Re: What do you think of this?

[Guest guest]

I don't think the rate of autism is really growing that fast, rather it is just be diagnosed more. The same sequence happened with ADD in kids. Once it became "trendy" the diagnosis rate went way up. The same will happen with autism if it gets federal funding as more parents sign on to get help and federal money.

I also don't think we need to be cured. If they find that certain environmental conditions increase the odds of autism, then those things should be avoided. I'm not saying that they should be banned by the government, but rather that it should be made known to pregnant women so they can avoid those risk factors. This is like what they do with warnings about drinking alcohol and certain drugs while pregnant.

They should also look into intervention and training rather than looking for a cure. If autism is hardwired in the brain, then the only way to "cure" it would be to radically rework the brain. This is well beyond our capability now and hopefully always will be since that would be one hell of can of worms to open.

Still, this is the NT approach to it. Autism is a disorder and not a disease like Smallpox or diabetes. It is a systemic disorder like Down's Syndrome or Sickle Cell anemia. Those conditions need lifelong learn and adaptation. That is what is needed with autism, not bogus hopes for a cure.

[Guest guest]

I don't think the rate of autism is really growing that fast, rather it is just be diagnosed more. The same sequence happened with ADD in kids. Once it became "trendy" the diagnosis rate went way up. The same will happen with autism if it gets federal funding as more parents sign on to get help and federal money.

I also don't think we need to be cured. If they find that certain environmental conditions increase the odds of autism, then those things should be avoided. I'm not saying that they should be banned by the government, but rather that it should be made known to pregnant women so they can avoid those risk factors. This is like what they do with warnings about drinking alcohol and certain drugs while pregnant.

They should also look into intervention and training rather than looking for a cure. If autism is hardwired in the brain, then the only way to "cure" it would be to radically rework the brain. This is well beyond our capability now and hopefully always will be since that would be one hell of can of worms to open.

Still, this is the NT approach to it. Autism is a disorder and not a disease like Smallpox or diabetes. It is a systemic disorder like Down's Syndrome or Sickle Cell anemia. Those conditions need lifelong learn and adaptation. That is what is needed with autism, not bogus hopes for a cure.

[Guest guest]

I don't think the rate of autism is really growing that fast, rather it is just be diagnosed more. The same sequence happened with ADD in kids. Once it became "trendy" the diagnosis rate went way up. The same will happen with autism if it gets federal funding as more parents sign on to get help and federal money.

I also don't think we need to be cured. If they find that certain environmental conditions increase the odds of autism, then those things should be avoided. I'm not saying that they should be banned by the government, but rather that it should be made known to pregnant women so they can avoid those risk factors. This is like what they do with warnings about drinking alcohol and certain drugs while pregnant.

They should also look into intervention and training rather than looking for a cure. If autism is hardwired in the brain, then the only way to "cure" it would be to radically rework the brain. This is well beyond our capability now and hopefully always will be since that would be one hell of can of worms to open.

Still, this is the NT approach to it. Autism is a disorder and not a disease like Smallpox or diabetes. It is a systemic disorder like Down's Syndrome or Sickle Cell anemia. Those conditions need lifelong learn and adaptation. That is what is needed with autism, not bogus hopes for a cure.

[Guest guest]

Beware - very strong opinions about to be expressed!

1. Combating Autism Act - not a very tolerant name for a group that proclaims

tolerance of all peoples (meaning the government)

2. Fastest growing " disease " - watch out I may be contagious! May I bite them,

it might help (please, please, please)?

3. " The Act would additionally provide money for the Centers for Disease

Control (CDC) epidemiological surveillance programs. " - Do I get put into some

handy dandy database or will they put a chip in me like the dogs and cats in

California?

It is articles like this that make me extremely angry! This is way to similar

to different historic times that have been addressed earlier on this forum (Yes

Tom, I do remember that there is a 10 year old in the forum - I'm contolling the

rhetoric). On that note - I geuss I'd better quit.

e

What do you think of this?

Anyone have an opinion about this???

http://www.naar.org/news/render_pr.asp?intNewsItemID=288

Combating Autism Act of 2005 Update

NAAR and Other Autism Advocates Applaud Introduction of Landmark

Legislation

31 May 2005

In a move to address the growing epidemic of autism in the United

States, landmark legislation was recently introduced which would

greatly expand the federal government's role and response to the

developmental disorder. The Combating Autism Act of 2005 (H.R.

