We have 2 boys, Ryan and Tyler, born 1 year and 5 days apart and both fall on the more severe end of the autism spectrum. Both were born premature, 5 and 7 weeks early and spent over a week in the NICU. Ryan wasn't talking by age 2 and the pediatrician didn't seemed concerned. We took him to the early intervention screening at the local health department and he failed every test but vision. The doctor spent 15 minutes with both boys and told us both boys were on the autism spectrum and gave us a list of books to read.
Those first 5-6 years were challenging for the boys as well as us. Illinois does not have a central agency that handles disabilities. Services were few and far between and we had to hunt to find them. At 6 & 7, we were able to get a few respite hours away each month. Besides respite & school services that are guaranteed through the IDEA act were the only services the state offered.
Ryan will be started junior high a few weeks ago in an autism program with peers his age. He still struggles with language, he can say almost anything but we have little to no conversational language. He struggles with sensory issues especially noise and self injury. Tyler attends a self contained special education school where. They bus students in from 15 school districts. He has more challenges, including ADHD and this program fits his needs.
We are fortunate to have a huge support network of family, friends and our church family. Special Needs Families are among the largest group of folks not attending church. I encourage families to keep looking for a good fit for your family, no matter what your faith. We feel blessed to have our boys and they continue to make us smile and show us the important things in life everyday. Celebrate the little things each and everyday!
Coal Valley, IL