Autism Society of Larimer County

Re: FREE EVENT: Pump It Up Birthday Party Invite

2011-03-15T21:50:00.001-06:00

THE AUTISM SOCIETY OF LARIMER COUNTY
BIRTHDAY CLUB!

WE WANT TO HELP YOU CELEBRATE YOUR CHILD'S BIRTHDAY!

...Three times a year the Autism Society of Larimer County provides a hopping good time free for our families and kids on the autism spectrum at Pump It Up!

This quarter we will be celebrating

January February, March
Birthdays

Whether it is our child's birthday celebration quarter or not everyone is welcome to join the fun.
Siblings are welcome too!

Join us at Pump It Up: The Inflatable Party Zone for an autism-friendly birthday party. Kids of all ages will love ...Bouncing ...Sliding ... Climbing and ...Tumbling on Pump It Up's giant inflatable play areas.

Would you like your child(ren) with autism to receive a birthday party invitation? Please give contact information when you register your child(ren) and we will send a personal invitation to attend that party. If you child has a birthday that falls within the quarter of the party, s/he will be one of the children who will celebrated. Just let us know when you register.

Reserve your party spot to share in the celebration
For our next party on:
March 23, 2011

TIME: 4:45 pm—6:45 pm

LOCATION: Pump It Up of Fort Collins

1420 Riverside Avenue, Ste 114

Fort Collins, Co 80524

Pizza, Cupcakes & Goodie Bags will be available.

Space is limited. Pre-registration required: Email jessica@aslc@autismlarimer.org
by Monday, March 21, 2011

*Important Note* - Childcare will not be available at this event. A parent/guardian/adult support person must attend this party with your child(ren). A parent/guardian must sign a Pump It Up Waiver form for each child. Waiver forms are available at:
http://www.pumpitupparty.com/waivermadison..pdf

Please send us the following information along with your RSVP

· Name of Child:

· Birthday of Child:

· Parent's Name:

· Parent's Email:

· Parent's Phone Number:

· Number of siblings attending:

· Mailing address

Phyllis Zimmerman
President, Autism Society of Larimer County
www.autismlarimer.org
aslc@autismlarimer.org
970-377-9640

Online support groups:
http://health.groups.yahoo.com/group/FortCollinsAspergers_Autism/

If you have questions regarding our services please call 970-377-9640

I GoodSearch & GoodShop for the Autism Society of Larimer County Raise money for the ASLC just by searching the Internet with GoodSearch.com (powered by Yahoo), or shopping online with GoodShop.com
If you do not wish to receive future e-mails or newsletters, please reply to this message with 'Remove' in the subject line.

2010-10-26T19:37:00.001-06:00

What if Autism Society of America - Larimer County earned a donation every time you searched the Internet? Or how about if a percentage of every purchase you made online went to support our cause? Well, now it can!

GoodSearch.com is a new Yahoo-powered search engine that donates half its advertising revenue, about a penny per search, to the charities its users designate. Use it just as you would any search engine, get quality search results from Yahoo, and watch the donations add up!

GoodShop.com is a new online shopping mall which donates up to 30 percent of each purchase to your favorite cause! Hundreds of great stores including Amazon, Target, Gap, Best Buy, eBay, Macy's and Barnes & Noble have teamed up with GoodShop and every time you place an order, you'll be supporting your favorite cause.

And if you download the GoodSearch – Autism Society of America - Larimer County toolbar, our cause will earn money every time you shop and search online - even if you forget to go to GoodShop or GoodSearch first! Add the Autism Society of America - Larimer County toolbar at http://www.goodsearch.com/toolbar/autism-society-of-america-larimer-county

2010-09-21T19:38:00.001-06:00

Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) and Teaching Verbal Behavior 101

The Integrated Services Department is excited to offer the following educational opportunities for parents in our district. Our goal is to provide parents/families with information and training relevant to their children's educational needs. Please take a look at the classes being offered this fall and sign-up today by calling 490-3225 or emailing earensme@psdschools.org

September 30

Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) and Teaching Verbal Behavior 101

Mr. Thomas Caffrey specializes in teaching functional communication skills and helping parents and teachers implement strategies to manage problem behaviors in the classroom and at home. He is an internationally recognized speaker that has given over 200 national and international conference presentations and workshops.

Where: Harmony Library Community Room

When: 6-8:30 pm

Target Audience: Parents/families of students with social, communication or behavioral needs, more specifically autism or multiple disabilities.

2010-08-26T08:31:00.001-06:00

DOES MY CHILD HAVE SENSORY INTEGRATION DISORDER?

Have you ever been in a crowded place and suddenly you feel you just can't take it anymore? Have you had to wear clothes that are too tight, too scratchy or uncomfortable? How about having to endure an outing somewhere that has a terrible smell? Have you switched off your car radio because the song that's playing feels like noise in your brain?

What if you couldn't get relief from these things? How long do you think you would be able to hold it together? How long do you think a child would be able to hold it together?

It's common to mistake sensory challenges for bad behavior. But how do you know the difference? Is a child behaving poorly or overwhelmed with sensory stimuli?

When people read this list, they typically say "Hey, I have that too." But usually they don't. We ALL have sensory preferences. But that does NOT qualify as Sensory Integration Disorder. The sensory challenges need to be severe enough to impede a child's ability to function in everyday life.

The following is a checklist of some common symptoms of sensory integration disorder. If your child exhibits many of these symptoms to a large degree, it's a great idea to contact a good Occupational Therapist who will create a sensory diet for your child.

Hypersensitivity (Tactile Defensiveness)

 Does not like to be held or cuddled

 Does not like to be touched lightly

 Hates having hair brushed

 Overreacts to small cuts or scrapes

 Avoids touching certain textures

 Prefers loose clothing and resists jeans, collars, seams in socks etc.

 Aversive to messy play such as glue and finger painting

 Doesn't like cutting nails or brushing teeth

 Likes to walk on toes or barefoot

Hyposensitivity (Not Responsive Enough)

 Craves touch and touches everything and everyone

 Mouths inedible objects

 Unaware of strength and might hurt children or pets while playing

 Shows no distress if cut or bruised

 Loves messy play and doesn't mind being dirty

 Prefers spicy, sweet or sour foods to bland food

Poor tactile Perception

 Has difficulty doing crafts such as cutting or tracing

 Poor fine motor skills such as zipping clothes and unscrewing tops from jars

 Might not be able to identify which part of their body was touched if they are not looking

 Unable to identify items by feeling the shape

Hypersensitivity to Movement

 Terrified of heights

 Afraid of falling

 Feels wobbly walking up or down stairs

 Hates slides, swings and spinning playground equipment

 Comes across as insecure as this child often clings to his parent

Hyposensitivity to Movement

 Overactive and can't sit still

 Loves spinning

 A dare devil at amusement parks

 Loves swinging fast and high

 Loves jumping – on everything

 Fidgety when sitting – taps foot, raps knuckles or bounces in chair

Poor muscle tone and coordination

 Poor gross motor skills like jumping and climbing

 Difficulty opening and closing jars, windows, doors etc.

 Appears floppy and often thought of as lazy

 Gets tired easily

 Clumsy

 Poor in coordinating movements

 Appears to have no strength

Sensory seeking behaviors (What parents and teachers often notice first)

 Chews on everything – clothes and objects

 Falls down intentionally

 Crashes into things on purpose

 Pushes and bumps other children

 Spins in circles

 Enjoys banging objects

 Loves bear hugs and being tucked tightly into bed

 Jumps up and down

 Kicks feet while seated

 Flaps hands

Hypersensitivity to sounds

 Afraid of hair dryers and vacuum cleaners

 Covers ears with loud sounds

 Cries or acts out in noisy places like a mall

 Dislikes people because of their voice

 Hears everything from a ticking watch to a car turning a corner at the top of their street

Oral and Olfactory Sensitivity

 Very picky eater and will only eat certain foods because of the smell, taste or texture

 Will only eat certain textures and might not mix foods on the same plate

 Dislikes or gags with toothpaste

 Chews or mouths inedible objects

 Either craves sweet and spicy foods or only eats bland food

 If a recipe varies even slightly, it will be tasted and the food discarded

 Refuses to enter a place because of the way it smells

Self Regulation

 Doesn't calm down easily if upset

 Needs help falling asleep such as rocking or car rides

 Wakes easily and has trouble falling back asleep

 Frequent mood swings

 Can't tell when hungry or thirsty. Eats or drinks too little or too much

One of the best things about sensory integration disorder is that there are so many fun activities to help. Thank you to all the Occupational Therapists who help our children conquer these challenges.

Don't forget to check out these two links for some great sensory items.

Sensory Equipment

http://www.nlconcepts.com/autism-pps-all.htm

Sensory Toys

http://www.nlconcepts.com/autism-toys.htm

FOR MORE GREAT RESOURCES VISIT http://www.nlconcepts.com

By Jené Aviram

This article is property of and copyright © 2003-2010 Jené Aviram of Natural Learning Concepts. Reference of this article may only be included in your documentation provided that reference is made to the owner - Jené Aviram and a reference to this site http://www.nlconcepts.com

Jené is an accomplished author and developer of education materials for children with autism and special needs. She is a co-founder of Natural Learning Concepts, a leading manufacturer for special education materials and autism products. Visit the Natural Learning Concepts website at http://www.nlconcepts.com or call (800) 823-3430

2010-07-27T21:51:00.001-06:00

Do you have a ASD child turning 18 in a few years and questions about guardianship?

Do you have questions about IDEA, section 504 or IEP meetings? Would you like to to learn non-adversarial ways to work WITH the school?
Have you considered filing complaints as a last resort?

Are you concerned about your ASD teen/adult and their interaction with the police?

If you answered yes to any of these questions then this presentation is for you! Dr. Jacque Phillips, Esq. will speak on these legal topics and field questions.

Date: Monday - August 2, 2010
Time: 6:30 pm
Location: 6203 S Lemay Ave, Fort Collins
Space is limited! Please RSVP at telephone 970-377-9640 or by email to aslc@autismlarimer.org

Childcare is no longer available for this month's meeting.

2010-06-20T17:19:00.001-06:00

The Longest Day of Golf is tomorrow, June 21st!

Come on by the Collindale golf course and order a meal from C&B Pott's family friendly menu and check on the progress of the golfers.

C&B Pott's serves great food for breakfast, lunch & dinner and our "Four Friends for Autism" team will be starting around 5 am & will cont...inue for 16 hours until around 9:00 pm. You can also shop for boutique quality merchandise from the MaXarT ~ "autism is beautiful" display. In addition, chair massages by Meta-Morphose Touch, massage therapy will be available for purchase starting at 5:30 pm

Come mornning, noon and or early evening and show your support.
Can't make it? Donate online at www.autismlarimer. org via pay pal.

