tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-84121650740193380422024-02-07T00:22:32.749-06:00Detour AutismWhere Autism is a Bend in the road, not the End of the road...
An ordinary family
navigates an extraordinary journey
of Autism times four;
four children in four years
& all the challenges
and victories along the way.Momma Thttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14649149387953221319noreply@blogger.comBlogger57125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8412165074019338042.post-87074235672730308702017-11-18T08:58:00.002-06:002017-11-18T09:16:31.926-06:00Reflections of 2017<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">As we're nearing Thanksgiving now & our oldest child's 14th birthday, I cannot help but *REFLECT* upon all that IS.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms";">The chaos of life is still very present, yet just an element in the background. It's easy to get lost in the constant movement of life. For me, I see this as a parallel to my children's Sensory Integration Dysfunction. They become overwhelmed with stimuli in their environment; I with the tides of events in LIFE. I now find myself coaching both them & myself to be PRESENT & In-the-Moment. It's a process of developing focus and a almost simple mindset. It's taken me nearly 14 years to get HERE in this modality of LIVING.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms";">Though all the interventions we chose for the kids are very active & a living/breathing structure (Medical, Behavioral, Emotional, Nutritional, Mental, etc.)-- the SHIFT for ME has been moving that structure to the foundation or background activity of our family's LIVING & not in the forefront of my concentration. Now, I can choose to find RICHNESS in the moment(s) with each child-- meeting them right where they are, experiencing & loving them through these precious moments which fly by in what seems nano-seconds. It's been a long path to arrive at this & it's certainly a muscle which needs ongoing training.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms";">The kids are growing, expanding & moving fluidly on their individual journeys. It's truly a striking composition if only I stand back to see the whole picture every once in awhile. The depth of each of their personalities is so intricate as they have more and more life experiences-- for this I am truly GRATEFUL. We are working on EMBRACING THE JOURNEY, not judging it & we are learning along the way. There is a lot of *talking through* moments & experiences which again, I'm so grateful we are within this realm. I know many families whom are unable to converse with their autistic children verbally (my own were in that place 6-8 years ago)-- so I don't take this for granted.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms";">My thoughts for today. Don't be afraid to LOVE FIERCELY. Trust others with your Heart. Forgive & step-up in Being the Change You Want to See. Celebrate the little things, as in the end those are the BIG THINGS. Be okay with letting go & letting God... accept we are never truly in control in this place & be okay with it. Allow yourself to fail FORWARD; this is how we all LEARN. When you find yourself stuck on how life isn't going Your way-- Give to Others without any EXPECTATIONS. Check yourself to see if you are the example you want to be for your family. Faith is HOPE on Fire-- show this to your children. Have a GRATEFUL HEART.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms";">- Momma T.</span></div>
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<b></b><i></i><u></u><sub></sub><sup></sup><strike></strike><br />Momma Thttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14649149387953221319noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8412165074019338042.post-11638554448239827812012-08-09T08:39:00.000-05:002019-02-14T09:48:11.297-06:00Yes, Indeed - "They Say" and we must do our own THINKING<div style="color: blue; font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">The "Thinking Moms Revolution - *They Say*" post link (bottom) struck me square in my heart. ALL PARENTS NEED TO READ THIS.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">I
was told each and every one of these things, more than once, and was
still encouraged to vaccinate our baby even though our eldest 3
regressed all about the same time prior. Our Bella was at a biochemical
disadvantage from birth with an inability to clear anything from her
body (due to her chromosome anomaly) and we were continuously baited by fear into
medicating her the most, in irony to prevent future illness.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">When are doctors going to start *THINKING FOR THEMSELVES* and think about how to prevent Autism-- THE ILLNESS, yes I said illness because it starts as illness and progresses into disease. It can be lifelong-- oh yes, it can. Depending on the cumulative damage done before a parent starts *thinking* for themselves out of desperation to save their evaporated child.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">My best friend in the world has a beautiful child they are diligently
fighting for each day to recover, she too has Down syndrome, like our
Bella. Her angel succumbed to an Autism presentation after a
hospitalization at 6 years of age-- she was not Autistic before the
hospitalization which changed their lives forever & she did not have
Autistic behaviors. She DID come out of the hospital with damage and
had reached a tipping point where their lives changed abruptly. IT CAN
and DOES HAPPEN.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Our Bella was 4 when she lost all speech the second time, we believe from seizures subsequent to the injuries she received in her first 3 years of mass-medication and an overwhelming vaccination schedule (combined with a perfect storm of inherited toxicity). No one ever took her treatment into an individual scope until we ourselves took on that role, pouring over labs, research, and more research. Working with the heroes that were willing to look outside the box and help us find the answers on how to help our child(ren).</span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">My husband and I have
spent 5+ years working on recovering the 4 children we lost to Autism. It has taken Bella all that time to recover the speech she had at 2.5 years-- she is now 8.5 years old. Our
twins now, 5 years later, have likely lost their Autism diagnosis, with lesser challenges remaining. Our baby is blooming before our eyes, one layer at a time, as we work to teach and engage her in all the 'natural learning' her Autism illness interrupted. Yet all our kids remain
Medically Fragile and we don't take their current state for granted.
There is damage underneath that we will always be working to support and
we have learned that this damage to the brain, gastrointestinal, & overall
neurological function is indeed extremely complicated. That said, we happily embrace the lifestyle routines we go through daily, weekly, monthly to be where we are today. We thank God above for His light & grace in leading this journey we are on, for the recovery we have seen, experienced and are still finding-- not all are so fortunate, which turns my stomach in knots knowing all the kids suffering so profoundly out there yet today.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Lastly, know
that our family is a subset of the rare, most of the families I know have one child with
a full blown autism presentation. Maybe a second child, or a second has ADD, asthma, food allergies or something. Point is-- our current human physical evolution cannot keep pace with the toxic burdens our American culture so openly supports as the norm, in our modern world. Autism touches plenty of families only in
1 child, while the other siblings escape our western way of toxic life practices. <u>99% of the families I know have only 1 affected child... YOURS
ARE NOT UNTOUCHABLE. AT ANY AGE</u>. Don't be fooled by the "Autism is GENETIC"
madness. We are living in a toxic world and Mother Earth is screaming
for us to listen. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="color: #444444;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="color: #274e13;">PARENTS, READ & HEED THE ADVICE W/I---></span> <b style="color: red;"><a href="http://thinkingmomsrevolution.com/they-say/" target="_blank">http://thinkingmomsrevolution.com/they-say/</a></b></span></span></span>Momma Thttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14649149387953221319noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8412165074019338042.post-2901086539031207522012-07-01T04:36:00.002-05:002012-07-01T14:01:25.666-05:00An inconvenient painful TRUTH<span style="color: #660000; font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Am charting, in DETAIL, Roo's medical history to prepare for upcoming Immunology & Pulmonology specialists. I. AM. SICK.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #660000; font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">By her 6 mo. vaccinations the data stored only in the Pediatrician's records clearly shows, we killed her immune system (& no, that is not drama, but TRUTH). After that visit, she was in PED office for 3 sick visits in 1.5 mos following those vax. THEN SHE WAS VAX'ED AGAIN!! @ 9 mos. 3 more sick visits with unexplained whole body rashes, cold symps, fevers & EXTREME FUSSINESS (I'll never forget her screaming). Only to be VAX'ed the FINAL BLOW (7 vaccines). 5 more sick visits over 2 mos following the pluthera of VAX on her distressed body. Last of 5 sick visit she was positive for STREP. She didn't have any defense system any longer-- for infections, viruses, or environmental toxins of our world (including vaccines). At this point, I left the majority of mainstream medicine to try to help my babies. They started to improve through alternative approaches, yet so much damage had already been done & we're still in the marathon of supporting their injuries.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #660000; font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">The most disturbing thing to me about Roo... if her twin hadn't regressed so fast & lost his language, etc. we would have kept on vaccinating her. <u><i>She could have died-- his regression saved her life.</i></u> I was uneducated, overwhelmed & couldn't see the bigger picture. I was there (PED office) each time expressing concerns that were downplayed & the PED DIDN'T SEE THE BIGGER PICTURE EITHER. Their office told me to bring her in for 15 mo. visit (which I delayed 3 mos.) & that they could still vaccinate even though she & her twin had a FEVER! This message followed the 5 sick visits & STREP. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #660000; font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Thank GOD I didn't vaccinate them again. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #660000; font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Post STREP. Her illness list is so very long that I'm too tired to summarize it here. Her immune system was completely overloaded & short circuited. She cycled through regressions more subtle than her twin, yet succumbed fully into an Autism presentation at 3.5 years old </span><span style="color: #660000; font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">(able to be diagnosed by medical criteria)</span><span style="color: #660000; font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">. If you meet a child with Autism, it is very very likely this child is SICK & <u>their sickness is not from AUTISM, rather their AUTISM is a result of their SICKNESS.</u></span><br />
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<span style="color: #660000; font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">I AM SHARING SO YOU OR SOMEONE YOU LOVE DOESN'T GO BLINDLY WITH THEIR CHILD INTO THIS ABYSS. We've lost a lot-- my children have SUFFERED GREATLY, our family still suffers and fights to maintain. If you think I'm dramatic, please discontinue reading. I simply cannot go on pretending this atrocity didn't happen & ISN'T still happening to our kids. AFRAID? That's good-- you are on your way to THINKING your way into protecting your child(ren).</span><br />
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<span style="color: #073763; font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><b>Cliff notes:</b> Do not vaccinate your child when they are sick, EVER. A symptom of a rash, swollen injection site, fever, diarrhea, or subsequent infection (even a month after vaccines) is a note-able reaction & needs to be reported to pediatrician. Some pediatricians aren't really open to reporting what they may see as a subtle reaction-- insist on this being noted in your child's file anyway. PROCEED with caution when your child shows a reaction; listen to your gut instincts & stand strong with your instincts. Tell your pediatrician you want to work together to lessen chances that reactions re-occur (by spacing out vax, doing singularly, et all). Your child should not get the disease they are being vaccinated against! If they do-- RED FLAG their immune system cannot process. Did you know Hep vax is for sexually transmitted disease & this is recommended at birth (seriously?)-- do you think your baby needs this? IMPORTANT-- NEVER GIVE YOUR CHILD TYLENOL BEFORE/AFTER VACCINATING as it suppresses body's Glutathione production (the body's chemical produced to get rid of toxic substances), instead give Vitamin C & a probiotic when you choose to vaccinate. Lastly, READ on this topic FURTHER so you can become educated on risks vs. benefit & make INFORMED choices. These are my opinions from lessons learned in great hardship, suffering & loss. I am not a medical doctor with credentials-- so take my notes within as my opinions and encouragement to research these things further on your own. YOU alone protect your child & you (like me) live with the decisions you make for your child. I wish I had had any of this information when my kids were infants. GODSPEED.</span><br />
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http://www.tacanow.org/family-resources/vaccination-choices-for-families-with-autism/ <br />
http://www.tacanow.org/family-resources/living-in-a-toxic-world/<br />
http://www.tacanow.org/family-resources/flu-prevention/Momma Thttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14649149387953221319noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8412165074019338042.post-33524155750611884962012-06-14T15:57:00.002-05:002012-07-08T19:49:15.835-05:00Loving RECOVERY<div style="color: blue; font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">
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Imagine losing your child to a flawed medical system, combined with an ambush of American culture conveniences that only cause toxic overload (gmo food, killing chemicals for: weeds, insects, rodents, our water supply {& us}, cleaning supplies, et all <and, all="" et="" you...="">. These conveniences are delivered without delay to your delicate and developing infant, as we hurried parents participate in ignorance. </and,><br />
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<and, all="" et="" you...="">The RESULT-- <b>1 in 6 American children currently are <u>diagnosed</u> with a developmental disability</b>. (that is diagnosed peeps-- what about those not identified?) </and,><br />
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<and, all="" et="" you...="">For our son... he evaporated into a medical debacle of Autism at 13 months. He hass worked tirelessly with his Daddy, myself, and a VILLAGE to help his little body heal & expel the assaults of multiple environmental agents (primarily first year's vaccines & environmental toxins) which preyed upon his delicate vulnerability. </and,></div>
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Some people say we parents working to recover our children from Autism are nuts, others call us Warriors. We are both and for good reason (nuts over the preventable, yet covered-up smoke & mirror act which leads the kidnapping of our children's innocent life (resulting in AUTISM presentation) & nuts by default in order to remain sane amidst the aftermath). Let's hope you never have to understand personally the WARRIOR aspect... REALLY. At the pinnacle Warrior-hood is the spirit inside our sick/injured children. They are the real Warriors.<br />
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Give S-Bear a listen in this YouTube with his SonRise facilitator & favorite playmate (his *Daisy* {sniff, sniff}<sniff, sniff="">). A component of S-Bear's healing is through the SON-RISE therapy modality, the rest is all MEDICAL.</sniff,></div>
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<span style="color: blue; font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">I write a lot about S-Bear's experience because his regression & healing are both so dramatic. I hope you never have to know where he's come from, where we've been as a family. I hope this finds parents early on, so they may assess & make informed decisions in real consciousness. For now, I'm glad to share S-Bear's amazing spirit.</span><span style="color: blue;"> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"></span></span><br />
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<span style="color: blue; font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">THIS PROJECT THE RESULT & PROOF OF HIM HEALING & US GETTING OUR BOY BACK.</span><br />
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<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6mJLPRcaKxQ&feature=youtu.be" target="_blank">Twas the night before Christmas by S-Bear & Ms. Stacey</a><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-AmXMMc57YhRJh1WUMvtTSDvz-L4o2fzRrE8QojmZEGYuKoNzZ85vNWDaesiRT8AMmD2rKvFdCUjZlUQ_p0PJwzcdnS7GsGc_dLoJEBDv0nTNUgtQzafTXQSUdffwtrxZzaZAVxZjrroE/s1600/sb2.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="290" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-AmXMMc57YhRJh1WUMvtTSDvz-L4o2fzRrE8QojmZEGYuKoNzZ85vNWDaesiRT8AMmD2rKvFdCUjZlUQ_p0PJwzcdnS7GsGc_dLoJEBDv0nTNUgtQzafTXQSUdffwtrxZzaZAVxZjrroE/s320/sb2.png" width="320" /></a><span style="color: blue;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">You've come a long way, buddy & we're not done yet. </span></span><br />
<br />Momma Thttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14649149387953221319noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8412165074019338042.post-14351647695880898752012-05-23T04:07:00.002-05:002012-05-23T08:07:27.111-05:00Amongst Chaos we acknowledge Healing<div style="color: blue; font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">
<span style="font-size: small;">This past week has been another blur, as there has been a rapid stomach bug which nuked the family home and we had another extreme infection for Roo which required hospitalization. The stomach bug, I can deal-- it's part of life, right? The infection (ear infection gone to heck in a hand basket)-- Mastoiditis. Now this was just too close for comfort. </span></div>
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<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia.... </span></i></blockquote>
