Re: Thoughts on Oprah's Show?

[Guest guest]

yesterday on PCN (Pennsylvania Cable Network) they had a program on Autism .

I just caught a few min of it but one of the guests was the speaker of the

PA house who has been advocating for more help for people with autism. They

did talk about the autism spectrum as well. I think transcripts are

available

Re: ( ) Re: Thoughts on Oprah's Show?

> ,

> You have a great idea! Let's encourage our members to write Oprah's

> producers asking them to highlight Aspergers on a show. So many people

> watch Oprah, it would be a great way to educate America on our AS issues.

> Liz

> widoherty6 <widoherty6@...> wrote:

> I was very excited to see the topic for Oprah's show today, but

> was

> also disappointed that she did not include Aspergers. I hope that she

> will eventually do a show about the struggles we have, which are very

> different than what was shown on the show today. I did go to the

> Oprah website to see if there was a way to email her and there is.

> You can send your story in to the producers. Maybe if enough of us do

> this, she will do a show on Aspergers. www2.oprah.com

>

>>

>

>

>

>

>

>

> ---------------------------------

> Looking for earth-friendly autos?

> Browse Top Cars by " Green Rating " at Autos' Green Center.

>

>

[Guest guest]

I wrote an email to Oprah explaining the autism spectrum and the

different types of autism and asked her to clarify on a follow-up

show that there is an umbrella of levels and degrees of autism. I

have two HFA kids but it's a devestating disorder either way, perhaps

not as desperately, but a fight daily nonetheless.

Please do the same. It's a great idea to write her and the more she

hears from people like us, the more she is apt to listen!

> > I was very excited to see the topic for Oprah's show

today, but

> > was

> > also disappointed that she did not include Aspergers. I hope that

she

> > will eventually do a show about the struggles we have, which are

very

> > different than what was shown on the show today. I did go to the

> > Oprah website to see if there was a way to email her and there is.

> > You can send your story in to the producers. Maybe if enough of

us do

> > this, she will do a show on Aspergers. www2.oprah.com

> >

> >>

> >

> >

> >

> >

> >

> >

> > ---------------------------------

> > Looking for earth-friendly autos?

> > Browse Top Cars by " Green Rating " at Autos' Green Center.

> >

> >

[Guest guest]

Yeah, I watched it.

It was really good. My son is only 10,,,,,,,so I'm watching the college boy

and trying to see Ian's " peculiarities " in him and imagine him " being " like the

boy.

I just couldn't.

But,,,,,I thought it was great. The young boy with the curly black hair and

glasses broke my heart. Parents have got to teach their kids to, quite simply,

be nice. Teachers have got to teach kids to, quite simply, be nice. Seems to

basic, doesn't it?

I thought it was incredible that there was an actual school that was doing

this for the kid's that needed it. My son saw it and wasn't impressed....haa

haa.

I thought it would be awesome, though. It would really teach kids about

differences and make the " typical " kids proud of their accomplishments and make

them, perhaps, want to continue to be nice. Imagine what the world could be if

people who were different weren't knocked down to nothing. If what they thought

and felt were accepted!!!!!

Robin

Jenn <wyledbunch@...> wrote:

I didn't even bother trying, it was just too hectic here. I'm hoping

to

catch the 11:30 broadcast, I'm really looking forward to it now after Meira

s message

-Jenn, AEP (ADD, Bi-Polar, Anxiety/Depression)

Proud Momma of Cory Albert (14yrs ADHD), h Dawn (12yrs

Anxiety/Depression)

and Jerry Lee " Trey " (9yrs ADHD, Bi-Polar, Asperger's)

-- Re: ( ) Thoughts on Oprah's Show?

I watched the nightline online and it was very emotional for me. While my DS

was DX in Jan. it seems to have just sunk in. Watching that show made me

feel a little better but i am not looking forward to middle school for my

son. Anyone else watch Nightline?

meiraharvey <meira-harvey@...> wrote: The 6:30 show

did just that! It was awesome!!!!! Nightline? I don't

remember, but it just ended, and wow!!!! Those kids were my kid!!!!!

Meira

Ok so what did you all think of

today's Oprah show?

>

> I was a little disappointed to be honest. I thought there would

have been

> more information other than what's so readily available on every

website,

> but I guess that's what's needed to get the awareness out there. I

was

> disappointed too, that they didn't seem to talk much about of the

brighter

> sides and the things these amazing kids are doing every single day.

I mean

> it's supposed to be about the " true day to day life " and our kids

do some

> astounding things and make us smile and laugh. I don't know, I

guess I just

> wish they would've shown this side of it, too.

>

> And is it just me or did Oprah seem to be especially interruptive

today?

> Sheesh I hate it when she does that lol

>

> All in all though, it is good to see Autism getting more attention

in the

> public/media. Hopefully this will help make others more aware.

>

> -Jenn, AEP (ADD, Bi-Polar, Anxiety/Depression)

>

> Proud Momma of Cory Albert (14yrs ADHD), h Dawn (12yrs

> Anxiety/Depression)

> and Jerry Lee " Trey " (9yrs ADHD, Bi-Polar, Asperger's)

>

>

[Guest guest]

I may be speaking out of turn and maybe even taking the statement the wrong way,

but I have an aggressive aspie and it is simply very hard to just teach them to

be " nice " . You never know what is going to set them off. I'm sorry if I offended

anyone.

and/or Robin Lemke <jrisjs@...> wrote: Yeah, I watched it.

It was really good. My son is only 10,,,,,,,so I'm watching the college boy and

trying to see Ian's " peculiarities " in him and imagine him " being " like the boy.