For more information on the event please go to www.autismlarimer. org or call 970-377-9640

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Your event reminder - Help Beat Autism

2010-05-22T08:36:00.001-06:00

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Help Beat Autism
When: Sunday, May 23, 2010 3:00 PM
Where: Avogadro's Number

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Pump It Up: Moms Night Off

2010-05-02T07:55:00.001-06:00

National Mom's Nite Out at Pump It Up!
Special event!

Pump It Up is excited to participate in National Mom's Nite Out, the first nationally organized celebration of motherhood. National Mom's Nite Out is designed to give mom a nite off so she can enjoy some time to herself. Pump It Up is proud to offer an inflatably fun time for the rest of her family, join us on National Mom's Nite Out and bounce the night away.
Date: Friday, May 7, 2010.                       Time: 5:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Cost: $10 per person Inlcudes: Pizza & beverage, Mother's Days craft, face painting for the little ones, and even a bag of goodies to take home to Mom!!
Reservations are recommended. Space is limited so CALL NOW!
Or visit our website for more information.

SPECIAL EVENT

     Mom's Nite Out          Give her the nite off!
Friday, May 7, 2010
5:00 pm - 8:00 pm

(970) 472-1122

Pump It Up of Fort Collins,

1420 Riverside Ave., #114
Fort Collins, Co. 80524
pumpitupparty.com

To opt-out of future Pump It Up marketing emails, click here: opt-out

Demystifying Autism: An Inside-Out Perspective

2010-04-19T11:16:00.000-06:00

Demystifying Autism:
An Inside-Out Perspective
Live Video Webcast Wednesday, April 28, 2010
Featuring: William Stillman
High-Functioning Autistic, National Expert,
Best-Selling Author, Speaker and Advocate Register now
9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (EST) Break from 11:50 a.m. until 1 p.m.

Join nationally-known autism spectrum speaker and author William Stillman for a powerful and inspiring "inside-out" approach to understanding autism. As a person with Asperger's Syndrome, Stillman passionately advances a humanistic exploration of the autism spectrum from the perspective of those who experience it:

What is it like to experience autism?
What are "severe behaviors" communicating?
What is considered best practice in supporting others' communication, sensory sensitivities, learning and movement differences?
Stillman shatters myths, decodes misinterpretations, and illuminates many unique insights supported by anecdotes from people with autism as well as his own experiences. More importantly perhaps, Stillman shows us how we are all more alike than different, and participants will leave the day having experienced their own "autisms."
Outline
Autism in Brief

Clinical stuff
DSM definitions
What drives extreme "autistic behaviors"?
Non-clinical, humanistic stuff
What the DSM doesn't reveal (includes film and simulation)
The importance of presuming intellect
Understanding Autism

Communication differences
Exploring alternatives to speech
Understanding the secret social code of language and eye contact
Learning differences
Appreciating the "art of self-teaching"
How people with autism best think, learn, process and retain information
Movement differences
Rethinking "idiosyncratic" movement
Rationales for perseveration and "stimming"
Sensory Differences
Explaining the impact of sensory sensitivities
Understanding prevention versus intervention (includes simulation)
Additional Information and Wrap-Up

Commonly experienced forms of pain and discomfort
Why pain may go unreported
Commonly experienced forms of mental health issues
How to delineate from autism
Common neurological disconnects we all endure
Speaker disclosure and autobiographic anecdotes
Objectives

List the symptoms and sensory sensitivities associated with autism.
Define the procedures to presume intellect and enhance relationships.
Explain how persons with autism think and learn.
Review best practice approaches including adaptations and accommodations.
Interpret and apply such best practices in an individualized, person-centered approach.
Identify individual passions (not obsessions) to successfully develop them.
Discuss clinical myths versus humanistic interpretations of autism.
Speaker:
William Stillman is a nationally-known autism spectrum speaker and author with Asperger's Syndrome, and has over 20 years of experience advising parents and support teams on positive, proactive approaches. His books include Demystifying the Autistic Experience, The Everything Parent's Guide to Children with Asperger's Syndrome, When Your Child has Asperger's Syndrome, The Everything Parent's Guide to Children with Bipolar Disorder, The Soul of Autism, Empowered Autism Parenting, and Autism and the God Connection. He also hosts a column in the national publication, The Autism Perspective magazine. Stillman has a B.S. in Education. William provides highly-acclaimed seminars and private consultation nationwide. He served as a point person for the state of Pennsylvania on children with intellectual impairment, mental health issues and autism.

$169.99
How to register:
Online http://online.pesi.com
Phone 1-877-880-1335.
Please have your credit card available.
Fax 1-800-554-9775
Mailing address:
PO Box 1000
Eau Claire, WI 54702
One CE certificate included. $19.99 per CE certificate for each additional participant.
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Earn CE right from your desk
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Please do not reply to this email as it is not a monitored mailbox. If this email was sent to you in error or if you do not wish to receive further notices, please Click Here to take your address off our list. Thank you!

Phyllis Zimmerman

President, Autism Society of Larimer County

www.autismlarimer.org
aslc@autismlarimer.org
970-377-9640

Online support groups:
http://health.groups.yahoo.com/group/FortCollinsAspergers_Autism/

If you have questions regarding our services please call 970-377-9640

I GoodSearch & GoodShop for the Autism Society of Larimer County Raise money for the ASLC just by searching the Internet with GoodSearch.com (powered by Yahoo), or shopping online with GoodShop.com
If you do not wish to receive future e-mails or newsletters, please reply to this message with 'Remove' in the subject line.

2010-03-29T12:17:00.001-06:00

You are invited to join us

First Friday April 2nd for

ART ON THE SPECTRUM

a night of great art and community education

Time: 6:00 pm - 10:00 pm

Location: The Gallery Underground

Street: 109 Linden Street, Fort Collins

In honor of Autism Awareness month the Autism Society of Larimer County and the Gallery Underground presents Art on the Spectrum.

Art on the Spectrum will feature guest artists including local autistic professor Dr. Temple Grandin (recently documented in the HBO film with Claire Danes) as well as 15 local creative children who fall on the Autistic spectrum. We initially received over 50 entries and we had the tough job of choosing our favorites from these. Their art will be for sale on the guest wall and proceeds will be donated to the Autism Society of Larimer County. The show is designed primarily as an awareness event with hopes of raising funds for to assist families and individuals with autism in Larimer County.

Sponsored by our great friends at New Belgium Brewery
We lock the doors at 10pm, be sure to be here by then!

Art on the Spectrum Featured Artists
Kenzie Anderson
Cameron Cotton
Johnathan Evans
Dr. Temple Grandin
Tavian Gipson
Besa H.
Jiu Lee
Nathan Molineaux
Kaylee Noble
Luke Scafidi
Brody Stevens
Max Timm
Keith Tuttle
Matthew W.
Anthony Zimmerman

Coming Mid April
All art submitted to the Art on the Spectrum will be on display at the
Front Range Village in Fort Collins.
Stay posted for dates

.

2010-03-15T21:45:00.001-06:00

Court Says Thimerosal Did Not Cause Autism

      By Randolph E. Schmid, AP. is.gd/aF3IM

      The vaccine additive thimerosal is not to blame for autism, a special federal court ruled Friday in a long-running battle by parents convinced

there is a connection.
      While expressing sympathy for the parents involved in the emotionally charged cases, the court concluded they had failed to show a connection between the mercury-containing preservative and autism.
      "Such families must cope every day with tremendous challenges in caring for their autistic children, and all are deserving of sympathy and admiration," special master George Hastings Jr. wrote.
      But, he added, Congress designed the victim compensation program only for families whose injuries or deaths can be shown to be linked to a vaccine and that has not been done in this case.
      The ruling came in the so-called vaccine court, a special branch of the U.S. Court of Federal Claims established to handle claims of injury from vaccines. It can be appealed in federal court.
      The parents presented expert witnesses who argued mercury can have a variety of effects on the brain, but the ruling said none of them offered opinions on the cause of autism in the three specific cases argued. They testified that mercury can affect a number of biological processes, including abnormal metabolism in children.
      Special master Denise K. Vowell noted that in order to succeed in their action, the parents would have to show "the exquisitely small amounts of mercury" that reach the brain from vaccines can produce devastating effects that far larger amounts ... from other sources do not. The ruling said the parents were arguing that the effects from mercury in vaccines differ from mercury's known effects on the brain. Vowell concluded that the parents had failed to establish that their child's condition was caused or aggravated by mercury from vaccines.
      Friday's decision that autism is not caused by thimerosal alone follows a parallel ruling in 2009 that autism is not caused by the combination of vaccines with thimerosal and other vaccines.
      The cases had been divided into three theories about a vaccine-autism relationship for the court to consider. The 2009 ruling rejected a theory that thimerasol can cause autism when combined with the measles-mumps-rubella vaccine. After that, a theory that certain vaccines alone cause autism was dropped. Friday's decision covers the last of the three theories, that thimerosal-containing vaccines alone can cause autism.
      The ruling doesn't necessarily mean an end to the dispute, however, with appeals to other courts available.
      The new ruling was welcomed by Dr. Paul Offit of Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, who said the autism theory had "already had its day in science court and failed to hold up."
      But the controversy has cast a pall over vaccines, causing some parents to avoid them, he noted, "it's very hard to unscare people after you have scared them."
      On the other side of the issue, a group backing the parents' theory charged that the vaccine court was more interested in government policy than protecting children.
      "The deck is stacked against families in vaccine court. Government attorneys defend a government program, using government-funded science, before government judges," Rebecca Estepp, of the Coalition for Vaccine Safety said in a statement.
      SafeMinds, another group supporting the parents, expressed disappointment at the new ruling.
      "The denial of reasonable compensation to families was based on inadequate vaccine safety science and poorly designed and highly controversial epidemiology," the goup said.
      The advocacy group Autism Speaks said "the proven benefits of vaccinating a child to protect them against serious diseases far outweigh the hypothesized risk that vaccinations might cause autism. Thus, we strongly encourage parents to vaccinate their children to protect them from serious childhood diseases."
      However, while research has found no overall connection between autism and vaccines, the group said it would back research to determine if some individuals might be at increased risk because of genetic or medical conditions.
      Meanwhile, in reaction to the concerns of parents, thimerosal has been removed from most vaccines in the United States.
      In Friday's action the court ruled in three different cases, each concluding that the preservative has no connection to autism.
      The trio of rulings can offer reassurance to parents scared about vaccinating their babies because of a small but vocal anti-vaccine movement. Some vaccine-preventable diseases, including measles, are on the rise.
      The U.S. Court of Claims is different from many other courts: The families involved didn't have to prove the inoculations definitely caused the complex neurological disorder, just that they probably did.
      More than 5,500 claims have been filed by families seeking compensation through the government's Vaccine Injury Compensation Program, and the rulings dealt with test cases to settle which if any claims had merit.
      Autism is best known for impairing a child's ability to communicate and interact. Recent data suggest a 10-fold increase in autism rates over the past decade, although it's unclear how much of the surge reflects better diagnosis.
      Worry about a vaccine link first arose in 1998 when a British physician, Dr. Andrew Wakefield, published a medical journal article linking a particular type of autism and bowel disease to the measles vaccine. The study was later discredited.