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<i><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b>Mastoiditis</b> is an inflammation of mucosal lining of mastoid antrum and mastoid air cell system inside<sup class="reference" id="cite_ref-0"><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mastoiditis#cite_note-0">[1]</a></sup> <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mastoid_process" title="Mastoid process">mastoid process</a>, the portion of the <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Temporal_bone" title="Temporal bone">temporal bone</a> of the <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Human_skull" title="Human skull">skull</a> that is behind the <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ear" title="Ear">ear</a> which contains open, <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mastoid_cells" title="Mastoid cells">air-containing spaces</a>.<sup class="reference" id="cite_ref-nih_1-0"><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mastoiditis#cite_note-nih-1">[2]</a></sup><sup class="reference" id="cite_ref-earinfections_2-0"><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mastoiditis#cite_note-earinfections-2">[3]</a></sup> It is usually caused by untreated acute <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Otitis_media" title="Otitis media">otitis media</a> (middle ear infection) and used to be a leading cause of child mortality. With the development of <a class="mw-redirect" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Antibiotic" title="Antibiotic">antibiotics</a>, however, mastoiditis has become quite rare in developed countries. It is treated with medications and/or surgery.<sup class="reference" id="cite_ref-nih_1-1"><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mastoiditis#cite_note-nih-1">[2]</a></sup> If untreated, the infection can spread to surrounding structures, including the <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brain" title="Brain">brain</a>, causing serious complications.<sup class="reference" id="cite_ref-emedicine_3-0"><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mastoiditis#cite_note-emedicine-3">[4]</a></sup></span></i></blockquote>
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<span style="font-size: small;">She literally was millimeters from having direct pocket of infection in her brain. That is a big 9-1-1, unequivocally. The thing that it is most sobering to me is the line "used to be a leading cause of child mortality". This could have been our child still today. <u>Because</u> Roo deals with ongoing damage to her immune system from vaccinations, systemic bacterial infections, prior toxic insults of: antibiotics (now allergic to), heavy metals, chemical exposures etc -- so she is used to LIVING IN PAIN. This is why she didn't tell me anything other than she had a headache & her tummy was starting to hurt the evening before I discovered her engorged ear. Her long blonde locks could simply flow over her ear enough to mask this looming threat.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">I feel it is so important to point this out, because she IS VERBAL (excessively sometimes & I say that with compassion, because we've only come from non-verbal, not all that long ago, with 3/4 of our four-some). Roo is considered to be extremely high functioning (for lack of any other descriptor). She can tell me she is in pain & yet she doesn't because that is her NORMAL. This makes my own stomach tumble with nausea.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">Children today affected with regressive onset of Autism or other neuro-immune disorders are medically SICK. I have 3 other children more verbally impacted by their regressive onset Autism, 2 profoundly (which I delineate in their spoken words are 90% basic needs and often they are unable to answer simple questions). I hear families in our own Autism community discussing how different Autism is from a low functioning child to a high functioning child. I'm here to tell you, yes- all kids ARE different, yet despite my own 4 being spread out on this *spectrum of injury*-- THEY ARE ALL STILL SICK KIDS. They live in pain. EVERYDAY. Roo is able to cry & tell me "I'm just never going to feel well" & my Bella can only cry & not indicate where/why. Both scenarios for a parent are torturous. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">I think we are missing the boat when we start focusing on where a child resides within the broad Autism spectrum, when really it should be where they are at medically. Yes, living with a child whom will smear feces on surroundings, themselves & otherwise is awful (we still live that somedays)-- yet, so is seeing a vibrant soul at age 6 shrink in such crippling anxiety because that is how her Autism affects her outward >behavior<, all from the sludge of the medical battle going on within. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">Parenting a child with high functioning Autism is not easier from parenting a child with low functioning Autism, when I look at it foundationally (medically that is). Behaviorally it is different, neither is easy. </span><span style="font-size: small;">Across all 4 of our Autistic children, we are still
searching, adjusting, researching, trialing each & every painstaking
intervention to support them the best we can. </span><span style="font-size: small;">I still have many people I have to spend excessive time with to educate on my highly verbal child's medical issues, even much more so because she is higher functioning. In summary, many people we come into contact with tend to judge Roo's behavior out of thinking she is being babied, or has a mother with Munchausen syndrome-- simply because Roo is able to talk & is a bright child. This is a sad misinterpretation of the truth. Furthermore, even she is unable to express effectively when she is in elevated PAIN. Half of her hospital stay this past weekend was filled with silence and me interpreting her body language because she could NOT verbalize even to basic yes/no questions.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">All this aside-- I am grateful, that God was with us once again & we discovered her infection in the nick of time. I am grateful she did not react adversely to the IV antibiotics which cross-reacts with a class she has become very allergic to. I am grateful, to have my girl still in my arms in this broken world. And, I am grateful that each of my children ARE HEALING, through the rescue recovery mission we have been on these past 4 years after discovering the MEDICAL foundation, under each of their presentations of regressive Autism.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">On the eve of Autism One, I cannot be anything but humbled seeing what my children endure daily. I had an absolute torturous day encompassing a pluthera of specialty appointments, yet my own whining is a fleck of dust in the sandstorm of challenges my babies power through each & EVERY day. Thank you God for giving them the tenacity you have, and me the ability to move forward with each of them, even if I am not graceful, I am moving. Thank you for the incredible loving spirits you have equipped each of our babies with. And THANK YOU Lord, for carrying us to HEALING because I feel you with me. In YOUR name, LORD, I Celebrate YOUR HEALING work.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">My prayers for the many new families at Autism One (and everywhere on this journey) is that you will walk away with Hope and the next single step to take to helping your child recover. That's all you need-- the hope, will & love to reach your child. God Bless. </span></div>Momma Thttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14649149387953221319noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8412165074019338042.post-7892414378144419402012-04-17T09:45:00.002-05:002012-04-17T21:47:06.084-05:00Celebrating the soul within - an account of S-bear<div class="MsoNormal"><span style="color: #1f497d; font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt;">In February 2011, an au pair came to reside with us. We took a huge leap of faith to make a bold financial commitment & do this for the purpose of helping us implement fully our SonRise therapy for our children, and also get the help we so desperately needed. P. was with us for 8 of 12 months, when she relocated to another state and family au pair assignment. It was a huge transition for us because we were not prepared. For those of you reading this which have children on the autism spectrum-- you know the shock waves of ramifications I'm eluding to. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="color: #1f497d; font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt;">Anyhow, P. left our home in October of 2011 and just a few weeks ago (nearly 6 months later), out of the complete blue, S-bear asked me, “Mom, does P. live in China?” I said, “Well, she is from China.” I paused to see if he would express more about what he was thinking about. He just sat there at the kitchen table reading his books for a few minutes, then he said to me, “Mom, is P. coming home soon?”</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="color: #1f497d; font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt;">This whole spontaneous conversation blew me away, because it was completely random, and when P. was here, S-bear didn't outwardly show much of a connection with with her. For one, he is less expressive </span><span style="color: #1f497d; font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt;">outwardly </span><span style="color: #1f497d; font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt;">(it's only been about 20 months since he first uttered a 3 word sentence for something beyond a basic need); secondly, he has such sensory challenges that he doesn't tend to show emotional attachment beyond Momma & Daddy. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="color: #1f497d; font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt;">S-bear is truly changing & really <u>healing</u>. We are so grateful for his healing. This reminded me again & showed me how his feelings have always been there inside & that he had truly bonded with P., just in a way that maybe wasn’t as identifiable outwardly to us around him. This is a very teachable lesson for me & such a blessing because it absolutely fuels me to always keep on the road of S-bear's recovery. ENDLESSLY.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="color: #1f497d; font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt;">Even further, it reminds me to celebrate the beautiful soul he is, TODAY and everyday forward-- right where he is in each day (without judgement, assumptions, and full respect that he 100% is complete). Every inch of the iceberg of my son, S-bear, which is revealed as it comes above the water level of autism is a gift, and everything below water level I do not comprehend <u>is also a gift</u> ; &, by God's plan and direction we WILL see our boy's whole spirit & being through our faith & service.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="color: #1f497d; font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3uOBbBEIjJO0nqQJrRTUQsJYiDiB5ClAz1gQErN9w4W7_P7MkGrYXEhhZ6jrDPL6CkOMujeL16iQAU4KBFaitM738PJ_dIi0I5dX3ULD0MR5wol5Mp1keW6OY3hNfmfVXQXLcs-HpmPIr/s1600/Sullivan+Spring+2012.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3uOBbBEIjJO0nqQJrRTUQsJYiDiB5ClAz1gQErN9w4W7_P7MkGrYXEhhZ6jrDPL6CkOMujeL16iQAU4KBFaitM738PJ_dIi0I5dX3ULD0MR5wol5Mp1keW6OY3hNfmfVXQXLcs-HpmPIr/s320/Sullivan+Spring+2012.jpg" width="228" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="color: #1f497d; font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt;"></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="color: #1f497d; font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt;"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #1f497d; font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt;">I love you my beautiful, beautiful, beautiful boy.</span></div>Momma Thttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14649149387953221319noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8412165074019338042.post-23468811408715314042012-04-07T10:04:00.002-05:002012-04-07T10:08:03.821-05:00The power of Music<div style="color: purple; font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">My daughter is 6 years old, has Asperger's syndrome, an Autism spectrum disorder. Outside of the medical foundation of her diagnosis, for her this behaviorally manifests in her: extreme anxiety, agoraphobia, rigidity of rules, need for sameness, extreme sensitivities to stimuli (sound, light, etc), difficulty with spontaneous interactions outside our home (& sometimes within), a brilliant mind with severe social deficits, including her self-knowledge of her being *different* & struggles with balanced self esteem because of.</div><div style="color: purple; font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div style="color: purple; font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">When she regressed, she hated being sung to-- it was such a weird thing because it's a normal comforting action to soothe your distressed child with song, as a parent. She would scream, cry & tantrum. Years later, she herself would sing, but no one could sing to her. It was then our Developmental-Music Therapist told me that she had a remarkable ability for pitch (2 years old). I knew this was because she has such hypersensitivity to sound, she hears things I cannot, including accurate pitch. </div><div style="color: purple; font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div style="color: purple; font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Anyhow, it's 4 years later & Roo just began to work with one of our Earth angels, the same dedicated Music therapist-DT that has been with us for the past 4+ years. It has taken 6 weeks of time with the therapist to do what I'm going share with you. Yesterday, Roo told her MT that she wanted to lead the song, made up the endings to the verses & made eye contact with her the entire time. She was confident, engaged & her true personality shined through. I love this little girl & am grateful for the blessing of the gifts and healing energy of one very talented Music-Developmental therapist. We love you Stacey! Thank you for keeping on knocking on my door-- you are a powerfully positive anchor in this journey.</div><div style="color: purple; font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div style="color: purple; font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">The following is proof that Music therapy offers healing, growth to everyone-- even the Mommy & Daddy of the client. Now if I could just stop the happy tears... =></div><div style="color: purple; font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div style="color: purple;"><b><a href="http://dl.dropbox.com/u/50861901/down%20by%20the%20bay.mp3" style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;" target="_blank">click here ----> Roo singing "Down by the Bay"</a></b></div>Momma Thttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14649149387953221319noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8412165074019338042.post-70241084975701869042012-04-06T14:06:00.001-05:002012-04-07T06:53:08.707-05:00The fight of this world... philosophical thoughtsAs much as I know there are blessings all around us & our family is taking action to provide for, heal, and truly celebrate our tribe of 4 young <u>extra</u>-ordinary kids-- IT (the reality of the life we fight for daily) still stinks at times. I feel it's important to vocalize this, because more & more I am aware our fast paced American culture trains us to push away and suppress the feelings and thoughts which are negative or unpleasant. A perfect analogy of this is the overall health epidemic spreading like wildfire throughout our nations' children (encompassing asthma, juvenile diabetes, allergies, cancer, mental illness/mood disorders, neurological injury spanning everything from ALS to Epilepsy to Autism). I have blogged a lot on the topic within the previous sentence, yet my purpose today is to go beyond this, as I believe the individual epidemics alone do not account for the burden, despair & fears real people feel today.<br />
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It has been a very emotional struggle personally these past 3 months, and not really due to any one issue. If I were to focus down and look in summation of challenges that have contributed to this struggle for me, I'd say-- lack of connection, feeling of isolation, and feeling no one can possibly understand what it is to live this life, <u>my life</u>, <b><i>our life</i></b> day in and day out. The exhaustion, the worry, the constant triage of 4 very complicated little humans, plus mine and my husband's health challenges, not even getting to our needs. <u>The feeling of time passing by & just making it</u>. The daily effort it requires to "sustain" any form of acceptable quality of life, all while managing the constant tide of NEEDS of the children, the home, the family, the bank, the world we exist in.<br />
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Take out the fact that our family has 4 children with extreme medical, daily care, and overall supportive needs-- I think ANYONE can relate to feelings of "disconnection, isolation, and being alone". It happens to everyone at some point/time in their journey, regardless of the challenges of their earthly circumstances. I am reminded of this Life fact, by knowing, feeling & experiencing not only our own hardships-- but seeing it in so many people outside of my home. This reflection makes me think, wonder & ponder our human nature, and perhaps our selfish limitations of being mortal. If we acted in the love of our Father, and built the communities upon His Love as He desires would we be so lost?? My thought-- NO. We are all subjects within a broken world and yet we have the power to overcome, connect & support each-other in our journey HERE. Frankly, I think it's evident that our own human race survival depends on this very Intended communal design.<br />
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I think about the Moms & Dads that have shared the road in pursuing healing for their injured children (like E. & I); & how that sliver of mankind is a community which has truly supported one another, as I believe God knows we can do... only we can do so on a much grander scale. Regardless of our challenges, beliefs, and subsequent judgements... we are all in this world together. Don't we want to make it better, sustainable, a global village of honor and human integrity? Even though there are times, I'm truly at my bottom - I still believe that if we each think of this Life from our Creator's viewpoint (or whatever higher power you believe in) <u>we would see the hope that will be actualized by real communities of people taking action to make a difference, not just for today, but for always</u>. We humans (in search of control?), create divisions amongst ourselves and allow empowered hierarchies to further segregate us, rule (just & unjustly), and take our collective human brother/sisterhood of power. However; we often overlook that we together truly posses the power, innate love and the divine nature to overcome these obstacles in union, community for all brothers and sisters... if we only see the bigger picture. God's picture.<br />
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This alone gives me hope & helps me make sense of the challenges we all face. Doesn't mean it's all glorious, and makes me realize the *feelings* we have been gifted with can be catalysts for positive change, if only we recognize & process them, rather than pushing them away. Our feelings and senses are the intuitive means for perseverance, building a better tomorrow.<br />
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Don't give up; the devil is hoping we will. However, our: children, neighbors, family & friends are all counting on that we <b>won't. Ever. GIVE-UP</b>. <br />