I just couldn't.

But,,,,,I thought it was great. The young boy with the curly black hair and

glasses broke my heart. Parents have got to teach their kids to, quite simply,

be nice. Teachers have got to teach kids to, quite simply, be nice. Seems to

basic, doesn't it?

I thought it was incredible that there was an actual school that was doing this

for the kid's that needed it. My son saw it and wasn't impressed....haa haa.

I thought it would be awesome, though. It would really teach kids about

differences and make the " typical " kids proud of their accomplishments and make

them, perhaps, want to continue to be nice. Imagine what the world could be if

people who were different weren't knocked down to nothing. If what they thought

and felt were accepted!!!!!

Robin

Jenn wrote:

I didn't even bother trying, it was just too hectic here. I'm hoping to

catch the 11:30 broadcast, I'm really looking forward to it now after Meira

s message

-Jenn, AEP (ADD, Bi-Polar, Anxiety/Depression)

Proud Momma of Cory Albert (14yrs ADHD), h Dawn (12yrs

Anxiety/Depression)

and Jerry Lee " Trey " (9yrs ADHD, Bi-Polar, Asperger's)

-- Re: ( ) Thoughts on Oprah's Show?

I watched the nightline online and it was very emotional for me. While my DS

was DX in Jan. it seems to have just sunk in. Watching that show made me

feel a little better but i am not looking forward to middle school for my

son. Anyone else watch Nightline?

meiraharvey wrote: The 6:30 show

did just that! It was awesome!!!!! Nightline? I don't

remember, but it just ended, and wow!!!! Those kids were my kid!!!!!

Meira

Ok so what did you all think of

today's Oprah show?

>

> I was a little disappointed to be honest. I thought there would

have been

> more information other than what's so readily available on every

website,

> but I guess that's what's needed to get the awareness out there. I

was

> disappointed too, that they didn't seem to talk much about of the

brighter

> sides and the things these amazing kids are doing every single day.

I mean

> it's supposed to be about the " true day to day life " and our kids

do some

> astounding things and make us smile and laugh. I don't know, I

guess I just

> wish they would've shown this side of it, too.

>

> And is it just me or did Oprah seem to be especially interruptive

today?

> Sheesh I hate it when she does that lol

>

> All in all though, it is good to see Autism getting more attention

in the

> public/media. Hopefully this will help make others more aware.

>

> -Jenn, AEP (ADD, Bi-Polar, Anxiety/Depression)

>

> Proud Momma of Cory Albert (14yrs ADHD), h Dawn (12yrs

> Anxiety/Depression)

> and Jerry Lee " Trey " (9yrs ADHD, Bi-Polar, Asperger's)

>

>

[Guest guest]

I had never seen an episode of the show, and was surprised at how much Oprah

seemed to have to talk about stuff. She didn't seem the best interviewer, and

I found she tried to dominate the subject, which is after all a sensitive one.

The thing is, since I've never watched her before, is that how she is and

what she's like?

The parents made me cry, I saw myself in every one.

Barbara

[Guest guest]

I agree awareness needs to be..and I to think that society doesn't realize what

this kids have to often in their complete uniqueness.

The s <carters5@...> wrote: I agree...I know the

awareness needs to be...but I really wish they would spread a little more of how

awesome our kids are...that they are loved and cherished and have so much to

give!

- C.

Mom to Cassie 16 PCOS, Austin 14 ADHD and a 3.5 HFA/AS & SPD/SID

( ) Thoughts on Oprah's Show?

Ok so what did you all think of today's Oprah show?

I was a little disappointed to be honest. I thought there would have been

more information other than what's so readily available on every website,

but I guess that's what's needed to get the awareness out there. I was

disappointed too, that they didn't seem to talk much about of the brighter

sides and the things these amazing kids are doing every single day. I mean

it's supposed to be about the " true day to day life " and our kids do some

astounding things and make us smile and laugh. I don't know, I guess I just

wish they would've shown this side of it, too.

And is it just me or did Oprah seem to be especially interruptive today?

Sheesh I hate it when she does that lol

All in all though, it is good to see Autism getting more attention in the

public/media. Hopefully this will help make others more aware.

-Jenn, AEP (ADD, Bi-Polar, Anxiety/Depression)

Proud Momma of Cory Albert (14yrs ADHD), h Dawn (12yrs

Anxiety/Depression)

and Jerry Lee " Trey " (9yrs ADHD, Bi-Polar, Asperger's)

[Guest guest]

Oh that'd be great! That'd be so much fun!

-Jenn, AEP (ADD, Bi-Polar, Anxiety/Depression)

Proud Momma of Cory Albert (14yrs ADHD), h Dawn (12yrs

Anxiety/Depression)

and Jerry Lee " Trey " (9yrs ADHD, Bi-Polar, Asperger's)

-- Re: ( ) Re: Thoughts on Oprah's Show?

wouldn't it be cool if we had a " group " meeting on the Oprah show?? she has

the $ to make it possible to meet each other...just daydreaming :-)

- C.

Mom to Cassie 16 PCOS, Austin 14 ADHD and a 3.5 HFA/AS & SPD/SID

( ) Re: Thoughts on Oprah's Show?

I was very excited to see the topic for Oprah's show today, but was

also disappointed that she did not include Aspergers. I hope that she

will eventually do a show about the struggles we have, which are very

different than what was shown on the show today. I did go to the

Oprah website to see if there was a way to email her and there is.

You can send your story in to the producers. Maybe if enough of us do

this, she will do a show on Aspergers. www2.oprah.com

>

[Guest guest]

I agree...I know the awareness needs to be...but I really wish they would spread

a little more of how awesome our kids are...that they are loved and cherished

and have so much to give!

