before work and usually can get into my work without any problems. Life is an amazingly strange journey!

posted in AutismADHD - 4 replies

Regular Preschool

fallingawake — Sat, 04 Mar 2006 02:38:26 GMT

My son has been in an AI class for 2 years. Now he is moving to a general special ed class. I am comfortable with that. He is also going to a reg preschool. All his therapist think it is a great idea and REALLY want it. He will do both next year.

I am sick over the regular preschool. I am trying to figure out what is intution or is it me hanging on too tight. I was all for it. It is a Co Op though. His language is very limited but coming in.

Opinions? Support? Anyone been through it?

posted in AutismADHD - 10 replies

Siblings of children with Autism/Asperger

sandrakeil — Sun, 12 Mar 2006 18:31:54 GMT

How can you be accommodating for the special needs of a child with Asperger (or Autism) without affecting their siblings too much? My boyfriends 8 year ols son has Asperger, we recently moved together. His son is very rigid with food, he will only eat a certain type of bread and 2 or 3 other things. He also likes to spend most of the day playing computer games or watching tv. He has a younger brother who seems to copy a lot of his behaviour.l I also have a 4 year old son who I have - so far - brought up very healthy, with tv restrictions and organic whole foods, which he loves. Now we have to blend our families and believes. I feel it's hard to know what is right as he seems to be so unhappy if the computer is restricted or he isn't getting the food he wants (which is a big problem as he is really not getting essential nutrition!) but letting him do what he wants seems wrong too and also affects the two smaller boys. Can anyone give some advice?

posted in AutismADHD - 8 replies

autistic vs. have autism

kim — Fri, 17 Mar 2006 02:15:51 GMT

I would rather say, "I'm autistic"
I can say I am overweight(or not), I am five feet nine inches tall, etc.
I wouldn't say I have 69 inches of height. I wouldn't say I have
autism. That implies its a disease or malady. At least to me. Guess its a matter
of perspective. I am dxed as being an Aspergers autistic.

posted in AutismADHD - 5 replies

WO GOT IT!!!

heatheroni — Mon, 06 Mar 2006 14:34:59 GMT

The Dynavox. The one that we've been asking for for over a year. The one that we figured for sure had been turned down flat by this point. Because the NY state Medicaid system has been under a lot of scrutiny (since it was revealed that they were covering registered sex-offenders' Viagra prescriptions - which is TOTALLY off topic, but whatever), but we got it!!!

For those unfamiliar with Dynavox: http://www.dynavoxtech.com/Default.aspx?tabid=35

It is a communication device to help people with communication disorders of all ages to getter get along in their world. And it arrived on Friday!!! It will involve a lot of set-up and probably some training before we will be able to get full use out of it, but at least it is in our possession and we don't have to wonder whether he'll ever get it. I'm very excited about this. I had to share. :-)

Does anyone else use a Dynavox?

posted in AutismADHD - 5 replies

Funny?

LaRubia — Tue, 14 Mar 2006 19:42:59 GMT

Last night my son got a call from a friend who wanted the two of them to go to the movies together this weekend to see The Shaggy Dog. I was talking to the boy's mother and mentioned that we had just taken our son to it this last weekend. "Oh, " she said. " do you think he will want to see it again?" And I said, "He will. He likes to watch stuff over and over again." She was like, OK, great!

So I was thinking that maybe she wasn't aware that he is on the spectrum. So it was funny in a different way. To myself, I'm thinking, "No really." If she only knew how seriously I meant it.

posted in AutismADHD - 2 replies

Social Groups for autistic kids

LOVEॐ — Wed, 01 Mar 2006 00:12:32 GMT

Hi,
Is anyone familiar with the social group for not so social kids in Berkeley. Im interested about finding info on any kind of socal groups that may be run by the city or any group or organization that sponsors something like this....I m a mom with an 8 year old son with autism.I am currently looking to gain as much info as possible on the subject.Would love some feedback if anyone has any.(subject = social groups for autistic children)
LOVE

posted in AutismADHD - 3 replies

Asperger/Autism and Diet

sandrakeil — Thu, 09 Feb 2006 21:44:36 GMT

Has anyone any experience or any information on the connection between (Children's) Asperger or Autism and Nutrition? Anything would be greatly apprieciated!

posted in AutismADHD - 1 reply

Potty Training - The home stretch

inhisg — Wed, 25 Jan 2006 04:25:18 GMT

We are in the home stretch. Almost two years ago, I took away the pull-ups because while convenient for me, they were holding my son back. Nicky is almost 8. We are now at a point where as long as he is awake, there are no problems and no accidents.

The issue at present is when he sleeps. I can do this one of two ways. I can put a pull-up on him and get some sleep myself, or I can put him to bed in underwear and set the alarm and get up two hours later and take him to the bathroom and keep up this cycle until about 3 AM. If he goes at 10 pm, 12:30 am, and 3 am he is dry in the morning. If I miss one of these trips he sleeps so heavily that he will wet the bed and not even wake up.

In the first of these scenarios, he is dependent on the pull-up, in the second he is dependent on me. Neither of them is teaching him to get up in the middle of the night and go potty when he has to.

Also, I am a single dad, and there isn't anyone else to help when he is with me, and his mom refuses to do the up every two hours thing when he is with her and resorts to the pull-up.

Any Ideas???

posted in AutismADHD - 6 replies

Can of worms

fallingawake — Thu, 24 Nov 2005 02:53:54 GMT

Hate to open this can of worms but I really need to decide do you guys think vaccinations cause/made the autism worse? the mercury is out of the shots do you think they are safe now? I have another son who is do for vaccinations. I discontinued my autistics son's shot before the MMR shot.

I am sorry to open this can of worms but I am REALLY interested in your opinions.

posted in AutismADHD - 9 replies

If mercury causes ADHD and Autism

coryhain — Wed, 19 Oct 2005 07:36:08 GMT

Maybe we should be drinking it like wine...

Honestly it does not and ADHD is wonderful as is autism. Nature needs people who are different too. If you have a child with either ADHD or Autism...please learn the beauty of it. Preventing these naturally occuring differences is not possible... In fearing them, an environment of intolerance is created.

They have been around forever...

www.livejournal.com/kusarinashi

posted in AutismADHD - 19 replies

Supreme Court rules on SPED legal proof

unsubscribed — Tue, 15 Nov 2005 16:09:16 GMT

Court Rules Against Special Ed. Parents By GINA HOLLAND, Associated Press Writer
Mon Nov 14, 6:04 PM ET

http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20051114/ap_on_go_su_co/scotus_schools&printer=1;_ylt=AmuuFlVqHkfGpjz25Xi7dy1Aw_IE;_ylu=X3oDMTA3MXN1bHE0BHNlYwN0bWE-

The Supreme Court ruled Monday that parents who demand better special education programs for their children have the burden of proof in the challenges.

Retiring Justice Sandra Day O'Connor, writing for the 6-2 court, said that when parents challenge a program they have the burden in an administrative hearing of showing that the program is insufficient. If schools bring a complaint, the burden rests with them, O'Connor wrote.

The ruling is a loss for a Maryland family that contested the special education program designed for their son with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder.

The case required the court to interpret the Individuals With Disabilities Education Act, which does not specifically say whether parents or schools have the burden of proof in disputes. The law covers more than 6 million students.

The Maryland family in the Supreme Court case had argued that when there are disagreements between schools and parents, education officials have better access to relevant facts and witnesses.

The Bush administration backed the Montgomery County, Md., school district which maintained that the extra requirement would be expensive for local schools.

Chief Justice John Roberts had recused himself from the case, because attorneys from his old law firm represented the school district in suburban Washington.

Justices Ruth Bader Ginsburg and Stephen Breyer wrote separate dissents.

"School districts are charged with responsibility to offer to each disabled child an individualized education program (IEP) suitable to the child's special needs. The proponent of the IEP, it seems to me, is properly called upon to demonstrate its adequacy," Ginsburg wrote.

O'Connor said the court was not ruling on a separate issue, whether states could set their own policies and put the burden on the school officials.

The case is Schaffer v. Weast, 04-698.

___

On the Net:

Supreme Court: http://www.supremecourtus.gov/

posted in AutismADHD - 0 replies

Vaccine Autism Link Reported by MSNBC

sonomacutey — Wed, 06 Jul 2005 19:21:27 GMT

This message is available on the Internet at http://www.WantToKnow.info/050705vaccineautismlink

"The afternoon after Kelly Kerns’ 2-month-old daughter Kaylee got several vaccines was “living hell,” with the child screaming and arching her back, her mother said. 'I kept telling myself everybody gets vaccinated — this is OK,' she said. When Kaylee was 18 months old, her white-blonde hair began falling out and she stopped talking. Meanwhile, Kerns had twin boys — Andrew and Daniel. When they were 15 months old, they received three vaccines. A week later, they stopped talking. All three children have since been diagnosed as autistic."
-- MSNBC, 6/26/05

July 5, 2005
Dear friends,

Below is one of the few media articles covering the intensely debated link between autism and vaccines using thimerosal, a mercury derivative. Scientific studies (many of which were funded by industry) largely find no link, though according to an article in the Los Angeles Times <http://www.yourlawyer.com/practice/panews.htm?parea=Toxic%20Substances&&story_id=9495> "more than 4,200 parents have filed claims in the federal Vaccine Injury Compensation Program, alleging that their children suffered autism or other neurological disorders from mercury in their shots." The fact that until recently the mainstream media has given such scant coverage to this crucial issue suggests a possible cover-up.

Vaccines in the US are regulated by the FDA <http://www.fda.gov/cber/vaccines.htm> , the same body that fired whistleblowers <http://www.wanttoknow.info/deception10pg#whistleblowers> who exposed critical dangers of genetically engineered food and hired a former biotech lawyer <http://www.wanttoknow.info/deception10pg#fda> as a chief monitor and regulator of biotech industries. You can help to call for greater transparency on this topic which is so critical to the health of our children. Sign the petition <http://www.thepetitionsite.com/takeaction/896046564?ltl=1120623527> calling for open access to government databases on vaccines, and educate your friends and colleagues by spreading this important information. Together, we can and will build a brighter future for ourselves, and for our future generations.

With best wishes,
Fred Burks for the WantToKnow.info Team <http://www.wanttoknow.info/aboutus>

P.S. Links and short summaries of three related media articles are given at the end of this article. The URL for the above petition is: http://www.thepetitionsite.com/takeaction/896046564?ltl=1120623527 For lots more reliable, verifiable information on health cover-ups, see http://www.wanttoknow.info/healthinformation

http://msnbc.msn.com/id/8336821 <http://msnbc.msn.com/id/8336821/> - Page 1
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/8336821/page/2 <http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/8336821/page/2/> - Page 2

Debate over vaccines, autism won't die
Mercury in shots blamed for rise in brain disorder among children

Updated: 12:06 p.m. ET June 26, 2005

The Rev. Lisa Sykes, pastor of Richmond's Christ United Methodist Church, believes that her son Wesley, 9, developed autism from a mercury-based preservative she received in a shot during pregnancy and he received in childhood vaccines.

Wesley Sykes is in a rage. Dinner was late. His cup held water, not soda. Strangers had stolen his mother’s attention all afternoon. It is too much for the 9-year-old autistic child to bear. He begins to flap his arms and shriek, working himself into murderous screams that shatter his suburban home and all hope of a normal life.

His mother, the Rev. Lisa Sykes, has her own rage, against the demon she blames for Wesley’s condition. It is thimerosal, a mercury-based preservative she received in a shot during pregnancy and he received in childhood vaccines.

To the Richmond, Va., pastor, this is a just crusade. To most scientists, it’s a leap of faith. The levels of mercury in vaccines — now and in the past — do not cause autism, they repeatedly have declared. But not everyone is convinced. Seven years after it began, the debate over vaccines and autism just won’t die.

No answers for parents

In fact, it appears to be finding new life. Several churches have started a grassroots movement to rid vaccines of mercury. A new book on the issue is getting attention. A Kennedy has entered the fray.

“I think this issue has persisted, despite a boatload of scientific evidence...because there are no answers for parents of children with autism,” said Dr. Sharon Humiston, a University of Rochester pediatrician with a foot in both worlds. She once worked for the government’s National Immunization Program, and she has a son whose autism she refuses to blame on vaccines.

Medical controversies flourish when science is lacking. In this case, both sides have limited science and each criticizes the other’s. Vested interests make it tough to know who to believe. Many parents have filed lawsuits. Many scientists have ties to vaccine makers or are selling their expertise in court cases. Government officials don’t want people to turn away from vaccines, which have clearly benefitted public health.

Both sides also have credibility problems. Opponents initially accused the measles vaccine, which never contained the preservative, of causing autism. The government defended a troubled pertussis vaccine for more than a decade before switching to a safer version. “There’s conflict on all sides,” said David Kirby, author of “Evidence of Harm,” a book urging more research.

There are two main questions: Did older vaccines, which contained more thimerosal than the trace amounts in modern ones, raise the risk of autism? Are there risks today?

Flu vaccine sold in multidose vials still contains the preservative, and the government urges flu shots for pregnant women and young children even though not enough thimerosal-free ones are available, critics say.