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Happy Easter. The wishes of happiness and health, through rebirth to all-- starting with each self.<br />
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Momma T.Momma Thttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14649149387953221319noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8412165074019338042.post-23990510531742987952012-03-31T16:56:00.010-05:002012-04-01T15:21:47.676-05:00Autism - Not a genetic disease<span style="color: blue; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Autism isn't a genetic disease, as Autism Speaks (R) touts. It is caused by the systematic environmental attack of the immune, central nervous, and neurological systems from the first day of life, and even while in utero. There are genetic vulnerabilities, if you can consider what we pass along cellularly outside of DNA: the toxic waste of mercury, other heavy metals, infection, viruses, and all the chemicals we as parents cumulatively carry... which then are passed to our baby. </span><br />
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<span style="color: blue; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">As an expectant carrying mother, we detox to our unborn children in utero. This is the first environmental hit. Add to that mass vaccinations (containing poisons like mercury, formeldahyde & aluminum; not to mention biological matter sourced from aborted fetuses, pig, monkey, etc and so much more!) on an immature immune system, the convenient pharmaceuticals prescribed to clean up the immunization's after affects (ear infections, respiratory ailments, unexplained skin erruptions, etc etc), the processed garbage in our national food system (genetically modified food, harmful preservatives, petroleum based food dyes, synthetic carcenogenic sweeteners, plus toxic elements everywhere (from the fillings in our teeth, fluoridated public water, household cleaners, chemicals doused on our lawn living spaces, e-smog, etc). The assaults on our human existence are infinite. </span><br />
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<span style="color: blue; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">If Autism were genetic, there would be genetic lineage traced in families, spanning generations. Instead, we are now living in the Biohazard Corruption of all times, with greed as the ultimate evil. Our healthcare system/providers are funded and trained to prescribe and vaccinate (by the Pharma corps which fund the medical training programs). Even our own Federal Vaccine Injury Court has granted immunity to the Pharma companies producing vaccines, so they will not be held accountable for the injury caused. How can any of this be ethical, legal, or simply allowed?</span><br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong><em><span style="font-size: large;">INDUSTRIAL CORRUPTION, GOVERNMENT ENDORSEMENT OF SAID CORRUPTION, SCIENTIFIC CONFLICT OF INTEREST & DENIAL, plus MONETARY GREED</span></em></strong> </span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><span style="color: blue;">causes <u>the condition called Autism</u>. </span></span><br />
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<span style="color: blue;"></span></span><span style="color: blue; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">These are <u><strong>my</strong></u> children. They were not born with Autism. They regressed into a *state* of Autism (you know, the behaviors one exhibits to be diagnosed with an ASD). I had no idea of the medical foundation of complications within Autism upon our 1st diagnosis, yet have learned in a turbo tidal wave these past five & a half years, in order to reclaim my children.</span><br />
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<span style="color: blue; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Bella was born with Trisomy 21, a heart defect & an engaging personality larger than life.</span><br />
<span style="color: blue;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><img border="0" dea="true" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgec7yLTRUUf9xcEu60NlhSeoDq-FCTV2BUtY5nqlIeZ5ZFFu_bmN05nyGwx3he73masv3ApTl2A49Jh2vQ4mL_vpFlOZwuGbyi8JbgKkyPXQ9BHI0HlB69YmoZaYvUIxF8jObKwc07KQ_G/s400/DSC01619.jpg" width="300" /></span> </span><br />
<span style="color: blue; font-family: Trebuchet MS;">She was not born with Autism. She is now 1 in 88*. </span><br />
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"> <span style="font-size: x-small;">*the # the CDC now reports as the incidence of Autism (which doesn't account for kids under the age of 12. My children are all under 9 years old).</span></span></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
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<span style="color: blue; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Sbear & Roo are twins whom were born premature, yet healthy weights with no assistance needed after birth & no health issues. They developed beautifully, were vibrantly interactive, affectionate & full of spunkiness. </span><br />
<span style="color: blue; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"> <img border="0" dea="true" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKll8avHny0O7wYYVyJyJYCCD_o0TYJMeWWgZcvb5UQqkftlSJfJs_-6BrDz0QqRDSgiLwmo6h-i3A_u-fkd3bJyDaihmkix9Z4-M0AAGbY42yYaEQKQaMSDY66aUQaT8hpMRevOmvj6AT/s400/19.67.jpg" width="400" /> </span><br />
<span style="color: blue; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">They weren't born with Autism. They're now 2 in 88.</span><br />
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<span style="color: blue; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">SJ was a healthy full term baby. She was as sweet as the day is long, and a virtual superstar in development.</span><br />
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<span style="color: blue; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><img border="0" dea="true" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuu6fFqcg17bYmegcuK8Q9lxB0946cPWw0F9cxPf2ggUREchvsWZEXKsfigvzYPZ-5IiOiLLR3Km1Ki4E7FUBFMzK84iMQ_O6ONSEfdEXjWXIzponZYBo1qrnRIsFhAsrPtMTAYtJILoSR/s320/61.JPG" width="320" /> </span><br />
<span style="color: blue; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">She was not born with Autism. She is now 1 in 88.</span><br />
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<span style="color: blue; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">HOW ELSE DO I KNOW AUTIM IS NOT GENETIC? </span><br />
<span style="color: blue; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">They (our kids) are healing, improving, recovering as we work diligently to address the cumulative medical complications of their <strong><em>health injuries</em></strong>. If it were genetic, they would be static, because haven't you heard??... There is no cure for what is called "Autism".</span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><em>----------------------------------> from a remarkable group educating and advocating for the rights of humankind, including our most precious resource - our children. Please read below. </em></span></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
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<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">"1 in 88 does not even count children under 12. Hundreds of thousand of kids. Yours and ours. PLEASE. Educate! stand up...and FIGHT FOR THEM! Respectfully, LJ Goes (the rev)" </span><a href="https://www.facebook.com/#!/groups/293322685425/" target="_blank"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">from TACA-IL on facebook.com</span></a></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
<span style="color: black;"></span></span></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">read/watch here -----> </span><a href="http://thinkingmomsrevolution.com/the-thinking-moms-children/" target="_blank"><span style="background-color: yellow; color: black; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><strong>OUR CHILDREN</strong></span></a></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; text-align: center;"><span style="color: black;"><br />
</span></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; text-align: center;"><br />
<span style="color: #660000; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><strong><em>Now imagine one of these innocent faces </em></strong></span><br />
<span style="color: #660000; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><strong><em>were one of YOURs. </em></strong></span></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #660000; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><strong><em>Your son, daughter, grandchild, etc.</em></strong></span></div>Momma Thttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14649149387953221319noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8412165074019338042.post-46025198344520043462012-03-15T20:14:00.009-05:002012-03-31T22:21:10.853-05:00The Story of Roo - her road to autism<div style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">She's 6, part diva, part princess with a rainbow of colors in between. Roo is a twin, technically a middle child though developmentally the eldest. From the day she was born she was delicate, almost fragile. Demanding, intense, yet the sweetest baby girl. Her Uncle Shawn summed it up best when he described our little Irish lass as having devil horns to hold up her halo. Despite being born 6 weeks early, a twin, and under 5 lbs when she first came home - she has always had a warrior's strength/spirit.</span></div><div style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggkpgnERfYNMgWHhRjMVhjNFcvh0J0PJwfyPL8kjruVFHPfiyUcCekebnirWZNp6iB1sme2u-_N3c2cT5_b-KwMJtHTcDJJJeaQMbiEM14DlbOGWdI5MMby23MA_duYusG9nuTuFVQLvC8/s1600/17.1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div><div style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEjhoHX87wnIwVgQ9RZaH7NwuOXXeEU7ZB-iySaM2M2eP3e5ABa6eujmGB5MDUqBRGFmACvpCrUJcI3rHtrv0YcV6n0UQgkI3ALa_WYR2_tFVQVsmy6TW19sP1qpjkOFfOLNWdLPf5xW2j/s1600/Copy+of+100_0388.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEjhoHX87wnIwVgQ9RZaH7NwuOXXeEU7ZB-iySaM2M2eP3e5ABa6eujmGB5MDUqBRGFmACvpCrUJcI3rHtrv0YcV6n0UQgkI3ALa_WYR2_tFVQVsmy6TW19sP1qpjkOFfOLNWdLPf5xW2j/s320/Copy+of+100_0388.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4gkL8DFzG3r-q3oVj20wTYfLfPaz9OXDjcjgbeId7ugpvrrEjrnsbMTV2yHGfuAsBlsMAwl8Ue6aWCagWRShod8yXaNBQqP8adH_GWvimJSbUb_bM_acWF3uGvhPaiDt0D1IGA3Mdfwx-/s1600/17.1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> </a></div></div><div style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span></div><div style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">At 6 weeks she was hospitalized with RSV. It was the start of a long chain of medical events she has encountered day in and out since then. She was often extremely fussy even when there were not explained outward signs of sickness. Other times she would get peculiar rashes, sunken dark circled eyes, a never ending runny nose, and blistering diaper rashes, despite chemical free: detergents, baby wash, diapers and homemade wipes.</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4gkL8DFzG3r-q3oVj20wTYfLfPaz9OXDjcjgbeId7ugpvrrEjrnsbMTV2yHGfuAsBlsMAwl8Ue6aWCagWRShod8yXaNBQqP8adH_GWvimJSbUb_bM_acWF3uGvhPaiDt0D1IGA3Mdfwx-/s1600/17.1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4gkL8DFzG3r-q3oVj20wTYfLfPaz9OXDjcjgbeId7ugpvrrEjrnsbMTV2yHGfuAsBlsMAwl8Ue6aWCagWRShod8yXaNBQqP8adH_GWvimJSbUb_bM_acWF3uGvhPaiDt0D1IGA3Mdfwx-/s320/17.1.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4n0AeTdBnfzxjjik-LxiimzO1b7eeLyv79UwTNm1EHlAee1WP0Y-fIVxVJzFm3MXzBO6Y5NKlnma6xUQvoL8IdE_lXL543WfOXZ6Ryh_crrcmyBGywCwm4biwQoF4Jky12184uBs3Xemy/s1600/18.4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4n0AeTdBnfzxjjik-LxiimzO1b7eeLyv79UwTNm1EHlAee1WP0Y-fIVxVJzFm3MXzBO6Y5NKlnma6xUQvoL8IdE_lXL543WfOXZ6Ryh_crrcmyBGywCwm4biwQoF4Jky12184uBs3Xemy/s320/18.4.jpg" width="239" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJW-ds9M5kY72SINxEzzRgilC099ocJ1IXu9ygVF3RPJzAF1pfO4jwYd_gGtTN81LQsEhHNVo4iP9eaqQXMEzlxNrFYZ3W6jqW3N_neKD09_N88y_Tv6igA-Y5g80OSU7YL1ffMxJASNgl/s1600/asd+3-07a+020.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><span style="font-size: small;"> Each well baby check in which she was vaccinated, 2 or more sick visits followed. Endless crying, overall notable discomfort, rashes and infections that were treated by her pediatrician's direction, with antibiotics, steroids, pain relievers, and a virtual slew of other pharmaceuticals. I was naive, overwhelmed with 3 children under 2.5 years of age. My eldest child, Roo's big sister, already had extremely complicated medical issues ongoing and a developmental delays associated with Down syndrome. In that time, I couldn't see the forest for the trees. All of the now glaring signs of Roo's intolerance of her vaccinations, in hindsight were buried amongst the chaos of caring for psuedo-triplets, while 85% of the time I was solo in doing so. I was nursing preemie twins, and caring for a toddler whom had profound special needs. Meanwhile, back in that time, I wasn't connecting the downward slope of my Roo's health, and I thought we were doing everything we could, as we were always under the pediatrician's roof. Even so, the unexplained fevers, watery eyes, clear runny nose, asthma, colic, diarrhea, skin erruptions... by 1 year the list was long. </span></div><div style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJW-ds9M5kY72SINxEzzRgilC099ocJ1IXu9ygVF3RPJzAF1pfO4jwYd_gGtTN81LQsEhHNVo4iP9eaqQXMEzlxNrFYZ3W6jqW3N_neKD09_N88y_Tv6igA-Y5g80OSU7YL1ffMxJASNgl/s1600/asd+3-07a+020.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJW-ds9M5kY72SINxEzzRgilC099ocJ1IXu9ygVF3RPJzAF1pfO4jwYd_gGtTN81LQsEhHNVo4iP9eaqQXMEzlxNrFYZ3W6jqW3N_neKD09_N88y_Tv6igA-Y5g80OSU7YL1ffMxJASNgl/s400/asd+3-07a+020.jpg" width="286" /></a><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></div></div><div style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span></div><div style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">At 13 months, Roo's twin (S-bear) regressed sharply into autism following his last group of vaccinations. The twins had received 9 total in that well baby appointment, including the MMR. For the first time her twin became more sick than she; he was feverish, lethargic, had crazy night waking, loss of language, stopped smiling and looking toward his name being called, nearly oblivious to our existence, etc. His extreme decline masked Roo's less drastic slope downward. I was frantic at what had occurred with our son's plummet into regression. I spoke to our pediatrician multiple times, specialists, and was told over & over, there is no connection between vaccines and autism. It was shortly after this time when we were surprised with news of our last pregnancy. </span></div><div style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span></div><div style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">After her 13 month vaccinations, Roo's existing medical issues ramped up and she began to cry at sudden/unexpected/ high pitched noises, didn't like to be sung too, made fleeting eye contact, resisted affection, and often struggled to simply be still. I was always brought back to an explanation that "she was a preemie, her immune system is premature too. She will catch up. She's sensitive... It's her personality." She was/is sensitive, but its the bio-chemical/physical sensitivities she had which lead to her neurological and physical regression. It was a slow slope until 3.5 years old when she fell off the canyon wall, full on into hard regression.</span><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"> </span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-tM07Ixsr9yA_GOPFRd5iiF691aPqWzizW9teG76GXOUCO4i-qk0qIi2KtmfTqVej73YdfLQkUp8jBH0E_WC3DMMvswn8eYMytjCW7yyInHwrhoWQIbUOcqDZ8_XnZeo91Gu53bhQ65Qf/s1600/Steff+chicken.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-tM07Ixsr9yA_GOPFRd5iiF691aPqWzizW9teG76GXOUCO4i-qk0qIi2KtmfTqVej73YdfLQkUp8jBH0E_WC3DMMvswn8eYMytjCW7yyInHwrhoWQIbUOcqDZ8_XnZeo91Gu53bhQ65Qf/s320/Steff+chicken.JPG" width="227" /></a></div></div><div style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span></div><div style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">She wasn't always so impacted, but the cumulative medical (immune system) damage had been done by the same tipping point of her twin, in the first year of vaccinations. By 15 months she was very verbal - knew her alphabet and numbers, by 18 months - speaking in fluid conversation by 2 years. Her twin was non verbal then. Around 18 months she would talk to herself about her hands hurting, ask herself "are you ok?" then would recite to herself the words of comfort in a script as I would typically do in reassurance to her. A complete blood work up revealed a big fat nothing and the pediatrician told me likely she was seeking attention over her siblings. Yes, she was demanding of my attention, although she wasn't seeking attention for this, because she was speaking to herself not knowing I saw her. This is when I began to look outside western medicine in a much broader scope. We went to a highly recommended Naturopath MD around this time for all 3 of the children to get food allergy testing done & in addition began working on healing their inflammed and damaged gastro-intestinal systems. They became a little better in behavior & sleep, although it was a long road. More on this in another post.</span></div><div style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span></div><div style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_SSA080er9m7nNXocsT6iBIqly7O9qcMfvXnrwiG5U2PM8_ZqwiSEHnbbI31u6wn-3bYgYLQ9WRgCtfqq0MM7YTcmyOUN2ZLe-NNfAAVL_jVPJL8ZFmJuZPj4mseCY9Reogqy9BOgs4YM/s1600/1+-+sacked+out+post-op.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_SSA080er9m7nNXocsT6iBIqly7O9qcMfvXnrwiG5U2PM8_ZqwiSEHnbbI31u6wn-3bYgYLQ9WRgCtfqq0MM7YTcmyOUN2ZLe-NNfAAVL_jVPJL8ZFmJuZPj4mseCY9Reogqy9BOgs4YM/s320/1+-+sacked+out+post-op.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHq-nW24HerqR2oGB-AsfPNmyMIlMZlXLmv1OQxF8_gTP2p8go5RlcFJHtsaORuSCwXQ1zwGv7ilTgb7qjGEzzxArTFeMq4BREU6ROhVP78WyB8l4jq5TuG78EvUh9B8JQwCFnkm-XXygE/s1600/roo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div><span style="font-size: small;">Roo continued to be susceptible to all & any virus, which often turned into an infection. Her environmental allergies were immense (atop the numerous food allergies) & she generally always looked tired. Her little immune system had been nuked and we did so much to keep her stable, although again, it was such a circus having now 2 kids in Early Intervention therapy & 3, under the age of 3; while expecting our 4th baby. Special diets, crazy routines that seemed like rituals to just survive the "need for sameness" of Sbear & Bella (really Roo, too). I'm sure, a lot of our family thought we were crazy-- we were nearly so, but not because of the things we chose to *take care* of our children. Our sanity was challenged by the energy, physical, mental, emotional, financial & overall life exhaustion that came along with it. We didn't see the choices of their special diets, supplements, intense therapy, & all the intricate details of their care, as a choice. They deserved our utmost support & how could we choose otherwise knowing all of it helped them.</span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHq-nW24HerqR2oGB-AsfPNmyMIlMZlXLmv1OQxF8_gTP2p8go5RlcFJHtsaORuSCwXQ1zwGv7ilTgb7qjGEzzxArTFeMq4BREU6ROhVP78WyB8l4jq5TuG78EvUh9B8JQwCFnkm-XXygE/s1600/roo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHq-nW24HerqR2oGB-AsfPNmyMIlMZlXLmv1OQxF8_gTP2p8go5RlcFJHtsaORuSCwXQ1zwGv7ilTgb7qjGEzzxArTFeMq4BREU6ROhVP78WyB8l4jq5TuG78EvUh9B8JQwCFnkm-XXygE/s320/roo.jpg" width="320" /></a></div></div><div style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Because Roo's immune system was so poor & her health so complex, she got to a point at 3.5 years old when she harshly crashed. Her body was simply worn out, by constantly working overtime just to be. She got a virus that spiked very high fevers, couldn't walk, didn't eat. I had to syringe water/pedialyte into her mouth in very small amounts around the clock to keep her hydrated. We had two ER trips over a couple weeks time, in addition to the regular pediatrician visits, the second ER trip ended in an ambulance ride, as she was unresponsive to spoken language or our touch & she appeared to be hallucinating. The ER physician said she looked septic, and she was whisked away to the nearest Children's hospital. We were released later that evening after IV fluids, oxygen & nebulizer treatments, but she was far from better.</span></div><div style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUOX23v8ysCw3NhfXAKWyLFXLjrsusiClBLCDC5TzjJL0EFVbOZ9CIwJ_KlRENF-IOLnvHehXrsOYOkbu9_C5FZ3S2G-VGSc-S2zCRA2laz2HPOfVabX5LwNPWC5AXWQr3QSm0bIOFNNbG/s1600/3+-+Steff.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUOX23v8ysCw3NhfXAKWyLFXLjrsusiClBLCDC5TzjJL0EFVbOZ9CIwJ_KlRENF-IOLnvHehXrsOYOkbu9_C5FZ3S2G-VGSc-S2zCRA2laz2HPOfVabX5LwNPWC5AXWQr3QSm0bIOFNNbG/s320/3+-+Steff.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><div style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br />
