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.

Kim, Bill and Isaac

Kim Breeden was kind enough to share her family’s story this week and answer a few of our questions.

“Isaac entered the world as a 24 week preemie and joined our family through adoption when he was 10 months old.  While he was always behind developmentally, it wasn’t until he was 2 1/2 that we got the autism diagnosis.  Through a great deal of one-on-one therapy, Isaac is making progress though he is still non-verbal.  He is a happy and energetic boy who we believe has a lot of undiscovered potential.   

What motivated  you to participate in the IT5K for Autism this Saturday?

“We try not to let autism define our lives, but really it HAS defined Isaac’s.  We feel that there is not enough done to find a cure for autism–which we believe exists!  Money, public awareness, and support is desperately needed.” 

How has TACA been beneficial to you?

“The online TACA group is a network filled with intelligent, compassionate moms, dads, and grandparents.  They provide a wealth of information, particularly in the areas of diet and supplements.

Attending local TACA meetings has allowed me to learn about other resources the Twin Cities has to offer and meet parents at a variety of places in the autism journey. “ 

What do you feel that people need to understand about autism?

“Autism affects a child’s whole life–communication, behavior and physical well being. ”

Thanks Kim, we look forward to seeing you guys on Saturday!

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Isaac and his Dad Bill enjoying the lake!

Jennifer, David and Cade

Jennifer’s only son Cade, now 8, was a very active baby up until the age of 15 months. Cade was hitting all his developmental milestones and had a vocabulary of over 15 words including “fish”, “bowl” and “shoe”, but in October of 2001 his persona drastically changed. Cade lost all his speech and stopped looking at others including family.

Jennifer and David Larson’s mission became healing their son, but by February of 2002, their school district told them that Cade had the severest case of autism it had ever seen. It took years of behavior therapy & biomedical interventions before Cade would say “mama” again.

Jennifer started Holland Center for children with autism in 2003, in order to provide a center where she felt confident her son and other children were getting the best services available. Cade has made great strides and is a happy child with an infectious smile.

Why are you participating in the IT5K for Autism?

I’m so pleased that my direct and extended family are planning to come out for the 5K, whether they’re running, walking or just cheering. I’m actually a co-chair of the event and my IT company is a sponsor. With the growing numbers diagnosed with autism, there are far too few events to support autism causes such as TACA. This is the first year so I really hope a ton of people come out to support the event and the cause.

What are some of the reasons you support TACA?

When Cade was diagnosed, I often felt so alone in my search for information and solutions to help my son. TACA helps support families locally with immediate and real help, providing information and local resources to parents who have recently been diagnosed. The local monthly meetings are very well attended and just the ability to speak with other parents about their experiences is therapeutic.

One thing that others don’t understand about autism or those affected by it?

Society’s lack of understanding and education for disabilities where the children physically look typical, like autism, leave families frustrated and saddened. Families are often criticized, ridiculed and left to feel the only place to feel comfortable is their own home. This even more isolates children that have an already social disorder and families that are exhausted.

Courtney, Mike and Charlie

 

Courtney & Mike Steilen will be participating in the IT5K for Autism on May 2nd and took time out to answer some questions and share their story.  Their son Charlie is 3 years old.

Their story in brief:

“Charlie was diagnosed with autism at age 2 1/2.  He was developing normally until around 18 months when we started noticing changes in behaviors as well as decreased speech.  Once we had him diagnosed we immediately started therapy and dietary changes. 

With the help of key resources, like TACA, early intervention and The Holland Center where he currently attends, we have noticed great improvements and progress daily and are firm believers that autism is treatable.”

Why you’re taking part in the IT5K?

“To raise awareness, support a great cause and to have some fun.”

Have you been involved in TACA?

“TACA has been a tremendous resource for us since we started this journey.  We use the website all the time, especially for diet information and there have been great local connections for us as well.”

What’s one thing that individuals don’t realize about autism?

“We’ve come to realize that autism is treatable, that each child is different and to never give up hope.”