2010-03-10T22:05:00.001-07:00

Court Will Hear Case About Vaccine Side Effects

Russell and Robalee Bruesewitz sit with their 18-year-old daughter Hannah, center, at their home on Lebanon Avenue in Mt. Lebanon on Monday. The U.S. Supreme Court will hear a case brought by the Bruesewitzs on Hannah's behalf.

The Supreme Court will decide whether drug makers can be sued by parents who claim their children suffered serious health problems from vaccines.
The justices on Monday agreed to hear an appeal from parents in Pittsburgh who want to sue Wyeth over the serious side effects their daughter, six months old at the time, allegedly suffered as a result of the company's diphtheria, tetanus and pertussis vaccine.
The 3rd U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals in Philadelphia ruled against Robalee and Russell Bruesewitz, saying a 1986 federal law bars their claims.
That law set up a special vaccine court to handle disputes as part of its aim of insuring a stable vaccine supply by shielding companies from most lawsuits.
Wyeth, now owned by Pfizer, Inc., prevailed at the appeals court but also joined in asking the court to hear the case, saying it presents an important and recurring legal issue that should be resolved.
The Obama administration joined the parties in calling for high court review, although the government takes the side of the manufacturers.
Only one state appeals court, the Georgia Supreme Court, has ruled that families can sue in a vaccine case. The vaccine industry has fiercely opposed the Georgia ruling in the case of Marcelo and Carolyn Ferrari. They claim their son suffered neurological damage after receiving vaccine booster shots made by pharmaceutical companies Wyeth and GlaxoSmithKline that contained the preservative thimerosal.
The family has since withdrawn its lawsuit, possibly in an effort to avoid an unfavorable Supreme Court ruling, although the Georgia court's opinion allowing similar lawsuits remains in force.
The court did not act on the companies' appeal Monday, but the decision in the other case almost certainly will apply to the Georgia case.
According to the lawsuit, Hannah Bruesewitz was a healthy infant until she received the vaccine in April 1992. Within hours of getting the DPT shot, the third in a series of five, the baby suffered a series of debilitating seizures. Now a teenager, Hannah suffers from residual seizure disorder, the suit says.
The vaccine court earlier rejected the family's claims.
Wyeth lost another high court fight last year over whether federal law barred lawsuits against drug makers. That case, involving a botched injection, asked whether federal law included an implicit prohibition on the lawsuits. The court said it did not.
In this appeal, however, Congress clearly laid out how claims over vaccines were to be made, and the court has repeatedly ruled against plaintiffs when Congress has explicitly sought to bar lawsuits.
Other than the Georgia court, state and federal courts have uniformly invoked a provision of the 1986 federal law, which seems to bar most lawsuits against vaccine makers.
The idea behind the National Childhood Vaccine Injury Act was to ensure a stable supply of childhood vaccines by shielding drug makers from most lawsuits, and setting up a federal vaccine court to handle disputes. The law would serve to block state laws that otherwise would give families the ability to sue the manufacturers.
In recent years, the legal fight has frequently come from families of autistic children claiming that mercury-based thimerosal is linked to autism. Numerous studies have addressed vaccines and autism and found no link, including with the preservative.
Thimerosal has been removed in recent years from standard childhood vaccines, except flu vaccines that are not packaged in single doses.
Last year, special masters appointed by the vaccine court concluded that vaccines aren't to blame for autism, disappointing thousands of families hoping to win compensation and others who remain convinced of a connection.
But the vaccine court still must rule on additional cases that argue that vaccines with thimerosal are to blame, if the mercury reached and damaged brain cells.
The case, to be argued in the fall, is Bruesewitz v. Wyeth, 09-152.

Don't Miss this FREE Behavior Presentation

2010-02-25T13:24:00.000-07:00

Does your child or student display any of these behaviors? Are they sometime inconsistant or random in occurance? Are they are times almost impossible to understand or cope with? Take a look at the list of below.
hitting pushing, yelling fighting with peers, difficulty changing from one activity to another sleeping problems, excessive energy levels, being unable to sit still and focus, refusal to partake in normal childhood experiences or play picky eaters, frequent tantrums, extreme sensitivities and excessive fears
grinding teeth,rocking back and forth lunging head banging, scratching or biting self spinning or mouthing objects constant humming or making noises finger flicking jumping or shaking extremities spinning self or excessive smelling and sniffing

If you find yourself answering yes to several of these there is Good news! Your frustration and confusion maybe is almost over!

Finally!... A thorough explanation and a name for the behaviors and developmental concerns that exist -

Join Eileen Getches, MEd, OTR and Catherine Bladow, MS.CCC-SLP, BCBA as they present ways for parents, teachers and therapist to take a closer look at sensory processing issues and managing behaviors. Participants will learn how to proactively plan environments and activities to support behaviors.

Details:

Date: March 1, 2010

Time: 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.
Location: Respite Care Inc., 6203 S. Lemay Avenue, Fort Collins.

Phone: 970-377-9640

FREE

2010-02-20T18:21:00.001-07:00

January 28, 2010

Wakefield's Science Proven Valid Again In New Study That Replicates Findings

Read the full study, Clinical presentation and Histologic Findings at Ileocolonoscopy in Children with Autistic spectrum Disorder and Chronic Gastrointestinal symptoms at Autism Insights . View a .pdf HERE.

Arthur Krigsman 1, Marvin Boris 2, Alan Goldblatt 3 and Carol Stott 4

Abstract

Background: Children with developmental disorders experience chronic gastrointestinal symptoms.

Aims:To examine the nature of these gastrointestinal symptoms and histologic findings in children with autism spectrum/developmental disorders and ileocolonic disease.

Methods:
Chart review. 143 autism spectrum/developmental disorder patients, with chronic gastrointestinal symptoms, undergoing diagnostic ileocolonoscopy.

Results: Diarrhea was present in 78%, abdominal pain in 59% and constipation in 36%. Ileal and/or colonic lymphonodular hyperplasia (LNH), defined as the presence of an increased number of enlarged lymphoid follicles, often with hyperactive germinal centers, was
present in 73.2%. Terminal ileum LNH presented visually in 67% and histologically in 73%. Colonic LNH was multifocal and presented histologically in 32%. Ileal and/or colonic inflammation presented in 74%, consisting primarily of active or chronic colitis (69%). Ileal
inflammation presented in 35%. Presence of LNH significantly predicted mucosal inflammation.

Patients with ileal and/or colonic LNH had lower mean/median age than those without; patients with ileal and/or colonic inflammation had lower mean/median age than those
without. There was a significant association between ileo and/or colonic inflammation or LNH, and onset of developmental disorder; plateaued or regressive onset conferred greater risk than early onset.

Conclusions: Patients with autism or related disorders exhibiting chronic gastrointestinal symptoms demonstrate ileal or colonic inflammation upon light microscopic examination of biopsy tissue. Further work is needed to determine whether resolution of histopathology
with appropriate therapy is accompanied by GI symptomatic and cognitive/behavioral improvement.

Keywords:ASD ileitis, colitis, lymphonodular hyperplasia

1 Assistant professor of pediatrics, New York University school of Medicine Director of Gastroenterology services, Thoughtful House Center for Children, 3001 Bee Caves Rd, Austin, Texas, 78746, UsA.

2 Associate Clinical professor of pediatrics, New York University school of Medicine, 550 1st Ave., New York, NY 10016, UsA.

3 Adjunct professor Touro College, 27-33 West 23rd st, New York, NY 10010, UsA.

4Thoughtful House Center for Children, 3001 Bee Caves Rd,
Austin, Texas, 78746, UsA.

2010-02-17T20:50:00.001-07:00

More Than Words – The Hanen Program For Parents of Young Children with ASD ®
This program helps children communicate by providing intensive and innovative training programs for the most important people in
a child's life - their parents or caregivers. Parents/caregivers spend the greatest amount of time with their children, and have the
greatest opportunity to help their children communicate. Given information and strategies, parents/caregivers have many more
opportunities to improve their children's social communication skills than are possible through weekly therapy appointments.
Specifically, More Than Words®:
 Gives parents/caregivers the strategies they need to help their child interact, communicate, and improve understanding of
language:
 Combines the benefit of shared interactive group learning with individual guidance and consultation through videotaping
and feedback
 Is led by a speech-language pathologists who is Hanen trained and certified
 Is supported by excellent print and video resources
Participation in this program requires a commitment to attend an orientation and 8 class sessions for parents/caregivers
conducted by a Hanen trained and certified speech-language pathologist. In addition to these sessions each family will receive an
initial home visit and each child and parent/caregiver will be scheduled for 4 individual sessions, 3 with video feedback.
Families are also contacted for a follow-up meeting 3 months after the program has ended. A commitment to attend all
sessions is essential.
We believe that parents/caregivers and children with identified communication needs benefit greatly. The More Than Words
Program is felt to be an effective intervention approach to address specific social communication needs. More Than Words
Program was developed 10 years ago through the Hanen Centre. It translates the most current research on language acquisition
and early language intervention into a practical, hands-on approach that is respectful of parents'/caregivers' and children's
individual differences.
The cost of the More Than Words Program: Very few insurance companies fund intervention programs that focus on
parent/caregiver training, or services that do not involve the child directly in the sessions. However, Children's Speech & Reading
Center has received a Daniels Fund grant that will cover the vast majority of the cost for each family. The cost of the
program covers 20 hours of parent/caregiver group instruction and 4-6 hours of individual home visits, with video-feedback
therapy time. Funding/family's contribution depends on individual family needs/income level, but will not exceed $300 for
the entire program.
The next More Than Words® program will begin in February 2010 and will conclude on June 9. Sessions will be held at
Respite Care on Wednesdays from 12:30- 2:30. Please contact Elise Tobler at 419-0486 for more information about
registration and funding.
The program will focus on children, ages 2-5 years, who have little or no verbal language, are beginning to use words, do not
yet intentionally communicate, are beginning to communicate intentionally, and who interact with parents briefly or in familiar
situations, but rarely or never with other children. This program is not appropriate for parents of children who are using verbal
language to consistently communicate or are interacting with peers on their own or with minimal support. Determination of the
appropriateness of program participation for each family will be determined by the Hanen® Speech-Language
Pathologist. Please call Elise Tobler at 419-0486 to discuss eligibility.

