A new year of hope for families with autism
by Beth
As moderator of the Easter Seals and Autism blog, I like to recruit different members of the Easter Seals family to post here from time to time. Our blog is more interesting — and fun — when readers get to hear voices from all over the country… and all over the world!
One of the most powerful posts we published this year came from Scottie Gaither’s mother Barbara. Scottie was diagnosed with autism at age 2 and is the Easter Seals 2008 National Child Representative. Barbara Gaither’s post tells how Easter Seals helped the Gaither family after their son Scottie was diagnosed with autism. It opens like this:
This time of year, I find myself reflecting on what I am most thankful for. I have so many things in my life that have truly blessed me, but one of the most amazing blessings is having an autistic son.
Later in the same post, Barbara wrote:
… We can give back to Easter Seals as an organization because they have given us more than words could ever express. It also gives us a chance to offer hope to other families facing the darkness of autism.
I hope that somehow, by seeing and hearing our story, there will again be light.
By making a 2007 tax deductible donation to Easter Seals, you can give help and hope to more families like the Gaithers. Cross one resolution off your list early and help another family start the New Year with hope.
Best wishes for a happy and healthy 2008!
December 30th, 2007 at 10:20 pm
I am saddened to hear from these two moms that are seeking help for their children with autism, but want to encourage you to not give up hope. Keep seeking and searching for what you and your children need. You are your childs best advocate. My thoughts and prayers are with both of you and your families and I pray that 2008 will be the year that you find just the right services for your children.
Blessings,
Barbara Gaither
December 29th, 2007 at 1:27 am
I hope this program will someday help my 3 year old son with autism. I have tried to find help for him and it seems to get harder and harder everytime I reach out for help.
I believe this program is a blessing to many families, and maybe it will be a blessing to me and my family as well.
December 28th, 2007 at 11:41 pm
I just want to say how wonderful your autism programs sound for children, although I live in the Antelope Valley and have a 4 year old with autism and you dont have any local offices for me to get help for my son. I know of many other parents in my area that would love the opportunity for our children to benefit from your services will they be offered here any time soon? Is it something in the works?
Please let us know when your services will be available for our children, or if there is a local office not listed……
Thank you,
Amber