- C.

Mom to Cassie 16 PCOS, Austin 14 ADHD and a 3.5 HFA/AS & SPD/SID

( ) Thoughts on Oprah's Show?

Ok so what did you all think of today's Oprah show?

I was a little disappointed to be honest. I thought there would have been

more information other than what's so readily available on every website,

but I guess that's what's needed to get the awareness out there. I was

disappointed too, that they didn't seem to talk much about of the brighter

sides and the things these amazing kids are doing every single day. I mean

it's supposed to be about the " true day to day life " and our kids do some

astounding things and make us smile and laugh. I don't know, I guess I just

wish they would've shown this side of it, too.

And is it just me or did Oprah seem to be especially interruptive today?

Sheesh I hate it when she does that lol

All in all though, it is good to see Autism getting more attention in the

public/media. Hopefully this will help make others more aware.

-Jenn, AEP (ADD, Bi-Polar, Anxiety/Depression)

Proud Momma of Cory Albert (14yrs ADHD), h Dawn (12yrs

Anxiety/Depression)

and Jerry Lee " Trey " (9yrs ADHD, Bi-Polar, Asperger's)

[Guest guest]

You know.. I've written to Oprah before on that very subject,

bringing message board members together who would otherwise have no

chance of meeting face to face. In this case though, with it being

related to autism, it might just fly with her!! : )

Let's DO IT!

Marcia

On Apr 6, 2007, at 2:58 PM, The s wrote:

> wouldn't it be cool if we had a " group " meeting on the Oprah

> show?? she has the $ to make it possible to meet each other...just

> daydreaming :-)

> - C.

> Mom to Cassie 16 PCOS, Austin 14 ADHD and a 3.5 HFA/AS & SPD/SID

>

> ( ) Re: Thoughts on Oprah's Show?

>

>

> I was very excited to see the topic for Oprah's show today, but was

> also disappointed that she did not include Aspergers. I hope that

> she

> will eventually do a show about the struggles we have, which are

> very

> different than what was shown on the show today. I did go to the

> Oprah website to see if there was a way to email her and there is.

> You can send your story in to the producers. Maybe if enough of

> us do

> this, she will do a show on Aspergers. www2.oprah.com

>

>>

>

>

>

>

>

>

[Guest guest]

I thought it was very encouraging!

- C.

Mom to Cassie 16 PCOS, Austin 14 ADHD and a 3.5 HFA/AS & SPD/SID

Re: ( ) Thoughts on Oprah's Show?

The 6:30 show did just that! It was awesome!!!!! Nightline? I don't

remember, but it just ended, and wow!!!! Those kids were my kid!!!!!

Meira

Ok so what did you all think of

today's Oprah show?

>

> I was a little disappointed to be honest. I thought there would

have been

> more information other than what's so readily available on every

website,

> but I guess that's what's needed to get the awareness out there. I

was

> disappointed too, that they didn't seem to talk much about of the

brighter

> sides and the things these amazing kids are doing every single day.

I mean

> it's supposed to be about the " true day to day life " and our kids

do some

> astounding things and make us smile and laugh. I don't know, I

guess I just

> wish they would've shown this side of it, too.

>

> And is it just me or did Oprah seem to be especially interruptive

today?

> Sheesh I hate it when she does that lol

>

> All in all though, it is good to see Autism getting more attention

in the

> public/media. Hopefully this will help make others more aware.

>

> -Jenn, AEP (ADD, Bi-Polar, Anxiety/Depression)

>

> Proud Momma of Cory Albert (14yrs ADHD), h Dawn (12yrs

> Anxiety/Depression)

> and Jerry Lee " Trey " (9yrs ADHD, Bi-Polar, Asperger's)

>

>

[Guest guest]

wouldn't it be cool if we had a " group " meeting on the Oprah show?? she has the

$ to make it possible to meet each other...just daydreaming :-)

- C.

Mom to Cassie 16 PCOS, Austin 14 ADHD and a 3.5 HFA/AS & SPD/SID

( ) Re: Thoughts on Oprah's Show?

I was very excited to see the topic for Oprah's show today, but was

also disappointed that she did not include Aspergers. I hope that she

will eventually do a show about the struggles we have, which are very

different than what was shown on the show today. I did go to the

Oprah website to see if there was a way to email her and there is.

You can send your story in to the producers. Maybe if enough of us do

this, she will do a show on Aspergers. www2.oprah.com

>

[Guest guest]

Nothing's wrong with you. You love your child. You want the best for

him. It's very hard to accept that the dreams you had for your child

will probably never come to be. But you know what? Your dreams don't

have to die. They just have to be adjusted. I first had the PDDNOS

diagnosis for my child 8 years ago, and while I mostly accept it, I

have my days when I don't. Y'know, my child is probably never going

to make it through university. But she might make it through a

remedial vocational training program at the local community college.

My child is probably never going to be a track star or cheerleader or

prom queen. But she might make a few friends and have a blast at

Challenger T-Ball. My child will probably never marry the boy next

door. But she might find love at a support group for young adults

with disabilities. And they might even give me grandchildren. Which

I'll probably have to help raise, but hey, after surviving her

childhood, I can do anything! And when the ' are glowing and

going on and on about how their child made the honor roll three

semesters in a row, I can boast just as happily and proudly that my

child has finally learned to tie her shoes! And yeh, they'll give me

bizarre pitying looks, but I usually don't care. Because my child

loves me, and every moment, every accomplishment, is such a joy, and

what those people think are really irrelevant to my life. These are

not the accomplishments I originally expected to be joyful about for

my kids. But while we can't control the hand we're dealt in life, we

most definitely can choose how we play our cards.