Finding answers is tough because autism, a little-understood developmental disorder, often is diagnosed at the very ages when children get vaccines. The stories are remarkably similar: A seemingly normal child gets a shot and days, weeks or months later, withdraws from the world, stops speaking, becomes upset at random stimulation such as a doorbell, and adopts compulsive behaviors like head-banging.

Parents blame vaccines, but “that doesn’t make it true, no matter how strongly they believe it,” said Dr. Steve Goodman, a Johns Hopkins University biostatistician who served on an Institute of Medicine panel convened last year to take an independent look at the evidence, which it found unconvincing. “There doesn’t continue to be scientific argument.”

Beliefs and evidence are things that Sykes, pastor of Richmond’s Christ United Methodist Church, understands. A soft-spoken, slender woman, she does not come off as a radical. She has a degree from Princeton Theological Seminary. The daughter of two CIA employees, she was brought up to trust the government. “I dare them to call me hysterical,” she said. “I’m the last one who should be screaming conspiracy.”

Her son was a normal, active baby. A photo shows Wesley clutching an Elmo doll, his blue eyes shining and aware. But in a later photo, taken after autism had set in, Wesley stares vacantly next to his smiling brother. Through a local autism group, Sykes heard a doctor was advising cod liver oil as a treatment. She gave it to Wesley for three days, then tried an experiment on her son, who had stopped responding even to screams. “Wesley,” she said. He looked up at her.

The pastor was sold. She tracked down the doctor, Mary Megson, who tested Wesley’s blood for minerals. Most were within a normal range. The line for mercury, however, flowed off the chart. “That was my baptism into this issue,” Sykes said.

During pregnancy, she had been given a shot to prevent problems from occurring because she and her baby had a mismatched blood factor. Now, she learned that the vaccine contained thimerosal, which is half mercury. The additive was also in most childhood vaccines, and had been used since the 1930s to prevent bacterial contamination, especially in multidose vials.

Failure to regulate industry?

By November 1997, Congress was getting complaints. It ordered the Food and Drug Administration to review mercury in vaccines, drugs and food. The government and a doctor group said there was no evidence of harm but that vaccine makers should move toward eliminating thimerosal to be safe. It wasn’t until 1999 that vaccines with only trace amounts of thimerosal started to be introduced.

By then, parents had organized. Barbara Loe Fisher, a Virginia mom who is president of the National Vaccine Information Center, which had successfully campaigned for the safer pertussis vaccine, was disturbed federal officials didn’t order thimerosal out.

“I believe this is a failure to regulate industry, no question,” she said. She believes a theory supported by many, that a subset of kids can’t handle mercury because of a genetic or other kind of predisposition. Some scientists say it might be something else in the vaccines, such as aluminum, or a hyper-reaction to the vaccine itself. There’s a 3 percent to 8 percent recurrence rate of autism in families and the disorder is four times more common in boys — more suggestion of a genetic link.

A suburban Kansas City family’s experiences suggest such a link. The afternoon after Kelly Kerns’ 2-month-old daughter Kaylee got several vaccines was “living hell,” with the child screaming and arching her back, her mother said. “I kept telling myself everybody gets vaccinated — this is OK,” she said. When Kaylee was 18 months old, her white-blonde hair began falling out and she stopped talking. Meanwhile, Kerns had twin boys — Andrew and Daniel. When they were 15 months old, they received three vaccines. A week later, they stopped talking. All three children have since been diagnosed as autistic.

In June 2000, government officials, scientists and vaccine makers held an invitation-only meeting at a Georgia retreat to review safety data the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention had from several large HMOs. The CDC’s Dr. Tom Verstraeten presented results of a crude analysis suggesting mercury might be linked to some problems like language delays. As for autism, “we don’t see much of a trend except for a slight, but not significant, increase for the highest exposure,” he said, according to a transcript that vaccine opponents have posted on the Internet.

Pressed to quantify risks, Verstraeten demurred, saying, “it is giving more accuracy to this data than what they really have.” But he admits that when he reviewed others’ studies, he was “stunned” to see how plausible the argument of harm was, according to the transcript. The Institute of Medicine in 2001 also found the theory “biologically plausible” but said evidence was inadequate to accept or reject it. Verstraeten ultimately published a medical journal article saying there was little evidence of a link. That enraged U.S. Rep. Dave Weldon, a physician and Republican from Florida, and U.S. Rep. Dan Burton, an Indiana Republican whose grandson has autism.

Relying on 'cigarette science'

Fights over limits to damages that families could seek in lawsuits followed. They drew the attention of Robert Kennedy Jr., a lawyer and environmentalist. “I kept getting approached by these mothers of autistic kids who said the exposures from vaccines dwarfs any exposure we’re getting from environmental mercury,” he said.

Kennedy, who has pushed the issue on news shows and in an article in Rolling Stone magazine, said that when he looked at the government’s evidence it was “laughably flawed.” “It was clear to me that the reports they’re relying on are ’cigarette science,”’ he said, referring to tobacco companies’ past arguments that there was no proof cigarettes caused cancer.

Even if there were a link, proving vaccines cause autism is another matter, said Dr. William Schaffner, a Vanderbilt University professor and longtime government vaccine adviser. There are scientific tests of causation: the problem appears soon after the exposure; the link makes sense biologically; the risk rises as the dose rises; the link is strong and consistent rather than weak or occasional; the problem doesn’t occur without the exposure (a test rarely met). The final test: the problem or risk falls if the exposure is discontinued. Studies from England, where thimerosal was eliminated sooner than in the United States, indicate that autism rates continue to rise, not decline, even without the preservative, he said.

Also, he and other scientists point to the case against silicone breast implants, involving years of court battles. Lawsuits alleged the implants caused fibromyalgia, based on isolated cases. “Now all the epidemiology is against it and that has quietly shifted away,” Schaffner said. “Scientific issues are not resolved in the courtroom.”

Sykes has another place in mind. “When the federal institution will not respond appropriately, take it to the church,” she said.

More battles, more tears

Two weeks ago, she convinced the Virginia Conference of the United Methodist church — the largest conference in United Methodism — to pass a resolution calling for the removal of mercury from vaccines. It now heads to the Board of Global Ministries and the Board of Church and Society of the United Methodist Church for consideration. The same resolution passed Kerns’ East Kansas Conference of the Methodist Church 650-0 a few weeks ago. The Virginia Synod of the Evangelical Lutheran Church of America has referred the measure to a committee. The Virlina District Church of the Brethren, which serves parts of Virginia, West Virginia and North Carolina, is drafting its own version.

Meanwhile at Sykes’ home, the day that melted down with her son’s screams was turning into night. Wesley has drifted off to sleep. The phone’s incessant ringing stops. Sykes’ husband, Seth, returns home from work. Outside, all is quiet except for the musical tinkling of a passing ice cream truck. Later, Wesley wakes up and finishes his dinner. He cuddles with his dad in the recliner and watches TV before going to bed. There will be more tantrums, more battles, more tears, for Wesley and his mother. But for a rare moment, everything seems normal. There is just sweet, blessed peace.

Note: Below are excerpts from and links to three other revealing articles on this topic:

Merck's infant vaccine stirs new controversy
Los Angeles Times/Newsday, March 8, 2005
http://www.nynewsday.com/news/health/ny-usglan084168623mar08,0,3713664.story
<http://www.nynewsday.com/news/health/ny-usglan084168623mar08,0,3713664.story> http://www.mercuryexposure.org/index.php?article_id=344

Merck & Co. continued to supply infant vaccine containing a mercury preservative for two years after declaring that it had eliminated the chemical. Thimerosal, which is nearly 50 percent ethyl mercury, has largely been eliminated from most routine childhood vaccines, although it is present in most flu shots. More than 4,200 parents have filed claims in the federal Vaccine Injury Compensation Program, alleging that their children suffered autism or other neurological disorders from mercury in their shots.

Possible Mercury, Autism Connection Found in Study
Los Angeles Times, March 17, 2005
http://www.latimes.com/news/science/la-sci-autism17mar17,1,1770760.story?coll=la-news-science
http://www.yourlawyer.com/practice/panews.htm?parea=Toxic%20Substances&&story_id=9495 <http://www.yourlawyer.com/practice/panews.htm?parea=Toxic%20Substances&&story_id=9495>

Studying individual school districts in Texas, the epidemiologists found that those districts with the highest levels of mercury in the environment also had the highest rates of special education students and autism diagnoses. There was a strong, direct relationship between mercury and autism levels. The incidence of autism has grown dramatically over the last two decades, from about one in every 2,000 children to as high as one in every 166. The purported link between autism and mercury has been a subject of intense debate. In the past it has centered primarily on the mercury-containing preservative thimerosal, which was once widely used in vaccines. Many parents have argued that thimerosal causes autism because their children seemed to develop the neurological disorder shortly after they received childhood vaccinations.

The Age of Autism: The Amish anomaly
April 18-19, 2005, Washington Times
http://www.washtimes.com/upi-breaking/20050321-115921-9566r.htm <http://www.washtimes.com/upi-breaking/20050321-115921-9566r.htm> - Part 1
http://washingtontimes.com/UPI-breaking/20050417-052541-5549r.htm - Part 2

Where are the autistic Amish? Here in Lancaster County, heart of Pennsylvania Dutch country, there should be well over 100 with some form of the disorder. I have come here to find them, but so far my mission has failed, and the very few I have identified raise some very interesting questions about some widely held views on autism. The Amish have a religious exemption from vaccination. So far, there is evidence of only three, all of them children, the oldest age 9 or 10. Julia is one of them. She...is adopted from China. She had most of her vaccines given to her in the United States before we got her. [Of the other one definitely had a vaccine, and the other's vaccine status is unknown.] The mainstream scientific consensus says autism is a complex genetic disorder, one that has been around for millennia at roughly the same prevalence. That prevalence is now considered to be 1 in every 166 children born in the United States.

See our archive of cover-up news articles at http://www.WantToKnow.info/coverupnews

Explore these empowering websites coordinated by website founder Fred Burks:
http://www.momentoflove.org - Every person in the world has a heart
http://www.WantToKnow.info - Revealing major cover-ups & working together for the good of all
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posted in AutismADHD - 2 replies

New Program

heatheroni — Tue, 04 Oct 2005 13:05:18 GMT

We are thinking of placing our son into a new program. He's been at the school he's at for almost two years now, in a few different classes, but this year, they left him behind, in the same room he was in last year, but with a new crop of students. All of his classmates from last year have advanced, but he has not.

He is diagnosed with high-functioning autism. He's a sweet, happy boy with few steriotypic behaviors, but he's still almost completely non-verbal. It's definitely our biggest challenge. That, and he's still not very social.

Recently, though, with some very focused efforts at home, and a few highly motivating rewards, we have elicited a few words from him. In the last few years he's been in Early Intervention and his current school, we've seen him make great leaps. His eye-contact is dramatically improved, he plays with toys appropriately and imaginatively, he vocalizes now (mostly in a sing-song-gibberish-to-himself sort of way), and he's almost fully potty trained. But it's his development in the last three or four months that has been most notable. Up until about a year ago, even after his diagnosis, it seemed like he was just still slipping away.

The program that he's in now utilizes the TEACCH method and he works well with a Dynavox, to the point where we're actually trying to get one he can take to and from school with him. They cost like $6000, so its not like we could get one for him ourselves. But it is an "assistive device", and the school district seems to think that it's basically just a replacement for speach. Like if we get him on and he starts to work with it, it's just a crutch, and it will possibly prevent him from developing speach on his own.

And recently, we've toured another local school that is a little newer than the one he's at, not as well established, but it is specifically for autistic and developmentally delayed children, whereas his current program is for all special needs children. The new school uses an ABA approach, which he were hesitant about at first, especially when he was young and getting and maintaining his focus was still such a challenge. We were put off of it. In retrospect, I think that a lot of that came from his Early Intervention speech therapist who tried using ABA inexpertly. Either way, at the time, her approach was completely ineffectual. We thought that a more gentle approach was best. And now we have seen some good development, we think he's ready to be pushed harder. We think that if he DOESN'T get pushed harder, he will not be able to join his peers for an inclusion kindergarten.

His birthday is late September. He just turned four, and we had joped he would start kindergarten next year, but if we end up having to wait another year it won't be the end of the world. He's right on the line, age-wise.

So I'm just kind of babbling at this point. I'm looking for feedback, I guess. What are people's thoughts on ABA? The school district is being a little discouraging, saying that to change programs this year and then AGAIN next year to a district kindergarten might be a little overwhelming to him. But it is ou concern that if he stays where he's at, he will not be able to go to kindergarten next year. I don't want him to fall through the cracks. I want a high level of attention and focus to be placed on him.

Thoughts?

posted in AutismADHD - 12 replies

new Baby Einstein movie has helped my son learn new words!

Thu, 13 Oct 2005 23:15:55 GMT

No, this isn't a sales pitch, but wanting to share.

Logan's been watching Baby Einstein movies since he was about 8 months old and honestly never really picked up any words from them.