2421), the House version of Senate Bill 843 which we last wrote to

you about on April 21st, was introduced in the House on May 18th by

Congresswoman Bono (R-CA) and U.S. Congresswoman DeGette

(D-CO). The legislation would authorize $110 million annually over

the next five years to combat autism through research, screening,

intervention and education efforts.

" Autism is the fastest growing developmental disability in our

nation, " said Congresswoman Bono. " Fortunately, the medical

community is responding by increasing their efforts to effectively

diagnose, treat and cure this disorder. Currently, both the cause

and cure are unknown, often leaving families with feelings of

frustration and hopelessness. The goal of this legislation is to

support the medical community by augmenting current federal efforts

by reauthorizing federal funding and allowing for better

coordination of the federal response to autism, " added Bono.

" Right now, autism is a disease that leaves families with far too

many questions and far too few answers. While the medical community

has made important steps in addressing this disorder, there is still

much more to be done, " said Rep. DeGette. " That is why it is so

critical that we put the full weight of the federal government's

scientific resources behind efforts to develop better ways to

diagnose, treat and hopefully cure autism. "

The Combating Autism Act of 2005 would provide grant programs for

every state to develop autism screening, early diagnosis and

intervention programs for children. The Act would additionally

provide money for the Centers for Disease Control (CDC)

epidemiological surveillance programs. And, the legislation would

re-authorize the Interagency Autism Coordinating Committee (IACC),

established in the Children's Health Act of 2000, to coordinate all

efforts within the Department of Health and Human Services

concerning autism, including activities carried out through the

National Institute of Health and the Centers for Disease Control.

Companion legislation was introduced in the U.S. Senate under the

same title by Senator Rick Santorum (R-PA) and Senator

Dodd (D-CT).

" Unraveling the mysteries of autism demands a large, collaborative

effort on many fronts, " said Prisca Chen Marvin, board chair of the

National Alliance for Autism Research (NAAR) and the mother of a

child with autism. " This legislation is critical to our ability to

continue advancing our search for answers -- for children and

families today and for future generations. "

Autism is considered the fastest growing developmental disorder in

the United States, occurring in as many as 1 in every 166 births.

Despite this strikingly high prevalence, autism research remains one

of the lowest funded areas of medical research in both the public

and private sector. Our government must rise to the challenge faced

by an absolutely overwhelming number of our children.

Much appreciation goes to all the friends and families of the autism

community who wrote their Senators about the importance of the

Combating Autism Act of 2005, S-843, and we urge you to continue

this effort. With the introduction of this bill to the House of

Representatives, NAAR is asking for your support once again to write

your local Representatives about the importance of the Combating

Autism Act of 2005.

FAM Secret Society is a community based on respect, friendship, support and

acceptance. Everyone is valued.

Don't forget, there are links to other FAM sites on the Links page in the folder

marked " Other FAM Sites. "

________________________________

[Guest guest]

----- Original Message -----

> 2. Fastest growing " disease " - watch out I may be contagious! May I bite

them, it might help (please, please, please)?

Think of it as an experiment to show whether this is a contagious 'disease'.

[Guest guest]

If they were more educated on Autism then they would actually help divert his attention, and not leave you very rude notes. I may not respond daily, but I have been reading most of the post and this school is horrible. I do not live that far from you and my hours have been cut at work and If you would like me to help in any way please let me know. I just can not believe how rude and very unprofessional they have been with you and your son. I hope you keep all of the notes that they send you, you may need them at sometime. I am really sorry that you are going through such a hard time with this school. Have you ever called a PAS agent? There is one in Batavia I think, and it handles Kane County. If you want I can get info for you. They also help with respite and other things that could actually benefit you later with the school.