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</span></div><div style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Fevers remained intermittent & she still could not sustain any energy. She completely lost her toilet training, with continuous daytime wetting; when she had been previously 100% potty trained day & night time for over 6 months. The following month's time brought a loss of her bowel control. We saw several specialists, but a neurologist was never recommended. Meanwhile, I still had other children with extreme needs at home to manage. Her kidney damage was diagnosed and information from the treating physicians was frankly useless.</span></div><div style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgY7emRp6fFL6LO3JthvaWLoa0WDHxQWWu54xJHmMkeLplnMs-3I0cKEJv0WUa9vrDGfYseLo0LldVF1hHMKDsK7u8hzLwFCYqU9EVvW5GjrFvwx4CmSnm_5yYoLHCg_zRx5k5lExwLcVKP/s1600/roo3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgY7emRp6fFL6LO3JthvaWLoa0WDHxQWWu54xJHmMkeLplnMs-3I0cKEJv0WUa9vrDGfYseLo0LldVF1hHMKDsK7u8hzLwFCYqU9EVvW5GjrFvwx4CmSnm_5yYoLHCg_zRx5k5lExwLcVKP/s320/roo3.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span></div><div style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Roo's social connectedness became much more disjointed. She had difficulty relating to others in her peer group, preferred only adults. Separation anxiety & just anxiety became major obstacles. Her sensory challenges were even more so amplified. This In itself triggered her anxiety & it was a vicious cycle. She spoke much more in scripts repeating entire dialouges in proper contexts, just as I would have said them to her. She had difficulty expressing spontaneous speech, recalling information and answering simple questions. Her mind was brilliant, yet she lacked empathy, resisted touch & affection. Her self-inflicted rules were specific & not even remotely flexible. All these other things that followed the major physical, medical regression, left her in the category of Autism. Her official diagnosis came on her 4th birthday following 3 days of intense neuropsych evaluation.She wasn't even the same child outside our home, especially at school-- she chose to be silent & withdrawn. The evaluating doctor first told me she thought she was "selectively mute" after the initial school room visit. My heart sank, because I knew how much she must have struggled at school, while the staff there must have just thought she was intensely shy. That representation of Roo was the complete opposite of her abilities and her personality. At home she was a dominating conversationalist & a force to be reckoned with. I wonder how many *high functioning* kids slip through the cracks in this regard.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-tM07Ixsr9yA_GOPFRd5iiF691aPqWzizW9teG76GXOUCO4i-qk0qIi2KtmfTqVej73YdfLQkUp8jBH0E_WC3DMMvswn8eYMytjCW7yyInHwrhoWQIbUOcqDZ8_XnZeo91Gu53bhQ65Qf/s1600/Steff+chicken.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9PyuShNO9RJoF7QII45lffZ4RwhVKKRlw261oKn7V8AyrsvwCoaDAl1IpgSj-kDyD2544tfKpVNTAB0liZtZ5ApcMg2sy5uinAC0f1ntlFTRS5nRO5MGVQK3LA7OsnBbfVefde1EopG3a/s1600/z+-+Steff+tractor.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9PyuShNO9RJoF7QII45lffZ4RwhVKKRlw261oKn7V8AyrsvwCoaDAl1IpgSj-kDyD2544tfKpVNTAB0liZtZ5ApcMg2sy5uinAC0f1ntlFTRS5nRO5MGVQK3LA7OsnBbfVefde1EopG3a/s320/z+-+Steff+tractor.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh56IssAlqMIs-xRGFLWgNrPbcYWqnGJURUtl1chNPvJG3QokupK7et5c08pD3VJussiYHkB6QX5lVaxDVQ_AznxhLsmY-SPScT6UCF_ihJyolP0SfYuEEcM7XGEYY-vYbmLOUQ8s7HV8Qm/s1600/roo+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="306" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh56IssAlqMIs-xRGFLWgNrPbcYWqnGJURUtl1chNPvJG3QokupK7et5c08pD3VJussiYHkB6QX5lVaxDVQ_AznxhLsmY-SPScT6UCF_ihJyolP0SfYuEEcM7XGEYY-vYbmLOUQ8s7HV8Qm/s320/roo+2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span></div><div style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Two and a half years later, she has come a long way. We have spent that time diligently working on all aspects of her health. She falls into the autism spectrum near Asperger's syndrome. Health is still her number one struggle and the medical issues are deeply entwined into her presentation of Autism. She is recovering, progressing, and blossoming. </span><span style="font-size: small;">It is just a delicate dance between the setbacks of her fragile health. </span><span style="font-size: small;">Her challenges are still REAL, and though perhaps subtle to those not familiar with the spectrum of Autism and all the intricacies involved, her struggles cause her much stress. She is a warrior disguised as a princess. She is a success driven angel who strives to be better everyday. I am proud of you, my darling Roo & I will never give up on helping you heal. xoxo Momma</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYSN072M9D8x3G54DsbC9EldGiL_IAuAaC0l6wdAAKvlMCkHz5GX4wA1DvZGtEqZT_mpwTJRG3fHCTj_Byeiat1XhzLuSeoMtwrR7altRWnyHQ-MLGOZc7xMPo2_3I5KVdQ2zpJCG6-CfT/s1600/Steffani+BW.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYSN072M9D8x3G54DsbC9EldGiL_IAuAaC0l6wdAAKvlMCkHz5GX4wA1DvZGtEqZT_mpwTJRG3fHCTj_Byeiat1XhzLuSeoMtwrR7altRWnyHQ-MLGOZc7xMPo2_3I5KVdQ2zpJCG6-CfT/s640/Steffani+BW.jpg" width="488" /></a></div><div style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br />
</div>Momma Thttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14649149387953221319noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8412165074019338042.post-87379772560108484022012-02-04T21:42:00.000-06:002012-02-04T21:42:13.319-06:00Cannot believe it is February!This life often seems like a blur. Not in a negative way, in a house with 4 little kids, 3 schools, 5 teachers, 11 regular therapists, many helpers/visitors at any given time, a momma, daddy, and Mercy our 3 month old puppy. Not to mention outside the home work, let's not forget about that, and the diligent routine of health supports doctors appointments needed ongoing. <br />
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When things are going steady on the health front we have 6 hours of general maintainence doctoring, plus another 4 hours of travel time on top in one month. Plus some sort of diagnostic checkup whether be for hip dysphasia, eyes, dental, cardiology, ent, endocrine, urologist, bloodwork etc etc. When health is on the decline we have weeks like the past 6 encompassing additional sick visits of two/week on average, weighing important decisions of damage a medication may cause vs benefit, very needy little ones, and a sleepless mom and dad. Ongoing fevers, remedies and sick supports, laundry laundry and more laundry, cabin fever, and a good month plus of missed school due to illness across these 4 babes. Did I mention stress? I think I can take Vitals on my kids nearly telepathically.<br />
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Anyhow, all that to be said. February is Here! Whew, it's amazing how time flies and we survive. :-) Couldnt resist that last part. Hubby and I are coming up on our 16th wedding anniversary. We have seen a lot in that time, gained a lot of insight, acquired unexpected knowledge, and yes we have a relatively advanced aging involved, but we are still kicking and doing and learning. I can't imagine my life without him, as demanding as it can be on us individually and together, he is my love and partner. I think back to 1992 when we met-- wow, no words for the journey other than nothing I ever could have imagined. I am grateful for this man and God's blessing of him to me.Momma Thttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14649149387953221319noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8412165074019338042.post-48766831009414500932012-01-23T04:07:00.000-06:002012-01-24T06:15:36.969-06:002012 Here we go!So it's nearly 4AM and I have been awake since 2AM, when Bella first came downstairs. She has this darned Influenza virus that has blazed a trail through the family, so I am sure she awoke from the head congestion or body aches. My entire back and neck feel like I have fallen from a third story onto the ground below. Anyhow, I am awake, which is a normal for me in this house... But even worse miserably so (yes, I am whining).<br />
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It has been a brutal week and a half of illness. Roo and Sbear first spiked temps last Monday and Sbear is still not well. He rarely runs fevers and especially not to the tune of 104. Makes me nervous even though I know his body is doing its job to fight off the viral invader. Takes me back to a not so distant memory segment when he first became so sick following 7 vaccinations he was given at 12 months of age. For 2 weeks he had intense fevers with no explanation. We had multiple ER trips with no source or explanation for his smoking high fevers, so the ER doc sent us home with an antibiotic. This makes my gut ill now as I recall the details. No medical professional ever asked if he had recently been vaccinated. Unfortunately I was clueless and the damage had been done. Roo's descent was more subtle into the autism abyss.<br />
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I spent some reading this weekend "Thinking in pictures" by Dr. Temple Grandin, an individual with high functioning autism. It has been extremely informative to see inside her world and hear her words, explanations, and research on how an autistic mind works. It also has been a bit emotional as a Momma to read about the unpleasant feelings, emotions, and even overall brain damage and have it apply to all four of your children. It is a stop and pause on how truly atypical our family is, for me. I am submerged into our reality so deep that I don't often see it from the outside in. Seeing my husband sick himself and me feeling strained makes me wonder how I don't feel hopeless the majority of the time. I guess it is a mystery blessing that I needn't understand. I just pray for healing and health for all 6 of us.Momma Thttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14649149387953221319noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8412165074019338042.post-36018736362786905872011-12-06T19:48:00.000-06:002011-12-06T19:53:02.950-06:00Something EVERY parent & red-blooded American should watch... share with others for EDUCATION<div style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">I wish I had the privilege of this knowledge prior to vaccinating my children. Then I could have actually made an *informed choice* & asked questions, seen signs that my children were not tolerating vaccines I was loading them with. I know God's plan is perfect, and I know I am not to be silent. Autism is not the only possibility... people are suffering from autoimmune conditions, loss of neurologic function, seizures, and other damage following routine flu vax, gardisil vax, from ages spanning infant-teen-adult years -- this is REAL.</div><div style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br />
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</div><div style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=48a5MZ-Q2Dc" target="_blank">Street Corner Autism Debate</a></div><div style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">And one more... Parents-- trust your instincts.</div><div style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jY0S5tTbEvs" target="_blank">Mom & Doc discuss Autism</a><br />
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</div>Momma Thttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14649149387953221319noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8412165074019338042.post-42788656565585228692011-12-04T22:01:00.000-06:002011-12-04T22:02:45.041-06:00Happy Birthday My Love<div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Honoring our firstborn angel. We love you... you've enriched our lives more than ever we could have dreamed.<br />
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watch here -> <a href="http://www.onetruemedia.com/shared?p=fc678236b47fb1482f2784&skin_id=1605&utm_source=otm&utm_medium=text_url">Loving Bella</a></div>Momma Thttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14649149387953221319noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8412165074019338042.post-88541513543067191842011-11-24T14:01:00.000-06:002011-11-24T17:21:36.111-06:00Happy Thanksgiving!<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #4c1130; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS',sans-serif;"><i>In honor of three very precious people in our lives... in addition to the vast spectrum of blessings we have received in this year. Thank you, Lord! Love you Michelle, Mom & Shawn. Each day is a gift and each day we have you we are blessed. T. </i></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #4c1130; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS',sans-serif;"><i>**click on link to LISTEN... <a href="http://dl.dropbox.com/u/50861901/10%20-%20I%20Am%20So%20Blessed.mp3">Karen Drucker "I am so Blessed"</a></i></span><br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYONNcCCIDyHEji55dynQimkj3iqXNWcNQoIzfOLPwGMJIpggOJyxwB9ct70U7QcAeNknq18b6mMl33bCrAFNZC7mRhr3iWQpqXB9ojRUPyLX4UEQQjOHPgZfA7_aUp7BZyGVJeCu9GK1J/s1600/SJ%2527s+Thanksgiving+Drawing.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="232" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYONNcCCIDyHEji55dynQimkj3iqXNWcNQoIzfOLPwGMJIpggOJyxwB9ct70U7QcAeNknq18b6mMl33bCrAFNZC7mRhr3iWQpqXB9ojRUPyLX4UEQQjOHPgZfA7_aUp7BZyGVJeCu9GK1J/s320/SJ%2527s+Thanksgiving+Drawing.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS',sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.blogger.com/"><span id="goog_1751253762"></span>SJ (4)drew this morning<span id="goog_1751253763"></span></a></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>Momma Thttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14649149387953221319noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8412165074019338042.post-52586931538986294902011-11-20T09:12:00.000-06:002011-11-20T09:12:22.708-06:00Family photo opp from Summer<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">We tried-- LOL! How many takes will it take? </span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqzykkspuIeO5-LKA89sKxQ2WaoS1ww0lDPV7qcPo8OXvbejeIDIr5D9k8ImmqMCfCD0qytPUSzQsdNrhCuY2jgcC2eWHZ88qqbgl3HwzwWzj8kpUggBJQ1gujESc0ZPE9RgmS8HBBbTKQ/s1600/family+collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqzykkspuIeO5-LKA89sKxQ2WaoS1ww0lDPV7qcPo8OXvbejeIDIr5D9k8ImmqMCfCD0qytPUSzQsdNrhCuY2jgcC2eWHZ88qqbgl3HwzwWzj8kpUggBJQ1gujESc0ZPE9RgmS8HBBbTKQ/s640/family+collage.jpg" width="512" /></a></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Shooting film of multiple kids with Autism is like herding cats. </span>Momma Thttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14649149387953221319noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8412165074019338042.post-42048642251163995782011-11-11T11:09:00.000-06:002011-11-14T20:17:12.762-06:00Progress - Looking back & then to today *A Place of Miracles*<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #0c343d; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;">Today I'm taking the time to pause & step outside of the *circle* of our family's life. I find myself drawn to take the vantage point of spectator, in order to remove myself from the emotions of this journey. This is quest of comprehension, rather than needing to shut off from reality. A conscious effort to take in, recall events, and celebrate today.</span><span style="color: black; font-size: 13.5pt;"></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #0c343d; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;">My children are changing; YES, as kids do, but moreover ours are evolving profoundly; I feel a need to pause and purposely observe. The constant daily circuit of care-giving & family routines often preoccupies my mind; I often am not focused on how magnificent this journey has been & IS. I don't want to succumb to the complacency of *taking for granted*-- where we are today and the miracles beneath this roof. </span></div><div style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;"><br />