Last week we got him their new movie, "Baby Wordsworth", which is about naming objects around the house. It does the ingenious thing of pairing the images and spelled out words with people doing the sign language for it. Marlee Matlin is one, a young girl is the other.

In a week Logan has picked up the sign for several of the words, and "says" (his pronounciation needs help, but that's why he's got a speech therapist) nearly all of the dozens of words in the movie. He's not using them all in context yet, just repeating the movie, but he's started saying "kitchen" and "table" appropriately outside of the movie, and can do some of the signs, like "cup" when asked outside of watching the movie. When watching the movie he does the signs for bowl, cup, table, tree, swing, chair, telephone, etc ...

It should be noted that he is 2 and 3/4 years old, and Logan's vocabulary for the last 14 months has been limited to about 7 words.

I honestly don't know why this is working, but it is helping him. For $14.99 I think it's worth a shot for most people, and I wanted to share.

posted in AutismADHD - 5 replies

Placement in Middle School

Cindy — Tue, 20 Sep 2005 20:23:14 GMT

My son is 12 and in 7th grade. He is diagnosed with hight-functioning autism, ADHD, and anxiety disorder. He started in general ed and then moved to LD in 3rd grade. In 5th grade he was moved to ED as that is the only place where they had the certified teacher and enough aids. Also, his behaviors at the time were very random and sometimes dangerous. Now that he is in 7th grade and more mature, he looks back at his behaviors with embarrasment. He is doing well in school, got all A's last year, but in the ED class they are mainly focused on extreme discipline. He feels now that he doesn't belong in this class anymore as his erratic behaviors have disappeared. The main problem he has now is spacing out or arguing back about the undue discipline.

He is presently in two mainstream classes, music and PE, where he does just fine. I have an IEP coming up and would like to suggest that he be allowed to try another mainstream class, such as math or science. I know that the school will fight against it but he has the right to be a the least restrictive environment. It basically comes down to money. They don't want him out of the ED program as they lose money then. Also, if he is in another mainstream class, then they have to provide an aide, which they don't have the money for. Anyway, their aides are not special ed aides but basically teacher's helpers and don't have a clue about autism.

Any ideas about how to start to merge him back into mainstream?

posted in AutismADHD - 9 replies

teacher needing perspective

Rachel — Thu, 01 Sep 2005 03:40:58 GMT

I'm an elementary school teacher. I taught third grade last year, and have moved up to fourth grade with my class. They are an incredibly bright and kind group of kids, which is why I chose to stay with them for two years. It is the third day of school today. I have one student with autism. He had a one-to-one last year, as well as an inclusion specialist, OT, APE, and Speech. I have done as much research as possible about autism, and have had to take the lead on guiding his instruction and creating curriculum for him. I fully believe in inculsion and have had luck with other special needs students before. I feel very helpless with this student, and I feel his needs are not being met. His speech is mostly echolaic and he does not look directly at people. When directed to do anything non-preferred, he is completely non-compliant. He screams for long periods of time, while galloping around the classroom or rolling on the floor kicking. Since I have 25 other students who need my attention, I cannot spend the day delivering his instruction, which is the same goals since kindergarten - things like counting, copying written sentences, and cutting out pictures of things we are learning about in class. He also hits, kicks and bites.
I can't help but feel that there is a more appropriate place for him, that his needs would be better met somewhere where they could work with him on social skills and behavior. Since he has an aid, (not a trained special ed teacher), who is responsible for the majority of his instruction, I feel he is missing important skills that will help him function in society. I am not alone in this feeling. Many people from the district have observed him and I have not met one person that believes he is appropriately placed...except his mother. However, I have met the mother only 3 times - all at IEPs. Mom has been welcomed to the classroom, though has never been to school during the instructional day. When told the district's recommendation, he gets angry and leaves the IEP. She has an advocate who argued on her behalf at the Due Process hearing this summer. At the hearing, (so I hear, I don't know), it was decided that he would have a one-to-one, as well as a full time behavior specialist with him...in addition to his other services. Nobody has shown up for him yet. They apparently said that this would be a "trial period" in the regular classroom for 6 months. 6 months is practically the whole year...not to mention that he has had a trial period in the classroom since kindergarten. When asked why she is so attached to having him in general ed, the mother's reply is, "I don't need to explain my reasons." She has argued the one request that I have had - that he not bring small toys to school...(he focuses on them and won't do work)...or at least send educational toys. She continues to send little stuffed animals or other items. All the literature I've read says to keep open communication with the parents, but I don't know how to communicate with her and I am not encouraged to by the school staff, because I think they are scared of law suits if I say the wrong thing. I want the mom to see a realistic picture of her son's day, since he is not able to report the daily events when he gets home.
I am at a loss, I feel like I am disserving this child, AND that his presence in the class is at the expense of the rest of the children's learning.
Does anyone have any advice? I want what's best for all the families I serve. I feel my hands are tied by bureaucracy and the mother's denial of the reality of her son.
HELP

posted in AutismADHD - 15 replies

article indicting pharmaceutical industrial complex by R. F. Kennedy, Jr.

sonomacutey — Sun, 28 Aug 2005 21:44:26 GMT

This message is available on the Internet at http://www.WantToKnow.info/050825mercuryautismlink

"When a study revealed that mercury in childhood vaccines may have caused autism in thousands of kids, the government rushed to conceal the data -- and to prevent parents from suing drug companies for their role in the epidemic."
-- Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. in Common Dreams News Service, 6/18/05

August 25, 2005

Dear friends,

Has mercury in vaccines played a part in the rapid rise of autism? The below article by Senior Attorney Robert F. Kennedy, Jr., discusses government documents obtained through the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) which clearly show that government agencies like the FDA and CDC (Centers for Disease Control) have consciously concealed solid evidence of a link between mercury in vaccines and the rise in autism. Just reading the few sections highlighted in bold below will show you how profit and greed may have created much unnecessary suffering in our children.

Vaccines in the US are regulated by the FDA, the same body that fired whistleblowers who exposed critical dangers of genetically engineered food and hired a former biotech lawyer as a chief monitor and regulator of biotech industries. You can help on this topic which is so critical to the health of our children by forwarding this information to your friends and colleagues. For more reliable, verifiable information on health cover-ups, see http://www.wanttoknow.info/healthinformation Together, we can and will build a brighter future for ourselves, and for our future generations.

With best wishes,
Fred Burks for the WantToKnow.info Team

Note: Short summaries of related media articles with links to originals are given at the end of this article, including one with possible autism treatment.

http://www.commondreams.org/views05/0616-31.htm

Deadly Immunity
When a study revealed that mercury in childhood vaccines may have caused autism in thousands of kids, the government rushed to conceal the data -- and to prevent parents from suing drug companies for their role in the epidemic.

by Robert F. Kennedy Jr.

In June 2000, a group of top government scientists and health officials gathered for a meeting at the isolated Simpsonwood conference center in Norcross, Ga. Convened by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the meeting was held at this Methodist retreat center, nestled in wooded farmland next to the Chattahoochee River, to ensure complete secrecy. The agency had issued no public announcement of the session -- only private invitations to 52 attendees. There were high-level officials from the CDC and the Food and Drug Administration, the top vaccine specialist from the World Health Organization in Geneva, and representatives of every major vaccine manufacturer, including GlaxoSmithKline, Merck, Wyeth and Aventis Pasteur. All of the scientific data under discussion, CDC officials repeatedly reminded the participants, was strictly "embargoed." There would be no making photocopies of documents, no taking papers with them when they left.

The federal officials and industry representatives had assembled to discuss a disturbing new study that raised alarming questions about the safety of a host of common childhood vaccines administered to infants and young children. According to a CDC epidemiologist named Tom Verstraeten, who had analyzed the agency's massive database containing the medical records of 100,000 children, a mercury-based preservative in the vaccines -- thimerosal -- appeared to be responsible for a dramatic increase in autism and a host of other neurological disorders among children. "I was actually stunned by what I saw," Verstraeten told those assembled at Simpsonwood, citing the staggering number of earlier studies that indicate a link between thimerosal and speech delays, attention-deficit disorder, hyperactivity and autism. Since 1991, when the CDC and the FDA had recommended that three additional vaccines laced with the preservative be given to extremely young infants -- in one case, within hours of birth -- the estimated number of cases of autism had increased fifteenfold, from one in every 2,500 children to one in 166 children.

Even for scientists and doctors accustomed to confronting issues of life and death, the findings were frightening. "You can play with this all you want," Dr. Bill Weil, a consultant for the American Academy of Pediatrics, told the group. The results "are statistically significant." Dr. Richard Johnston, an immunologist and pediatrician from the University of Colorado whose grandson had been born early on the morning of the meeting's first day, was even more alarmed. "My gut feeling?" he said. "Forgive this personal comment -- I do not want my grandson to get a thimerosal-containing vaccine until we know better what is going on."

But instead of taking immediate steps to alert the public and rid the vaccine supply of thimerosal, the officials and executives at Simpsonwood spent most of the next two days discussing how to cover up the damaging data. According to transcripts obtained under the Freedom of Information Act, many at the meeting were concerned about how the damaging revelations about thimerosal would affect the vaccine industry's bottom line.

"We are in a bad position from the standpoint of defending any lawsuits," said Dr. Robert Brent, a pediatrician at the Alfred I. duPont Hospital for Children in Delaware. "This will be a resource to our very busy plaintiff attorneys in this country." Dr. Bob Chen, head of vaccine safety for the CDC, expressed relief that "given the sensitivity of the information, we have been able to keep it out of the hands of, let's say, less responsible hands." Dr. John Clements, vaccines advisor at the World Health Organization, declared flatly that the study "should not have been done at all" and warned that the results "will be taken by others and will be used in ways beyond the control of this group. The research results have to be handled."

In fact, the government has proved to be far more adept at handling the damage than at protecting children's health. The CDC paid the Institute of Medicine to conduct a new study to whitewash the risks of thimerosal, ordering researchers to "rule out" the chemical's link to autism. It withheld Verstraeten's findings, even though they had been slated for immediate publication, and told other scientists that his original data had been "lost" and could not be replicated. And to thwart the Freedom of Information Act, it handed its giant database of vaccine records over to a private company, declaring it off-limits to researchers. By the time Verstraeten finally published his study in 2003, he had gone to work for GlaxoSmithKline and reworked his data to bury the link between thimerosal and autism.

Vaccine manufacturers had already begun to phase thimerosal out of injections given to American infants -- but they continued to sell off their mercury-based supplies of vaccines until last year. The CDC and FDA gave them a hand, buying up the tainted vaccines for export to developing countries and allowing drug companies to continue using the preservative in some American vaccines -- including several pediatric flu shots as well as tetanus boosters routinely given to 11-year-olds.

The drug companies are also getting help from powerful lawmakers in Washington. Senate Majority Leader Bill Frist, who has received $873,000 in contributions from the pharmaceutical industry, has been working to immunize vaccine makers from liability in 4,200 lawsuits that have been filed by the parents of injured children. On five separate occasions, Frist has tried to seal all of the government's vaccine-related documents -- including the Simpsonwood transcripts -- and shield Eli Lilly, the developer of thimerosal, from subpoenas. In 2002, the day after Frist quietly slipped a rider known as the "Eli Lilly Protection Act" into a homeland security bill, the company contributed $10,000 to his campaign and bought 5,000 copies of his book on bioterrorism. Congress repealed the measure in 2003 -- but earlier this year, Frist slipped another provision into an anti-terrorism bill that would deny compensation to children suffering from vaccine-related brain disorders. "The lawsuits are of such magnitude that they could put vaccine producers out of business and limit our capacity to deal with a biological attack by terrorists," says Andy Olsen, a legislative assistant to Frist.

Even many conservatives are shocked by the government's effort to cover up the dangers of thimerosal. Rep. Dan Burton, a Republican from Indiana, oversaw a three-year investigation of thimerosal after his grandson was diagnosed with autism. "Thimerosal used as a preservative in vaccines is directly related to the autism epidemic," his House Government Reform Committee concluded in its final report. "This epidemic in all probability may have been prevented or curtailed had the FDA not been asleep at the switch regarding a lack of safety data regarding injected thimerosal, a known neurotoxin." The FDA and other public-health agencies failed to act, the committee added, out of "institutional malfeasance for self protection" and "misplaced protectionism of the pharmaceutical industry."

The story of how government health agencies colluded with Big Pharma to hide the risks of thimerosal from the public is a chilling case study of institutional arrogance, power and greed. I was drawn into the controversy only reluctantly. As an attorney and environmentalist who has spent years working on issues of mercury toxicity, I frequently met mothers of autistic children who were absolutely convinced that their kids had been injured by vaccines. Privately, I was skeptical. I doubted that autism could be blamed on a single source, and I certainly understood the government's need to reassure parents that vaccinations are safe; the eradication of deadly childhood diseases depends on it. I tended to agree with skeptics like Rep. Henry Waxman, a Democrat from California, who criticized his colleagues on the House Government Reform Committee for leaping to conclusions about autism and vaccinations. "Why should we scare people about immunization," Waxman pointed out at one hearing, "until we know the facts?"

