 I realize that autism therapy can be a very polarizing issue. There are the die-hard behaviourists who live and breath ABA, those that promote neurodiversity and take offense to therapies designed to "train the autism out of someone", and the rest of us that fall somewhere in the middle. I've made it clear that I do not want my daughter subjected to endless, repetitive trials that aim to train her in "appropriate behaviours" determined by so-called NT's. I want to speak to someone who understands autism as a neurological challenge, rather than a behavioural one. I want her to be motivated to connect with us through a combination of effective therapies. This wish list keeps leading back to the Son-Rise Program. A program that teaches us that stimming has meaning and value. A program that does not reduce a child to a set of behaviours. For us, I think it is the right fit. Others may feel differently, and that is fine with me. I am only asking that, as Kate's parents, we have a say in which therapy Kate receives. If I had to guess why there are not more people publicly stating there wish for more options for treatments for their children, I would say that in some cases, receiving the diagnosis can be overwhelming enough. Try to wrap your brain around hearing that your child has an intellectual disability and no one really knows why or how it happened. It's devastating and the people that offer the therapies in this city are lovely for the most part and sometimes it is easier to let them take control because they have experience and they can help. Sometimes it is easier to do what we've always done. But, this can be dangerously passive. Fuck the status-quo. Is that too harsh? Harsh is watching effective therapies and ideas passing us by. It is so easy to accept what we've always done. I know with numbers like, 1 in 88, that every single one of you out there loves someone, or knows someone who loves someone with autism. Please ask questions and please challenge the authority. That is just good advice in general I think.
3 Comments
Grama
11/25/2012 08:02:07 am
Remember when you were in grade 7 and your (male) teacher called me at home and asked to meet with me? I asked if he could elaborate and he stated that he had concerns about your "attitude" . I told him I would be happy to see him and discuss this, and the sooner the better. He came to our home one evening and proceeded to tell me that he found it very unsettling that you spoke your mind, a young lady and all !!! I listened and I smiled and then I made it perfectly clear to him that at that moment I could not have been more proud of you as my daughter. I am feeling that pride now as I witness your strength and resolve in this battle to get our Kate what she and every child with Autism must have access to. I love you Mom
Shanell
11/25/2012 09:20:02 am
I am pretty sure he insisted on coming to our house because he had a crush on you (like all my teachers did). But, thanks for putting him in his place.
Stacy
12/1/2012 06:48:22 pm
I think it's great that you speak your mind too and your not afraid to question. I think many people are probably just so relieved to be offered help they may not look as far into the type of treatment. Since ABA is the only option in NB I'm sure a lot doctors and therapists wouldn't recommend any other treatment options so most parents probably only know what they are being offered. I think parents need to be made aware that there is more out there, and here you are, doing just that! It would be nice though if this information was offered rather than having to be found! Your comment will be posted after it is approved.
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