Friday, September 18, 2009

Autism-free zone

Yesterday was the day that everyone who ever had an Autism diagnosis on their child dreams of -- J's Developmental Pediatrician officially dropped his Autism diagnosis. She said that not only does he no longer meet the criteria for the diagnosis, but that his remaining "symptoms" are so mild that he would not be recognizable to anyone in the field as being on the spectrum.

She did keep a "PDD" (Pervasive Developmental Disorder) diagnosis on him, because he's not at "age level" with many of his skills and ability, but is only lagging about a year and half behind at this point, and is continuing to develop in a natural fashion.

What was the magic formula for us? RDI (Relationship Development Intervention), Sensory Integration Therapy with fabulous private OTs, homeschooling via Enki Education, and accepting that changes come about s-l-o-w-l-y. But mostly it was J himself, ever motivated to overcome obstacles with his incredible inner drive. And Zoo-Boy, the world's best one-on-one play therapist.

If anyone is interested in reading the full story about J's Autism and our journey through remediation, please feel free to visit the blog where I detailed all of that stuff, http://jacobs-journey.blogspot.com/ .

Also, please go here to sign the petition to include RDI in the Autism Treatment Acceleration Act bill, so that more families can afford to seek out this effective alternative for their children on the Autism Spectrum.

9 comments:

Anonymous said...

OH my gosh! That is absolutely amazing news! Way to go J!!!

Lisa G. in Chicago said...

Through Enki, I've found your blog, and I've been reading much of it for many months now. I can definitely say that you left out two very important factors in your autism cure magic formula: you and your husband! You two have given so deeply of yourselves. I'm sure it's been tough, but all I hear in your posts is complete, non-judgemental awareness. What an inspiration!

(It's about time I leave an introduction on Holistic Families....)

Michelle Kindig said...

WOW! You are a true inspiration! I am so happy for you and your family!!! This is wonderful.

taisa said...

I got teary reading this- such wonderful news, and such and amazing, inspiring family you all are.

cindy said...

Thanks so much for sharing your experience. J truly is amazing and the rest of his support as well. I have been reading your blog from time to time. I am just beginning Enki 1st grade and you have helped me so much.
Thank you
Cindy

Kathy said...

Whoo Hoo...Love the great news Shelley!!!!! Here is my website...and blog...I would love to use some of your experiences! :)
http://mysite.verizon.net/vze3ww4z/
http://autismremediationforourchildren.blogspot.com/

One day I will visit..I promise!!!
Kathy

Unknown said...

Thank you so much for your blog Jacob's Journey and for sharing this update. This is incredible news. I came aross Jacob's Journey when my son was diagnosed with PDD-NOS almost 2 years ago. I was trying to find out more about RDI. Your blog not only gave me a lot of practical information that helped us decide to use RDI but it also gave me a lot of hope during a really dark time. Thanks so much for sharing your story.
Tracy

Floortime Lite Mama said...

I am teary reading this
Love it

Anonymous said...

I am so thrilled to read of your amazing news. You won't know me but i spent many hours uncoding the chats dr gutstein had with interested parents in the early years of RDI. I was never able to join in as i live on the other side of the world. Your dedication and love for your child are so evident.CONGRATS to all.
Janet R