</div><div style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;"><span style="color: #0c343d; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;">From experience, we've lived this life understanding it is delicate, with full realization that nothing is certain or untouchable. Our world can and has been turned over in fractions of a second. Daily I'm in awe so often of my children and each millimeter of their movement, that when I step back to see the whole horizon, honestly it's none other than astounding. My mind finally sees the giant work God has carved out with details & purpose I never recognized in the moment. Maybe I saw a shadow of the beautiful mountain, yet He had created an entire breath-taking universe in comparison. Through everything... absolute exhaustion, unparalleled stress, calamitous illness/regression, & my absolute uncertainty of tomorrow-- He has had our plan & continues to carry us.</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #0c343d; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;">We've bottomed out more times than I can recall or even truly want to, yet somehow, with the help of someone(s) our family propels forward. The children are champions, even on their worst days-- my neuro-typical mortal frame pales in comparison to the will, light, & energy of their tenacious spirits. These unique people don't know how to be disappointed, lose, complain or give up-- they've never had the choice. The world as we know it does not vibrate harmoniously for their inner workings & yet the rest of the unscathed population can learn so much from even one day in their life with their challenges and triumphs. I fully believe, as parents of Autistic children, we are raising AN EPIDEMIC OF TEACHERS... beyond our complete comprehension.</span><span style="color: black; font-size: 13.5pt;"></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #0c343d; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;">Today I focused in terms of only one year ago & what this time has brought to each of my babies. I'm left with a sense of gratitude so enormous, I'm singing praises. Thank you, Lord!</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #0c343d; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;">A YEAR AGO...</span><span style="color: black; font-size: 13.5pt;"></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #0c343d; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;">- <u><b>Bella</b></u> had unexplained acute onset of bilateral hip dysplasia. She had no social interest beyond getting her most basic of needs met. She preferred to be completely exclusive, not even in the same room with any of us & chose to partake in repetitive isms like a broken record. OCD-like tendencies ruled her world. <b><i>Today she is cast-free, brace-free & doing gymnastic feats with vigor. She is making eye contact, pointing to request, addressing whom she is speaking to, answering to her name, excited to see friends, engage-able, less obsessive & desires independence in being the big girl she is.</i></b></span><span style="color: black; font-size: 13.5pt;"></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #0c343d; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;">- <b><u>Roo</u></b> was cycling through immune crashes/viral wipe-outs/infection every 2 months, she wasn't growing or putting on weight. Her lungs were severely vulnerable, her eyes sunken with dark rings, & her body wasted compared with today. She battled rigid fears, specific phobias, and consistent separation anxiety.<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><b><i>Now though still immune compromised, she has energy each day in bursts & large growth of physical coordination (still alternated with fatigue, but huge gains), she has outgrown her brother in height, her appetite is improving, she is aware of social nuances, working constantly to learn flexibility in this unpredictable world, she's growing significantly in confidence & even competitive, she's really starting to blossom with independence & expressing empathy actively.</i></b></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #0c343d; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;">- <u><b>S-bear</b></u> was speaking nearly entirely in scripts & playing exclusively to himself. He could not make direct eye contact with out covering his eyes afterwards, was up 2-3 times per night, & was oblivious to our social world. His auditory processing was firing on about 10-25% of our spoken language. His exclusive play was rigidly repetitive & his isms were compulsive & occupied his entire day.<span class="apple-converted-space"><b><i> </i></b></span><b><i>Today he is expressing his thoughts & feelings in real, as well as abstract details, he is seeking to engage others across environments, processing spoken language/following directions, & verbalizing thoughts nearly equal to his twin sister (just not quite so bossily). He seeks friends, talks of other people & allows us into his world of imaginary play. He is concerned about others, how they are feeling & protective of them. He prompts me with the coping scripts I once fed to him line by line.</i></b></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #0c343d; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;">- <b><u>SJ</u></b> was outwardly displaying seizures, stunted growth, repeated systemic infections, extreme withdrawal to the extent of long periods mutism daily, constant cyclic regression, and her speech was in one or two words for basic needs. She never called to me as Mommy, sought help, & her eye contact was only in accidental fleeting glances. She was content most often, but in a completely separate world from ours. She occupied herself in infinite repetition of isms.<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><b><i>Today, she looks at us, protests & calls out to Mommy, dances & performs dipped in her own propetual sunshine vibrantly. She loves school, verbally comments on her surroundings & the people in them. She is excited by PEOPLE, acknowledges them (even those she doesn't see often) & is truly fond of her siblings. She has an opinion larger than her little body & is growing! Her speech has expanded & she has an amazing sense of humor. A true character, she is.</i></b></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #0c343d; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;">We have a long path ahead, yet in this moment I acknowledge<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><u>God's grace & light</u><span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>upon these children, His hand in the angels He sends to us, & the perfection of His design in these unique little beings. The road has not been straight, nor do I expect it ever will, yet in 3 words for today: Progress, Love, Celebration. <i><b>This home IS *A Place for Miracles*.</b></i></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #0c343d; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;">In celebration of the true essence or our: Bella, Roo, Sbear & SJ. </span><span style="color: black; font-size: 13.5pt;"></span></div><div style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: #0c343d; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">"<span class="apple-style-span"><span style="background: none repeat scroll 0% 0% white;">What </span></span><b><span style="background: none repeat scroll 0% 0% white; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">lies</span></b><span class="apple-style-span"><span style="background: none repeat scroll 0% 0% white;"> behind </span></span><b><span style="background: none repeat scroll 0% 0% white; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">us</span></b><span class="apple-style-span"><span style="background: none repeat scroll 0% 0% white;"> and what </span></span><b><span style="background: none repeat scroll 0% 0% white; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">lies</span></b><span class="apple-style-span"><span style="background: none repeat scroll 0% 0% white;"> before </span></span><b><span style="background: none repeat scroll 0% 0% white; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">us</span></b><span class="apple-style-span"><span style="background: none repeat scroll 0% 0% white;"> are tiny matters compared to what </span></span><b><span style="background: none repeat scroll 0% 0% white; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">lies within</span></b><span class="apple-style-span"><span style="background: none repeat scroll 0% 0% white;"> </span></span><b><span style="background: none repeat scroll 0% 0% white; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">us</span></b><span class="apple-style-span"><span style="background: none repeat scroll 0% 0% white;">." </span></span><b><span style="background: none repeat scroll 0% 0% white; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">Ralph</span></b><span class="apple-style-span"><span style="background: none repeat scroll 0% 0% white;"> Waldo </span></span><b><span style="background: none repeat scroll 0% 0% white; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">Emerson</span></b></span></span><br />
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</div>Momma Thttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14649149387953221319noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8412165074019338042.post-4417220192963099862011-11-04T12:33:00.000-05:002011-11-04T12:33:59.535-05:00Thankful for the little things<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #b45f06; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Recent I'm grateful for...</span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYmeyp0QRf4DLaRFml_LAP1o4PtB0Y14qFzFzx4m-dVBDAoDL5v2jvB6gVJRH44kWw5JRoXmcA0gsWiLnXSFI7lZoStu6R5wXtOoXaK1E5Zs3IHBXdRHT9ctMQyV3OiAewABRiv5-m4S1N/s1600/2011-11-02_10-09-54_643.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #b45f06;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYmeyp0QRf4DLaRFml_LAP1o4PtB0Y14qFzFzx4m-dVBDAoDL5v2jvB6gVJRH44kWw5JRoXmcA0gsWiLnXSFI7lZoStu6R5wXtOoXaK1E5Zs3IHBXdRHT9ctMQyV3OiAewABRiv5-m4S1N/s400/2011-11-02_10-09-54_643.jpg" width="225" /></span></a></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #b45f06; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Sharing a field trip experience with my twins... they are nearly 6 & it is only maybe my 3rd or 4th field trip I've been able to do with any of our 4. So amazing to see them outside their normal environment. My little girl had some difficulty, yet I'm so amazed by how incredible she is & how far she has come. My little guy, was *at one* with nature. The frog riding on his head was the animal we were exploring *how it would live in the habitat*. At one point he contributed to the discussion that "penguins would not live here"- lol. The wheels are always turning.</span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgO-ZwDzfOfPf5LImx5_wpmxsDzhEw6VxyZnAyyOt11nZsE0SB1wjht8prMSSnKzvSmsQsVU70RCnCWrGVaf6BPaU7gKnfyMbLJCH2yE3hLCkrPp3UOQwOLO6v5zSHDL6U5n87HDov7QVg6/s1600/2011-11-02_09-33-50_426.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #b45f06;"><img border="0" height="358" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgO-ZwDzfOfPf5LImx5_wpmxsDzhEw6VxyZnAyyOt11nZsE0SB1wjht8prMSSnKzvSmsQsVU70RCnCWrGVaf6BPaU7gKnfyMbLJCH2yE3hLCkrPp3UOQwOLO6v5zSHDL6U5n87HDov7QVg6/s640/2011-11-02_09-33-50_426.jpg" width="640" /></span></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgO-ZwDzfOfPf5LImx5_wpmxsDzhEw6VxyZnAyyOt11nZsE0SB1wjht8prMSSnKzvSmsQsVU70RCnCWrGVaf6BPaU7gKnfyMbLJCH2yE3hLCkrPp3UOQwOLO6v5zSHDL6U5n87HDov7QVg6/s1600/2011-11-02_09-33-50_426.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div><div style="text-align: -webkit-auto;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYmeyp0QRf4DLaRFml_LAP1o4PtB0Y14qFzFzx4m-dVBDAoDL5v2jvB6gVJRH44kWw5JRoXmcA0gsWiLnXSFI7lZoStu6R5wXtOoXaK1E5Zs3IHBXdRHT9ctMQyV3OiAewABRiv5-m4S1N/s1600/2011-11-02_10-09-54_643.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #b45f06; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Little man taking it all in.</span></a></div><div style="text-align: -webkit-auto;"></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYmeyp0QRf4DLaRFml_LAP1o4PtB0Y14qFzFzx4m-dVBDAoDL5v2jvB6gVJRH44kWw5JRoXmcA0gsWiLnXSFI7lZoStu6R5wXtOoXaK1E5Zs3IHBXdRHT9ctMQyV3OiAewABRiv5-m4S1N/s1600/2011-11-02_10-09-54_643.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: -webkit-auto;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #b45f06; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: -webkit-auto;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYmeyp0QRf4DLaRFml_LAP1o4PtB0Y14qFzFzx4m-dVBDAoDL5v2jvB6gVJRH44kWw5JRoXmcA0gsWiLnXSFI7lZoStu6R5wXtOoXaK1E5Zs3IHBXdRHT9ctMQyV3OiAewABRiv5-m4S1N/s1600/2011-11-02_10-09-54_643.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjONXWiMopHOmxEY2EJ13BQa6iHSTMnOH4OZsVC_0AFooFHimkzD8gjgFugTADKRAiz8Mk7ebqCOkV3cUUJip0kFpbP8ktNp_FkpwdrBxRJoeFQ6gN7xx_auT9voc4p-7n0OdTYOy6-3UO9/s1600/2011-11-02_09-52-43_29.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; display: inline !important; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #b45f06; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjONXWiMopHOmxEY2EJ13BQa6iHSTMnOH4OZsVC_0AFooFHimkzD8gjgFugTADKRAiz8Mk7ebqCOkV3cUUJip0kFpbP8ktNp_FkpwdrBxRJoeFQ6gN7xx_auT9voc4p-7n0OdTYOy6-3UO9/s640/2011-11-02_09-52-43_29.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjONXWiMopHOmxEY2EJ13BQa6iHSTMnOH4OZsVC_0AFooFHimkzD8gjgFugTADKRAiz8Mk7ebqCOkV3cUUJip0kFpbP8ktNp_FkpwdrBxRJoeFQ6gN7xx_auT9voc4p-7n0OdTYOy6-3UO9/s1600/2011-11-02_09-52-43_29.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #b45f06; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Our beauty Roo. Her intensely taking in our nature leader speaking. Innocent, brilliant, & such a dynamic heart. So proud of her.</span></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjONXWiMopHOmxEY2EJ13BQa6iHSTMnOH4OZsVC_0AFooFHimkzD8gjgFugTADKRAiz8Mk7ebqCOkV3cUUJip0kFpbP8ktNp_FkpwdrBxRJoeFQ6gN7xx_auT9voc4p-7n0OdTYOy6-3UO9/s1600/2011-11-02_09-52-43_29.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #b45f06; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br />
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</span></div><div style="text-align: right;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="clear: left; color: #b45f06; display: inline !important; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjONXWiMopHOmxEY2EJ13BQa6iHSTMnOH4OZsVC_0AFooFHimkzD8gjgFugTADKRAiz8Mk7ebqCOkV3cUUJip0kFpbP8ktNp_FkpwdrBxRJoeFQ6gN7xx_auT9voc4p-7n0OdTYOy6-3UO9/s1600/2011-11-02_09-52-43_29.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; display: inline !important; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;">Bella stopped me after our bedtime routine by calling out "Mommy, Mommy." When I went back into her room & said, "yes"-- she replied, "Night night Mommy. See you in morning." Her speech has picked up greatly in last week again, following a couple months of a regression. PTL! Even so, that wonderfully amazing loooonng sentence is such an accomplishment for her to coordinate. I love love love seeing her sunshine burst through the exterior challenges.</a></span></span></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjONXWiMopHOmxEY2EJ13BQa6iHSTMnOH4OZsVC_0AFooFHimkzD8gjgFugTADKRAiz8Mk7ebqCOkV3cUUJip0kFpbP8ktNp_FkpwdrBxRJoeFQ6gN7xx_auT9voc4p-7n0OdTYOy6-3UO9/s1600/2011-11-02_09-52-43_29.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #b45f06; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br />
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</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirSgb7cplcNmALd5OiHYkJ0_LYFvDhlMUUvy5-iJWexGYRrozu_yAuHv5BUZCMfByz1YMOGyBsh6k99dTfGDNGYifbAW63VloCcRKP12eOqfjc7Kkqry38fHyly0GB3rWFw4x0RC5-V1ob/s1600/2011-11-02_17-27-45_511.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #b45f06;"><img border="0" height="285" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirSgb7cplcNmALd5OiHYkJ0_LYFvDhlMUUvy5-iJWexGYRrozu_yAuHv5BUZCMfByz1YMOGyBsh6k99dTfGDNGYifbAW63VloCcRKP12eOqfjc7Kkqry38fHyly0GB3rWFw4x0RC5-V1ob/s400/2011-11-02_17-27-45_511.jpg" width="400" /></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="clear: left; color: #b45f06; display: inline !important; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjONXWiMopHOmxEY2EJ13BQa6iHSTMnOH4OZsVC_0AFooFHimkzD8gjgFugTADKRAiz8Mk7ebqCOkV3cUUJip0kFpbP8ktNp_FkpwdrBxRJoeFQ6gN7xx_auT9voc4p-7n0OdTYOy6-3UO9/s1600/2011-11-02_09-52-43_29.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; display: inline !important; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;">SJ has become incredibly finicky with food (extremely sensory defensive to textures) & does not like but 3 kinds of fruit & usually no vegetables. She sat with me while I ate dinner & decided to put a piece of cooked broccoli in her mouth. She LIKES it! I swear I heard angels singing- ha ha. She doesn't looked enthusiastic here (tired), but she's eaten another 3 times since & still likes it. Yeah!</a> </span></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjONXWiMopHOmxEY2EJ13BQa6iHSTMnOH4OZsVC_0AFooFHimkzD8gjgFugTADKRAiz8Mk7ebqCOkV3cUUJip0kFpbP8ktNp_FkpwdrBxRJoeFQ6gN7xx_auT9voc4p-7n0OdTYOy6-3UO9/s1600/2011-11-02_09-52-43_29.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #b45f06; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br />
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</div>Momma Thttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14649149387953221319noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8412165074019338042.post-4933388394974150532011-11-03T17:16:00.001-05:002012-03-16T08:50:02.949-05:00Photos from Els for Autism Grande Finale & Cog Hill event<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS',sans-serif;">What an event. Amazing on so many levels. Feeling empowered & recharged.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="160" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihdYLGnDtH56uJZgcXLEC0OqgNu5hvJ8wI7YT2VZcesWEtVQ4eAdmua-PMEoJglYKMOs3A7RqMB3sIqwJmKDcPPTx1NG6_rJ9VpSmw_k9oQsJsu_KRp6Twlj8c-R7-yUwDUZdruaFnoT-S/s200/Ed+Tanya+E4Autism+Grande+Finale+w-+Ernie.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="200" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">T, Big E., Little E.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihdYLGnDtH56uJZgcXLEC0OqgNu5hvJ8wI7YT2VZcesWEtVQ4eAdmua-PMEoJglYKMOs3A7RqMB3sIqwJmKDcPPTx1NG6_rJ9VpSmw_k9oQsJsu_KRp6Twlj8c-R7-yUwDUZdruaFnoT-S/s1600/Ed+Tanya+E4Autism+Grande+Finale+w-+Ernie.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS',sans-serif;"></span></a><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-WI8Hic_2-IBp4DrIZdhLbJOVCNTUEXN1UBmtcXTc4Hm1Hwwptv3mCVC6kfXXpt0OxcerbjO-pZ18DZx75vkalAtQ4QjdX_ELv-n_RQMWvemN1O21ERYE1RrDlQ8LY30F8yDI65hhnu1E/s1600/Welcome+Reception+114.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="clear: right; float: right; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS',sans-serif; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="282" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-WI8Hic_2-IBp4DrIZdhLbJOVCNTUEXN1UBmtcXTc4Hm1Hwwptv3mCVC6kfXXpt0OxcerbjO-pZ18DZx75vkalAtQ4QjdX_ELv-n_RQMWvemN1O21ERYE1RrDlQ8LY30F8yDI65hhnu1E/s400/Welcome+Reception+114.JPG" width="400" /></span></a><br />