2010-02-11T22:28:00.001-07:00

Art on the Spectrum

To kick off Autism Awareness Month the Autism Society of Larimer County and Summit Studios will present Art on the Spectrum on April 2nd during the First Friday Art Walk. This will be a great opportunity to show hundreds of art enthusiast autism across the spectrum.    The spectrum will be displayed ranging from a single scratch of marker or paint on the page to finishing with a mechanical drawing by Dr. Temple Grandin. This will be a visual display of diversity and talent found on the autism spectrum.

In order to make this work we need your art work!

3 ways to participate:

1. Join us on February 15th for a free art shop directed by Donna Dudon, Art Instructor/Expressive Therapist. The Boys and Girls club donated the entire club for our exclusive use for the day. The whole day will be open only to families and individuals on the autism spectrum! The participates can work on an art submission and then play in the open areas of the club. It is a great way to spend President's day too. You can email a attendance confirmation to aslc@autismlarimer.org

Date: Feb 15, 2010

Time: 2pm - 6pm Open House Style

Location: Boys & Girls Club 1608 Lancer Dr. FC

For more questions please call: joeldecatur@hotmail.com or 970-377-9640

2. Send us your finished art work completed at home or school.

Art work details:

Paper Size: 12x18 and 9x11

Materials: Any type you like

Subject: Open

Dead line for submissions: March 20th

Send art work to: ASLC 921 Province Rd. Fort Collins, CO 80525

3. School support project. If you are a Spec Ed. class room teacher, art teacher or art therapist make this an exciting opportuniyt for your student to see their work in an art exhibit. This as a fun assignment!

Art work details:

Paper Size: 12x18 and 9x11

Materials: Any type you like

Subject: Open

Dead line for submissions: March 20th

Send art work to: ASLC 921 Province Rd. Fort Collins, CO 80525

What we will do with the art:

Several pieces will go into the Art on the Spectrum exhibition at Summit Studios

All pieces will become part of a traveling art exhibit starting at Front Range Village for autism awareness month.

All pieces will be placed on a website where loved ones can view it and order prints and products with your child's art work on it.

2010-02-11T22:27:00.001-07:00

Proposed Autism Diagnosis Changes Anger "Aspies"

By LINDSEY TANNER, AP Medical Writer Lindsey Tanner, Ap Medical Writer – Thu Feb 11, 10:31 am ET

CHICAGO – In the autism world, "Aspies" are sometimes seen as the elites, the ones who are socially awkward, yet academically gifted and who embrace their quirkiness.

Now, many Aspies, a nickname for people with Asperger's syndrome, are upset over a proposal they see as an attack on their identity. Under proposed changes to the most widely used diagnostic manual of mental illness, Asperger's syndrome would no longer be a separate diagnosis.

Instead, Asperger's and other forms of autism would be lumped together in a single "autism spectrum disorders" category. Some parents say they'd welcome the change, thinking it would eliminate confusion over autism's variations and perhaps lead to better educational services for affected kids.

But opponents — mostly older teens and adults with Asperger's — disagree.

Liane Holliday Willey, a Michigan author and self-described Aspie whose daughter also has Asperger's, fears Asperger's kids will be stigmatized by the autism label — or will go undiagnosed and get no services at all.

Grouping Aspies with people "who have language delays, need more self-care and have lower IQs, how in the world are we going to rise to what we can do?" Willey said.

Rebecca Rubinstein, 23, a graduate student from Massapequa, N.Y., says she "vehemently" opposes the proposal and will think of herself as someone with Asperger's no matter what.

Autism and Asperger's "mean such different things," she said.

Yes and no.

Both are classified as neurodevelopmental disorders. Autism has long been considered a disorder that can range from mild to severe. Asperger's symptoms can vary, but the condition is generally thought of as a mild form and since 1994 has had a separate category in psychiatrists' diagnostic manual. Both autism and Asperger's involve poor social skills, repetitive behavior or interests, and problems communicating. But unlike classic autism, Asperger's does not typically involve delays in mental development or speech.

The American Psychiatric Association's proposed revisions, announced Wednesday, involve autism and several other conditions. The suggested autism changes are based on research advances since 1994 showing little difference between mild autism and Asperger's. Evidence also suggests that doctors use the term loosely and disagree on what it means, according to psychiatrists urging the revisions.

A new autism spectrum category recognizes that "the symptoms of these disorders represent a continuum from mild to severe, rather than being distinct disorders," said Dr. Edwin Cook, a University of Illinois at Chicago autism researcher and member of the APA work group proposing the changes.

The proposed revisions are posted online at http://www.DSM5.org for public comment, which will influence whether they are adopted. Publication of the updated manual is planned for May 2013.

Dr. Mina Dulcan, child and adolescent psychiatry chief at Chicago's Children's Memorial Hospital, said Aspies' opposition "is not really a medical question, it's an identity question."

"It would be just like if you were a student at MIT. You might not want to be lumped with somebody in the community college," said Dulcan who supports the diagnostic change.

"One of the characteristics of people with Asperger's is that they're very resistant to change," Dulcan added. The change "makes scientific sense. I'm sorry if it hurts people's feelings," she said.

Harold Doherty, a New Brunswick lawyer whose 13-year-old son has severe autism, opposes the proposed change for a different reason. He says the public perception of autism is skewed by success stories — the high-functioning "brainiac" kids who thrive despite their disability.

Doherty says people don't want to think about children like his son, Conor, who will never be able to function on his own. The revision would only skew the perception further, leading doctors and researchers to focus more on mild forms, he said.
It's not clear whether the change would affect autistic kids' access to special services.
But Kelli Gibson of Battle Creek, Mich., whose four sons have different forms of autism, thinks it would. She says the revision could make services now designated just for kids with an "autism" diagnosis available to less severely affected kids — including those with Asperger's and a variation called pervasive developmental disorder-not otherwise specified.
Also, Gibson said, she'd no longer have to use four different terms to describe her boys.
"Hallelujah! Let's just put them all in the same category and be done with it," Gibson said.

Register for the ASLC Birthday Club

2010-02-07T20:18:00.000-07:00

THE AUTISM SOCIETY OF LARIMER COUNTY
BIRTHDAY CLUB!
WE WANT TO HELP YOU CELEBRATE YOUR CHILD'S BIRTHDAY
Celebrating December, January & February Birthdays
Whether it is our child's birthday celebration quarter or not everyone is welcome to join the fun.
Siblings are welcome too!

Join us at Pump It Up: The Inflatable Party Zone for an autism-friendly birthday party. Kids of all ages will love ...Bouncing ...Sliding ... Climbing and ...Tumbling on Pump It Up's giant inflatable play areas.

Would you like your child(ren) with autism to receive a birthday party invitation? Please give contact information when you register your child(ren) and we will send a personal invitation to attend that party. If you child has a birthday that falls within the quarter of the party, s/he will be one of the children who will celebrated. Just let us know when you register.

Reserve your party spot to share in the celebration for our next party on:
February 18, 2010
TIME: 4:45 pm—6:45 pm
LOCATION: Pump It Up of Fort Collins
1420 Riverside Avenue, Ste 114
Fort Collins, Co 80524
Pizza, Cake & Goodie Bags will be available.

Space is limited. Pre-registration required: call (970) 377-9640 or email aslc@autismlarimer.org by Tuesday, February 16, 2010

　
*Important Note* - Childcare will not be available at this event. A parent/guardian/adult support person must attend this party with your child(ren). A parent/guardian must sign a Pump It Up Waiver form for each child. Waiver forms are available at:
http://www.pumpitupparty.com/waivermadison.pdf

If you do not wish to receive future e-mails or newsletters, please reply to this message with 'Remove' in the subject line.

2010-01-25T13:28:00.001-07:00

The next More Than Words® program will begin in on February 10, 2010 and will conclude on June 9. Sessions will be held at Respite Care on Wednesdays from 12:30- 2:30. Please contact Elise Tobler at 419-0486 for more information about registration and funding.

More Than Words – The Hanen Program For Parents of Young Children with ASD ®

This program helps children communicate by providing intensive and innovative training programs for the most important people in a child's life - their parents or caregivers. Parents/caregivers spend the greatest amount of time with their children, and have the greatest opportunity to help their children communicate. Given information and strategies, parents/caregivers have many more opportunities to improve their children's social communication skills than are possible through weekly therapy appointments.

Specifically, More Than Words®:
·         Gives parents/caregivers the strategies they need to help their child interact, communicate, and improve understanding of language:
·         Combines the benefit of shared interactive group learning with individual guidance and consultation through videotaping and feedback
·         Is led by a speech-language pathologists who is Hanen trained and certified
·         Is supported by excellent print and video resources

Participation in this program requires a commitment to attend an orientation and 8 class sessions for parents/caregivers conducted by a Hanen trained and certified speech-language pathologist. In addition to these sessions each family will receive an initial home visit and each child and parent/caregiver will be scheduled for 4 individual sessions, 3 with video feedback. Families are also contacted for a follow-up meeting 3 months after the program has ended. A commitment to attend all sessions is essential.

We believe that parents/caregivers and children with identified communication needs benefit greatly. The More Than Words Program is felt to be an effective intervention approach to address specific social communication needs. More Than Words Program was developed 10 years ago through the Hanen Centre. It translates the most current research on language acquisition and early language intervention into a practical, hands-on approach that is respectful of parents'/caregivers' and children's individual differences..

The cost of the More Than Words Program: Very few insurance companies fund intervention programs that focus on parent/caregiver training, or services that do not involve the child directly in the sessions. However, the Scottish Rite Foundation will provide scholarship funding to eligible families enrolled in this program through Children's Speech & Reading Center. The total cost of the More Than Words Program is $1200. This cost covers 20 hours of parent/caregiver group instruction and 4-6 hours of individual home visits, with video-feedback therapy time. Funding assistance for this program may be available. Funding depends on individual family needs and availability of grant monies.

The next More Than Words® program will begin in on February 10, 2010 and will conclude on June 9. Sessions will be held at Respite Care on Wednesdays from 12:30- 2:30. Please contact Elise Tobler at 419-0486 for more information about registration and funding.

The program will focus on children, ages 2-5 years, who have little or no verbal language, are beginning to use words, do not yet intentionally communicate, are beginning to communicate intentionally, and who interact with parents briefly or in familiar situations, but rarely or never with other children. This program is not appropriate for parents of children who are using verbal language to consistently communicate or are interacting with peers on their own or with minimal support. Determination of the appropriateness of program participation for each family will be determined by the Hanen® Speech-Language Pathologist.