It was only after reading the Simpsonwood transcripts, studying the leading scientific research and talking with many of the nation's preeminent authorities on mercury that I became convinced that the link between thimerosal and the epidemic of childhood neurological disorders is real. Five of my own children are members of the Thimerosal Generation -- those born between 1989 and 2003 -- who received heavy doses of mercury from vaccines. "The elementary grades are overwhelmed with children who have symptoms of neurological or immune-system damage," Patti White, a school nurse, told the House Government Reform Committee in 1999. "Vaccines are supposed to be making us healthier; however, in 25 years of nursing I have never seen so many damaged, sick kids. Something very, very wrong is happening to our children." More than 500,000 kids currently suffer from autism, and pediatricians diagnose more than 40,000 new cases every year. The disease was unknown until 1943, when it was identified and diagnosed among 11 children born in the months after thimerosal was first added to baby vaccines in 1931.

Some skeptics dispute that the rise in autism is caused by thimerosal-tainted vaccinations. They argue that the increase is a result of better diagnosis -- a theory that seems questionable at best, given that most of the new cases of autism are clustered within a single generation of children. "If the epidemic is truly an artifact of poor diagnosis," scoffs Dr. Boyd Haley, one of the world's authorities on mercury toxicity, "then where are all the 20-year-old autistics?" Other researchers point out that Americans are exposed to a greater cumulative "load" of mercury than ever before, from contaminated fish to dental fillings, and suggest that thimerosal in vaccines may be only part of a much larger problem. It's a concern that certainly deserves far more attention than it has received -- but it overlooks the fact that the mercury concentrations in vaccines dwarf other sources of exposure to our children.

What is most striking is the lengths to which many of the leading detectives have gone to ignore -- and cover up -- the evidence against thimerosal. From the very beginning, the scientific case against the mercury additive has been overwhelming. The preservative, which is used to stem fungi and bacterial growth in vaccines, contains ethylmercury, a potent neurotoxin. Truckloads of studies have shown that mercury tends to accumulate in the brains of primates and other animals after they are injected with vaccines -- and that the developing brains of infants are particularly susceptible. In 1977, a Russian study found that adults exposed to much lower concentrations of ethylmercury than those given to American children still suffered brain damage years later. Russia banned thimerosal from children's vaccines 20 years ago, and Denmark, Austria, Japan, Great Britain and all the Scandinavian countries have since followed suit.

"You couldn't even construct a study that shows thimerosal is safe," says Haley, who heads the chemistry department at the University of Kentucky. "It's just too darn toxic. If you inject thimerosal into an animal, its brain will sicken. If you apply it to living tissue, the cells die. If you put it in a petri dish, the culture dies. Knowing these things, it would be shocking if one could inject it into an infant without causing damage."

Internal documents reveal that Eli Lilly, which first developed thimerosal, knew from the start that its product could cause damage -- and even death -- in both animals and humans. In 1930, the company tested thimerosal by administering it to 22 patients with terminal meningitis, all of whom died within weeks of being injected -- a fact Lilly didn't bother to report in its study declaring thimerosal safe. In 1935, researchers at another vaccine manufacturer, Pittman-Moore, warned Lilly that its claims about thimerosal's safety "did not check with ours." Half the dogs Pittman injected with thimerosal-based vaccines became sick, leading researchers there to declare the preservative "unsatisfactory as a serum intended for use on dogs."

In the decades that followed, the evidence against thimerosal continued to mount. During the Second World War, when the Department of Defense used the preservative in vaccines on soldiers, it required Lilly to label it "poison." In 1967, a study in Applied Microbiology found that thimerosal killed mice when added to injected vaccines. Four years later, Lilly's own studies discerned that thimerosal was "toxic to tissue cells" in concentrations as low as one part per million -- 100 times weaker than the concentration in a typical vaccine. Even so, the company continued to promote thimerosal as "nontoxic" and also incorporated it into topical disinfectants. In 1977, 10 babies at a Toronto hospital died when an antiseptic preserved with thimerosal was dabbed onto their umbilical cords.

In 1982, the FDA proposed a ban on over-the-counter products that contained thimerosal, and in 1991 the agency considered banning it from animal vaccines. But tragically, that same year, the CDC recommended that infants be injected with a series of mercury-laced vaccines. Newborns would be vaccinated for hepatitis B within 24 hours of birth, and 2-month-old infants would be immunized for haemophilus influenzae B and diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis.

The drug industry knew the additional vaccines posed a danger. The same year that the CDC approved the new vaccines, Dr. Maurice Hilleman, one of the fathers of Merck's vaccine programs, warned the company that 6-month-olds who were administered the shots would suffer dangerous exposure to mercury. He recommended that thimerosal be discontinued, "especially when used on infants and children," noting that the industry knew of nontoxic alternatives. "The best way to go," he added, "is to switch to dispensing the actual vaccines without adding preservatives."

For Merck and other drug companies, however, the obstacle was money. Thimerosal enables the pharmaceutical industry to package vaccines in vials that contain multiple doses, which require additional protection because they are more easily contaminated by multiple needle entries. The larger vials cost half as much to produce as smaller, single-dose vials, making it cheaper for international agencies to distribute them to impoverished regions at risk of epidemics. Faced with this "cost consideration," Merck ignored Hilleman's warnings, and government officials continued to push more and more thimerosal-based vaccines for children. Before 1989, American preschoolers received only three vaccinations -- for polio, diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis and measles-mumps-rubella. A decade later, thanks to federal recommendations, children were receiving a total of 22 immunizations by the time they reached first grade.

As the number of vaccines increased, the rate of autism among children exploded. During the 1990s, 40 million children were injected with thimerosal-based vaccines, receiving unprecedented levels of mercury during a period critical for brain development. Despite the well-documented dangers of thimerosal, it appears that no one bothered to add up the cumulative dose of mercury that children would receive from the mandated vaccines. "What took the FDA so long to do the calculations?" Peter Patriarca, director of viral products for the agency, asked in an e-mail to the CDC in 1999. "Why didn't CDC and the advisory bodies do these calculations when they rapidly expanded the childhood immunization schedule?"

But by that time, the damage was done. Infants who received all their vaccines, plus boosters, by the age of 6 months were being injected with levels of ethylmercury 187 times greater than the EPA's limit for daily exposure to methylmercury, a related neurotoxin. Although the vaccine industry insists that ethylmercury poses little danger because it breaks down rapidly and is removed by the body, several studies -- including one published in April by the National Institutes of Health -- suggest that ethylmercury is actually more toxic to developing brains and stays in the brain longer than methylmercury.

Officials responsible for childhood immunizations insist that the additional vaccines were necessary to protect infants from disease and that thimerosal is still essential in developing nations, which, they often claim, cannot afford the single-dose vials that don't require a preservative. Dr. Paul Offit, one of CDC's top vaccine advisors, told me, "I think if we really have an influenza pandemic -- and certainly we will in the next 20 years, because we always do -- there's no way on God's earth that we immunize 280 million people with single-dose vials. There has to be multidose vials."

But while public-health officials may have been well-intentioned, many of those on the CDC advisory committee who backed the additional vaccines had close ties to the industry. Dr. Sam Katz, the committee's chair, was a paid consultant for most of the major vaccine makers and shares a patent on a measles vaccine with Merck, which also manufactures the hepatitis B vaccine. Dr. Neal Halsey, another committee member, worked as a researcher for the vaccine companies and received honoraria from Abbott Labs for his research on the hepatitis B vaccine.

Indeed, in the tight circle of scientists who work on vaccines, such conflicts of interest are common. Rep. Burton says that the CDC "routinely allows scientists with blatant conflicts of interest to serve on intellectual advisory committees that make recommendations on new vaccines," even though they have "interests in the products and companies for which they are supposed to be providing unbiased oversight." The House Government Reform Committee discovered that four of the eight CDC advisors who approved guidelines for a rotavirus vaccine laced with thimerosal "had financial ties to the pharmaceutical companies that were developing different versions of the vaccine."

Offit, who shares a patent on the vaccine, acknowledged to me that he "would make money" if his vote to approve it eventually leads to a marketable product. But he dismissed my suggestion that a scientist's direct financial stake in CDC approval might bias his judgment. "It provides no conflict for me," he insists. "I have simply been informed by the process, not corrupted by it. When I sat around that table, my sole intent was trying to make recommendations that best benefited the children in this country. It's offensive to say that physicians and public-health people are in the pocket of industry and thus are making decisions that they know are unsafe for children. It's just not the way it works."

Other vaccine scientists and regulators gave me similar assurances. Like Offit, they view themselves as enlightened guardians of children's health, proud of their "partnerships" with pharmaceutical companies, immune to the seductions of personal profit, besieged by irrational activists whose anti-vaccine campaigns are endangering children's health. They are often resentful of questioning. "Science," says Offit, "is best left to scientists."

Still, some government officials were alarmed by the apparent conflicts of interest. In his e-mail to CDC administrators in 1999, Paul Patriarca of the FDA blasted federal regulators for failing to adequately scrutinize the danger posed by the added baby vaccines. "I'm not sure there will be an easy way out of the potential perception that the FDA, CDC and immunization-policy bodies may have been asleep at the switch re: thimerosal until now," Patriarca wrote. The close ties between regulatory officials and the pharmaceutical industry, he added, "will also raise questions about various advisory bodies regarding aggressive recommendations for use" of thimerosal in child vaccines.

If federal regulators and government scientists failed to grasp the potential risks of thimerosal over the years, no one could claim ignorance after the secret meeting at Simpsonwood. But rather than conduct more studies to test the link to autism and other forms of brain damage, the CDC placed politics over science. The agency turned its database on childhood vaccines -- which had been developed largely at taxpayer expense -- over to a private agency, America's Health Insurance Plans, ensuring that it could not be used for additional research. It also instructed the Institute of Medicine, an advisory organization that is part of the National Academy of Sciences, to produce a study debunking the link between thimerosal and brain disorders. The CDC "wants us to declare, well, that these things are pretty safe," Dr. Marie McCormick, who chaired the IOM's Immunization Safety Review Committee, told her fellow researchers when they first met in January 2001. "We are not ever going to come down that [autism] is a true side effect" of thimerosal exposure. According to transcripts of the meeting, the committee's chief staffer, Kathleen Stratton, predicted that the IOM would conclude that the evidence was "inadequate to accept or reject a causal relation" between thimerosal and autism. That, she added, was the result "Walt wants" -- a reference to Dr. Walter Orenstein, director of the National Immunization Program for the CDC.

For those who had devoted their lives to promoting vaccination, the revelations about thimerosal threatened to undermine everything they had worked for. "We've got a dragon by the tail here," said Dr. Michael Kaback, another committee member. "The more negative that [our] presentation is, the less likely people are to use vaccination, immunization -- and we know what the results of that will be. We are kind of caught in a trap. How we work our way out of the trap, I think is the charge."

Even in public, federal officials made it clear that their primary goal in studying thimerosal was to dispel doubts about vaccines. "Four current studies are taking place to rule out the proposed link between autism and thimerosal," Dr. Gordon Douglas, then-director of strategic planning for vaccine research at the National Institutes of Health, assured a Princeton University gathering in May 2001. "In order to undo the harmful effects of research claiming to link the [measles] vaccine to an elevated risk of autism, we need to conduct and publicize additional studies to assure parents of safety." Douglas formerly served as president of vaccinations for Merck, where he ignored warnings about thimerosal's risks.

In May of last year, the Institute of Medicine issued its final report. Its conclusion: There is no proven link between autism and thimerosal in vaccines. Rather than reviewing the large body of literature describing the toxicity of thimerosal, the report relied on four disastrously flawed epidemiological studies examining European countries, where children received much smaller doses of thimerosal than American kids. It also cited a new version of the Verstraeten study, published in the journal Pediatrics, that had been reworked to reduce the link between thimerosal and autism. The new study included children too young to have been diagnosed with autism and overlooked others who showed signs of the disease. The IOM declared the case closed and -- in a startling position for a scientific body -- recommended that no further research be conducted.

The report may have satisfied the CDC, but it convinced no one. Rep. David Weldon, a Republican physician from Florida who serves on the House Government Reform Committee, attacked the Institute of Medicine, saying it relied on a handful of studies that were "fatally flawed" by "poor design" and failed to represent "all the available scientific and medical research." CDC officials are not interested in an honest search for the truth, Weldon told me, because "an association between vaccines and autism would force them to admit that their policies irreparably damaged thousands of children. Who would want to make that conclusion about themselves?"

Under pressure from Congress, parents and a few of its own panel members, the Institute of Medicine reluctantly convened a second panel to review the findings of the first. In February, the new panel, composed of different scientists, criticized the earlier panel for its lack of transparency and urged the CDC to make its vaccine database available to the public.