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</div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS',sans-serif; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjm5nDmztZtIt9s-bxRULx93O_oKwzOwEM-aKzhnAr27CFdjL7T1KsPygc9s9KLnITzmsbO1A28tbyxItCnYUkjShwto5R_B19wEGRx2zEP_tPM_C1S8zH-JnxmdbCL99puqTcLXszgbm_7/s1600/Els%252BFor%252BAutism%252BGrand%252BFinale%252BbO5pxApGkZpl.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="217" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjm5nDmztZtIt9s-bxRULx93O_oKwzOwEM-aKzhnAr27CFdjL7T1KsPygc9s9KLnITzmsbO1A28tbyxItCnYUkjShwto5R_B19wEGRx2zEP_tPM_C1S8zH-JnxmdbCL99puqTcLXszgbm_7/s400/Els%252BFor%252BAutism%252BGrand%252BFinale%252BbO5pxApGkZpl.jpg" width="400" /></a></span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCUGbSZA2EwBDJfTmXJ4RhgNctMtv45_Br9xAM5PXd7z8ErZbfmhyphenhyphenvsMF3vKbubshbupqTOFiqoW8NxiXYmTPmlBOUdRLU84SFniTNxKBll0U8LmcbiPcg8CTH5wa6LnkEpQq2f7r21zXl/s1600/Cascata+005.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS',sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCUGbSZA2EwBDJfTmXJ4RhgNctMtv45_Br9xAM5PXd7z8ErZbfmhyphenhyphenvsMF3vKbubshbupqTOFiqoW8NxiXYmTPmlBOUdRLU84SFniTNxKBll0U8LmcbiPcg8CTH5wa6LnkEpQq2f7r21zXl/s400/Cascata+005.jpg" width="400" /></span></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS',sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS',sans-serif;">Beautiful Cascata course</span></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS',sans-serif;"><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS',sans-serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiIwii127Rxl6zsdd8mZqkFCfhlu65pKd6EBK0CoY_-pN4XU-Un6eaVbl6ZpF1loh0dIo81ShBEVXSdPNCtZcLY_8MKpmiLCfHhrFFsYqPXBsYc1dVdfvdhNPLd8MQ34LzbRzTl6dZi73W/s1600/Cascata+038.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiIwii127Rxl6zsdd8mZqkFCfhlu65pKd6EBK0CoY_-pN4XU-Un6eaVbl6ZpF1loh0dIo81ShBEVXSdPNCtZcLY_8MKpmiLCfHhrFFsYqPXBsYc1dVdfvdhNPLd8MQ34LzbRzTl6dZi73W/s400/Cascata+038.jpg" width="400" /></a> </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS',sans-serif;">Check out little man front & center-- Mr. Ben Els</span></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS',sans-serif;"><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSkx_wteZrUhX6sx4ABnWc9eGq6SAaLo8iqVpZ8l1uCBJR1zrH2sDs6MJZr9j0E7wy9OHFd9hGh1f83cMtDyXiAPHD2BntR-IF6SIY3vYgNGFqqxt7l4YrPcLVKvrp_g_XDJmTGe6tvB9V/s1600/Cascata+Teams+056.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS',sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSkx_wteZrUhX6sx4ABnWc9eGq6SAaLo8iqVpZ8l1uCBJR1zrH2sDs6MJZr9j0E7wy9OHFd9hGh1f83cMtDyXiAPHD2BntR-IF6SIY3vYgNGFqqxt7l4YrPcLVKvrp_g_XDJmTGe6tvB9V/s400/Cascata+Teams+056.jpg" width="400" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><div class="" style="clear: both; font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS',sans-serif;">M. & E. far left & below.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS',sans-serif;"><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhexMcro-uoMHqYWKPrRVKcIH92zAIHGUjQeqs3x7j4YYJu0ttMtFkGm-ZeHmt9NI6BLb4UlwTBJYiKcDo303gJIAMbmJp7YKJ9mc4PBj-hwNumFsvj-SJJU-Na-cCrYTGm-lVci9_0Ke51/s1600/Cascata+Teams+058.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS',sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhexMcro-uoMHqYWKPrRVKcIH92zAIHGUjQeqs3x7j4YYJu0ttMtFkGm-ZeHmt9NI6BLb4UlwTBJYiKcDo303gJIAMbmJp7YKJ9mc4PBj-hwNumFsvj-SJJU-Na-cCrYTGm-lVci9_0Ke51/s320/Cascata+Teams+058.jpg" width="196" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS',sans-serif;"> Kinda remind me of Roo & S-bear.</span></span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6DpyiSchctcUlL3oFW0aVX1F11Gb6SRmbKpgFw5u1MTg61Gx9XjU3mXf7j7OyTr8kW2HIC4xpfFnZ6U4f4BxjpQrX6lMd-iOxqs-BAyKMmaguoCCrhkZpkHo1bJZncGAI4kNmIWXhpkAU/s1600/els+for+autism+0158.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS',sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="251" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6DpyiSchctcUlL3oFW0aVX1F11Gb6SRmbKpgFw5u1MTg61Gx9XjU3mXf7j7OyTr8kW2HIC4xpfFnZ6U4f4BxjpQrX6lMd-iOxqs-BAyKMmaguoCCrhkZpkHo1bJZncGAI4kNmIWXhpkAU/s400/els+for+autism+0158.jpg" width="400" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS',sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Our finale party view from PH rooftop. </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">S-bear would have loved the animal presence :^)</span></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaPmY7vuWb1qCJmlYbJ3XET-dBQynaH4iQNOs_X-jAf1qsn0s5uSn3vNXDEwhDLQ2MEn2V3nLKLk0otPMSNxDuKJo3VsmhpPwps8fgQblaesdZgftXBC6dyQkNBcuqjObAFy9sJk-a4ZMM/s1600/els+for+autism+0109.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS',sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="408" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaPmY7vuWb1qCJmlYbJ3XET-dBQynaH4iQNOs_X-jAf1qsn0s5uSn3vNXDEwhDLQ2MEn2V3nLKLk0otPMSNxDuKJo3VsmhpPwps8fgQblaesdZgftXBC6dyQkNBcuqjObAFy9sJk-a4ZMM/s640/els+for+autism+0109.jpg" width="640" /></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS',sans-serif;"><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwy9NYIrqbEYKy8c9Z9pc_Z-iZFraLw_N-rcrtee4dxLE-grbwm0y3odVWH7F_scqaXsj-ZJ8_3l59_v1xPrzv6-QYPNpttAjtvo4EDsYBT2INn5tdss2ZyAKcZ5eGtI7WXkAIJS9e_zpy/s1600/Els+for+Autism+0313.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEig1yCbsoL3dhhZmm6rPVom28jsWi7GNYGDW28_X5hi_mdXlHnmOE-Jfevd2eUC2gVcGAj-8NxzcEXE95PxhhgNR8qbGHFZxQxBRnXy6YuWeekjC7NJLk6JrWFeh4THFIsw3I06uwWwik8k/s1600/els+for+autism+0233+%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="clear: right; float: right; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS',sans-serif; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="248" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEig1yCbsoL3dhhZmm6rPVom28jsWi7GNYGDW28_X5hi_mdXlHnmOE-Jfevd2eUC2gVcGAj-8NxzcEXE95PxhhgNR8qbGHFZxQxBRnXy6YuWeekjC7NJLk6JrWFeh4THFIsw3I06uwWwik8k/s400/els+for+autism+0233+%25281%2529.jpg" width="400" /></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS',sans-serif;"></span></div><div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS',sans-serif;">If only I could get this group's energy in the SonRise focus room.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS',sans-serif;"><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="clear: right; float: right; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS',sans-serif; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="385" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFBfC4SldomPYsMbfMoRrppuhyBHtpdo9NXLkFOX9sphtxZ6LwI8SLeh5BLdthhIdLpSsT7OOuZGulQgvku2n79GpAiyrzRiGEuWsO25x-ZLsxgC4mOSeijF7ExfahJ45uqqxKFApE5XcL/s640/els+for+autism+0613.jpg" width="640" /></span></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrMyf-gyZoE7WD_Awvt8qLyfuti0y0yDhWaDo0Ek5NFVeheFJhnEKcaPf6a6rEQ9kbC6CyBEAI0IfZN4PjMbfWKTL4uR0uhOTdyNQ3FDvUK-sFU54f8L4mTiUefjSbwsa4spjU6fy-30r1/s1600/Els+for+Autism+0630.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; font-size: medium; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS',sans-serif;">Awesome couple, with true & genuine about making a difference NOW.</span></span></a></td></tr>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXTW5mRzUGfMPv1bzAtJjInpWrxIy_LK3Zxcm9UmjxoO2Iv5EfQwzox5Z9UnVvhXL_0C0lWpzNbicKEnURJM3z9JxcTjgiRo-Qd1Tk9w9ZRl3xXdJkkxwAKH_YmASrHB6dD62UHywJCfXL/s1600/els+for+autism+0971.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS',sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="228" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXTW5mRzUGfMPv1bzAtJjInpWrxIy_LK3Zxcm9UmjxoO2Iv5EfQwzox5Z9UnVvhXL_0C0lWpzNbicKEnURJM3z9JxcTjgiRo-Qd1Tk9w9ZRl3xXdJkkxwAKH_YmASrHB6dD62UHywJCfXL/s320/els+for+autism+0971.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS',sans-serif;"><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS',sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Above photos courtesy of Els for Autism & Sponsors</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS',sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">for more, see website @ <a href="http://e4agolfgrandfinale.com/news-and-media/2011-photo-gallery">http://e4agolfgrandfinale.com/news-and-media/2011-photo-gallery</a></span><br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS',sans-serif;"><i>Friends, Family, Comradeship-- A Common Cause</i></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhODe8tccb_0K8DtO5NnyfPGRBTTSxA0QEKmjEyJC2EpbJoU17enNGZD8TCul30vwKfLEwNWi75CXXOYVT_x6NHNWT_xCDsMKYRppjSMKl6bscibSRWKnLMSb1y8c0jxGTdEvV0fKxepf5e/s1600/Ed+Tanya+E4Autism+Grande+Finale.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="202" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhODe8tccb_0K8DtO5NnyfPGRBTTSxA0QEKmjEyJC2EpbJoU17enNGZD8TCul30vwKfLEwNWi75CXXOYVT_x6NHNWT_xCDsMKYRppjSMKl6bscibSRWKnLMSb1y8c0jxGTdEvV0fKxepf5e/s320/Ed+Tanya+E4Autism+Grande+Finale.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLvGG6BHqpp0piU3uXrwq0vLfURbytCxw4r6rNG3hiW-JqIovxvfqtbZ5ZGcEduJjGm-ze6nsI4NuvXLUVDCeerT6-Aw7unYZX4pr21CdV1AA4Im1ZtR2xSzEfi2i6iZT-83vg7cElcSG-/s1600/t+j.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLvGG6BHqpp0piU3uXrwq0vLfURbytCxw4r6rNG3hiW-JqIovxvfqtbZ5ZGcEduJjGm-ze6nsI4NuvXLUVDCeerT6-Aw7unYZX4pr21CdV1AA4Im1ZtR2xSzEfi2i6iZT-83vg7cElcSG-/s200/t+j.jpg" width="142" /></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS',sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEMOSkJcuntf1k_SSR1FhkW414SWEfETlg7gChCs3smif5H_Yj5QZNgJUX_cksUhVziR247uLlNOH6X-lcpY8uP3o-Ww9N6J7sA4F3cBOYlwQHR07NRZjhtIen_b5-dYjboJxeGbw7qyVt/s320/E+Michelle.jpg" width="238" /></span></div>Momma Thttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14649149387953221319noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8412165074019338042.post-89457152432852695322011-10-27T09:05:00.002-05:002012-03-16T08:14:11.483-05:00The Grande Finale<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS',sans-serif;">October 23, 2011</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS',sans-serif;">It's Sunday morning -- E & I are seated on a plane to Las Vegas, Nevada. This trip is for E & I to attend Ernie Els Grande Els for Autism event. at the end of September our team had $11,700 raised for the Center of Excellence benefiting families like ours, with children on the spectrum. Even though it's only been just over 2 months-- the event seems a long time ago. Time is never stagnant these days. </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS',sans-serif;">I'm excited to be going with E. alone to share in this monumental event together.</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS',sans-serif;"> </span></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS',sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #351c75;">It has been 5 years since we knew Autism was in our home, altering our lives & at the time stealing away the soul of our baby boy. Now when I think back to then, the wound is still there, though buried beneath volumes of time, prayer, tactics, emotion, etc. There is no other torture great than watching your child fade away into a distant self-exclusive world. Especially when he was such an affectionate, alert, fun & vibrant little guy up until then. I knew in my heart at that time, our beauty Bella had also been transforming, yet her descent into Autism's grip was not as defined as S-bear's. Physicians had convinced me it was another dimension to her intellectual challenges of Down syndrome, yet deep inside my Momma's intuition knew better... discovery was yet to be found.</span></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #351c75;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS',sans-serif;">In general at that time, I remember feeling so unbelievably busy with Bella, whom then was a 3 year old with a multitude of therapies, our twin 1 year olds, and our baby SJo whom was nested securely in my womb. It truly was a blur keeping up then & dealing with the onset of new and greater challenges. Though today is every bit of busy as then, it is only different busyness. I have to consciously reflect upon our family today to really comprehend it as a whole, with all the multifaceted intricacies involved. The medical needs and supports are still profound, yet <u>the children are healing</u> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS',sans-serif;">more often than not </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS',sans-serif;">(sometimes in inches, sometimes in yards). Finding Dr. MKG was a divine intervention that has changed our course of supporting our unique little tribe; for which we will ALWAYS sing praises. We LOVE Dr. Gs (plural- as my son calls him).</span></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #351c75; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS',sans-serif;">In our journey I have been trained to appreciate where we are-- simply by knowing where we've come from (rather, where the children have traveled from on this journey). Even in each of their uniqueness with REAL challenges-- they are more magnificent more than I ever could have imagined in becoming a parent, furthermore parenting those with special needs. The daily minutia takes the lion-share of my attention, yet there is a <b><i>ever evident trickling stream of God's light</i></b> that shines through in moments among the everyday. The connections I have with these little feisty beauties-- is the true GIFT I will never tire of. I do get tired after the big waves & even in endurance of this marathon, yet my babies give me the adrenaline, the will, the drive to never stop.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #351c75; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS',sans-serif;">Bella, Roo, S-Bear, & SJo are making PROGRESS and come out winners each day for just enduring and processing all the daily sights, sounds, feelings, et all-- which the neurotypical population takes for granted. Autism in some ways is a silent disease, because on the outside-- they appear fine when not completely in meltdown, but I know they endure so much and that is why they are the CHAMPIONS, not me or any of us around them. THEY ARE THE TEACHERS, if only we will listen.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #351c75; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS',sans-serif;">Their progress is wonderful, a precious treasure, even great for some of them-- but, I savor the connected-ness I have with each. I will never ever take our connection for granted, because their were times for each of them, when they were aloof, completely isolated from this world, indifferent to my presence, or even preferred solace. Thank you God, for equipping me with the resources and tenacity to build bridges, even if these bridges are always changing. Thank you for sending us the people whom have helped build these bridges with enthusiasm, acceptance, joy & celebration. We are blessed. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #351c75; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS',sans-serif;">A connection may be a twinkling beaming smile from SJo, a moment of discovery and comprehension with Roo, a genuine pure affection from my boy wanting Koala cuddles, or just the awe I have in soaking up the innocence and light within Bella's beauty-- her star-laced eyes, soft freckles, amongst her vibrant diva-ness. GIFTS are abundant, where we care to see them.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS',sans-serif;">October 27th, 2011</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS',sans-serif;">The Grande Finale event </span><span style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS',sans-serif;">far surpassed anything I had imagined. Speaking with the parents and loved ones to those on this journey was so commanding because they all radiated proactive in a positive light. It was refreshing to see all these families together in one place *doing* & not just off to the side in Autism’s trample. Yes, this journey is challenging, yet being surrounded by people knowing WE CAN & DOING something about it was powerful. Meeting Ernie and Liezl Els was amazing; they both are so approachable, loving & open. I've never had the feeling of the simple common bond of another mother championing for her child, as I did while speaking with Liezl, in comparison with other high profile parents we've met. Ernie is as lovely as his persona shows on the big-screen; he is a gentle (and handsome) giant, with a fabulous sense of humor and genuineness. A lovely and inspiring couple, the Els. Of course the event itself was INCREDIBLE & first class-- way outside our normal reality, though we are grateful for the experiences & generosity and work the Els for Autism staff and leadership put towards it. All I can say is W.O.W.!!</span></span></span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><span style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS',sans-serif;">It was so exciting to have this whole experience with my partner E. I'm proud of him in choosing this endeavor and leading us in our first ever Autism Awareness family event. With all his responsibilities he doesn't often have the time alone to lead, though he is a natural. We are so blessed to have such great family support </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS',sans-serif;">(LOVE YOU ALL)</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS',sans-serif;"> along the way as well, standing alongside E. throughout this process, meant so much to both of us in our "coming out" into the Autism community. We know, believe, & continue to pray for guidance in our purpose and how we are to put to use the gifts we each have in leading and making a difference, not only for our own family-- but the astronomical numbers of families on a similar journey.</span><br />
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<span style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS',sans-serif;">To all the Els for Autism families-- see you next year! We're ready to rock again in Illinois, Wisconsin & Minnesota. => And, Blessings to EVERYONE WHOM supported Team Schoonveld!!!</span></span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJlIsn10byOw8JSzyBBme1NUrEWPU8MhYzy3Xu3XriQqhxYm4y3AfXAN9zH2f9eZNZ8-P2cwiN7NAtsqBYNVwhMKrxkB1u0ufbg4iA15jdIZdbirDODcyNTv34QGpS5iVQATG7zOa-PP7c/s1600/Ed+Tanya+E4Autism+Grande+Finale.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="202" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJlIsn10byOw8JSzyBBme1NUrEWPU8MhYzy3Xu3XriQqhxYm4y3AfXAN9zH2f9eZNZ8-P2cwiN7NAtsqBYNVwhMKrxkB1u0ufbg4iA15jdIZdbirDODcyNTv34QGpS5iVQATG7zOa-PP7c/s320/Ed+Tanya+E4Autism+Grande+Finale.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><span style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS',sans-serif;">T.</span></span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><b><i><span style="color: #7030a0; font-family: 'Lindsey Pro';"><o:p></o:p></span></i></b></div>Momma Thttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14649149387953221319noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8412165074019338042.post-69108621633924066762011-09-02T09:26:00.000-05:002011-09-02T09:26:49.606-05:00THANK YOU!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMCGFpi-GX59O9oUqBAqlhsIb83gTegLPpmInEH0wHIRWfsbCOy7tAKk7iOJnDCxkv_wrGI-ETjn7ftwxmWps_ehQlVnN_abU6RK_-Bzu0YtEydLjbVg3zKcZrh1jIcaYbBabVf96vdN7b/s1600/Els+for+Autism+Thank+You.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMCGFpi-GX59O9oUqBAqlhsIb83gTegLPpmInEH0wHIRWfsbCOy7tAKk7iOJnDCxkv_wrGI-ETjn7ftwxmWps_ehQlVnN_abU6RK_-Bzu0YtEydLjbVg3zKcZrh1jIcaYbBabVf96vdN7b/s640/Els+for+Autism+Thank+You.jpg" width="512" xaa="true" /></a></div>Momma Thttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14649149387953221319noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8412165074019338042.post-75165548584402324802011-08-19T07:52:00.001-05:002012-03-16T08:52:49.317-05:00Reflections... rambling & then some<span style="color: #990000; font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">I've started about 3 or 4 posts over the past 2 months only to leave the computer for a break following the opening sentence. My personal energy has been thwarted & I've been experiencing a sense of survival autopilot with the intensity of the kids regiments & my outside responsibilities this summer. Even with an army of helpers & therapists (we love you - , Stacey Rhodes, Kaelyn Shaw, Erika Kicher, Shannon Kicher, Steven Pozeg, Tania Pope, Dr. G.) it has been just an astounding & profound whirlwind over the summer days.</span><br />
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</div><div style="color: #990000; font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">This summer was our first with an intensity that has tripled past years programming. 100 hours weekly of programming across 4 children with an intensive focus in SonRise for S-bear & SJ. I mistakenly thought such a heightened structuring for the kids would also afford me time to work more for myself, as the kids were getting what they needed. Foolishly, I didn't take into account the contingent spectrum of *medical issues*, for all 4 of them. That, my friends, is a major project management violation.... ahh, yes-- contingencies.</div><div style="color: #990000; font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div style="color: #990000; font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Thankfully, we made it through the meat of the season & a lot of productive therapeutic programming until the wheels blew off the bus again.We've taken the past few weeks off the intense STRUCTURE (for those of you who dig SpaceBalls-- we have come down from "Ludacrous speed") & worked on health, *loving what is* (thanks, Stac) & just recovering to a baseline to get back on the actual recovery pursuit once again. Following our 1 week family vacation, ironically, E & I both started to feel sick again. Yes, we are not in the youngster category anymore, but the evolving symptoms of aches/pain/fatigue/etc were really escalating. </div><div style="color: #990000; font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div style="color: #990000; font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">This year has been skyrocketing by in some senses... & painfully slow in others. There have been some big-time challenges & thankfully blessings. As I'm preoccupied with my own nest of little ones, I don't often get the luxury to see our extended family. We went on a flying quick trip back to the farm in WI to visit with Grammy/Papa, my brother's family, & even including a trip down memory lane back at my Papa's house, as my brother's family are moving in. It was just so surreal seeing the house with a new energy in it, yet with the old familiarity & love of our elders whom built our family there. Life is so PRECIOUS & it doesn't stop with our preoccupations, nor challenges.<br />