We're here for you. And it IS going to be okay.

Meira

Ok so what did

> > you all think of today's

> > Oprah show?

> >

> > I was a little disappointed to be honest. I thought

> > there would have been

> > more information other than what's so readily

> > available on every website,

> > but I guess that's what's needed to get the

> > awareness out there. I was

> > disappointed too, that they didn't seem to talk much

> > about of the brighter

> > sides and the things these amazing kids are doing

> > every single day. I mean

> > it's supposed to be about the " true day to day life "

> > and our kids do some

> > astounding things and make us smile and laugh. I

> > don't know, I guess I just

> > wish they would've shown this side of it, too.

> >

> > And is it just me or did Oprah seem to be especially

> > interruptive today?

> > Sheesh I hate it when she does that lol

> >

> > All in all though, it is good to see Autism getting

> > more attention in the

> > public/media. Hopefully this will help make others

> > more aware.

> >

> > -Jenn, AEP (ADD, Bi-Polar, Anxiety/Depression)

> >

> > Proud Momma of Cory Albert (14yrs ADHD), h

> > Dawn (12yrs

> > Anxiety/Depression)

> > and Jerry Lee " Trey " (9yrs ADHD, Bi-Polar,

> > Asperger's)

> >

> > [Non-text portions of this message have been

> > removed]

> >

> > ---------------------------------

> > Never miss an email again!

> > Toolbar alerts you the instant new Mail

> > arrives. Check it out.

> >

> > [Non-text portions of this message have been

> > removed]

> >

> >

> >

> >

> >

> >

> > [Non-text portions of this message have been

> > removed]

> >

> >

> >

> >

[Guest guest]

I watch most of the autism shows.. first.. before I show my son...

well this one .. we watched together.. and YES I was upset by the LOST to autism

statements..

But I guess that is because I have a now.. very high functioning child. He was

quite upset by their statement that Autism is a tragic event.

I have always told him Autism was his special gift

Yet.. I am truly blessed and so is he.

I think those.. that were " lost to autism " were those that .. it seems.. the

ambush of vaccines.. may have TRULY been the trigger in their lives..

they had young.. vibrant .. talking children.. who were indeed.. regressed by

some sort of trigger...

I feel for many of those parents...

and cherish their strength.. to call out.. and get the word out.. and ask for

help.

I do wish they had covered more broadly that autism can appear " normal " (GAWD I

hate that word..LOL) and yet still have some very PROFOUND autistic

tendancies..or traits.

ALL in all.. the vaccine .. and the non vaccine point.. was also brushed on..

and I am impressed that it didn't turn into a massive debate.

although I do believe it needs more study that's for sure

I am impressed that they had a doctor that also had autistic children.. rather

than an " EXPERT " who just has no clue beyond a textbook ..and office visit.

I am also pleased.. that is is now becomming a common thing to see autism as

focused on Television.. the medium for the masses..

welcome to our world Oprah...

welcome to our world..

here's hoping she makes a charitable donation.. to some reputable focus group.

( ) Re: Thoughts on Oprah's Show?

I was very excited to see the topic for Oprah's show today, but was

also disappointed that she did not include Aspergers. I hope that she

will eventually do a show about the struggles we have, which are very

different than what was shown on the show today. I did go to the

Oprah website to see if there was a way to email her and there is.

You can send your story in to the producers. Maybe if enough of us do

this, she will do a show on Aspergers. www2.oprah.com

>

[Guest guest]

Oh Meira! That was so well said! You brought tears to my eyes. How

beautifully said and so very true! ~*BIG HUGS*~

Is it ok if I send you an e-mail offlist? I want to ask you something.

-Jenn, AEP (ADD, Bi-Polar, Anxiety/Depression)

Proud Momma of Cory Albert (14yrs ADHD), h Dawn (12yrs

Anxiety/Depression)

and Jerry Lee " Trey " (9yrs ADHD, Bi-Polar, Asperger's)

-- ( ) Re: Thoughts on Oprah's Show?

Nothing's wrong with you. You love your child. You want the best for

him. It's very hard to accept that the dreams you had for your child

will probably never come to be. But you know what? Your dreams don't

have to die. They just have to be adjusted. I first had the PDDNOS

diagnosis for my child 8 years ago, and while I mostly accept it, I

have my days when I don't. Y'know, my child is probably never going

to make it through university. But she might make it through a

remedial vocational training program at the local community college.

My child is probably never going to be a track star or cheerleader or

prom queen. But she might make a few friends and have a blast at

Challenger T-Ball. My child will probably never marry the boy next

door. But she might find love at a support group for young adults

with disabilities. And they might even give me grandchildren. Which

I'll probably have to help raise, but hey, after surviving her

childhood, I can do anything! And when the ' are glowing and

going on and on about how their child made the honor roll three

semesters in a row, I can boast just as happily and proudly that my

child has finally learned to tie her shoes! And yeh, they'll give me

bizarre pitying looks, but I usually don't care. Because my child

loves me, and every moment, every accomplishment, is such a joy, and

what those people think are really irrelevant to my life. These are

not the accomplishments I originally expected to be joyful about for

my kids. But while we can't control the hand we're dealt in life, we

most definitely can choose how we play our cards.

We're here for you. And it IS going to be okay.

Meira

Ok so what did

> > you all think of today's

> > Oprah show?