So far, though, only two scientists have managed to gain access. Dr. Mark Geier, president of the Genetics Center of America, and his son, David, spent a year battling to obtain the medical records from the CDC. Since August 2002, when members of Congress pressured the agency to turn over the data, the Geiers have completed six studies that demonstrate a powerful correlation between thimerosal and neurological damage in children. One study, which compares the cumulative dose of mercury received by children born between 1981 and 1985 with those born between 1990 and 1996, found a "very significant relationship" between autism and vaccines. Another study of educational performance found that kids who received higher doses of thimerosal in vaccines were nearly three times as likely to be diagnosed with autism and more than three times as likely to suffer from speech disorders and mental retardation. Another soon-to-be-published study shows that autism rates are in decline following the recent elimination of thimerosal from most vaccines.

As the federal government worked to prevent scientists from studying vaccines, others have stepped in to study the link to autism. In April, reporter Dan Olmsted of UPI undertook one of the more interesting studies himself. Searching for children who had not been exposed to mercury in vaccines -- the kind of population that scientists typically use as a "control" in experiments -- Olmsted scoured the Amish of Lancaster County, Penn., who refuse to immunize their infants. Given the national rate of autism, Olmsted calculated that there should be 130 autistics among the Amish. He found only four. One had been exposed to high levels of mercury from a power plant. The other three -- including one child adopted from outside the Amish community -- had received their vaccines.

At the state level, many officials have also conducted in-depth reviews of thimerosal. While the Institute of Medicine was busy whitewashing the risks, the Iowa Legislature was carefully combing through all of the available scientific and biological data. "After three years of review, I became convinced there was sufficient credible research to show a link between mercury and the increased incidences in autism," says state Sen. Ken Veenstra, a Republican who oversaw the investigation. "The fact that Iowa's 700 percent increase in autism began in the 1990s, right after more and more vaccines were added to the children's vaccine schedules, is solid evidence alone." Last year, Iowa became the first state to ban mercury in vaccines, followed by California. Similar bans are now under consideration in 32 other states.

But instead of following suit, the FDA continues to allow manufacturers to include thimerosal in scores of over-the-counter medications as well as steroids and injected collagen. Even more alarming, the government continues to ship vaccines preserved with thimerosal to developing countries -- some of which are now experiencing a sudden explosion in autism rates. In China, where the disease was virtually unknown prior to the introduction of thimerosal by U.S. drug manufacturers in 1999, news reports indicate that there are now more than 1.8 million autistics. Although reliable numbers are hard to come by, autistic disorders also appear to be soaring in India, Argentina, Nicaragua and other developing countries that are now using thimerosal-laced vaccines. The World Health Organization continues to insist thimerosal is safe, but it promises to keep the possibility that it is linked to neurological disorders "under review."

I devoted time to study this issue because I believe that this is a moral crisis that must be addressed. If, as the evidence suggests, our public-health authorities knowingly allowed the pharmaceutical industry to poison an entire generation of American children, their actions arguably constitute one of the biggest scandals in the annals of American medicine. "The CDC is guilty of incompetence and gross negligence," says Mark Blaxill, vice president of Safe Minds, a nonprofit organization concerned about the role of mercury in medicines. "The damage caused by vaccine exposure is massive. It's bigger than asbestos, bigger than tobacco, bigger than anything you've ever seen." It's hard to calculate the damage to our country -- and to the international efforts to eradicate epidemic diseases -- if Third World nations come to believe that America's most heralded foreign-aid initiative is poisoning their children. It's not difficult to predict how this scenario will be interpreted by America's enemies abroad. The scientists and researchers -- many of them sincere, even idealistic -- who are participating in efforts to hide the science on thimerosal claim that they are trying to advance the lofty goal of protecting children in developing nations from disease pandemics. They are badly misguided. Their failure to come clean on thimerosal will come back horribly to haunt our country and the world's poorest populations.

Robert F. Kennedy Jr. is senior attorney for the Natural Resources Defense Council, chief prosecuting attorney for Riverkeeper and president of Waterkeeper Alliance. He is the co-author of "The Riverkeepers."

Note: Below are excerpts from and links to other revealing articles on this topic:

Merck's infant vaccine stirs new controversy
Los Angeles Times/Newsday, March 8, 2005
http://www.nynewsday.com/news/health/ny-usglan084168623mar08,0,3713664.story
http://www.mercuryexposure.org/index.php?article_id=344

Merck & Co. continued to supply infant vaccine containing a mercury preservative for two years after declaring that it had eliminated the chemical. Thimerosal, which is nearly 50 percent ethyl mercury, has largely been eliminated from most routine childhood vaccines, although it is present in most flu shots. More than 4,200 parents have filed claims in the federal Vaccine Injury Compensation Program, alleging that their children suffered autism or other neurological disorders from mercury in their shots.

Possible Mercury, Autism Connection Found in Study
Los Angeles Times, March 17, 2005
http://www.latimes.com/news/science/la-sci-autism17mar17,1,1770760.story?coll=la-news-science
http://www.yourlawyer.com/practice/panews.htm?parea=Toxic%20Substances&&story_id=9495

Studying individual school districts in Texas, the epidemiologists found that those districts with the highest levels of mercury in the environment also had the highest rates of special education students and autism diagnoses. There was a strong, direct relationship between mercury and autism levels. The incidence of autism has grown dramatically over the last two decades, from about one in every 2,000 children to as high as one in every 166. The purported link between autism and mercury has been a subject of intense debate. In the past it has centered primarily on the mercury-containing preservative thimerosal, which was once widely used in vaccines. Many parents have argued that thimerosal causes autism because their children seemed to develop the neurological disorder shortly after they received childhood vaccinations.

The Age of Autism: The Amish anomaly
April 18-19, 2005, Washington Times
http://www.washtimes.com/upi-breaking/20050321-115921-9566r.htm - Part 1
http://washingtontimes.com/UPI-breaking/20050417-052541-5549r.htm - Part 2

Where are the autistic Amish? Here in Lancaster County, heart of Pennsylvania Dutch country, there should be well over 100 with some form of the disorder. I have come here to find them, but so far my mission has failed, and the very few I have identified raise some very interesting questions about some widely held views on autism. The Amish have a religious exemption from vaccination. So far, there is evidence of only three, all of them children, the oldest age 9 or 10. Julia is one of them. She...is adopted from China. She had most of her vaccines given to her in the United States before we got her. [Of the other one definitely had a vaccine, and the other's vaccine status is unknown.] The mainstream scientific consensus says autism is a complex genetic disorder, one that has been around for millennia at roughly the same prevalence. That prevalence is now considered to be 1 in every 166 children born in the United States.

Debate over vaccines, autism won't die
June 26, 2005, MSNBC
http://msnbc.msn.com/id/8336821 - Page 1
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/8336821/page/2 - Page 2

The afternoon after Kelly Kerns’ 2-month-old daughter Kaylee got several vaccines was “living hell,” with the child screaming and arching her back, her mother said. 'I kept telling myself everybody gets vaccinated — this is OK,' she said. When Kaylee was 18 months old, her white-blonde hair began falling out and she stopped talking. Meanwhile, Kerns had twin boys — Andrew and Daniel. When they were 15 months old, they received three vaccines. A week later, they stopped talking. All three children have since been diagnosed as autistic. Flu vaccine sold in multidose vials still contains the preservative, and the government urges flu shots for pregnant women and young children even though not enough thimerosal-free ones are available, critics say. Finding answers is tough because autism, a little-understood developmental disorder, often is diagnosed at the very ages when children get vaccines. The stories are remarkably similar: A seemingly normal child gets a shot and days, weeks or months later, withdraws from the world, stops speaking, becomes upset at random stimulation such as a doorbell, and adopts compulsive behaviors like head-banging.

A child's return from autism
May 25, 2005, San Francisco Chronicle
http://sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/c/a/2005/05/25/BAGU0CU2K71.DTL

A Lafayette couple, certain that chelation therapy has helped their autistic son, stepped squarely into the controversy surrounding the causes of autism and its treatment Tuesday as they joined 150 other parents in launching an international support group that will aggressively promote the treatment. The Handleys are now among a small minority of parents -- who, believing that the autism was caused by the mercury in thimerosal, a preservative that was routinely used in vaccines until recently -- are treating their children with chelation therapy, a lotion or pill that strips the body of heavy metals. It has been used for decades to detoxify people contaminated in industrial accidents, but no studies have proved whether it is an effective treatment for autism. For Jamie's parents, the proof they need is in front of them: Jamie, now 3 years old and several months into treatment, is plump and playing baseball. His smile has returned. The Handleys said the new support group, Generation Rescue, and its Web site, www.generationrescue.com, will offer information on chelation therapy and connect parents with those who can help.

See our archive of cover-up news articles at http://www.WantToKnow.info/coverupnews

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posted in AutismADHD - 0 replies

Venting

heatheroni — Tue, 26 Jul 2005 19:29:06 GMT

Urgh...

I just wanna punch this guy right in the nose.

http://newyorkstate.tribe.net/thread/38241690-066c-4394-b2d3-70ae5a035fea?tribeid=38763c44-6453-49e5-bec9-7dc8c42d82a7&threads=true&r=10667#49ef4e0f-99a7-4e30-8ef8-08134dc29d77

And kick him a few times, too.

posted in AutismADHD - 2 replies

Autism inclusion in mainstream classrooms

LaRubia — Tue, 28 Sep 2004 01:32:49 GMT

We are struggling to get our son included in the general ed classroom. They keep wanting to leave him in the sped room because it is simpler. Last 3 years he has been in a blended program, fully included- That program only goes up to K, now we are in a new program and we are biding our time until the new IEP meeting in one month...

What are your experiences?

posted in AutismADHD - 7 replies

Generation Rescue (a must-see website!)

Lisa — Sun, 10 Jul 2005 02:26:48 GMT

Hello all, I am new to the tribe and thought I would post this wonderful website for those of you that know someone with ASD/ADHD/PDD-NOS, etc. The site was created by Lisa and J.B. Handley, parents to an autistic son, whom you may have heard of on the news or in newspapers lately. The Handleys have created an organization dedicated to revealing the truth about mercury poisoning and give you all the tools and info that you need to reverse the damages of mercury. The Handleys have a son that is going thru the TD-DMPS treatment and is progressing daily. The site gives details on the treatment but also gives options for natural chelation. I could go on and on about how helpful this site is....just trust me and check it out!!! www.generationrescue.org

posted in AutismADHD - 0 replies

Our son's Online Journal

Thu, 30 Jun 2005 20:26:22 GMT

I apologize for the cross posting.

Our son Logan, recently diagnosed with Autism, has a livejournal where we are recording his testing, progress, etc.

http://www.livejournal.com/users/babylogan/

posted in AutismADHD - 0 replies

Toys

LaRubia — Mon, 27 Jun 2005 05:56:00 GMT

What kind of toys do your kids like?

My son really loves Legoes and Bionicles, we just branched out into Imaginext, with the purchase of the pirate/treasure island. His eyes really lit up when he saw it. He had played with it previously during his last evalutation.

He also likes these books I found at Barnes and Noble called A Dinosaur's Guide to Life. They are about different subjects such as Making Friends, Staying Safe and Healthy, Traveling, Death (we haven't bought that one yet). They are illustrated vignettes with really good explanations.

posted in AutismADHD - 4 replies

Travel tips?

Tue, 28 Jun 2005 06:50:42 GMT

I'm taking my 2 year old autistic son on a plane for the first time in two weeks. Any advice?

posted in AutismADHD - 1 reply

My Confession

fallingawake — Tue, 05 Apr 2005 23:33:04 GMT

Well I got the results from the principle about my son's missed speech sessions. Because I did not get a new IEP (at the principles suggestion) I am out of luck. She is denying she advised me that I did not need it.

I work with these ppl. Please don't take any verbal agreement. Get everything in writing. This was MY mistake. I thought I could trust these ppl. The one who paid is my 3 year old. Please please don't let this happen to you!!!! GET IT IN WRITING no matter how much you know or trust the therapist. I am not saying all therapist are bad. Zach's others have been wonderful but you never know who will callously burn you and you son. My therapists problem was a god complex she new best. Just learn from my mistakes.

thanks everyone!

posted in AutismADHD - 8 replies

New article

fallingawake — Mon, 25 Apr 2005 19:06:28 GMT

The incidence of autism has increased from 1 in 10,000 in the 1970s to 1 in 150 today, an increase of over 6,000%. Many more children have been diagnosed with other neurodevelopmental disorders all considered to be on the same spectrum including Asperger's, ADHD/ADD, speech delay, and many other developmental delays and learning disabilities.
"During these investigations, numerous scientists from around the globe have testified before the committee, and have presented credible peer-reviewed research studies that indicated a direct link between the exposure of Mercury, a widely known neurotoxin, and the increasing incidences of autism."
- Congressman Dan Burton (R-IN)
Chairman, Subcommittee on Human Rights and Wellness, U.S. Congress
Head of Three Year Congressional Investigation into Mercury In Medicine
September 8, 2004
"It is the elimination of this "spark", i.e. mercury, for which we now have an easy and effective solution. Along with some supportive therapies, autism and certain other neurodegenerative diseases can be fully and permanently reversed. This is NOT a theory but rather, a protocol that has already been clinically validated and the evidence is irrefutable."
- Dr. Rashid Buttar, DO, FAAPM, FACAM, FAAIM
Vice Chairman, American Board of Clinical Metal Toxicologists
Doctor of Toxicology, one of many physicians successfully treating children with Autism Spectrum Disorders
Testimony Before Subcommittee on Human Rights and Wellness, U.S. Congress
May 6, 2004

posted in AutismADHD - 2 replies

Temple Gradin this Saturday in SF

janina — Tue, 26 Apr 2005 21:49:52 GMT

Please join AASCEND THIS SATURDAY, April 30, 2005
from 9:30 to Noon at 1500 Howard Street at 11th Street

for a LIVE PRESENTATION BY DR. TEMPLE GRANDIN via conference phone
call.