Fw: Free PEAK Workshop in Ft. Collins

2009-12-16T20:04:00.001-07:00

Click to view this email in a browser

Hello Phyllis,

Topic: Accommodations and Modifications to Curriculum: Assuring Meaningful Participation in General Education Classrooms

Get answers to these questions and more:
• How can accommodations and modifications help my child in the general education classroom?
• What are some tools and strategies both families and educators can use so students are successful?
• How are accommodations and modifications included in IEPs?

Date:
Thursday, January 14, 2010

Time:
5:30 p.m. –6:00 p.m. – Free dinner and time to network/chat.
6:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. – Workshop

Place:
Blevins Middle School – in Auditeria
2102 S. Taft Hill Rd.
Fort Collins, CO 80526

Also:
2.5 Contact Hour certificate.
Free childcare available.
Spanish translation and sign language interpretation are available – Contact PEAK Parent Center to request these services by January 8, 2010.

Co-Sponsor:
Poudre School District Special Education Advisory Committee

Everyone in the North Central area is welcome!

To sign up online go to:
* go online www.peakparent.org/workshopsTrainings.asp
* call PEAK Parent Center 800.284.0251 800.284.0251 or
* email info@peakparent.org

If you no longer wish to receive these emails, please reply to this message with "Unsubscribe" in the subject line or simply click on the following link: Unsubscribe

Click here to forward this email to a friend

PEAK Parent Center
611 N Weber, Suite 200
Colo. Springs, CO 80903
Read the VerticalResponse marketing policy.

ASLC Community Education December Meeting - The Hanen Program: More Than Words

2009-11-29T21:41:00.001-07:00

Autism Society of Larimer County Community Education Meeting
The Hanen Program: More Than Words
Date: December 7, 2009
Time: 6:30 pm – 8:30 pm
Location: Respite Care inc. 6203 S. Lemay Ave, FC
Childcare Reservations: 207-9343

FREE CHILDCARE REQUIREMENTS: All children must be registered with Respite Care 5 days prior to meeting time. Once paper work (no cost) is filled out families may use the ASLC Community Education Meeting Series Child Care FREE of charge.
Childcare packet can be downloaded at www.autismlarimer.org under the "Support" page.
For more information about sign-up procedures please call 207-9343 or email leann@respitecareinc.org

Join the ASLC and the Children's Speech and Reading Center
for an informational filled presentation of
"More Than Words"
More Than Words presents a step-by-step program for parents of children with autism spectrum disorder in an extensive, practical, and user-friendly format. Strategies are drawn from current research to help children develop more advanced communication skills, focusing on helping the child reach the following four goals: 1) improved two-way interaction, 2) more mature and conventional ways of communication, 3) better skills in communicating for social purposes and finally, 4) improved understanding of language.
Come learn how you and your family can join the next Hanen Program For Parents of Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder to be offered by the Children's Speech and Reading Center.
Highlights Of More Than Words:
- How your child communicates and the next steps to take
- How your child learns best
- What motivates your child to communicate
- How to turn everyday activities into opportunities for learning to communicate
- How to use pictures and print to help your child's understanding
- How to talk so your child can understand you
- How to develop your child's play skills
- Why your child behaves in certain ways and what you can do about these behaviours
- How to help your child make friends
Date: December 7, 2009
Time: 6:30 pm – 8:30 pm
Location: Respite Care inc. 6203 S. Lemay Ave, FC
Childcare Reservations: 207-9343

FREE CHILDCARE REQUIREMENTS: All children must be registered with Respite Care 5 days prior to meeting time. Once paper work (no cost) is filled out families may use the ASLC Community Education Meeting Series Child Care FREE of charge.
Childcare packet can be downloaded at www.autismlarimer.org under the "Support" page.
For more information about sign-up procedures please call 207-9343 or email leann@respitecareinc.org

I GoodSearch & GoodShop for the Autism Society of Larimer County
Raise money for the ASLC just by searching the Internet with GoodSearch.com (powered by Yahoo), or shopping online with GoodShop.com

www.autismlarimer.org
aslc@autismlarimer.org
970-377-9640
If you do not wish to receive future e-mails or newsletters, please reply to this message with 'Remove' in the subject line.

SHOP ONLINE AND DONATE TO THE ASLC AT THE SAME TIME

2009-11-25T22:16:00.001-07:00

What if Autism Society of America - Larimer County(Fort Collins CO) earned a donation every time you searched the Internet? Or how about if a percentage of every purchase you made online went to support our cause? Well, now it can!

GoodSearch.com is a new Yahoo-powered search engine that donates half its advertising revenue, about a penny per search, to the charities its users designate. Use it just as you would any search engine, get quality search results from Yahoo, and watch the donations add up!
SHOT ONLINE AND DONATE TO THE ASLC

AT THE SAME TIME

GoodShop.com is a new online shopping mall which donates up to 30 percent of each purchase to your favorite cause! Hundreds of great stores including Amazon, Target, Gap, Best Buy, ebay, Macy's and Barnes & Noble have teamed up with GoodShop and every time you place an order, you'll be supporting your favorite cause.

And if you download the GoodSearch – Autism Society of America - Larimer County(Fort Collins CO) toolbar, our cause will earn money every time you shop and search online - even if you forget to go to GoodShop or GoodSearch first! Add the Autism Society of America - Larimer County(Fort Collins CO) toolbar at http://www.goodsearch.com/toolbar/autism-society-of-america-larimer-county

www.autismlarimer.org
aslc@autismlarimer.org
970-377-9640
If you do not wish to receive future e-mails or newsletters, please reply to this message with 'Remove' in the subject line.

2009-11-19T16:17:00.001-07:00

SOCIAL SKILLS~ESTEEM BUILDING GROUPS

Groups for Pre-Schoolers, Elementary, Jr.High and Sr.High Students

Leaders: Nancy Smith, Ph.D., and Melinda Lee, M.A., LPC
Center for Family Care, LLC, Ft. Collins, Co., 970-416-1480

Many children and adolescents struggle with social skills, low self-esteem or the ability to connect in positive ways with peers. In CFC's social skills groups, the experienced leaders provide a supportive environment where youth have the opportunity for personal challenge and social growth . Children and teenagers gain the skills through experiential learning to develop meaningful peer relationships, self-confidence and self awareness.

Weekly sessions…1.5 to two hour sessions…three to five peers per group

On & off site activities…promote cooperation, connection, problem solving

Children and Teens learn to…
Make and keep friends                       Understand and verbalize feelings
Feel good about themselves              Appropriately express needs and wants
Share attention,give and receive        Listen/respond to verbal/nonverbal communication
Address and resolve conflict             Take responsibility rather than blaming others

            Practice coping skills                         Practice on-the-spot problem solving with peers

Call NOW…Winter-Spring Groups for Children & Youth
Children's Groups: The Center's relational activity groups provide fun, playful activities, group projects, and the creative arts to enhance children's self concepts, to cooperatively work and play with peers, to better read social cues, solve problems/
resolve conflicts with peers through the group members' interactions that occur during group sessions. A safe experience for learning/ implementing new relationship skills.

Teenage Groups: Teenage groups follow an experiential format…learning by doing, creating, giving life to their joys and fears, both in the experience and in the sharing of that experience. Topics run the gamut of relationships, peer pressure, family conflict, self-esteem, self-expression and help in navigating the storms of adolescence.

Groups for Youth with Learning Disabilities, Aspergers, Autism and Other Developmental Disorders: Both Dr. Smith and Ms. Lee have extensive experience working with children and youth with developmental and learning disabilities in both educational and therapeutic settings.

(See reverse side for more information and enrollment process.)

CFC Groups Help Children and Adolescents Mature

        The Center for Family Care is housed in a historically restored house in Old Town, Fort Collins, a place that seems to convey a feeling of warm welcome and homecoming to all who enter. The true heart and soul of the Center is grounded within the caring nature and clinical expertise of the professional staff…therapists, Nancy Smith, Ph.D., and Melinda Lee, M.A., LPC, and early childhood specialist, Dori Mann.

            CFC's team has developed a unique approach to social skills groups for children of all ages, based on the philosophy that youngsters learn best experientially, "by doing", rather than just "talking about" what to do, particularly when the goal is to develop social skills and self-awareness needed to build meaningful relationships.

Most crucial to a group's success is having the right combination of participants in each group. The Center staff carefully selects each group member so as to create the right therapeutic balance within the group needed to facilitate growth. As group members spend hours together each week, they soon begin to experience a sense of belonging to something greater than themselves.. .being accepted even when they make mistakes…bonding with one another through their shared play and group discussions and learning to trust themselves and one another as a result of the honest feedback exchanged as group members work to solve problems and resolve disagreements that emerge during their time together. In essence, the group functions as a microcosm of the youngster's world and becomes the catalyst for change.

            The group experience generally seems to be "just for fun" for members; yet the methodology comes from research based therapeutic principles and techniques shown to foster healthy outcome in children and youth. By design, each group creates a safe place for these children and teens to build themselves into strong young people who are able to learn, to decide and to create for themselves a bright, hopeful future.

Who Benefits from Group?                                         Location, Scheduling, Fees,
Child/teen may benefit from group if he/she:                                 Parent Consult-Free of Charge
·       Feels left out, picked on, overlooked                                Contact: Nancy Smith/Melinda Lee
·       Has trouble making or keeping friends                             Location: 420 So. Loomis, Ft. Collins
·       Withdraws behind shyness or disinterest                         Free Parent Consultation: Call ASAP
·       Displays acting out and at risk behavior                           due to limited space. Separate session                                                                                                                                                                                                                                     &a mp;n bsp;                            nbsp;
·       Has excessive need to please or boss peers                   with child/teenager for assessment.
·       Keeps feelings, wants, problems to self                           Fee Range: Two hr. group - $60-$120
·       Has difficulty trusting and connecting                               Insurance: CFC will prepare claim.
·       Explodes or exploits with emotional outbursts                  Phone: Center 970-416-1480
·       Struggles with verbal/non verbal communication                            Mobile: 970-218-2056

CENTER FOR FAMILY CARE
420 So. Loomis, Ft. Collins, CO, 970-416-1480, E-mail jean.cfc@comcast. net

2009-11-16T19:06:00.001-07:00

RESPITALITY NIGHTS ARE BACK

A collaborative effort with the
Foothills Gateway Family Support Services Program
and Respite Care, Inc.

WHAT: A night of FREE childcare for children
(through age 21) in the Family Support Services Program
(or on the waiting list for the Family Support Services Program)
and their siblings.

WHEN: January 16, 2010 6:00-10:00p.m.
February 13, 2010 6:00-10:00p.m.
March 6, 2010 1:00-5:00p.m.
April 10, 2010 6:00-10:00p.m.
May date to be announced
6:00-10:00p.m.

WHERE: Respite Care, Inc.
6203 South Lemay Ave.
Ft. Collins, CO 80525

HOW: Please call Jen Houska @ 207-9435

Limited number of spaces available at Respite Care, Inc. ~ first come first served.
*The Family Support Council is offering this Respitality opportunity as the result of their
fundraising efforts.