> >

> > I was a little disappointed to be honest. I thought

> > there would have been

> > more information other than what's so readily

> > available on every website,

> > but I guess that's what's needed to get the

> > awareness out there. I was

> > disappointed too, that they didn't seem to talk much

> > about of the brighter

> > sides and the things these amazing kids are doing

> > every single day. I mean

> > it's supposed to be about the " true day to day life "

> > and our kids do some

> > astounding things and make us smile and laugh. I

> > don't know, I guess I just

> > wish they would've shown this side of it, too.

> >

> > And is it just me or did Oprah seem to be especially

> > interruptive today?

> > Sheesh I hate it when she does that lol

> >

> > All in all though, it is good to see Autism getting

> > more attention in the

> > public/media. Hopefully this will help make others

> > more aware.

> >

> > -Jenn, AEP (ADD, Bi-Polar, Anxiety/Depression)

> >

> > Proud Momma of Cory Albert (14yrs ADHD), h

> > Dawn (12yrs

> > Anxiety/Depression)

> > and Jerry Lee " Trey " (9yrs ADHD, Bi-Polar,

> > Asperger's)

> >

> > [Non-text portions of this message have been

> > removed]

> >

> > ---------------------------------

> > Never miss an email again!

> > Toolbar alerts you the instant new Mail

> > arrives. Check it out.

> >

> > [Non-text portions of this message have been

> > removed]

> >

> >

> >

> >

> >

> >

> > [Non-text portions of this message have been

> > removed]

> >

> >

> >

> >

[Guest guest]

I think all of us telling about aspergers (and such) would definitely make her

" be quiet " . Do you think any of us would allow her to continually interrupt

with her,,,, " The way I see it is,,,,,,,,, " . Ha ha.

Robin

Jenn <wyledbunch@...> wrote:

Oh that'd be great! That'd be so much fun!

-Jenn, AEP (ADD, Bi-Polar, Anxiety/Depression)

Proud Momma of Cory Albert (14yrs ADHD), h Dawn (12yrs

Anxiety/Depression)

and Jerry Lee " Trey " (9yrs ADHD, Bi-Polar, Asperger's)

-- Re: ( ) Re: Thoughts on Oprah's Show?

wouldn't it be cool if we had a " group " meeting on the Oprah show?? she has

the $ to make it possible to meet each other...just daydreaming :-)

- C.

Mom to Cassie 16 PCOS, Austin 14 ADHD and a 3.5 HFA/AS & SPD/SID

( ) Re: Thoughts on Oprah's Show?

I was very excited to see the topic for Oprah's show today, but was

also disappointed that she did not include Aspergers. I hope that she

will eventually do a show about the struggles we have, which are very

different than what was shown on the show today. I did go to the

Oprah website to see if there was a way to email her and there is.

You can send your story in to the producers. Maybe if enough of us do

this, she will do a show on Aspergers. www2.oprah.com

>

[Guest guest]

Wow. Thanks for the tears......of sadness and happiness.

You're good.

Robin

meiraharvey <meira-harvey@...> wrote:

Nothing's wrong with you. You love your child. You want the best for

him. It's very hard to accept that the dreams you had for your child

will probably never come to be. But you know what? Your dreams don't

have to die. They just have to be adjusted. I first had the PDDNOS

diagnosis for my child 8 years ago, and while I mostly accept it, I

have my days when I don't. Y'know, my child is probably never going

to make it through university. But she might make it through a

remedial vocational training program at the local community college.

My child is probably never going to be a track star or cheerleader or

prom queen. But she might make a few friends and have a blast at

Challenger T-Ball. My child will probably never marry the boy next

door. But she might find love at a support group for young adults

with disabilities. And they might even give me grandchildren. Which

I'll probably have to help raise, but hey, after surviving her

childhood, I can do anything! And when the ' are glowing and

going on and on about how their child made the honor roll three

semesters in a row, I can boast just as happily and proudly that my

child has finally learned to tie her shoes! And yeh, they'll give me

bizarre pitying looks, but I usually don't care. Because my child

loves me, and every moment, every accomplishment, is such a joy, and

what those people think are really irrelevant to my life. These are

not the accomplishments I originally expected to be joyful about for

my kids. But while we can't control the hand we're dealt in life, we

most definitely can choose how we play our cards.

We're here for you. And it IS going to be okay.

Meira

Ok so what did

> > you all think of today's

> > Oprah show?

> >

> > I was a little disappointed to be honest. I thought

> > there would have been

> > more information other than what's so readily

> > available on every website,

> > but I guess that's what's needed to get the

> > awareness out there. I was

> > disappointed too, that they didn't seem to talk much

> > about of the brighter

> > sides and the things these amazing kids are doing

> > every single day. I mean

> > it's supposed to be about the " true day to day life "

> > and our kids do some

> > astounding things and make us smile and laugh. I

> > don't know, I guess I just

> > wish they would've shown this side of it, too.

> >

> > And is it just me or did Oprah seem to be especially

> > interruptive today?

> > Sheesh I hate it when she does that lol

> >

> > All in all though, it is good to see Autism getting

> > more attention in the

> > public/media. Hopefully this will help make others

> > more aware.

> >

> > -Jenn, AEP (ADD, Bi-Polar, Anxiety/Depression)

> >

> > Proud Momma of Cory Albert (14yrs ADHD), h

> > Dawn (12yrs

> > Anxiety/Depression)

> > and Jerry Lee " Trey " (9yrs ADHD, Bi-Polar,

> > Asperger's)

> >

> > [Non-text portions of this message have been

> > removed]

> >

> > ---------------------------------

> > Never miss an email again!

> > Toolbar alerts you the instant new Mail

> > arrives. Check it out.