Among many other pulications (mostly on animal science),
Temple Grandin is the author of:

1) Emergence: Labeled Autistic

2) Thinking In Pictures... And Other Reports From My Life With Autism

3) Animals in Translation

and

4) Developing Talents - Careers for Individuals with Asperger Syndrome
and High Functioning Autism (co-authored with Kate Duffy)

Dr. Grandin has sent us her slides and handouts, and will take us
through her presentation just as if she were here in person. She will be on
speakerphone and be able ot take questions from the audience. This is
NOT a web conference. We are the only group participating in this
conference call. Doors will open at 9:30, presentation will begin promptly at
10:00 and end by noon.

Refreshments will be served and THERE IS NO ADMISSION.

For more information about AASCEND, visit our website at
www.aascend.net

We look forward to seeing you Saturday!
Jack Fagan, for AASCEND

posted in AutismADHD - 1 reply

Don't Mourn for Us

heatheroni — Wed, 20 Apr 2005 13:45:44 GMT

I found this article on my hard drive. It was originally written my Jim Sinclair, apparently, an autistic adult.

----------------------------------------------

Parents often report that learning their child is autistic was the most traumatic thing that ever happened to them. Non-autistic people see autism as a great tragedy, and parents experience continuing disappointment and grief at all stages of the child's and family's life cycle.
But this grief does not stem from the child's autism in itself. It is grief over the loss of the normal child the parents had hoped and expected to have. Parents' attitudes and expectations, and the discrepancies between what parents expect of children at a particular age and their own child's actual development, cause more stress and anguish than the practical complexities of life with an autistic person.
Some amount of grief is natural as parents adjust to the fact that an event and a relationship they've been looking forward to isn't going to materialize. But this grief over a fantasized normal child needs to be separated from the parents' perceptions of the child they do have: the autistic child who needs the support of adult caretakers and who can form very meaningful relationships with those caretakers if given the opportunity. Continuing focus on the child's autism as a source of grief is damaging for both the parents and the child, and precludes the development of an accepting and authentic relationship between them. For their own sake and for the sake of their children, I urge parents to make radical changes in their perceptions of what autism means.
I invite you to look at our autism, and look at your grief, from our perspective:
Autism is not an appendage
Autism isn't something a person has, or a "shell" that a person is trapped inside. There's no normal child hidden behind the autism. Autism is a way of being. It is pervasive; it colors every experience, every sensation, perception, thought, emotion, and encounter, every aspect of existence. It is not possible to separate the autism from the person--and if it were possible, the person you'd have left would not be the same person you started with.
This is important, so take a moment to consider it: Autism is a way of being. It is not possible to separate the person from the autism.
Therefore, when parents say,
"I wish my child did not have autism,"
what they're really saying is,
"I wish the autistic child I have did not exist, and I had a different (non-autistic) child instead."
Read that again. This is what we hear when you mourn over our existence. This is what we hear when you pray for a cure. This is what we know, when you tell us of your fondest hopes and dreams for us: that your greatest wish is that one day we will cease to be, and strangers you can love will move in behind our faces.
Autism is not an impenetrable wall
You try to relate to your autistic child, and the child doesn't respond. He doesn't see you; you can't reach her; there's no getting through. That's the hardest thing to deal with, isn't it? The only thing is, it isn't true.
Look at it again: You try to relate as parent to child, using your own understanding of normal children, your own feelings about parenthood, your own experiences and intuitions about relationships. And the child doesn't respond in any way you can recognize as being part of that system.
That does not mean the child is incapable of relating at all. It only means you're assuming a shared system, a shared understanding of signals and meanings, that the child in fact does not share. It's as if you tried to have an intimate conversation with someone who has no comprehension of your language. Of course the person won't understand what you're talking about, won't respond in the way you expect, and may well find the whole interaction confusing and unpleasant.
It takes more work to communicate with someone whose native language isn't the same as yours. And autism goes deeper than language and culture; autistic people are "foreigners" in any society. You're going to have to give up your assumptions about shared meanings. You're going to have to learn to back up to levels more basic than you've probably thought about before, to translate, and to check to make sure your translations are understood. You're going to have to give up the certainty that comes of being on your own familiar territory, of knowing you're in charge, and let your child teach you a little of her language, guide you a little way into his world.
And the outcome, if you succeed, still will not be a normal parent-child relationship. Your autistic child may learn to talk, may attend regular classes in school, may go to college, drive a car, live independently, have a career--but will never relate to you as other children relate to their parents. Or your autistic child may never speak, may graduate from a self-contained special education classroom to a sheltered activity program or a residential facility, may need lifelong full-time care and supervision--but is not completely beyond your reach. The ways we relate are different. Push for the things your expectations tell you are normal, and you'll find frustration, disappointment, resentment, maybe even rage and hatred. Approach respectfully, without preconceptions, and with openness to learning new things, and you'll find a world you could never have imagined.
Yes, that takes more work than relating to a non-autistic person. But it can be done--unless non-autistic people are far more limited than we are in their capacity to relate. We spend our entire lives doing it. Each of us who does learn to talk to you, each of us who manages to function at all in your society, each of us who manages to reach out and make a connection with you, is operating in alien territory, making contact with alien beings. We spend our entire lives doing this. And then you tell us that we can't relate.
Autism is not death
Granted, autism isn't what most parents expect or look forward to when they anticipate the arrival of a child. What they expect is a child who will be like them, who will share their world and relate to them without requiring intensive on-the-job training in alien contact. Even if their child has some disability other than autism, parents expect to be able to relate to that child on the terms that seem normal to them; and in most cases, even allowing for the limitations of various disabilities, it is possible to form the kind of bond the parents had been looking forward to.
But not when the child is autistic. Much of the grieving parents do is over the non-occurrence of the expected relationship with an expected normal child. This grief is very real, and it needs to be expected and worked through so people can get on with their lives--
but it has nothing to do with autism.
What it comes down to is that you expected something that was tremendously important to you, and you looked forward to it with great joy and excitement, and maybe for a while you thought you actually had it--and then, perhaps gradually, perhaps abruptly, you had to recognize that the thing you looked forward to hasn't happened. It isn't going to happen. No matter how many other, normal children you have, nothing will change the fact that this time, the child you waited and hoped and planned and dreamed for didn't arrive.
This is the same thing that parents experience when a child is stillborn, or when they have their baby to hold for a short time, only to have it die in infancy. It isn't about autism, it's about shattered expectations. I suggest that the best place to address these issues is not in organizations devoted to autism, but in parental bereavement counseling and support groups. In those settings parents learn to come to terms with their loss--not to forget about it, but to let it be in the past, where the grief doesn't hit them in the face every waking moment of their lives. They learn to accept that their child is gone, forever, and won't be coming back. Most importantly, they learn not to take out their grief for the lost child on their surviving children. This is of critical importance when one of those surviving children arrived at the same time the child being mourned for died.
You didn't lose a child to autism. You lost a child because the child you waited for never came into existence. That isn't the fault of the autistic child who does exist, and it shouldn't be our burden. We need and deserve families who can see us and value us for ourselves, not families whose vision of us is obscured by the ghosts of children who never lived. Grieve if you must, for your own lost dreams. But don't mourn for us. We are alive. We are real. And we're here waiting for you.
This is what I think autism societies should be about: not mourning for what never was, but exploration of what is. We need you. We need your help and your understanding. Your world is not very open to us, and we won't make it without your strong support. Yes, there is tragedy that comes with autism: not because of what we are, but because of the things that happen to us. Be sad about that, if you want to be sad about something. Better than being sad about it, though, get mad about it--and then do something about it. The tragedy is not that we're here, but that your world has no place for us to be. How can it be otherwise, as long as our own parents are still grieving over having brought us into the world?
Take a look at your autistic child sometime, and take a moment to tell yourself who that child is not. Think to yourself: "This is not my child that I expected and planned for. This is not the child I waited for through all those months of pregnancy and all those hours of labor. This is not the child I made all those plans to share all those experiences with. That child never came. This is not that child." Then go do whatever grieving you have to do--away from the autistic child--and start learning to let go.
After you've started that letting go, come back and look at your autistic child again, and say to yourself: "This is not my child that I expected and planned for. This is an alien child who landed in my life by accident. I don't know who this child is or what it will become. But I know it's a child, stranded in an alien world, without parents of its own kind to care for it. It needs someone to care for it, to teach it, to interpret and to advocate for it. And because this alien child happened to drop into my life, that job is mine if I want it."
If that prospect excites you, then come join us, in strength and determination, in hope and in joy. The adventure of a lifetime is ahead of you.

posted in AutismADHD - 7 replies

autism as evolutionary progress?

sonomacutey — Sun, 17 Apr 2005 17:18:23 GMT

thought y'all would like to peruse this thread from the Cognitive Science tribe. I found it controversial, but that's par for the course with the subject of autism.

http://sanfrancisco.tribe.net/thread/46ada358-3381-46a7-8953-383db2d4b013?tribeid=403717b6-8597-44ee-91bf-ccb34f63df1e&r=10535

posted in AutismADHD - 8 replies

Mirror Neurons, some new findings...

Tue, 19 Apr 2005 04:29:13 GMT

http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2005/04/050411204511.htm

posted in AutismADHD - 0 replies

More than one cause of Autism

LaRubia — Wed, 06 Apr 2005 18:10:54 GMT

Hey y'all,

What do you think about all the attention lately for Autism in the news? I think it is great, but there are two problems I have:

1) Atention is great, but next is getting more money for schooling and coverage for services ( there has been headaway, I admit).

Like in Wa state, we have this fancy proclamation about an autism awareness day, but there is no commitment to new or additional funding. Actually, in my school district they are increasing the amount of kids in my son's program with NO corresponding increase in teacher or IA support. So I read about the aforementioned proclamation and think it isn't worth alot, because there's no monetary back up to it.

2) Mercury is not the only cause of Autism.

I worry that other factors are not being looked at when all the focus is on Mercury, and it seems like it gives everyone a false sense of accomplishment, like the mystery is almost solved, whn it's not. My son had no vaccinations and is still Autistic. Thimerosol didn't impact him, because he wasn't exposed to it. There are other kids like that too, so why do they have autism?

posted in AutismADHD - 11 replies

Weird Question Regarding Pay..(Tutor/Behavioral Interventionalist)

Wed, 02 Mar 2005 06:59:10 GMT

I didn't know if this is the best place to ask but was wondering if anyone could give me advice? I just started working with a child on the spectrum in December and when I was hired there was no mention of filling out a W4/W2 or of taxes and we agreed on 13 an hour. Being that this was a private residence, I just assumed that it was "under the table" or that taxes were being paid on top of the 13. So a couple of months go by and in the middle of February my employer suddenly has me fill out a W4 form and commences taking out taxes. It comes to over a third on each check and from what I've seen on IRS websites, she is supposed to be paying half of the taxes if she is filing me as a nanny. Has anyone had any experience with this or have any advice?

Was I wrong for assuming that because no mention was made of taxes that she just wasn't going to deduct them? I was just wondering how to broach the topic with her. After the amount she is deducting my take-home is only 8.22 and hour and that seems a bit low considering the work that I do. I need the job for my resume and also enjoy it but I don't know if I can afford to keep working for such a low wage.

I appreciate any feedback, thanks.

posted in AutismADHD - 15 replies

Music Therepy?

heatheroni — Fri, 28 Jan 2005 14:19:47 GMT

Does anyone have any experience with this? Not ATI (Audio Integration Training/Sound Therepy), but actualy music therepy? My son responds very well to songs that he's familiar with and music in general. Does anyone have any specifics as to how one would find a curriculum in music therepy?

posted in AutismADHD - 9 replies

I am FURIOUS

fallingawake — Fri, 01 Apr 2005 00:54:17 GMT

Found out my son has only received 3 indivual speech session all year. And only got those because i spoke to the therapist and she agreed to give them.

When she came to me she first tried to lie. then said he just needed group (please for autistic kid). The said well he is non verbal what do you want me to with him? Yes, she really said that. Then she said he was her very favorite student and he already got more attention then the rest. She promised to do the therapy from now on. Grr.......

I talked to an advocate group in my state. He will get make-up but he missed so much. I am hoping for a new therapist. She is great with partially verbal kids but she needs out of the autism classroom.

I do have to say over all our isd is amazing.

I feel betrayed we discussed this at the beginning of the year. I feel I failed him. 3 is such a crucial year.