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I couldn't help but feel a little emotional leaving there, knowing the house would never occupy my Grandparents physically anymore. The emotional flip-side is that I'm positive Gram & Gramp would be so happy to know young exuberant life like my niece B. & nephew B. will bring to the house again. Regardless, I'm just so grateful to have my brother & to witness this new chapter that he well deserves. Having him, Mom & Dad together in only moments; I couldn't help but feel an overwhelming sense of gratitude. Thank you, God. REFLECTIONS, Reminiscing ... the onset of Fall always delivers unto me this mood. </div><div style="color: #990000; font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div style="color: #990000; font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">On our trip up North, I only had our 3 girls & S-bear was gonna stay with Daddy for boy time. I had that pang in my stomach upon leaving, Momma's intuition... my boy was gonna need me. He had been so emotional that week, stimmy & full of new/odd tic behavior, even aggression like we've never seen in him. He is 5 years old & I still have a hard time separating out our little flock... even with his very capable Daddy. Roo even sensed it (big Surprise-- she has a 6th sense when it comes to her twin). She told me, "But, I will miss S-bear-- he's my favorite boy." We were only going up for about 24 hours.</div><div style="color: #990000; font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div style="color: #990000; font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">The kids had not responded favorably to their last round of monthly detox a couple weeks earlier. Especially our twins. Though their monthly screening revealed a more detailed confirmation of this fact, I thought we could tough it out & delay their treatment for a couple days in order to make the trip. Besides, I hate how weeks stretch into months b/t seeing my family again.</div><div style="color: #990000; font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div style="color: #990000; font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">That decision didn't bode well; especially since I started them on their overdue new medication to treat the new medical marvel discovery... again confirmed that week. All but SJ, have had a lot of sleep disturbance, wild mood swings, extreme emotional outbursts & aggression. Bella's stimming had so amped up, that she hadn't been even acknowleding our presence around her. Her new tic-- spitting on her skin, then smearing it. She wasn't opposed to spitting on others either. Ironically, people whom don't know our kids would just say "that's Autism". I say it is "Regression" with proof-filled medical deterioration.<br />
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So, the new medical discovery... Congenital Lyme Disease. It's a huge piece to our family's puzzle, but I find myself still not so excited to learn that they have a confirmed/named neuro-immune disease that has been destroying their body systems since their births 7/5/5/3 years ago. I don't know why having a <u>name</u> makes it any different because we've had these answers in piecemeal from the last 4 years of working in recovery mode for each of them. Dysfunctioning CNS, endocrine, metabolism/energy production, heart/lung/circulatory, lymphatic, renal disease, nerve damage, musco-skeletal, gastrointestinal, & hormone systems (to name a few). </div><div style="color: #990000; font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div style="color: #990000; font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Still it's a heavy burden my heart carries knowing that in the {assumed} safety of my womb-- a stealth bacteria was introduced to them (unknown to me), which changed the course of each of their lives & threatened their survival, even in pregnancy. Each pregnancy endured serious threatened, near miscarriages. I am ok with this neuro-immune disease for myself, but not gifting our innocent children. For further Mommy guilt, I unknowingly, poisoned these children with loads of metal laden vaccines & the infections they became sick with afterwards were treated with immune system annihilating antibiotics, which genetically they could not get rid of. By the way, I've read the genetic methylation mutations my kids have are present in approximately 25% of our population (I'm anticipating this figure is grossly under-reported).</div><div style="color: #990000; font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">**RANT WARNING** [If I seem bitter-- I'll clarify, <b>I AM pissed</b>. Because I followed a ironically named *well-baby* medical protocol a random panel of business suit wearing, Big Pharma pocket liner$ have the mainstream convinced both are saving our lives, even in absolute excess with no precautionary screening (excuse me while I vomit)]. Brutal honestly, it's a heavy cross. IMO we only traded one set of problems for another.</div><div style="color: #990000; font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div style="color: #990000; font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">The only thing that pulls my heart & head upward sometimes is that no matter how hard this journey is-- I do see God is with me/us. I know He allowed each of these little complex beauties to grace our lives with divine purpose. That He continues to help them fight forward in this marathon, to blaze a trail & continue to beat such grueling odds. He reminds me, most often daily, even when I'm too tired or weak to see myself. I may hear His message from an unexpected person amongst the everyday mundane & remember something I hadn't connected earlier. He is with me, even when it seems we are so alone.</div><div style="color: #990000; font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div style="color: #990000; font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">So, I'm not sure where all of this reflective brain dump is leading... <pause> ok, got the message-- </pause></div><div style="color: #990000; font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">For the record... "<u>AUTISM IS MEDICAL</u>" - YES, NEEDS TO BE SAID DIRECTLY. I am one of hundreds of thousands of parents that see/live this daily.</div><div style="color: #990000; font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">I will bold now for re-emphasis... <span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; font-size: x-large;"><b>AUTISM IS MEDICAL</b></span>.</div><div style="color: #990000; font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Shall I highlight now?... well, I hope you get my jest. </div><div style="color: #990000; font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div style="color: #990000; font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">People, including professionals, whom regurgitate medical diagnoses as if they were granite carved, non-evolutionary, non-medically founded conditions are not thinking about the NATURE we live in. We are biophysical beings, living in a world where disease evolves to the demands & pressures we humans put on nature, hence our environment. Autism is no more a static mental condition than a mosquito bite.<br />
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It breaks my heart to finally hear my son speak (after 4 years of tedious alternative medicine intervention), "mommy, I'm sIIIIIIIIIIIIck-- in my belly button (surrounded by tantrum like flailing & waves of innocent tears)." His words replace the screaming sometimes. Bella & SJ aren't so lucky-- they have only crying & *odd* behavior to express their pain & discomfort. Yesterday S-bear told me, "Mom, you (meaning *I'm*) so tired today." Roo tells me at least 6 times a day how tired she is, as she lays her little waif frame over my lap. And, because she was the lucky one to communicate with words from 18 months on-- her complaints of hand/foot pain, headache, fatigue, tummy aches, etc were answered by our ex-pediatrician with "she's fine, she's just seeking attention". When she lost complete control of her bladder, then bowel function following a year of being day/night potty trained-- this doctor suggested she will outgrow it, when even a slew of Urology tests revealed nothing significant. When I did my own research & asked a lot of in-depth questions, he retorted "well, Mrs. Schoonveld-- that's one theory. You are very good at coming up with them." Seriously. I had to choke Satan out of my voice when I told him, "at least I'm looking for some theories!" I wonder if this was his child(ren) would he be so casual?</div><div style="color: #990000; font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div style="color: #990000; font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">So, maybe this little epidemic called Autism, could give us some valuable insights about the future of our human race? It's just like Cancer, Diabetes, Heart disease, etc, etc... we are predisposed by some genetic factors to underlying medical challenges (& mutations) perhaps, yet the meat of this disease ignition is Environmental. I witnessed this 4 times over & it ain't done yet. We CAN make a difference... we have to fight for more *appropriate* research funding. God help us.</div><div style="color: #990000; font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br />
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</div>Momma Thttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14649149387953221319noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8412165074019338042.post-77508676773145863012011-06-18T11:21:00.002-05:002012-03-16T08:08:48.060-05:00PSA/Press Release Team Schoonveld - Els for Autism Golf Challenge<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12pt;">EVENT</span></b><span style="font-family: "Candara","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt;"> <a href="http://www.e4agolf.com/e4a_bio.cfm?sid=114325">TEAM SCHOONVELD & SCHOONVELD</a> for Els for Autism Golf Challenge</span><span style="font-family: "Candara","sans-serif"; font-size: 8pt;"></span></div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Candara","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt;"> </span><br />
<hr align="center" size="2" width="100%" /></div><h1><span style="color: windowtext; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">INSPIRATION</span><span style="color: windowtext; font-family: "High Tower Text","serif";"> </span><span style="color: windowtext; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><a href="http://www.detourautism.blogspot.com/"><span style="color: windowtext; text-decoration: none;"></span></a></span></h1><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;">An ordinary (local Chicago-land) family navigates an extraordinary journey of Autism, times four (four children born in four years -- now ages 3/5/5/7). We were pregnant with our 4th child when our only son regressed & was diagnosed with Autism. Over the next 2 years our other 3 children, also each regressed, & are diagnosed at different areas of the Autism spectrum. It was & sometimes still remains unclear why God chose this path for our family. Though our journey into parenthood has not been as we imagined, we are better people for the ways our children continue to teach us wisdom beyond their years. We look to God & the hope of tomorrow for answers to unlock the many doors into the world of Autism. Foundations with vision like the Els Center for Excellence are opening some of those doors. To all those supporting this charity, E. & I give our most sincere thank you on behalf of the entire Autism community</span><span style="color: black;">. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Candara","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"></span><span style="font-family: "Candara","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhq0R_45_7QkatHOHCJXkTHeeNSSEcIq2p9mQDMn2U13QjbfdmjwuinSn1_BaJR7NtXeNy-DrLgIu2Ify5Uuduuk85_93mzRKRAJKJjiZmfAbTPs2k3Ps-i145rYz9tHJbDO1FPNOuDpVQD/s1600/Autism+Tshirt.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="489" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhq0R_45_7QkatHOHCJXkTHeeNSSEcIq2p9mQDMn2U13QjbfdmjwuinSn1_BaJR7NtXeNy-DrLgIu2Ify5Uuduuk85_93mzRKRAJKJjiZmfAbTPs2k3Ps-i145rYz9tHJbDO1FPNOuDpVQD/s640/Autism+Tshirt.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3Eah3xN0QiPjUWODhhOQ_8XEsxLzD79mFPxwJnQorRS3xKS5oABCITJWaxCu7YpP0tHb1XRh7WiIM7wxEWWTzAXqrVgEY8Dx86itPZR2Ub7pjyrkAmhlJW_DTdutv9FozCH6Xf8eZFaWN/s1600/Els+Team+Schoonveld.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br />
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<hr align="center" size="2" width="100%" /></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12pt;">EVENT</span></b><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "High Tower Text","serif"; font-size: 12pt;"> </span></b><span style="font-family: "Candara","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt;">TEAM SCHOONVELD (<a href="http://www.ernieels.com/els_for_autism/ernies_story.html">Ernie</a>) <a href="http://www.ernieels.com/els_for_autism/mission_statement.html">Els for Autism</a> Golf Challenge</span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "High Tower Text","serif"; font-size: 12pt;"> </span></b><span style="font-family: "Candara","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt;">FUNDRAISER</span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "High Tower Text","serif"; font-size: 12pt;"></span></b></div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Candara","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt;"> </span><br />
<hr align="center" size="2" width="100%" /></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 1.0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in; text-indent: -1.0in;"><div class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12pt;">GOAL</span></b><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "High Tower Text","serif"; font-size: 12pt;"> <span style="background-color: yellow;"> </span></span><span style="background-color: yellow; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;">By 8/29/11:</span></b><span style="background-color: yellow; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"> To raise over $10,000 (through monetary sponsorships) for the Els for Autism Center for Excellence mission! </span></div><span style="background-color: yellow; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"> Click here to donate</span><span style="background-color: yellow;"> --></span><span style="font-family: "Candara","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="color: black; font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;"><b><a href="https://www.e4agolf.com/e4a_DonStep3.cfm?sid=114325"><span style="color: black; text-decoration: none;"><span style="color: purple;">SPONSOR TEAM NOW</span> </span></a></b></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 1.0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in; text-indent: -1.0in;"></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 1.0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in; text-indent: -1.0in;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "High Tower Text","serif"; font-size: 12pt;"> </span></b><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12pt;"></span></b></div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Candara","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt;"> </span><br />
<hr align="center" size="2" width="100%" /></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12pt;">EVENT LOCATION/TIME</span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: .5in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in; text-indent: .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Candara","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt;">Cog Hill Golf Club - #4 Dubsdread</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: .5in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in; text-indent: .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Candara","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt;">Lemont, IL 60439</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 1.0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in; text-indent: 2.25pt;"><span style="font-family: "Candara","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt;">Monday, August 29, 2011 · 8:00am</span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12pt;"> </span></b><span style="font-family: "Candara","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt;"></span></div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Candara","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt;"> </span><br />
<hr align="center" size="2" width="100%" /></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12pt;">Follow OUR EVENT</span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: .5in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in; text-indent: .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Candara","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt;">http://www.e4agolf.com/e4a_bio.cfm?sid=114325 </span><a href="http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=193543300698186"><span style="font-family: "Candara","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt;"></span></a><span style="font-family: "Candara","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt;"></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: .5in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in; text-indent: .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Candara","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt;">Our Family Blog </span></div><a href="http://detourautism.blogspot.com/2011/06/were-sponsoring-team-schoonveld-for-els.html"><span style="font-family: "Candara","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt;">http://detourautism.blogspot.com/2011/06/were-sponsoring-team-schoonveld-for-els.html</span></a><span style="font-family: "Candara","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt;"> </span> <br />
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</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12pt;">EMAIL </span></b><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif";"><a href="mailto:detour.autism@live.com"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">detour.autism@live.com</span></a></span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12pt;"> </span></b><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 2pt;"></span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 1.5in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in; text-indent: .5in;"><br />