> >

> > [Non-text portions of this message have been

> > removed]

> >

> >

> >

> >

> >

> >

> > [Non-text portions of this message have been

> > removed]

> >

> >

> >

> >

[Guest guest]

Amen. VERY well said.

Marcia

On Apr 6, 2007, at 3:13 PM, meiraharvey wrote:

> Nothing's wrong with you. You love your child. You want the best for

> him. It's very hard to accept that the dreams you had for your child

> will probably never come to be. But you know what? Your dreams don't

> have to die. They just have to be adjusted. I first had the PDDNOS

> diagnosis for my child 8 years ago, and while I mostly accept it, I

> have my days when I don't. Y'know, my child is probably never going

> to make it through university. But she might make it through a

> remedial vocational training program at the local community college.

> My child is probably never going to be a track star or cheerleader or

> prom queen. But she might make a few friends and have a blast at

> Challenger T-Ball. My child will probably never marry the boy next

> door. But she might find love at a support group for young adults

> with disabilities. And they might even give me grandchildren. Which

> I'll probably have to help raise, but hey, after surviving her

> childhood, I can do anything! And when the ' are glowing and

> going on and on about how their child made the honor roll three

> semesters in a row, I can boast just as happily and proudly that my

> child has finally learned to tie her shoes! And yeh, they'll give me

> bizarre pitying looks, but I usually don't care. Because my child

> loves me, and every moment, every accomplishment, is such a joy, and

> what those people think are really irrelevant to my life. These are

> not the accomplishments I originally expected to be joyful about for

> my kids. But while we can't control the hand we're dealt in life, we

> most definitely can choose how we play our cards.

> We're here for you. And it IS going to be okay.

> Meira

>

> Ok so what did

>>> you all think of today's

>>> Oprah show?

>>>

>>> I was a little disappointed to be honest. I thought

>>> there would have been

>>> more information other than what's so readily

>>> available on every website,

>>> but I guess that's what's needed to get the

>>> awareness out there. I was

>>> disappointed too, that they didn't seem to talk much

>>> about of the brighter

>>> sides and the things these amazing kids are doing

>>> every single day. I mean

>>> it's supposed to be about the " true day to day life "

>>> and our kids do some

>>> astounding things and make us smile and laugh. I

>>> don't know, I guess I just

>>> wish they would've shown this side of it, too.

>>>

>>> And is it just me or did Oprah seem to be especially

>>> interruptive today?

>>> Sheesh I hate it when she does that lol

>>>

>>> All in all though, it is good to see Autism getting

>>> more attention in the

>>> public/media. Hopefully this will help make others

>>> more aware.

>>>

>>> -Jenn, AEP (ADD, Bi-Polar, Anxiety/Depression)

>>>

>>> Proud Momma of Cory Albert (14yrs ADHD), h

>>> Dawn (12yrs

>>> Anxiety/Depression)

>>> and Jerry Lee " Trey " (9yrs ADHD, Bi-Polar,

>>> Asperger's)

>>>

>>> [Non-text portions of this message have been

>>> removed]

>>>

>>> ---------------------------------

>>> Never miss an email again!

>>> Toolbar alerts you the instant new Mail

>>> arrives. Check it out.

>>>

>>> [Non-text portions of this message have been

>>> removed]

>>>

>>>

>>>

>>>

>>>

>>>

>>> [Non-text portions of this message have been

>>> removed]

>>>

>>>

>>>

>>>

[Guest guest]

I really DO believe my daughter had some sort of reaction to all

those vaccines. She changed around age 9 mos., stopped being friendly

and outgoing. My husband noticed it first.

Marcia

On Apr 6, 2007, at 4:07 PM, wrote:

>

> I watch most of the autism shows.. first.. before I show my son...

> well this one .. we watched together.. and YES I was upset by the

> LOST to autism statements..

> But I guess that is because I have a now.. very high functioning

> child. He was quite upset by their statement that Autism is a

> tragic event.

> I have always told him Autism was his special gift

> Yet.. I am truly blessed and so is he.

> I think those.. that were " lost to autism " were those that .. it

> seems.. the ambush of vaccines.. may have TRULY been the trigger

> in their lives..

> they had young.. vibrant .. talking children.. who were indeed..

> regressed by some sort of trigger...

> I feel for many of those parents...

> and cherish their strength.. to call out.. and get the word out..

> and ask for help.

> I do wish they had covered more broadly that autism can appear

> " normal " (GAWD I hate that word..LOL) and yet still have some very

> PROFOUND autistic tendancies..or traits.

> ALL in all.. the vaccine .. and the non vaccine point.. was also

> brushed on.. and I am impressed that it didn't turn into a massive

> debate.

> although I do believe it needs more study that's for sure

> I am impressed that they had a doctor that also had autistic

> children.. rather than an " EXPERT " who just has no clue beyond a

> textbook ..and office visit.

> I am also pleased.. that is is now becomming a common thing to see

> autism as focused on Television.. the medium for the masses..

> welcome to our world Oprah...

> welcome to our world..

> here's hoping she makes a charitable donation.. to some reputable

> focus group.

>

> ( ) Re: Thoughts on Oprah's Show?

>

>

> I was very excited to see the topic for Oprah's show today, but was

> also disappointed that she did not include Aspergers. I hope that

> she

> will eventually do a show about the struggles we have, which are

> very

> different than what was shown on the show today. I did go to the

> Oprah website to see if there was a way to email her and there is.

> You can send your story in to the producers. Maybe if enough of

> us do

> this, she will do a show on Aspergers. www2.oprah.com

>

>>

>

>

>

>

>

>

[Guest guest]

Thank you. And of course.