Rhonda

Subject: What do you think of this?To: AutismBehaviorProblems Date: Monday, January 26, 2009, 9:16 PM

I got a note home from Miss Jenna today in the notebook and she said that just had an ok day. He got sent back from Mrs Stanfas class today because his attention was not there and he just was in his own little world not wanting to listen etc. Then she said that they are trying to reward him with Marshmellows at school because he loves those and I am going to do that here too. But, just wants the marshmellows and does not want to do his work, and wants them to do it for him and then gets upset etc. Then she signs the note and then at the bottom puts ps, have you talked to s Dr about his attention? Just wondering. I was kind of shocked that I was asked this, just because HELLO, Autism and attention and all that go hand in hand and there is only so muich a dr can do. I mean come on now! Why not listen to me. My kid needs to be in a special class, he is not capable of what they

are saying like about sending him to a regular special ed class next year at a different school etc. I know this and I just thought it kind of odd that she asks me about this, like it is unusual or sometihng. What do you think? I told Jim and he thought the same thing I did.

Stacie

From Wall Street to Main Street and everywhere in between, stay up-to-date with the latest news.

[Guest guest]

Hi Stacie,

I think sometimes everyone forgets they are not Autism, they are kids. All kids learn to manipulate ( has been a pro since he was 3), they have bad days and good days just like everyone else. Some days I feel overwhelmed and I can't seem to get anything done, some days I am more emotional and some days I just don't feel like working or doing what I should and I am an adult. They should note these days to see if there is a pattern but meds cant and shouldn't be a fix for being human. I wonder does she ever just have a bad day or forget things or put things off that she should do. If so maybe she needs to go on meds. I would not respond or acknowledge that part of the note or any other comments that just don't make sense. Of course wants the marshmallows and doesn't want to work. It is their job to help him understand that he only gets them if he does the work and they should expect him to

be upset about it and have a plan on dealing with it. Who doesn't want the reward without the work. This may come across as harsh and maybe it is but I used to deal with a school that wanted to call a meeting over one bad day and they immediately wanted to move him or lower his work load. I simply asked if they or any of their children had ever had a bad day and if they felt they should then be moved into another class or quit their job because obviously it was just to much for them. That did make them think before they reacted and called an URGENT behavioral meeting. Take notes, look for patterns, change things only when you think you see a pattern and know what is going on. I hope things do get better at this school soon. It has been such a Nightmare for your family! Kellie

To: AutismBehaviorProblems Sent: Monday, January 26, 2009 9:16:15 PMSubject: What do you think of this?

I got a note home from Miss Jenna today in the notebook and she said that just had an ok day. He got sent back from Mrs Stanfas class today because his attention was not there and he just was in his own little world not wanting to listen etc. Then she said that they are trying to reward him with Marshmellows at school because he loves those and I am going to do that here too. But, just wants the marshmellows and does not want to do his work, and wants them to do it for him and then gets upset etc. Then she signs the note and then at the bottom puts ps, have you talked to s Dr about his attention? Just wondering. I was kind of shocked that I was asked this, just because HELLO, Autism and attention and all that go hand in hand and there is only so muich a dr can do. I mean come on now! Why not listen to me. My kid needs to be in a special class, he is not capable of what they

are saying like about sending him to a regular special ed class next year at a different school etc. I know this and I just thought it kind of odd that she asks me about this, like it is unusual or sometihng. What do you think? I told Jim and he thought the same thing I did.

Stacie

From Wall Street to Main Street and everywhere in between, stay up-to-date with the latest news.

[Guest guest]

Kellie...you are so tender and so good at explaining things...it's a gift for sure!!!!!

To: AutismBehaviorProblems Sent: Tuesday, January 27, 2009 8:56:33 AMSubject: Re: What do you think of this?

..

[Guest guest]

Yep, nightmare it has been Kellie. And you know, this is not the first time she has said things like this that are just characteristics of kids with Autism and I just dont get it. I did respond to her note and was to the point and assertive, not aggressive at all, but assertive. Well, all she wrote back is he did not have tghat great a day today, he told Miss le to shut up and he told her he was going to hit her and had a meltdown but it diescalated rather quickly. Now, the thing is, when we had that god awful meeting in Oct. one thing i said iw anted was for her to tell me day to day what does how his day was etc. So, she is doing that, great. But to ask those kinds of questions to me is just nuts. And you know all about her asking about a med he was on and I called the dr and asked right away if this could be why he is having the attention problem. this was back in Nov and Dec. Well, I called her right away and told her what the dr said, well the nurse of the dr that we work very close with. Well, she then called and talked to the nurse asking the same question she asked me and I gave her the answer to. Then we had his IEP and I mentioned that it might be more seizure related beause I dont see this at home like they are talkign about. A few days after the IEP, the nurse from the school called and asked Maureen, the nurse at Lutheran General the same exact question. Would that piss you off? I have been through hell and still going through it and I just want it to stop. I want him out of there and I want him into an Autism school. And Mrs Lotito said he is doing so good in the diagnostic sped class he goes to for 15 min to an hour a day on wed and since that day, there have been 3 notes in the notebook saying he had to come back early because he would not pay attention etc. And one time that he was very tired and would not do anything.