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</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12pt;">MORE INFORMATION</span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; mso-outline-level: 3;"><b><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Candara","sans-serif"; font-size: 13.5pt;">Our 1st Ever Autism Fundraiser -- Team Schoonveld @ Els for Autism Golf Challenge </span></i></b></div><span style="color: black; font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-size: small;">In honor of our children: Bella, Roo, S-bear & SJo-- </span>We will be sponsoring “Team Schoonveld” for The Els for Autism Golf Challenge on Monday, August 29, 2011, in Lemont, IL at Cog Hill.<br />
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If you would like to sponsor our team and help contribute to Team Schoonveld’s initiative to support Ernie Els for Autism Foundation's <b><a href="http://www.ernieels.com/els_for_autism/center_of_excellence/index.html"><span style="color: black; text-decoration: none;">mission</span></a></b>. Click “<b><a href="https://www.e4agolf.com/e4a_DonStep3.cfm?sid=114325"><span style="color: black; text-decoration: none;">SPONSOR TEAM NOW</span></a></b>” at the top of the Page above “Fund Raising Target” to make a tax deductible donation to a 501C-3 charitable organization! Our goal is currently $10,000—yet we want to blow this goal away! Each & every dollar counts; any amount contributed is deeply appreciated by all parents (loving someone with Autism) and individuals with Autism. Or, simply help us spread the word about this event by sharing our blog or Els for Autism golf challenge home page. See our Team progress <b><a href="http://www.e4agolf.com/e4a_bio.cfm?sid=114325"><span style="color: black; text-decoration: none;">here</span></a></b>.<br />
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Els for Autism is one of the Initiatives for championing Autism Awareness, Acceptance & Advocacy for positive change which our family believes in</span>. <span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://www.e4agolf.com/elsvideo1.html" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="color: black; text-decoration: none;">http://www.e4agolf.com/elsvideo1.html</span></a></span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal"><span style="color: black;"> <br style="mso-special-character: line-break;" /> </span></div><span style="color: black; font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;">Thank you to our initial team sponsor, J.A. Watts, Inc., Julie and (Uncle) Mark , and all of our family and friends whom support us on this mission daily and year after year. Thank you for loving & celebrating our beautiful children just as they are!</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal"><span style="color: black;"> <br style="mso-special-character: line-break;" /> </span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="color: black;"></span></div>Momma Thttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14649149387953221319noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8412165074019338042.post-59486779068184853042011-06-09T09:31:00.000-05:002011-06-22T07:00:23.897-05:00The Illinois State Budget & Affects on our Developmentally Disabled Citizens<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:WordDocument> <w:View>Normal</w:View> <w:Zoom>0</w:Zoom> <w:TrackMoves/> <w:TrackFormatting/> <w:PunctuationKerning/> <w:ValidateAgainstSchemas/> <w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid> <w:IgnoreMixedContent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent> <w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText> <w:DoNotPromoteQF/> <w:LidThemeOther>EN-US</w:LidThemeOther> <w:LidThemeAsian>X-NONE</w:LidThemeAsian> <w:LidThemeComplexScript>X-NONE</w:LidThemeComplexScript> <w:Compatibility> <w:BreakWrappedTables/> <w:SnapToGridInCell/> <w:WrapTextWithPunct/> <w:UseAsianBreakRules/> <w:DontGrowAutofit/> <w:SplitPgBreakAndParaMark/> <w:DontVertAlignCellWithSp/> <w:DontBreakConstrainedForcedTables/> <w:DontVertAlignInTxbx/> <w:Word11KerningPairs/> <w:CachedColBalance/> </w:Compatibility> <w:BrowserLevel>MicrosoftInternetExplorer4</w:BrowserLevel> <m:mathPr> <m:mathFont m:val="Cambria Math"/> <m:brkBin m:val="before"/> <m:brkBinSub m:val="--"/> <m:smallFrac m:val="off"/> <m:dispDef/> <m:lMargin m:val="0"/> <m:rMargin m:val="0"/> <m:defJc m:val="centerGroup"/> <m:wrapIndent m:val="1440"/> <m:intLim m:val="subSup"/> <m:naryLim m:val="undOvr"/> </m:mathPr></w:WordDocument> </xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:LatentStyles DefLockedState="false" DefUnhideWhenUsed="true"
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</style> <![endif]--> <span style="background: white; font-family: "Candara","sans-serif";">Many people are shocked to know, myself included, that the current state of our Illinois budget will greatly impact services for our most vulnerable citizens, the Developmentally Disabled. The link below will explain more in detail. This is a <b>MUST TAKE ACTION NOW</b>-- item to have ANY CHANCE @ turning the tables before the end of our fiscal year-- June 30th. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #0070c0; font-family: "Candara","sans-serif";"><a href="http://www.thearcofil.org/document.asp?did=2870"><span style="color: #0070c0;">The State of the Illinois Budget?</span></a></span><br />
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<b><i><span style="font-family: "Candara","sans-serif";">If you haven't done so already-- please call/fax/email/mail (all) Governor Pat Quinn's office to make our voices heard to protect our challenged loved ones & their support systems. </span></i></b><span style="font-family: "Candara","sans-serif";"></span><br />
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<div style="background: lime;"><b><span style="font-family: "Candara","sans-serif";">Governor's contact information: </span></b><span style="font-family: "Candara","sans-serif";"></span></div><div style="background: lime; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Candara","sans-serif";">Phone 217.782.0244 or 217.782.6830</span></div><div style="background: lime; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Candara","sans-serif";">Fax 217.524.4049</span></div><div style="background: lime; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Candara","sans-serif";">email <a href="mailto:governor@illinois.gov"><span style="color: windowtext;">governor@illinois.gov</span></a>. </span></div><div style="background: lime; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><br />
</div><div style="background: lime; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Candara","sans-serif";">Office of the Governor</span></div><div style="background: lime; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Candara","sans-serif";">James R. Thompson Center</span></div><div style="background: lime; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Candara","sans-serif";">100 W. Randolph, 16-100</span></div><div style="background: lime; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Candara","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Chicago, IL 60601 </span><span style="font-family: "Candara","sans-serif";"></span></div><br />
<b><span style="font-family: "Candara","sans-serif";">HERE'S MY CORRESPONDENCE.........................................................................</span></b><span style="font-family: "Candara","sans-serif";"></span><br />
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</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="color: blue;"><i><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">June 6, 2011 </span></i></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="color: blue;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="color: blue;"><i><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Dear Governor Quinn,</span></i><i><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 8pt; line-height: 115%;"></span></i></div><span style="color: blue;"> </span><br />
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="color: blue;"><i><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">I am absolutely sickened by the thought process behind the eminent decision to <u>eliminate all Illinois DHS Respite programs</u>, downsizing home based programs (that allow families to keep their children out of institutions) & other vital DHS programs.</span></i><i><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 8pt; line-height: 115%;"></span></i></div><span style="color: blue;"> </span><br />
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="color: blue;"><i><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">I am mother to 4 young children in 4 years, all autistic-- having regressed after the pregnancy with our 4th child. Our eldest child has Down syndrome as well. All 4 children have profound medical & support needs. We have no nearby family to help us. We did not choose this life for our children. God chose for us to be parents to these amazing 4 gems; we cannot raise them alone without these vital services. All of children have intensive care needs between medical, supervision & self care. Our eldest daughter recently has been completely immobile in a body cast & still requires 100% assistance for care. </span></i><i><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 8pt; line-height: 115%;"></span></i></div><span style="color: blue;"> </span><br />
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="color: blue;"><i><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">It's taken us 2 years to finally get any assistance in state respite, even with such immense needs & now we may be back to ground zero. </span></i><i><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 8pt; line-height: 115%;"></span></i></div><span style="color: blue;"> </span><br />
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="color: blue;"><i><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">My husband & I are responsible taxpaying citizens whom want to raise our children <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">in our home</b>, <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">with our values</b>, not give them over to state institutions.</span></i><i><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;"> </span></i><i><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;">We need help desperately to provide for all their daily needs, through the very programs that are to be eliminated</span></i><i><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;">.</span></i><i><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 8pt; line-height: 115%;"></span></i></div><span style="color: blue;"> </span><br />
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="color: blue;"><i><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">I do not understand why our state leadership would target</span></i><i><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;"> </span></i><i><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;">our most vulnerable population</span></i><i><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;"> (those with special needs) -- <u>by </u></span></i><i><u><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;">cutting the lifeline of services to support them</span></u></i><i><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;">, </span></i><i><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">in order to rectify our state budget. If this decision goes through, more families will end up losing their children & the state will be responsible for much more costly upkeep of its disabled citizens</span></i><i><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;"> </span></i><i><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;">in state institutions</span></i><i><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;">. </span></i><i><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Our disabled children have great promise of being PRODUCTIVE & CONTRIBUTING citizens, when raised in their loving family homes, with the early intervention & intense support we parents must provide.</span></i><i><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 8pt; line-height: 115%;"></span></i></div><span style="color: blue;"> </span><br />
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="color: blue;"><i><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"> It would be incredibly IRRESPONSIBLE decision (financially & ethically) for Illinois leadership to make a decision NOW that would only grow our State’s financial problems infinitely in the future, as the needs & care requirements would absolutely grow for this population having these services removed. </span></i><i><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 8pt; line-height: 115%;"></span></i></div><span style="color: blue;"> </span><br />
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="color: blue;"><i><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">The idea of these program cuts are both heartbreaking & in my opinion, a shameful reflection of the values present in our Illinois leadership. God help us all if this decision somehow makes it through now; <span style="background: none repeat scroll 0% 0% yellow;">as I understand, this bill has cleared both the house & senate now & resides on YOUR DESK, Governor Quinn.</span> </span></i><i><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 8pt; line-height: 115%;"></span></i></div><span style="color: blue;"> </span><br />
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="color: blue;"><i><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">I IMPLORE YOU, to get some perspective on this MATTER. Read our family’s blog entries (search medical, help, respite, etc) & you will begin to gain some hefty perspective of <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">*what it requires*</b> to parent a child with these extraordinary needs. </span></i><a href="http://www.blogger.com/post-edit.g?blogID=8412165074019338042&postID=5948677906818485304"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">www.detourautism.blogspot.com</span></i></b></a><i><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"> </span></i><i><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">You will also understand quickly how the divorce rate amongst our population is above between 80-90%, which further bogs down our judicial systems, etc, etc. The financial repercussions for our state, ripple out much further than the direct point of care for our challenged & disabled citizens.</span></i></div><span style="color: blue;"> </span><br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="color: blue; text-align: center;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i><u><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;">HELP US KEEP OUR FAMILIES TOGETHER</span></u></i></b><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;">!</span></i></b><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 8pt; line-height: 115%;"></span></i></b></div><span style="color: blue;"> </span><br />
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="color: blue; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: left;"><i><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">If you personally, ever come to be in my shoes, <u>as a parent/ family member to/<b>or disabled yourself</b></u> (special needs aren’t occurring just at birth—people become disabled EVERYDAY)—<b> </b></span></i></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="color: blue; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: left;"><i><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><b>what would you feel, knowing our very closest country’s leadership simply turned their back on those people truly most vulnerable & defenseless?</b></span></i></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="color: blue; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="color: blue;"><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Sincerely,</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="color: blue;"><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"> </span><b><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Momma T </span></i></b></div><span style="color: blue;"> </span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="color: blue;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;">Mom to: Bella 7 (DS & Autism), Roo 5(Autism), S-bear 5(Autism) & SJ 3(Autism) </span></i></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="color: black;"><br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"> </span></span>Momma Thttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14649149387953221319noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8412165074019338042.post-71203793795856163682011-06-06T15:50:00.000-05:002011-06-22T07:00:23.898-05:00Our 1st Ever Autism Fundraiser -- Team Schoonveld @ Els for Autism Golf Challenge<span style="color: #00b050; font-family: "Candara","sans-serif";">In honor of Bella, Roo, Sbear & SJ-- We will be sponsoring “Team Schoonveld” for The Els for Autism Golf Challenge on Monday, August 29, 2011, in Lemont, IL.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #00b050; font-family: "Candara","sans-serif";">If you would like to sponsor our team and help contribute to the The Els for Autism Foundation's </span><b><span style="color: #4f6228; font-family: "Candara","sans-serif";"><a href="http://www.ernieels.com/els_for_autism/center_of_excellence/index.html"><span style="color: #4f6228;">mission</span></a></span></b><span style="color: #00b050; font-family: "Candara","sans-serif";">. Click “</span><span style="color: #4f6228; font-family: "Candara","sans-serif";"><a href="https://www.e4agolf.com/e4a_DonStep3.cfm?sid=114325"><span style="color: #4f6228;">SPONSOR TEAM NOW</span></a></span><span style="color: #00b050; font-family: "Candara","sans-serif";">” at the top of the Page above “Fund Raising Target” to make a tax deductible donation to a 501C-3 charitable organization! Every dollar counts and any amount contributed is greatly appreciated by all parents (loving someone with Autism) and individuals with Autism. Or simply spread the word about this event by sharing our blog or Els for Autism golf challenge home page.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #00b050; font-family: "Candara","sans-serif";">Els for Autism is one of the Initiatives for championing Autism awareness, acceptance & advocacy for positive change which our family believes in. See our Team progress </span><b><span style="color: #4f6228; font-family: "Candara","sans-serif";"><a href="http://www.e4agolf.com/e4a_bio.cfm?sid=114325"><span style="color: #4f6228;">here</span></a></span></b><span style="color: #00b050; font-family: "Candara","sans-serif";">.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #00b050; font-family: "Candara","sans-serif";"><a href="http://www.e4agolf.com/elsvideo1.html"><b><i><span style="color: #00b050;">http://www.e4agolf.com/elsvideo1.html</span></i></b></a></span><br />
<b><i><span style="color: #00b050; font-family: "Candara","sans-serif";"> </span></i></b><span style="color: #00b050; font-family: "Candara","sans-serif";"> </span><br />
<span style="color: #00b050; font-family: "Candara","sans-serif";">Thank you to our sponsor, J.A. Watts, Inc., Julie Watts and Uncle Mark Schoonveld, and all of our family and friends whom support us on this mission daily and year after year.</span><br />
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</span>Momma Thttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14649149387953221319noreply@blogger.com0