Thanks for listening. Send us good energy (hoping to get that new therapist). Oh, and if I am stuck with her does anyone know what a non-verbal autistic 3 year old shoul have in the session? She asked me if I know. I am searching as we speak. Am I wrong to think she should know?

posted in AutismADHD - 11 replies

Let's introduce ourselves!

fallingawake — Wed, 02 Feb 2005 22:41:15 GMT

I thought it would be fun to say a little about ourselves and our kids.

The area we are from (i wouldn't get specfic). About out kids. If we have pics in album. What we love the most about them. There age.

Anything and everything you might want to say.

By the way i am ~awake. I have a 3 year old. His pic is in my album. Both my children are my son shine. :o) Wouldn't trade him for the world. I am from MI.

He is not talking much at all yet.... We are using PECS but that boy defintely gets his point across. If he want soup he gets is and brings it too you. if you ignore him he throws it at you. We are learning NOT the throw it ouch! He is very busy. Loves the chics. Sings no words or tune. but very cute. Like hater mentioned earlier he is quite the poo artist given oppurtunity.

I would really love to get to know everyone. Therapists and workers too. :o)

posted in AutismADHD - 29 replies

Ugg Boots

LaRubia — Fri, 11 Mar 2005 23:10:05 GMT

You know, depending on what kind of sensory issues a kid has, these are great shoes. They have regular shoes as well as slippers and boots, and they are right up my son's alley- they are really snuggly, which he likes. I just thought I would pass on what I found.

Also, what types of things do your kids like? What don't they like?
My son is really particular about his clothes and stuff, so I wonder if others have that same experience.

posted in AutismADHD - 13 replies

New York Times article FYI

Vanessa — Sat, 12 Mar 2005 23:25:34 GMT

Thought that this would interest some of you:

February 26, 2005

As Autistic Children Grow, So Does Social Gap

By JANE GROSS

Sixth grade was a trying time for Karen Singer's autistic son, who spent recess wandering the periphery of the playground by himself and sometimes hid in the school bathroom when he needed a safe place to cry.

He knew he was doing something wrong as he reached the social crucible of middle school, but he did not know how to fix it. At home he begged his mother to explain: "Why am I like this? What's wrong with me?"

Intensive behavioral treatment, popularized over the last 10 years, prepared him academically and helped him get by in regular classes for years. But social skills are more elusive for autistic children, and the gap widens with each passing year.

Classmates who once tolerated his peculiarities now shunned him. Their interests had changed to hanging out and being cool, while he remained preoccupied with saltwater fish and Yu-Gi-Oh trading cards. During group projects the boy rigidly held his ground on small matters, like what color ink to use. When challenged, he blurted out, "You're stupid!" or other inappropriate retorts.

"It was shocking how it all of a sudden fell apart," said Ms. Singer, who asked that her son, now 13, not be identified by name or hometown and thus be further stigmatized. "He'd never say, 'I don't want to go to school.' He'd make it through the day, then come home and melt down."

Last fall the Singers moved their son to a private school for children with learning disabilities, persuading him that it was not a failure but rather an opportunity to feel less anxious. And he does.

The Singers' anguished choice is an unintended consequence of improved diagnosis and new behavioral therapy. A generation ago most autistic children would have been written off as hopeless. Now, as their numbers are increasing, many learn to speak and to tame their most difficult behavioral traits.

They are autism's success stories, moving from one-on-one instruction to typical public school settings. Last year 27 percent of this country's 141,022 autistic children were educated in public school classrooms with normal children, up from 11 percent of the 22,664 autistic children of a decade ago.

But these high-functioning children face a host of new problems as they approach adolescence, when social interactions become more complicated. Parents, educators, researchers and clinicians all say that the majority of such children become conspicuous in the third grade and are bullied or ostracized by the time they reach middle school.

Dr. Sandra L. Harris of Rutgers University, a pioneering educator and researcher in autism, said advances might have fed false hopes. "The intellectual skills of some of these children may lead people to expect more than is possible socially," Dr. Harris said. "They miss so much nuance that it can't be fixed in a 100-percent way. That was the hope. Now we know it's more elusive than that."

Christine Grogan, the director of a school for autistic children in Paramus, N.J., urges educators to be cautious about what they promise parents, adding, "There are many people in the field giving false hope" about whether remaining in the mainstream is realistic for more than a tiny number of children over the long haul.

Virtually nothing in the social arena comes naturally to autistic children. They must be taught how to have a conversation. To show empathy by asking questions. To resist arcane topics that do not interest others. Not to talk too loudly or to stand too close to the other person. To master the vocabularies of sports and flirting.

Even those with I.Q.'s above average struggle to read body language or to imagine what other people are thinking. If they learn a joke, they may tell it a dozen times. They are too literal-minded to understand white lies and too rule-bound to understand they should not tattle. They overreact to routine teasing and invite ridicule by carrying their books over their heads or accepting a dare to kiss a girl.

Faux pas that go unnoticed in the early grades later turn a child into a pariah. "Kids have very short memories when they're young," said Terese Dana, one of a growing number of behavioral therapists and psychologists who are making a career of teaching social skills. "They are much less forgiving as they get older."

Experts say it is possible to teach autistic children to be more interpersonally aware, just as it is possible to teach their peers to be more sensitive. All of Ms. Dana's clients, including Ms. Singer's son, have made significant improvements. But these children do best at an age when parents still organize their social lives and before having a one-on-one school aide becomes embarrassing.

Social skills training was critical for Jake Exkorn, 8. Right now Jake is indistinguishable from his peers in a small private school in Rockland County after six years of work with Ms. Dana. He has frequent play dates, no classroom aide and, according to his mother, Karen Siff Exkorn, no longer meets the diagnostic criteria for autism.

"Yes, we got him ready, like training an athlete for a marathon," Ms. Exkorn said. "But at the end of the day we probably just got lucky in the way Jake was wired."

Ms. Exkorn knows of other children who thrived at 8 and hit the wall at 11, so she remains vigilant. Ms. Dana visits Jake's classroom once a month to smooth a few rough edges, like his tendency to behave competitively in noncompetitive situations, for instance racing to get his coat and then announcing, "I'm first!"

"Terese has said that the stakes change every year, which scared me a little," Ms. Exkorn said. "But, I don't want to consume myself with worry about middle school now. So far, so good."

Jake is an exception. More typical is Kevin Lyons's 13-year-old son. When the telephone rings around 3:00 in Mr. Lyons's house in southern New Jersey, he can safely assume his son has unwittingly gotten into trouble. One recent day he yelled at a classmate on a school bus after the other boy taunted him. Mr. Lyons's son, unlike his frequent tormentor, did not know enough to retaliate when no adults were around.

"It's like he's got the words but not the music," Mr. Lyons said, reeling off a list of social situations that mystify his son, including inviting himself to parties where he is not welcome and crying in class when he misses one math problem. But Mr. Lyons, like many parents of autistic children, says that on balance his son has made more progress among typical children than he would have in a segregated setting.

Laura Sestito's 11-year-old son has withdrawn from the social fray in a Westchester public school. He dislikes sports, rejected a teacher's suggestion to play board games indoors during recess and has refused so many play dates that he is no longer invited. "His teacher reports he gets along with all his classmates but hasn't really connected with any of them," Ms. Sestito said.

Autism experts say that social skills training is the new frontier and that the burden has shifted from special schools and one-on-one settings to public schools because of the stunning increase in autistic children now able to attend.

Catherine Lord, a researcher at the University of Michigan and the primary author of a federal report on educational strategies for autistic children, said that many school districts are "still debating whether social development is even considered an educational objective," although social deficiencies are a hallmark of the disorder. Dr. Lord encourages parents to insist on having specific social skills spelled out in a child's individual education plan, mandated by federal law, and to call in a lawyer if necessary.

A few districts are using novel techniques, like the Montecito Union School, near the University of California, Santa Barbara, where graduate students from its Autism Research and Training Center help autistic children integrate at recess, an especially vulnerable time.

On a larger scale four districts in the New York region use a curriculum designed by Michelle Dunn, a pediatric neuropsychologist at Albert Einstein College of Medicine, which combines social skills groups for autistic children with schoolwide attention to the need for tolerance and trains school staff members to continue the curriculum on their own.

"We used to focus on one kid at a time," Dr. Dunn said. "But the problem is now too big for that."

Many educators who champion the behavioral techniques that made widespread mainstreaming possible are lowering their expectations. Bridget Taylor, a behavioral researcher who is the director of another school in Paramus, said she now tells parents of kindergartners ready for a regular classroom that "over time it's not necessarily a realistic placement."

Gary S. Mayerson, a New York lawyer who represents families seeking services for autistic children, says none of the options are ideal. Schools for learning disabilities rarely offer sufficient academic challenge. And private schools can choose which children to accept or to expel.

Ms. Singer knows well the agony of that choice. When her son's autism was diagnosed at age 2, he could not speak, make eye contact or sit in a chair. By kindergarten, thanks to a 40-hour-a-week home program with a behavioral therapist, he was in school with normal children, her heart's desire.

"In the beginning you have to reach for the moon," Ms. Singer said. "He would not be where he is today if we hadn't. But you also have to face reality. Do I wish he was a perfect child in a perfect school in a perfect world? Hey, who doesn't? I had to get over that in order to be fair to him."

Copyright 2005 The New York Times Company

posted in AutismADHD - 0 replies

MSNBC article on Autism

songflowermari — Thu, 24 Feb 2005 08:10:03 GMT

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/6947652/?GT1=6190

posted in AutismADHD - 1 reply

Autism Spectrum Interest Group Meeting

janina — Thu, 24 Feb 2005 18:13:52 GMT

Autism Spectrum Interest Group Meeting

SFSU Students, Graduates, Faculty and Friends!

You are invited to participate in an Autism Spectrum Interest Group

Jointly sponsored by the SFSU Student Council for Exceptional Children (CEC) and the "Autism Square"

Wednesday, February 23rd 2005

San Francisco State University

Burk Hall 160

7:00

– 9:30 P.M.
This session will be the first official meeting of the year where we will get to know one another and plan future meetings and events focusing on research and practice in the area of ASD.

Feel free to bring food/drinks for potluck…

Please forward this e-mail to others who may share an interest in joining us.

posted in AutismADHD - 0 replies

Autistic Childcare

HUNNYDUMELONS — Tue, 22 Feb 2005 23:06:53 GMT

Does anyone have links for employment in the Bay Area for full time care of ASD and DD children? I need a new job!

posted in AutismADHD - 1 reply

Advocating for Special Needs

heatheroni — Tue, 22 Feb 2005 14:49:45 GMT

My son has a diagnosis of high-functioning autism. He does not have very many stereotypic autistic behaviors, but he is non-verbal with practically zero expressive language. He is clearly very smart, and when his developmental pediatrician told us that she thought he would respond well to music therepy, we agreed. Music is how we've always gotten his focus when he was withdrawn, and how we've managed to keep it for any length of time.

I've spoken with his school, and first they said they don't think there are any musictherepists in the area. So I got them a list. Then they said thwy would have to have something in writing, i.e. change the IEP. So I have to call the school district to call a meeting to get the IEP changed, which I did. I only got as far as the assistant to the Special Education coordinator, but she said that even after an IEP meeting is held, the decision is in the hands of the board and that she can't think of a single student who received music therepy. What I heard her telling me was, "don't hold your breath".

Is this a common type of experience? How do I get around it? I assume that I'm being given thw run around because these people don't want to shell out from their already thin budgets, but I genuinely think that my boy can benefit from this therepy. But I can't afford it. Is it just the price of being poor that my child doesn't get what he needs, or is there a position I can take with the school to strong-arm them into giving my boy what he needs?

Advice?

posted in AutismADHD - 2 replies

Divorce with an autistic child

willow — Tue, 22 Feb 2005 15:47:42 GMT

Around summer my divorce should be finalized. Alex is a 8 1/2 year old high-functioning autistic w/ characteristics of asperger's child. Very smart but has problems expressing his feelings.

We have always been very close. He instinctively knows when I'm upset and/or stressed out. I'm wondering how much of this do you think this is going to effect him. What are some things I can do to coax his feelings out of him about this situation.

When asked if he understands what divorce means his answer was, "when a household splits in two." Couldn't have put it any better myself. When asked if he had any questions he just looks around like trying to avoid it.

My heart is going out to all 3 of my children. They don't deserve this, then again neither does their mom deserve to be unhappy with her life.

He will be changing schools....meaning whole new enviroment and aide. The good thing is he has a twin sister. So atleast that will be one constant in his life while at school. I will be sure to get them in the same class, at least for the first year.

Any advice out there for Alex and me?

posted in AutismADHD - 1 reply

Mom's asthma linked to autism

janina — Tue, 08 Feb 2005 21:00:56 GMT

study completed at kaiser of North Cal:

http://www.insidebayarea.com/portlet/article/html/fragments/print_article.jsp?article=2558850

posted in AutismADHD - 7 replies

behavior intervention

megsnmars — Sun, 29 Feb 2004 05:20:21 GMT

hello...my name is Megan. I am a behavior interventionist for children with autism. This was the only tribe I found for Autism!!!I am here if anyone has any interesting ideas or chatting...

posted in AutismADHD - 20 replies

An audio program designed to help suffers of Attention Deficit-related conditions

ciaranhope — Thu, 10 Feb 2005 05:52:21 GMT

Hi,
I am writing to share news of an audio CD called "THE ENCHANTED FOREST" that is designed to help Children & Adults suffering Attention Deficit-related conditions including Asperger's, Bipolar and the likes.