Stacie

Hi Stacie,

I think sometimes everyone forgets they are not Autism, they are kids. All kids learn to manipulate ( has been a pro since he was 3), they have bad days and good days just like everyone else. Some days I feel overwhelmed and I can't seem to get anything done, some days I am more emotional and some days I just don't feel like working or doing what I should and I am an adult. They should note these days to see if there is a pattern but meds cant and shouldn't be a fix for being human. I wonder does she ever just have a bad day or forget things or put things off that she should do. If so maybe she needs to go on meds. I would not respond or acknowledge that part of the note or any other comments that just don't make sense. Of course wants the marshmallows and doesn't want to work. It is their job to help him understand that he only gets them if he does the work and they should expect him to be upset about it and have a plan on dealing with it. Who doesn't want the reward without the work. This may come across as harsh and maybe it is but I used to deal with a school that wanted to call a meeting over one bad day and they immediately wanted to move him or lower his work load. I simply asked if they or any of their children had ever had a bad day and if they felt they should then be moved into another class or quit their job because obviously it was just to much for them. That did make them think before they reacted and called an URGENT behavioral meeting. Take notes, look for patterns, change things only when you think you see a pattern and know what is going on. I hope things do get better at this school soon. It has been such a Nightmare for your family! Kellie

From: "hawkie6aol" <hawkie6aol>To: AutismBehaviorProblems Sent: Monday, January 26, 2009 9:16:15 PMSubject: What do you think of this?

I got a note home from Miss Jenna today in the notebook and she said that just had an ok day. He got sent back from Mrs Stanfas class today because his attention was not there and he just was in his own little world not wanting to listen etc. Then she said that they are trying to reward him with Marshmellows at school because he loves those and I am going to do that here too. But, just wants the marshmellows and does not want to do his work, and wants them to do it for him and then gets upset etc. Then she signs the note and then at the bottom puts ps, have you talked to s Dr about his attention? Just wondering. I was kind of shocked that I was asked this, just because HELLO, Autism and attention and all that go hand in hand and there is only so muich a dr can do. I mean come on now! Why not listen to me. My kid needs to be in a special class, he is not capable of what they are saying like about sending him to a regular special ed class next year at a different school etc. I know this and I just thought it kind of odd that she asks me about this, like it is unusual or sometihng. What do you think? I told Jim and he thought the same thing I did.

Stacie

From Wall Street to Main Street and everywhere in between, stay up-to-date with the latest news.

From Wall Street to Main Street and everywhere in between, stay up-to-date with the latest news.

[Guest guest]

Oh Darn Rhonda, I just got this. Yes, it is on Indian Trail by the thrift store and I wish i would of got this earlier. No, you do not have to let them know you are bringing your kids. Well, Miss Jenna was not there tonight watching the kids. hse has been for all 3 of them so far this year but tonight they had somone difffernt. I would of loved for you to come with us. was really looking for Jenna. He wanted to stay with me, so Lexie helped watch him.

Stacie

Can you please forward the address or where abouts this is. I think I know. Is it by the Thrift store on Indian Trail? Also do I need to talk to them prior to see if they can watch the kids? I would be happy to go, but I got this message late.