Hugs back atcha,

Meira

> >

> > Im fairly new here and have been observing , My son

> > will be 7 in july, and is diagnosed A.S with possible

> > Non Rule out cognitive disorder and impulse control

> > disorder,

> > Im not sure so far, what i think i was filled with

> > tears mostly Im still in some odd twightly Zone where

> > i can force myself into the false reality of this is

> > all a dream and I will wake up, My son will be Normal

> > again , but watching other kids seeing the parents

> > saying the same things i feel or decribing the same

> > behaviors , The jumping up and down non stop the head

> > banging the " stimming " the lack of toilet trainning

> > its all so much to take in and honestly hits me like a

> > brick im forced to face this is NOT a dream this is

> > reality i am living this my son is living this, as

> > well are my other children. *sigh* i just cant seem to

> > be like other parents i cant get to the final

> > acceptace place where its ok , its not so bad because

> > in side im still saying NO this isnt right its not its

> > not its not! why am i not so accepting its been almost

> > 4 years since the word Autism was said to me so whats

> > wrong with me??

[Guest guest]

Thank you! =) I'll do that now

-Jenn, AEP (ADD, Bi-Polar, Anxiety/Depression)

Proud Momma of Cory Albert (14yrs ADHD), h Dawn (12yrs

Anxiety/Depression)

and Jerry Lee " Trey " (9yrs ADHD, Bi-Polar, Asperger's)

-- ( ) Re: Thoughts on Oprah's Show?

Thank you. And of course.

Hugs back atcha,

Meira

> >

> > Im fairly new here and have been observing , My son

> > will be 7 in july, and is diagnosed A.S with possible

> > Non Rule out cognitive disorder and impulse control

> > disorder,

> > Im not sure so far, what i think i was filled with

> > tears mostly Im still in some odd twightly Zone where

> > i can force myself into the false reality of this is

> > all a dream and I will wake up, My son will be Normal

> > again , but watching other kids seeing the parents

> > saying the same things i feel or decribing the same

> > behaviors , The jumping up and down non stop the head

> > banging the " stimming " the lack of toilet trainning

> > its all so much to take in and honestly hits me like a

> > brick im forced to face this is NOT a dream this is

> > reality i am living this my son is living this, as

> > well are my other children. *sigh* i just cant seem to

> > be like other parents i cant get to the final

> > acceptace place where its ok , its not so bad because

> > in side im still saying NO this isnt right its not its

> > not its not! why am i not so accepting its been almost

> > 4 years since the word Autism was said to me so whats

> > wrong with me??

[Guest guest]

I agree with you so much. I liked the show but i was also very

disappointed that she didn't include Aspergers in the show. For some

of us there was a big difference between the kids shown on that show

and our kids. Wouldn't it be great if the amount of people who

watched her show actually heard about Aspergers and actually figured

out what it is. I am sure a lot of her watchers have heard about

Autism before, but what about Aspergers. I am sure most of them never

even heard of it. I think it is just as important that we make our

society aware of Aspergers as it is with Autism. I have for over 2

years been writing letters to Oprah asking her to do a show on

Aspergers. Unfortunately after seeing the Autism show i guess she

either never saw my huge amounts of emails or she just didn't want to

add it in the Autism show for some reason. Like widoherty6 said i

think it is important that we all send Oprah an email and convince

her that Aspergers exists also and that we should get the world aware

of it as well.

>

> I was very excited to see the topic for Oprah's show today, but was

> also disappointed that she did not include Aspergers. I hope that

she

> will eventually do a show about the struggles we have, which are

very

> different than what was shown on the show today. I did go to the

> Oprah website to see if there was a way to email her and there is.

> You can send your story in to the producers. Maybe if enough of us

do

> this, she will do a show on Aspergers. www2.oprah.com

>

> >

>

[Guest guest]

Meira

how Beautifuly said Thanks and Hugs!! i do have my god

days the last 3 havent been so good, Noahs been moody

Lots of screaming and head banging easily aggitated

and all.

Thanks for giving me a smile today

--- Jenn <wyledbunch@...> wrote:

> Thank you! =) I'll do that now

>

>

> -Jenn, AEP (ADD, Bi-Polar, Anxiety/Depression)

>

> Proud Momma of Cory Albert (14yrs ADHD), h

> Dawn (12yrs

> Anxiety/Depression)

> and Jerry Lee " Trey " (9yrs ADHD, Bi-Polar,

> Asperger's)

> -- ( ) Re: Thoughts on Oprah's

> Show?

>

> Thank you. And of course.

> Hugs back atcha,

> Meira

>

>

> > >

> > > Im fairly new here and have been observing , My

> son

> > > will be 7 in july, and is diagnosed A.S with

> possible

> > > Non Rule out cognitive disorder and impulse

> control

> > > disorder,

> > > Im not sure so far, what i think i was filled

> with

> > > tears mostly Im still in some odd twightly Zone

> where

> > > i can force myself into the false reality of

> this is

> > > all a dream and I will wake up, My son will be

> Normal

> > > again , but watching other kids seeing the

> parents

> > > saying the same things i feel or decribing the

> same

> > > behaviors , The jumping up and down non stop the

> head

> > > banging the " stimming " the lack of toilet

> trainning

> > > its all so much to take in and honestly hits me

> like a

> > > brick im forced to face this is NOT a dream this

> is

> > > reality i am living this my son is living this,

> as

> > > well are my other children. *sigh* i just cant

> seem to

> > > be like other parents i cant get to the final

> > > acceptace place where its ok , its not so bad

> because

> > > in side im still saying NO this isnt right its

> not its

> > > not its not! why am i not so accepting its been

> almost

> > > 4 years since the word Autism was said to me so

> whats

> > > wrong with me??