Autism Society of Larimer County: Community Education Meeting "Increasing your Child's Immunity

2009-10-26T22:35:00.001-06:00

Sick and Tired?
Are you sick and tired of you and your family being sick and tired? Now you can learn about ways to naturally boost your child (and in turn your own) immune system.

Join the Autism Society of Larimer County Community Education Meeting as Cindy Adams, a Certified Nutritionist, Brain Integration Therapist and FTL Lifestyle Educator presents:

How to Boost Your Child's Immune System Naturally

Date: November 2, 2009
Time: 6:30 pm—8:30 pm
Location: Respite Care Inc. 6203 S. Lemay Avenue, FC
Contact: 970-377-9640 Email: aslc@autismlarimer.org

Reserve you spot and be entered into a drawing for a "Immune Booster Kit".
Contact: 970-377-9640 Email: aslc@autismlarimer.org

*FREE CHILD CARE
with prior arrangements

*FREE CHILD CARE REQUIRMENTS: All children must be registered and reserved with Respite Care 1 week prior to meeting time. Once paper work (no cost) is filled out, families may use the ASLC Community Education child care free of charge. Child care packets can be downloaded at www.autismlarimer.org under the "Support page" For further information about sing-up procedures please call 970-207-9343 or email Leann@repsitecareinc.org

For further information on meetings in this series go to www.autismlarimer.org

.

2009-10-24T20:20:00.001-06:00

Celebs Reach Out to Desiree Jennings

Local woman disabled by flu vaccine reaction

Updated: Monday, 19 Oct 2009, 10:51 AM EDT
Published : Thursday, 15 Oct 2009, 6:07 PM EDT

Claudia
Coffey

By CLAUDIA COFFEY/myfoxdc

WASHINGTON, D.C. - There are new developments in the story FOX 5 first brought you about a Redskins cheerleader left disabled by a seasonal flu shot. Now, Desiree Jennings is adding a boost of star power to her cause.

An organization founded by actors Jenny McCarthy and Jim Carrey is so touched by Desiree's story that they have reached out to offer not only words of encouragement, but the organization's support.

Desiree Jennings' struggle is getting worldwide attention.

"It's been unreal," Jennings told FOX 5. "I didn't think anyone would even care about my story. People are sitting there crying and I can't understand why."

TO WATCH FOX 5'S ORIGINAL STORY ON DESIREE JENNINGS AND HER CONDITION, FOLLOW THIS LINK.

She first spoke to FOX 5 about a severe reaction she suffered after getting a seasonal flu shot. Now, both Fairfax Inova and Johns Hopkins say Desiree suffers from a rare neurological disorder as a result of the flu shot. The condition is called dystonia, and it affects every aspect of her ability to function. One day after our story aired, Generation Rescue, an organization founded by actors Jenny McCarthy and Jim Carrey , reached out to Desiree.

"They are extremely helpful," Desiree said. "They have a lot of doctors that deal with vaccine interactions, and they have sent us so many other stories similar to mine. Unfortunately a lot of theirs are with children, which is worse. I can understand it happening to an adult, but not a little child that hasn't had a chance to live their life and can't speak, so I want to speak. They can't, and I want to help them, too," says Jennings.

McCarthy's 7-year-old son Evan is autistic. She founded Generation Rescue along with actor Jim Carrey to educate people about ways to reverse autism. The organization is now raising awareness over the safety of vaccines including flu shots. Generation Rescue's President Stan Kurtz was so touched by Desiree's story, the organization is hoping to fly her to Los Angeles for treatment.

"And the story is, anyone that sees-- it is just so compelling, Jenny was crying over it," says Kurtz.

Kurtz also believes with the proper treatment, some of her symptoms may be reversible.

"Well, unfortunately we happen to be very good at handling vaccine injury. We've got a lot of doctors that have experience in doing that, so our doctors and our resources are completely available to her, and we're going do everything we can to give her a lot of options to, to help take care to help recover from this condition as best we can," says Kurtz.

For Desiree, it's a glimmer of hope and a chance at getting her life back.

"Get back to my normal life, but still have had a chance to warn people as well," says Jennings.

Still, the Centers for Disease Control says the seasonal flu vaccine is safe and recommends it to the general public. Desiree, in the meantime, wants to get her message out about her concerns over the safety of vaccines.

GENERATION RESCUE HAS SET UP A SPECIAL WEB PAGE IN DESIREE'S NAME. IT INCLUDES A PERSONAL MESSAGE FROM DESIREE, AND MORE ON HER STORY, PLUS LINKS TO FIND MORE INFORMATION ABOUT DYSTONIA. TO VISIT DESIREE'S PAGE ON GENERATIONRESCUE.ORG, CLICK HERE.

LINK: CAUSES OF DYSTONIA

TO WATCH FOX 5'S ORIGINAL STORY ON DESIREE JENNINGS AND HER CONDITION, FOLLOW THIS LINK.

2009-10-24T20:19:00.001-06:00

Celebs Reach Out to Desiree Jennings

Local woman disabled by flu vaccine reaction

Updated: Monday, 19 Oct 2009, 10:51 AM EDT
Published : Thursday, 15 Oct 2009, 6:07 PM EDT

Claudia
Coffey

By CLAUDIA COFFEY/myfoxdc

WASHINGTON, D.C. - There are new developments in the story FOX 5 first brought you about a Redskins cheerleader left disabled by a seasonal flu shot. Now, Desiree Jennings is adding a boost of star power to her cause.

An organization founded by actors Jenny McCarthy and Jim Carrey is so touched by Desiree's story that they have reached out to offer not only words of encouragement, but the organization's support.

Desiree Jennings' struggle is getting worldwide attention.

"It's been unreal," Jennings told FOX 5. "I didn't think anyone would even care about my story. People are sitting there crying and I can't understand why."

TO WATCH FOX 5'S ORIGINAL STORY ON DESIREE JENNINGS AND HER CONDITION, FOLLOW THIS LINK.

She first spoke to FOX 5 about a severe reaction she suffered after getting a seasonal flu shot. Now, both Fairfax Inova and Johns Hopkins say Desiree suffers from a rare neurological disorder as a result of the flu shot. The condition is called dystonia, and it affects every aspect of her ability to function. One day after our story aired, Generation Rescue, an organization founded by actors Jenny McCarthy and Jim Carrey , reached out to Desiree.

"They are extremely helpful," Desiree said. "They have a lot of doctors that deal with vaccine interactions, and they have sent us so many other stories similar to mine. Unfortunately a lot of theirs are with children, which is worse. I can understand it happening to an adult, but not a little child that hasn't had a chance to live their life and can't speak, so I want to speak. They can't, and I want to help them, too," says Jennings.

McCarthy's 7-year-old son Evan is autistic. She founded Generation Rescue along with actor Jim Carrey to educate people about ways to reverse autism. The organization is now raising awareness over the safety of vaccines including flu shots. Generation Rescue's President Stan Kurtz was so touched by Desiree's story, the organization is hoping to fly her to Los Angeles for treatment.

"And the story is, anyone that sees-- it is just so compelling, Jenny was crying over it," says Kurtz.

Kurtz also believes with the proper treatment, some of her symptoms may be reversible.

"Well, unfortunately we happen to be very good at handling vaccine injury. We've got a lot of doctors that have experience in doing that, so our doctors and our resources are completely available to her, and we're going do everything we can to give her a lot of options to, to help take care to help recover from this condition as best we can," says Kurtz.

For Desiree, it's a glimmer of hope and a chance at getting her life back.

"Get back to my normal life, but still have had a chance to warn people as well," says Jennings.

Still, the Centers for Disease Control says the seasonal flu vaccine is safe and recommends it to the general public. Desiree, in the meantime, wants to get her message out about her concerns over the safety of vaccines.

GENERATION RESCUE HAS SET UP A SPECIAL WEB PAGE IN DESIREE'S NAME. IT INCLUDES A PERSONAL MESSAGE FROM DESIREE, AND MORE ON HER STORY, PLUS LINKS TO FIND MORE INFORMATION ABOUT DYSTONIA. TO VISIT DESIREE'S PAGE ON GENERATIONRESCUE.ORG, CLICK HERE.

LINK: CAUSES OF DYSTONIA

TO WATCH FOX 5'S ORIGINAL STORY ON DESIREE JENNINGS AND HER CONDITION, FOLLOW THIS LINK.

2009-10-24T20:02:00.001-06:00

Celebs Reach Out to Desiree Jennings

Local woman disabled by flu vaccine reaction

Updated: Monday, 19 Oct 2009, 10:51 AM EDT
Published : Thursday, 15 Oct 2009, 6:07 PM EDT

Claudia
Coffey

By CLAUDIA COFFEY/myfoxdc

WASHINGTON, D.C. - There are new developments in the story FOX 5 first brought you about a Redskins cheerleader left disabled by a seasonal flu shot. Now, Desiree Jennings is adding a boost of star power to her cause.

An organization founded by actors Jenny McCarthy and Jim Carrey is so touched by Desiree's story that they have reached out to offer not only words of encouragement, but the organization's support.

Desiree Jennings' struggle is getting worldwide attention.

"It's been unreal," Jennings told FOX 5. "I didn't think anyone would even care about my story. People are sitting there crying and I can't understand why."

TO WATCH FOX 5'S ORIGINAL STORY ON DESIREE JENNINGS AND HER CONDITION, FOLLOW THIS LINK.

She first spoke to FOX 5 about a severe reaction she suffered after getting a seasonal flu shot. Now, both Fairfax Inova and Johns Hopkins say Desiree suffers from a rare neurological disorder as a result of the flu shot. The condition is called dystonia, and it affects every aspect of her ability to function. One day after our story aired, Generation Rescue, an organization founded by actors Jenny McCarthy and Jim Carrey , reached out to Desiree.

"They are extremely helpful," Desiree said. "They have a lot of doctors that deal with vaccine interactions, and they have sent us so many other stories similar to mine. Unfortunately a lot of theirs are with children, which is worse. I can understand it happening to an adult, but not a little child that hasn't had a chance to live their life and can't speak, so I want to speak. They can't, and I want to help them, too," says Jennings.

McCarthy's 7-year-old son Evan is autistic. She founded Generation Rescue along with actor Jim Carrey to educate people about ways to reverse autism. The organization is now raising awareness over the safety of vaccines including flu shots. Generation Rescue's President Stan Kurtz was so touched by Desiree's story, the organization is hoping to fly her to Los Angeles for treatment.

"And the story is, anyone that sees-- it is just so compelling, Jenny was crying over it," says Kurtz.

Kurtz also believes with the proper treatment, some of her symptoms may be reversible.

