My name is Heather,and my now 7 year old son Keagan was diagnosed with Autism at 2 years old. We noticed when he was around 18 months, he was not progressing like other children his age.He wasn't talking(only a couple of words). Solid foods were not really on his menu.Hand flapping,and toe walking were a constant issue. Non stop running circles around our vehicle in the drive way. And,he was delayed in every learning milestone.We live in a very small town in Upstate NY so traveling for hours is a must, to see a specialist for evaluations.After a 3 hour drive to a Developmental Pediatrician,and only 5 minutes into the evaluation-A diagnosis of Autism was official.He started PT,OT,SP,and SE/IT before the diagnosis,but after the diagnosis therapy became more intense.Just before he turned 3 he was put into Pre-School.There he had social interaction,therapy,and learning.He did very well and still continues to do very well.Over these past few years,we have been very fortunate.The Doctors and Program Co-ordinators have been amazing.My biggest thanks have to go to the Teachers and Therapist.Their jobs are difficult and they don't receive nearly enough recognition.And,thanks to them I have a typical 7 year old little boy.Yes,he has a few little issues,but without their help it could have been a lot worse situation.Now My Husband John and I are starting this whole process over again with our youngest son Cael,who is 3. They are like night and Day. Keagan is mild mannered and Cael is our wild one.At times things can be difficult and we have a long road ahead of us.But,I think we will be just fine.

Heather LaSalle
Plattsburgh, NY