Rhonda

From: hawkie6aol (DOT) com <hawkie6aol (DOT) com>Subject: What do you think of this?To: AutismBehaviorProbl emsyahoogroups (DOT) comDate: Monday, January 26, 2009, 9:16 PM

I got a note home from Miss Jenna today in the notebook and she said that just had an ok day. He got sent back from Mrs Stanfas class today because his attention was not there and he just was in his own little world not wanting to listen etc. Then she said that they are trying to reward him with Marshmellows at school because he loves those and I am going to do that here too. But, just wants the marshmellows and does not want to do his work, and wants them to do it for him and then gets upset etc. Then she signs the note and then at the bottom puts ps, have you talked to s Dr about his attention? Just wondering. I was kind of shocked that I was asked this, just because HELLO, Autism and attention and all that go hand in hand and there is only so muich a dr can do. I mean come on now! Why not listen to me. My kid needs to be in a special class, he is not capable of what they are saying like about sending him to a regular special ed class next year at a different school etc. I know this and I just thought it kind of odd that she asks me about this, like it is unusual or sometihng. What do you think? I told Jim and he thought the same thing I did.

Stacie

From Wall Street to Main Street and everywhere in between, stay up-to-date with the latest news.

From Wall Street to Main Street and everywhere in between, stay up-to-date with the latest news.

From Wall Street to Main Street and everywhere in between, stay up-to-date with the latest news. From Wall Street to Main Street and everywhere in between, stay up-to-date with the latest news.

[Guest guest]

Can you please forward the address or where abouts this is. I think I know. Is it by the Thrift store on Indian Trail? Also do I need to talk to them prior to see if they can watch the kids? I would be happy to go, but I got this message late.

Rhonda

From: hawkie6aol (DOT) com <hawkie6aol (DOT) com>Subject: What do you think of this?To: AutismBehaviorProbl emsyahoogroups (DOT) comDate: Monday, January 26, 2009, 9:16 PM

I got a note home from Miss Jenna today in the notebook and she said that just had an ok day. He got sent back from Mrs Stanfas class today because his attention was not there and he just was in his own little world not wanting to listen etc. Then she said that they are trying to reward him with Marshmellows at school because he loves those and I am going to do that here too. But, just wants the marshmellows and does not want to do his work, and wants them to do it for him and then gets upset etc. Then she signs the note and then at the bottom puts ps, have you talked to s Dr about his attention? Just wondering. I was kind of shocked that I was asked this, just because HELLO, Autism and attention and all that go hand in hand and there is only so muich a dr can do. I mean come on now! Why not listen to me. My kid needs to be in a special class, he is not capable of what they

are saying like about sending him to a regular special ed class next year at a different school etc. I know this and I just thought it kind of odd that she asks me about this, like it is unusual or sometihng. What do you think? I told Jim and he thought the same thing I did.

Stacie

From Wall Street to Main Street and everywhere in between, stay up-to-date with the latest news.

From Wall Street to Main Street and everywhere in between, stay up-to-date with the latest news.

From Wall Street to Main Street and everywhere in between, stay up-to-date with the latest news.

[Guest guest]

She did respite with Autistic children? I wonder how long. I do not see how someone whom is "experienced" with Autism acts so ingnorant on the issues. Forward the days of the meetings I will definately be at the next one!!!!!

Rhonda

From: hawkie6aol (DOT) com <hawkie6aol (DOT) com>Subject: What do you think of this?To: AutismBehaviorProbl emsyahoogroups (DOT) comDate: Monday, January 26, 2009, 9:16 PM

I got a note home from Miss Jenna today in the notebook and she said that just had an ok day. He got sent back from Mrs Stanfas class today because his attention was not there and he just was in his own little world not wanting to listen etc. Then she said that they are trying to reward him with Marshmellows at school because he loves those and I am going to do that here too. But, just wants the marshmellows and does not want to do his work, and wants them to do it for him and then gets upset etc. Then she signs the note and then at the bottom puts ps, have you talked to s Dr about his attention? Just wondering. I was kind of shocked that I was asked this, just because HELLO, Autism and attention and all that go hand in hand and there is only so muich a dr can do. I mean come on now! Why not listen to me. My kid needs to be in a special class, he is not capable of what they

are saying like about sending him to a regular special ed class next year at a different school etc. I know this and I just thought it kind of odd that she asks me about this, like it is unusual or sometihng. What do you think? I told Jim and he thought the same thing I did.

Stacie

From Wall Street to Main Street and everywhere in between, stay up-to-date with the latest news.

From Wall Street to Main Street and everywhere in between, stay up-to-date with the latest news.