>

>

>

>

>

[Guest guest]

Hi!

I am new to the group as of tonight. I have a son who will be 5 in

June. He was diagnosed HF autism almost a year ago. I had done my

research so the diagnosis did not come as a surprise.

But I just wanted to chime in on this discussion. I watched the

Oprah tape this morning and as soon as it was over, I emailed the

show about how they just glossed over the high functioning side of

the spectrum and AS. I feel for the people on the show. I remember

the first time my son said good night to me and it wasn't echoed.

But now he has more speech (not conversational, just wants) and he

should mainstream when he is 6 and will face different challanges

then those on the show.

Thanks for reading,

Ok so what did

> > > you all think of today's

> > > Oprah show?

> > >

> > > I was a little disappointed to be honest. I thought

> > > there would have been

> > > more information other than what's so readily

> > > available on every website,

> > > but I guess that's what's needed to get the

> > > awareness out there. I was

> > > disappointed too, that they didn't seem to talk much

> > > about of the brighter

> > > sides and the things these amazing kids are doing

> > > every single day. I mean

> > > it's supposed to be about the " true day to day life "

> > > and our kids do some

> > > astounding things and make us smile and laugh. I

> > > don't know, I guess I just

> > > wish they would've shown this side of it, too.

> > >

> > > And is it just me or did Oprah seem to be especially

> > > interruptive today?

> > > Sheesh I hate it when she does that lol

> > >

> > > All in all though, it is good to see Autism getting

> > > more attention in the

> > > public/media. Hopefully this will help make others

> > > more aware.

> > >

> > > -Jenn, AEP (ADD, Bi-Polar, Anxiety/Depression)

> > >

> > > Proud Momma of Cory Albert (14yrs ADHD), h

> > > Dawn (12yrs

> > > Anxiety/Depression)

> > > and Jerry Lee " Trey " (9yrs ADHD, Bi-Polar,

> > > Asperger's)

> > >

> > > [Non-text portions of this message have been

> > > removed]

> > >

> > > ---------------------------------

> > > Never miss an email again!

> > > Toolbar alerts you the instant new Mail

> > > arrives. Check it out.

> > >

> > > [Non-text portions of this message have been

> > > removed]

> > >

> > >

> > >

> > >

> > >

> > >

> > > [Non-text portions of this message have been

> > > removed]

> > >

> > >

> > >

> > >

[Guest guest]

I thought if you're doing an episode to show the public what the general public

already thinks of as autism, it was fine. The catch is, there's a LOT more to

the spectrum than the narrow part she demonstrated on the show. The parents

were talking about it being invisible and people just think they're bad parents.

I'm sure that they do have trouble with that. However, if you have an aspie,

it's that much harder to deal with the public.

For example, today I was at a store looking at a piece of exercise equipment.

Beth was bound and determined to try out every piece of equipment they had. It

didn't matter what I said, she HAD to try them all. I could tell that the sales

guy thought she was just being a brat. Since I was already low on patience with

her, we just left. Had I been there with a child like the ones shown on Oprah's

show, I think the guy would have realized that there was something a little

'off' about her. However, the fact that she was throwing a fit when I'd tell

her to get off the equipment seems more like a spoiled kid, not a kid that has a

disability. I don't think the average person would see Beth in a store and

think she had a disability.

The other big issue I see for those of us with an autistic child that's verbal

is dealing with stranger danger. I don't think that the parents on the show

have to worry about their child wandering up to a random stranger and just going

on about something. Heck, someone that wanted to abduct Beth wouldn't have to

figure out how to approach her, she'd approach them! I feel like I say 'what

have I said about talking to strangers' 10 times a day.

So, even though there are similarities, there are more issues than what Oprah

covered. Also, I don't consider autism the 'death sentence' that the show

portrayed. Even Beth said 'I'm nothing like them' when she saw the show.

[Guest guest]

OH LOL!! So true.. we've learned NOT to tolerate being interrupted.

Marcia

On Apr 6, 2007, at 4:50 PM, and/or Robin Lemke wrote:

> I think all of us telling about aspergers (and such) would

> definitely make her " be quiet " . Do you think any of us would allow

> her to continually interrupt with her,,,, " The way I see it

> is,,,,,,,,, " . Ha ha.

> Robin

>

> Jenn <wyledbunch@...> wrote:

> Oh that'd be great! That'd be so much fun!

>

>

> -Jenn, AEP (ADD, Bi-Polar, Anxiety/Depression)

>

> Proud Momma of Cory Albert (14yrs ADHD), h Dawn (12yrs

> Anxiety/Depression)

> and Jerry Lee " Trey " (9yrs ADHD, Bi-Polar, Asperger's)

> -- Re: ( ) Re: Thoughts on Oprah's Show?

>

> wouldn't it be cool if we had a " group " meeting on the Oprah show??

> she has

> the $ to make it possible to meet each other...just daydreaming :-)

> - C.

> Mom to Cassie 16 PCOS, Austin 14 ADHD and a 3.5 HFA/AS & SPD/SID

>

> ( ) Re: Thoughts on Oprah's Show?

>

>

> I was very excited to see the topic for Oprah's show today, but was

> also disappointed that she did not include Aspergers. I hope that she

> will eventually do a show about the struggles we have, which are very

> different than what was shown on the show today. I did go to the

> Oprah website to see if there was a way to email her and there is.

> You can send your story in to the producers. Maybe if enough of us do

> this, she will do a show on Aspergers. www2.oprah.com

>

>>

>

>

>

>

>

>