You can read further information, listen to an excerpt or buy the cd at:

http://www.ciaranhope.com/shop.html

or

http://www.cdbaby.com/cd/imaginationgym

I am going to put in a quote or two here from a few kids who listen to the CD, as there comments are as honest an pure as they come regarding the feeling one gets from listening to the CD:

"I felt joy and nice feelings when I listen to The Enchanted Forest.
It helps me get to sleep. I like all the animals in the story"
Oliver Maguire (ADHD Sufferer - Age 8)

“Made me feel better and less sad. It helped me relax and sleep better at night. I use it when I am upset. I would like to use another story”
Ross (Dyslexia Sufferer - Age 11)

"THE ENCHANTED FOREST" CD, upon which I have been collaborating as audio producer, is the first in a series of 10 Imagination Gym Audio CDs each of which uses the latest mental research and technology to activate a different part of our intelligence and abilities. The CD is primarily designed for families and children coping with ADHD, Asperger's, Autism etc and who wish to increase their mental abilities and learning power.

7 years of additional research by the two main developers Peter Blackbyrne and Rolaseen Durkin has also proven that healthy children & adults ALSO experience dramatic benefits from regular use. For example, it is a superb tool to help any child or adult who has difficulty sleeping.

The CDs are called ‘gyms’ because the more you use them the fitter your mind becomes. The Enchanted Forest works by getting us to use our minds and imagination in ways that we might not be used to, in our everyday lives.

There has been amazing feedback from pretty much everyone who has tested the product while in development, and from those who have purchased it since its release. Let's put it this way, the feedback has been positive enough that we are now releasing European language versions with the backing of Sony Germany, and they are enabling us to being recording the next CD in the series next month.

I sincerely hope that this CD finds its way into the hands of those who need it and can benefit from it.

yours in music with blessings

Ciaran Hope
www.ciaranhope.com

posted in AutismADHD - 0 replies

article in today's Chron re rise in California

janina — Sat, 05 Feb 2005 01:11:49 GMT

http://sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?file=/c/a/2005/02/04/MNGH2B60I41.DTL&type=printable

posted in AutismADHD - 6 replies

1:1 Aide

LaRubia — Wed, 12 Jan 2005 05:35:19 GMT

What do you think: good or bad?

posted in AutismADHD - 23 replies

Student of the Month!!!!

willow — Tue, 01 Feb 2005 21:57:43 GMT

Alexander, my 8 year old son, is getting awarded this Friday. For those who may not know yet, he is high functioning autistic w/mild asperger's.

What an accomplishment this is for a child who used to be such a distraction to the class. As he grows he is turning into one of the most polite and helpful kid I know.

I love him dearly and am sooooooo proud of him!!!!!

posted in AutismADHD - 5 replies

Playing with poo?

heatheroni — Wed, 02 Feb 2005 16:12:22 GMT

Okay, we've been potty training my three year old ASD boy, and we've been having pretty decent success with it. With a few notable exceptions.

So the other night, we found him in the bath tub (no water - he had not been taking a bath), just feet away from the potty, smearing poo in the tub. He had it on his face and legs and hands. Has anyone else had experience with this? Is this an autistic thing? I can't bring myself to ask my co-workers with kids. Do typical kids do that?

posted in AutismADHD - 2 replies

What do you the parents and therapists for support?

fallingawake — Wed, 05 Jan 2005 18:00:22 GMT

I just got over depression. I was really shocked to find out how many of the children with autism parents were depressed. I know my problem was before it started it just was the last straw. :o)

I completely forgot to care for myself. My therapists and friends and family are great.

How do you deal with the stress? I have been trying all different routes. :o) It is better. Always looking for new approaches. :o)

Don't get me wrong he is a huge blessing would not trade him for anything.

posted in AutismADHD - 11 replies

Temple Gradin is coming to speak

janina — Fri, 31 Dec 2004 17:50:30 GMT

http://www.aascend.net/conferences.html

At the AASCEND conference in april in sf.

posted in AutismADHD - 1 reply

Sorry to post again.... Sound threapy?

fallingawake — Fri, 14 Jan 2005 00:25:54 GMT

I looked into EVERYTHING in the beginning. I tried to weed out the quacks. This one sounded reasonable but I lost track of it in the pile. A new aquantence brought it up the other day said it was great.

Anyone tried it?

posted in AutismADHD - 5 replies

Sensory Processing

fallingawake — Fri, 14 Jan 2005 00:24:15 GMT

Has it helped your children as much as it has mine?

posted in AutismADHD - 0 replies

bittorrent.com

pantsy — Thu, 13 Jan 2005 09:14:44 GMT

did you guys know that the founder of bittorrent.com has Asperger's?

(bittorrent is like a hyped up version of kazaa or napster in which the content is downloaded megafast as compared to other p2p sites. it's free too. forgive the plug; i'm not affiliated)

posted in AutismADHD - 1 reply

IEP Goals

LaRubia — Tue, 11 Jan 2005 18:58:47 GMT

Would anyone mind sharing any suggestions about academic IEP goals? Or do you know a site that has examples?

posted in AutismADHD - 1 reply

international/cultural approaches

pantsy — Tue, 04 Jan 2005 01:18:37 GMT

is anybody aware of international approaches towards working with autistic children?

the schooling systems of many countries differ vastly from our own (for instance, look at the difference between and american and a japanese pre-school class). i've always been curious to see the different approaches.

are they the same?

posted in AutismADHD - 10 replies

Autism, ADHD, & thimerosal

planttrees — Sat, 07 Feb 2004 12:17:00 GMT

Research links Autism, ADHD, & thimerosal, which is 49.6% ethylmercury by weight

http://www.newswise.com/articles/view/503041/
NewsWise

Source: Northeastern University Released: Tue 03-Feb-2004, 08:20 ET
Embargo expired: Thu 05-Feb-2004, 06:00 ET

New Research Suggests Link Between Vaccine Ingredients and Autism, ADHD

Medical News Keywords
NEUROTOXINS, AUTISM, ADHD, VACCINE INGREDIENTS, THIMERISOL, DEVELOPMENTAL
DISORDERS, NEUROLOGY, EXPOSURE TO ETHANOL AND HEAVY METALS, ATTENTION
DEFICIT HYPERACTIVITY DISORDER, RISKS ASSOCIATED WITH IMMUNIZATIONS, HEALTHY
NEUROLOGICAL DEVELOPMENT, CHILDHOOD
Contact Information

Description

According to new research, there is an apparent link between exposure to
certain neurodevelopmental toxins and an increased likelihood of developing
neurological disorders such as autism and attention-deficit hyperactivity
disorder.

Newswise -- According to new research from Northeastern University pharmacy
professor Richard Deth and colleagues from the University of Nebraska,
Tufts, and Johns Hopkins University, there is an apparent link between
exposure to certain neurodevelopmental toxins and an increased possibility
of developing neurological disorders including autism and attention-deficit
hyperactivity disorder. The research - the first to offer an explanation for
possible causes of two increasingly common childhood neurological
disorders - is published today in the April 2004 issue of the journal
Molecular Psychiatry.

Though some speculation exists regarding this link, Deth and his colleagues
found that exposure to toxins, such as ethanol and heavy metals (including
lead, aluminum and the ethylmercury-containing preservative thimerosal)
potently interrupt growth factor signaling, causing adverse effects on
methylation reactions (i.e. the transfer of carbon atoms). Methylation, in
turn, plays a significant role in regulating normal DNA function and gene
expression, and is critical to proper neurological development in infants
and children. Scientists and practitioners have identified an increase in
diagnoses of autism and ADHD in particular, though the reasons why are
largely unknown.

In their work, the scientists found that insulin-like growth factor-1
(IGF-1) and the neurotransmitter dopamine both stimulated folate-dependent
methylation pathways in neuronal cells. At the same time they noted that
compounds like thimerosal, ethanol and metals (like lead and mercury)
effectively inhibited these same biochemical pathways at concentrations that
are typically found following vaccination or other sources of exposure. By
better understanding what happens when infants and children are exposed to
these materials, the work of Deth and his colleagues helps to explain how
environmental contact with metals and administration of certain vaccines may
lead to serious disorders that manifest themselves during childhood,
including autism and ADHD.

"Scientists certainly acknowledge that exposure to neurotoxins like ethanol
and heavy metals can cause developmental disorders, but until now, the
precise mechanisms underlying their toxicity have not been known," said
Deth. "The recent increase in the incidence of autism led us to speculate
that environmental exposures, including vaccine additives might contribute
to the triggering of this disorder."

Thimerosal, which was largely phased out in the U.S. and in Europe starting
in 2000,was often used for its preservative abilities in multi-dose units of
vaccines for diseases like hepatitis, whooping cough, tetanus and diptheria.
Today, most vaccines carry only trace amounts of it, according to the CDC.
But in larger, multi-dose vials of these vaccines, often shipped to and used
in third world countries, thimerosal is still very common. Multi-dose flu
vaccines still contain thimerosal.

Additionally, the scientists recently obtained more insight into the
mechanism by which thimerosal interferes with folate-dependent methylation.
It acts by inhibiting the biosynthesis of the active form of vitamin B12
(methylcobalamin), which is of particular interest because doctors treating
autistic kids are having good success with the administration of
methycobalamin.

Northeastern University, a private research institution located in Boston,
Massachusetts, is a world leader in practice-oriented education. Building on
its flagship cooperative education program, Northeastern links classroom
learning with workplace experience and integrates professional preparation
with study in the liberal arts and sciences. U.S. News & World Report, in
its annual guide America's Best Colleges, 2003, ranked Northeastern
University number one in the country among programs that "require or
encourage students to apply what they're learning in the classroom out in
the real world." In addition, Northeastern's career services was top ranked
by Kaplan Newsweek's "Unofficial Insiders Guide to the 320 Most Interesting
Colleges and Universities," 2003 edition. For more information, please visit
http://www.northeastern.edu.

[Anyone wanting the research paper as published, write me off-line at
<binstock@peakpeak.com> and use a relevant subject heading.

posted in AutismADHD - 3 replies

ASA resources

janina — Fri, 31 Dec 2004 17:08:11 GMT

ASD: Best Practice Guidelines for Screening, Diagnosis and Assessment –California Department of Developmental Services (2002)
www.ddhealthinfo.org/asd.asp

The Geek Syndrome –by Steve Silberman (Wired Magazine)
www.wired.com/wired/archi....12/aspergers.html

Take the AQ Test –Simon Baron-Cohen
www.wired.com/wired/archi....12/aqtest.html

IN SF:
www.aascend.net/ Autism & Asperger's Syndrome Coalition for Education, Networking, & Development

www.autastics.org/ Autistics United Together And Showing They Indeed Can Succeed

and a controversial one: Cure Austism Now - focus is on the organic causes and finding a "cure" - many aspies feel they don't want to be "cured" and actually embrace their AS.

posted in AutismADHD - 0 replies

Autistic Schooling

heatheroni — Mon, 29 Mar 2004 14:31:35 GMT

I'm looking for some professional and/or parent's opinions as to how I should go forward with the education of my autistic child. He's two and a half and so far has been in a fairly free-form, home-based program.

Now we're in the process of transitioning him into the next step in the process, leaving the birth-to-three program and going into the three-to-five program. He still has several months before classes start (the beginning of the school year), but we'll have to decide on a program soon or risk having all of the spaces filled.

So my question is this: what kind of program is best for him? I've heard several different terms tossed around, but I don't really understand them. Discrete Trail Training, ABA, Modified ABA, Greenspan... etc. Can someone explain these methods to me? Also, how much schooling is appropriate for a (not quite) three year-old? Five hours a day? 2.5 hours a day? Three days a week? Five days a week?

We have professionals in and out of our home all week, and of course, they have opinions, but they frequently disagree, and we'd kind of like an impartial third opinion or two.

Does anyone have any suggesions for me? Thanks so much!

posted in AutismADHD - 12 replies

In this day and age?

LaRubia — Tue, 02 Nov 2004 05:36:50 GMT

My cousin put down my son to another member of our family. She said, "well, He has AUTISM. He's RETARDED."

Are there really people who are that ignorant still around?

Although I know it's not true, it still hurts that someone I know, and someone who knows my child, would have that point of view.
I could never mention this to anyone I know in the "real world" because I also feel embarassed that I am related to such a back-ward thinking individual.

Thoughts? Your experiences?

posted in AutismADHD - 6 replies

New IDEA new

LaRubia — Wed, 01 Dec 2004 01:34:40 GMT

i don't know if everone already knows this, but I wanted to pass along a really great website, especially in regards to the IDEA (individuals with Disabilities Education Act). Just this November the IDEA was reauthorized, and there are a few changes which will go into effect June or July of 2005. Please look around this site, it is a great resource!

www.wrightslaw.com

posted in AutismADHD - 1 reply