Rocio, Sean and Salvador

Rocio and Sean Bezdicek on their family’s journey (so far):

“Salvador was diagnosed with Autism at 2 1/2. He used to be very social by being a big flirt with all smiles, but one day he became catatonic in a corner; we even thought he was deaf.  We were devastated as we didn’t know how we lost him.

We have since been working hard to get him back by seeking the best biomedical and behavioral treatment, trying many different things along the way.  Salva is starting to come back to us as he has reconnected to the world and has been using signs to communicate. 

It was a joy to hear his voice a couple years ago, and we are waiting to hear “Mama” and “Papa” again.”

What do you find that others don’t always understand about autism?

“Autism is a condition that requires your constant attention as anything can happen.  It is like driving in the rain.  It requires constant focus as you have to be ready for anything.  There is little or no time to relax.

It is hard to see how much pain we have endured when we physically appear like any other family.”

Has TACA been a resource for you?  If so, how?

“From TACA we have learned of many different services and techniques from different parents.  Also, it has been a great network to learn how others are managing the condition.  Plus, it is great to be around a GROUP of people who truly understand what it means to have autism touch your life.”

What’s the main reason you’re supporting the IT5K for Autism?

“It is a great way to support and help spread the word on what is going on with many kids like ours.”

Thank you so much to Sean and Rocio for sharing your personal story and your insights.

Comments

10 Responses to “Rocio, Sean and Salvador”

  1. IT5K Families : The IT5K for Autism on April 29th, 2009 5:28 am

    [...] Rocio, Sean and Salvador [...]

  2. Nancy on April 30th, 2009 2:38 am

    You guys are very courageous. I wish you all the best in your efforts to help Salva understand his world and come back soon.

  3. Mar on April 30th, 2009 12:14 pm

    This is so awesome! I am so glad you were able to bring him back. I wish you nothing but the very best!!!

  4. Robin on April 30th, 2009 12:35 pm

    We always work for the best possible outcomes when friends are

    challenged. Salvador seems to be a special gift to Rocio and Sean

    and he is the deserving recipient of their love and care.

    He is in great hands!

  5. Great Aunt Mary Ann on April 30th, 2009 1:45 pm

    Salva is the greatest with the greatest parents!!

  6. Shari Jacobsma on April 30th, 2009 4:59 pm

    Just a quick note to let you know how very proud of you I am for all of your hard work (and play) with Salvador and all the others you represent. Great Job!!!

    Aunt Shari

  7. Karina on April 30th, 2009 10:51 pm

    Gracias por compartir el site! Los hijos son una maravilla de Dios!

  8. Juan Ramon Rayas on April 30th, 2009 11:29 pm

    ustedes son un gran ejemplo del amor que los padres dan a sus hijos, saben que pueden contar con toda la familia en lo que sea.

    los queremos.

  9. Bob Bezdicek on May 1st, 2009 4:41 pm

    Salva is the sweetest kid. You are doing a wonderful job. Bobby

  10. Emmanuel on May 10th, 2009 3:48 pm

    You are doing a great job, Salva has been teaching us love; endurance, humility versus unknown , patient, and corage to keep going, but everything with a feeling of sweetness and innocence that we all have felt and learned. Being part of the story is amazing.

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