"Well, unfortunately we happen to be very good at handling vaccine injury. We've got a lot of doctors that have experience in doing that, so our doctors and our resources are completely available to her, and we're going do everything we can to give her a lot of options to, to help take care to help recover from this condition as best we can," says Kurtz.

For Desiree, it's a glimmer of hope and a chance at getting her life back.

"Get back to my normal life, but still have had a chance to warn people as well," says Jennings.

Still, the Centers for Disease Control says the seasonal flu vaccine is safe and recommends it to the general public. Desiree, in the meantime, wants to get her message out about her concerns over the safety of vaccines.

GENERATION RESCUE HAS SET UP A SPECIAL WEB PAGE IN DESIREE'S NAME. IT INCLUDES A PERSONAL MESSAGE FROM DESIREE, AND MORE ON HER STORY, PLUS LINKS TO FIND MORE INFORMATION ABOUT DYSTONIA. TO VISIT DESIREE'S PAGE ON GENERATIONRESCUE.ORG, CLICK HERE.

LINK: CAUSES OF DYSTONIA

TO WATCH FOX 5'S ORIGINAL STORY ON DESIREE JENNINGS AND HER CONDITION, FOLLOW THIS LINK.

2009-10-24T20:01:00.001-06:00

Celebs Reach Out to Desiree Jennings

Local woman disabled by flu vaccine reaction

Updated: Monday, 19 Oct 2009, 10:51 AM EDT
Published : Thursday, 15 Oct 2009, 6:07 PM EDT

Claudia
Coffey

By CLAUDIA COFFEY/myfoxdc

WASHINGTON, D.C. - There are new developments in the story FOX 5 first brought you about a Redskins cheerleader left disabled by a seasonal flu shot. Now, Desiree Jennings is adding a boost of star power to her cause.

An organization founded by actors Jenny McCarthy and Jim Carrey is so touched by Desiree's story that they have reached out to offer not only words of encouragement, but the organization's support.

Desiree Jennings' struggle is getting worldwide attention.

"It's been unreal," Jennings told FOX 5. "I didn't think anyone would even care about my story. People are sitting there crying and I can't understand why."

TO WATCH FOX 5'S ORIGINAL STORY ON DESIREE JENNINGS AND HER CONDITION, FOLLOW THIS LINK.

She first spoke to FOX 5 about a severe reaction she suffered after getting a seasonal flu shot. Now, both Fairfax Inova and Johns Hopkins say Desiree suffers from a rare neurological disorder as a result of the flu shot. The condition is called dystonia, and it affects every aspect of her ability to function. One day after our story aired, Generation Rescue, an organization founded by actors Jenny McCarthy and Jim Carrey , reached out to Desiree.

"They are extremely helpful," Desiree said. "They have a lot of doctors that deal with vaccine interactions, and they have sent us so many other stories similar to mine. Unfortunately a lot of theirs are with children, which is worse. I can understand it happening to an adult, but not a little child that hasn't had a chance to live their life and can't speak, so I want to speak. They can't, and I want to help them, too," says Jennings.

McCarthy's 7-year-old son Evan is autistic. She founded Generation Rescue along with actor Jim Carrey to educate people about ways to reverse autism. The organization is now raising awareness over the safety of vaccines including flu shots. Generation Rescue's President Stan Kurtz was so touched by Desiree's story, the organization is hoping to fly her to Los Angeles for treatment.

"And the story is, anyone that sees-- it is just so compelling, Jenny was crying over it," says Kurtz.

Kurtz also believes with the proper treatment, some of her symptoms may be reversible.

"Well, unfortunately we happen to be very good at handling vaccine injury. We've got a lot of doctors that have experience in doing that, so our doctors and our resources are completely available to her, and we're going do everything we can to give her a lot of options to, to help take care to help recover from this condition as best we can," says Kurtz.

For Desiree, it's a glimmer of hope and a chance at getting her life back.

"Get back to my normal life, but still have had a chance to warn people as well," says Jennings.

Still, the Centers for Disease Control says the seasonal flu vaccine is safe and recommends it to the general public. Desiree, in the meantime, wants to get her message out about her concerns over the safety of vaccines.

GENERATION RESCUE HAS SET UP A SPECIAL WEB PAGE IN DESIREE'S NAME. IT INCLUDES A PERSONAL MESSAGE FROM DESIREE, AND MORE ON HER STORY, PLUS LINKS TO FIND MORE INFORMATION ABOUT DYSTONIA. TO VISIT DESIREE'S PAGE ON GENERATIONRESCUE.ORG, CLICK HERE.

LINK: CAUSES OF DYSTONIA

TO WATCH FOX 5'S ORIGINAL STORY ON DESIREE JENNINGS AND HER CONDITION, FOLLOW THIS LINK.

2009-10-24T20:00:00.007-06:00

Celebs Reach Out to Desiree Jennings

Local woman disabled by flu vaccine reaction

Updated: Monday, 19 Oct 2009, 10:51 AM EDT
Published : Thursday, 15 Oct 2009, 6:07 PM EDT

Claudia
Coffey

By CLAUDIA COFFEY/myfoxdc

WASHINGTON, D.C. - There are new developments in the story FOX 5 first brought you about a Redskins cheerleader left disabled by a seasonal flu shot. Now, Desiree Jennings is adding a boost of star power to her cause.

An organization founded by actors Jenny McCarthy and Jim Carrey is so touched by Desiree's story that they have reached out to offer not only words of encouragement, but the organization's support.

Desiree Jennings' struggle is getting worldwide attention.

"It's been unreal," Jennings told FOX 5. "I didn't think anyone would even care about my story. People are sitting there crying and I can't understand why."

TO WATCH FOX 5'S ORIGINAL STORY ON DESIREE JENNINGS AND HER CONDITION, FOLLOW THIS LINK.

She first spoke to FOX 5 about a severe reaction she suffered after getting a seasonal flu shot. Now, both Fairfax Inova and Johns Hopkins say Desiree suffers from a rare neurological disorder as a result of the flu shot. The condition is called dystonia, and it affects every aspect of her ability to function. One day after our story aired, Generation Rescue, an organization founded by actors Jenny McCarthy and Jim Carrey , reached out to Desiree.

"They are extremely helpful," Desiree said. "They have a lot of doctors that deal with vaccine interactions, and they have sent us so many other stories similar to mine. Unfortunately a lot of theirs are with children, which is worse. I can understand it happening to an adult, but not a little child that hasn't had a chance to live their life and can't speak, so I want to speak. They can't, and I want to help them, too," says Jennings.

McCarthy's 7-year-old son Evan is autistic. She founded Generation Rescue along with actor Jim Carrey to educate people about ways to reverse autism. The organization is now raising awareness over the safety of vaccines including flu shots. Generation Rescue's President Stan Kurtz was so touched by Desiree's story, the organization is hoping to fly her to Los Angeles for treatment.

"And the story is, anyone that sees-- it is just so compelling, Jenny was crying over it," says Kurtz.

Kurtz also believes with the proper treatment, some of her symptoms may be reversible.

"Well, unfortunately we happen to be very good at handling vaccine injury. We've got a lot of doctors that have experience in doing that, so our doctors and our resources are completely available to her, and we're going do everything we can to give her a lot of options to, to help take care to help recover from this condition as best we can," says Kurtz.

For Desiree, it's a glimmer of hope and a chance at getting her life back.

"Get back to my normal life, but still have had a chance to warn people as well," says Jennings.

Still, the Centers for Disease Control says the seasonal flu vaccine is safe and recommends it to the general public. Desiree, in the meantime, wants to get her message out about her concerns over the safety of vaccines.

GENERATION RESCUE HAS SET UP A SPECIAL WEB PAGE IN DESIREE'S NAME. IT INCLUDES A PERSONAL MESSAGE FROM DESIREE, AND MORE ON HER STORY, PLUS LINKS TO FIND MORE INFORMATION ABOUT DYSTONIA. TO VISIT DESIREE'S PAGE ON GENERATIONRESCUE.ORG, CLICK HERE.

LINK: CAUSES OF DYSTONIA

TO WATCH FOX 5'S ORIGINAL STORY ON DESIREE JENNINGS AND HER CONDITION, FOLLOW THIS LINK.

2009-10-24T20:00:00.005-06:00

Celebs Reach Out to Desiree Jennings

Local woman disabled by flu vaccine reaction

Updated: Monday, 19 Oct 2009, 10:51 AM EDT
Published : Thursday, 15 Oct 2009, 6:07 PM EDT

Claudia
Coffey

By CLAUDIA COFFEY/myfoxdc

WASHINGTON, D.C. - There are new developments in the story FOX 5 first brought you about a Redskins cheerleader left disabled by a seasonal flu shot. Now, Desiree Jennings is adding a boost of star power to her cause.

An organization founded by actors Jenny McCarthy and Jim Carrey is so touched by Desiree's story that they have reached out to offer not only words of encouragement, but the organization's support.

Desiree Jennings' struggle is getting worldwide attention.

"It's been unreal," Jennings told FOX 5. "I didn't think anyone would even care about my story. People are sitting there crying and I can't understand why."

TO WATCH FOX 5'S ORIGINAL STORY ON DESIREE JENNINGS AND HER CONDITION, FOLLOW THIS LINK.

She first spoke to FOX 5 about a severe reaction she suffered after getting a seasonal flu shot. Now, both Fairfax Inova and Johns Hopkins say Desiree suffers from a rare neurological disorder as a result of the flu shot. The condition is called dystonia, and it affects every aspect of her ability to function. One day after our story aired, Generation Rescue, an organization founded by actors Jenny McCarthy and Jim Carrey , reached out to Desiree.

"They are extremely helpful," Desiree said. "They have a lot of doctors that deal with vaccine interactions, and they have sent us so many other stories similar to mine. Unfortunately a lot of theirs are with children, which is worse. I can understand it happening to an adult, but not a little child that hasn't had a chance to live their life and can't speak, so I want to speak. They can't, and I want to help them, too," says Jennings.

McCarthy's 7-year-old son Evan is autistic. She founded Generation Rescue along with actor Jim Carrey to educate people about ways to reverse autism. The organization is now raising awareness over the safety of vaccines including flu shots. Generation Rescue's President Stan Kurtz was so touched by Desiree's story, the organization is hoping to fly her to Los Angeles for treatment.

"And the story is, anyone that sees-- it is just so compelling, Jenny was crying over it," says Kurtz.

Kurtz also believes with the proper treatment, some of her symptoms may be reversible.

"Well, unfortunately we happen to be very good at handling vaccine injury. We've got a lot of doctors that have experience in doing that, so our doctors and our resources are completely available to her, and we're going do everything we can to give her a lot of options to, to help take care to help recover from this condition as best we can," says Kurtz.

For Desiree, it's a glimmer of hope and a chance at getting her life back.

"Get back to my normal life, but still have had a chance to warn people as well," says Jennings.

Still, the Centers for Disease Control says the seasonal flu vaccine is safe and recommends it to the general public. Desiree, in the meantime, wants to get her message out about her concerns over the safety of vaccines.

GENERATION RESCUE HAS SET UP A SPECIAL WEB PAGE IN DESIREE'S NAME. IT INCLUDES A PERSONAL MESSAGE FROM DESIREE, AND MORE ON HER STORY, PLUS LINKS TO FIND MORE INFORMATION ABOUT DYSTONIA. TO VISIT DESIREE'S PAGE ON GENERATIONRESCUE.ORG, CLICK HERE.

LINK: CAUSES OF DYSTONIA

TO WATCH FOX 5'S ORIGINAL STORY ON DESIREE JENNINGS AND HER CONDITION, FOLLOW THIS LINK.

2009-10-24T20:00:00.003-06:00

Celebs Reach Out to Desiree Jennings

Local woman disabled by flu vaccine reaction

Updated: Monday, 19 Oct 2009, 10:51 AM EDT
Published : Thursday, 15 Oct 2009, 6:07 PM EDT

Claudia
Coffey

By CLAUDIA COFFEY/myfoxdc

WASHINGTON, D.C. - There are new developments in the story FOX 5 first brought you about a Redskins cheerleader left disabled by a seasonal flu shot. Now, Desiree Jennings is adding a boost of star power to her cause.

An organization founded by actors Jenny McCarthy and Jim Carrey is so touched by Desiree's story that they have reached out to offer not only words of encouragement, but the organization's support.

Desiree Jennings' struggle is getting worldwide attention.

"It's been unreal," Jennings told FOX 5. "I didn't think anyone would even care about my story. People are sitting there crying and I can't understand why."

TO WATCH FOX 5'S ORIGINAL STORY ON DESIREE JENNINGS AND HER CONDITION, FOLLOW THIS LINK.

She first spoke to FOX 5 about a severe reaction she suffered after getting a seasonal flu shot. Now, both Fairfax Inova and Johns Hopkins say Desiree suffers from a rare neurological disorder as a result of the flu shot. The condition is called dystonia, and it affects every aspect of her ability to function. One day after our story aired, Generation Rescue, an organization founded by actors Jenny McCarthy and Jim Carrey , reached out to Desiree.

"They are extremely helpful," Desiree said. "They have a lot of doctors that deal with vaccine interactions, and they have sent us so many other stories similar to mine. Unfortunately a lot of theirs are with children, which is worse. I can understand it happening to an adult, but not a little child that hasn't had a chance to live their life and can't speak, so I want to speak. They can't, and I want to help them, too," says Jennings.

McCarthy's 7-year-old son Evan is autistic. She founded Generation Rescue along with actor Jim Carrey to educate people about ways to reverse autism. The organization is now raising awareness over the safety of vaccines including flu shots. Generation Rescue's President Stan Kurtz was so touched by Desiree's story, the organization is hoping to fly her to Los Angeles for treatment.

"And the story is, anyone that sees-- it is just so compelling, Jenny was crying over it," says Kurtz.

Kurtz also believes with the proper treatment, some of her symptoms may be reversible.

"Well, unfortunately we happen to be very good at handling vaccine injury. We've got a lot of doctors that have experience in doing that, so our doctors and our resources are completely available to her, and we're going do everything we can to give her a lot of options to, to help take care to help recover from this condition as best we can," says Kurtz.

For Desiree, it's a glimmer of hope and a chance at getting her life back.

"Get back to my normal life, but still have had a chance to warn people as well," says Jennings.

Still, the Centers for Disease Control says the seasonal flu vaccine is safe and recommends it to the general public. Desiree, in the meantime, wants to get her message out about her concerns over the safety of vaccines.

GENERATION RESCUE HAS SET UP A SPECIAL WEB PAGE IN DESIREE'S NAME. IT INCLUDES A PERSONAL MESSAGE FROM DESIREE, AND MORE ON HER STORY, PLUS LINKS TO FIND MORE INFORMATION ABOUT DYSTONIA. TO VISIT DESIREE'S PAGE ON GENERATIONRESCUE.ORG, CLICK HERE.

LINK: CAUSES OF DYSTONIA

TO WATCH FOX 5'S ORIGINAL STORY ON DESIREE JENNINGS AND HER CONDITION, FOLLOW THIS LINK.

2009-10-24T20:00:00.001-06:00

Celebs Reach Out to Desiree Jennings

Local woman disabled by flu vaccine reaction

Updated: Monday, 19 Oct 2009, 10:51 AM EDT
Published : Thursday, 15 Oct 2009, 6:07 PM EDT

Claudia
Coffey

By CLAUDIA COFFEY/myfoxdc

WASHINGTON, D.C. - There are new developments in the story FOX 5 first brought you about a Redskins cheerleader left disabled by a seasonal flu shot. Now, Desiree Jennings is adding a boost of star power to her cause.

An organization founded by actors Jenny McCarthy and Jim Carrey is so touched by Desiree's story that they have reached out to offer not only words of encouragement, but the organization's support.

Desiree Jennings' struggle is getting worldwide attention.

"It's been unreal," Jennings told FOX 5. "I didn't think anyone would even care about my story. People are sitting there crying and I can't understand why."

TO WATCH FOX 5'S ORIGINAL STORY ON DESIREE JENNINGS AND HER CONDITION, FOLLOW THIS LINK.

She first spoke to FOX 5 about a severe reaction she suffered after getting a seasonal flu shot. Now, both Fairfax Inova and Johns Hopkins say Desiree suffers from a rare neurological disorder as a result of the flu shot. The condition is called dystonia, and it affects every aspect of her ability to function. One day after our story aired, Generation Rescue, an organization founded by actors Jenny McCarthy and Jim Carrey , reached out to Desiree.

"They are extremely helpful," Desiree said. "They have a lot of doctors that deal with vaccine interactions, and they have sent us so many other stories similar to mine. Unfortunately a lot of theirs are with children, which is worse. I can understand it happening to an adult, but not a little child that hasn't had a chance to live their life and can't speak, so I want to speak. They can't, and I want to help them, too," says Jennings.

McCarthy's 7-year-old son Evan is autistic. She founded Generation Rescue along with actor Jim Carrey to educate people about ways to reverse autism. The organization is now raising awareness over the safety of vaccines including flu shots. Generation Rescue's President Stan Kurtz was so touched by Desiree's story, the organization is hoping to fly her to Los Angeles for treatment.

"And the story is, anyone that sees-- it is just so compelling, Jenny was crying over it," says Kurtz.

Kurtz also believes with the proper treatment, some of her symptoms may be reversible.

"Well, unfortunately we happen to be very good at handling vaccine injury. We've got a lot of doctors that have experience in doing that, so our doctors and our resources are completely available to her, and we're going do everything we can to give her a lot of options to, to help take care to help recover from this condition as best we can," says Kurtz.

For Desiree, it's a glimmer of hope and a chance at getting her life back.

"Get back to my normal life, but still have had a chance to warn people as well," says Jennings.

Still, the Centers for Disease Control says the seasonal flu vaccine is safe and recommends it to the general public. Desiree, in the meantime, wants to get her message out about her concerns over the safety of vaccines.

GENERATION RESCUE HAS SET UP A SPECIAL WEB PAGE IN DESIREE'S NAME. IT INCLUDES A PERSONAL MESSAGE FROM DESIREE, AND MORE ON HER STORY, PLUS LINKS TO FIND MORE INFORMATION ABOUT DYSTONIA. TO VISIT DESIREE'S PAGE ON GENERATIONRESCUE.ORG, CLICK HERE.

LINK: CAUSES OF DYSTONIA

TO WATCH FOX 5'S ORIGINAL STORY ON DESIREE JENNINGS AND HER CONDITION, FOLLOW THIS LINK.

2009-10-23T08:41:00.001-06:00

Sunday, October 25, 2009 @ 9:00 AM local time

Address

Spring Canyon Community Park
2626 W. Horsetooth Road

Registration Closing Date

Friday, October 23, 2009 @ 11:59 PM

Certified Course

CO 09020DCR This certified and timed race course is a new course in Fort Collins, with a mix of Spring Creek biking trail, local streets, gravel trails, and steep side walks.

Kids Fun Run

A short course, 10:00 AM. Lots of prizes (sponsored by Fort Fun)!

Kids Costume contest

A costume contest for the kids (adults welcome too!), 10:15 AM

Pumkin Painting

Pumpkin painting fun for kids (sponsored by Grant Family Farms), 9:30 AM

Trick or Treat

There will be a Trick or Treat area opening at 9:30 A.M. for kids.

Who Benefits?

All proceeds benefit Children's Speech and Reading Center, Fort Collins CO (www.csrckids.org). For the past fifteen years, Children's Speech & Reading Center has assisted thousands of Northern Colorado youth and their families through the diagnosis and treatment of listening, speaking, reading and writing disorders. We remain the region's sole non-profit provider of accredited child speech-language therapy services

Fw: 1 child in every 91

2009-10-05T10:44:00.001-06:00

.

View this message in a browser.

**BREAKING NEWS: 1 in every 91 American children now has autism**

Could that statistic be correct?

Unfortunately, yes. It's not a misprint.

According to the Department of Health and Human Services National Survey of Children's Health, 1 out of every 91 children — 1% of American kids today — has an autism spectrum disorder.

That's up from 1 child in every 150, jut a few years ago in 2007...

And if that's not shocking enough, these statistics don't even include adult prevalence or those children who remain undiagnosed — a still too common occurrence.

So what do we do now?

We show our outrage at government inaction… and we ask our elected officials to explain why though autism prevalence is skyrocketing, investment in treatment, services and support is stagnant.

We realize that this fight is up to us… As the nation's leading grassroots autism organization, we re-commit ourselves to improving the lives of all those affected by autism and rallying America to our vital cause!

How can I help?

Three ways:

Donate now, as much as you can, to help the Autism Society get the word out and continue our
ever-more-vital programs to confront the autism crisis.

Forward this email to as many people as you can. Tell them that if they care about you… if they care about autism... now is the time for them to join us and take a stand.

Urge Congress to provide more funding for autism.

What's the bottom line?

Autism is treatable. We can make a difference now... if you'll help.

© 2009 | Privacy Policy | About Us | Contact Us | Unsubscribe

Unsubscribe from receiving email, or change your email preferences.

Autism Society of Larimer CO Community Education Meeting: Making Friends

2009-08-30T16:36:00.001-06:00

ASLC Community Education Meeting
MAKING FRIENDS
presented by Sam Towers

Be one of the first 10 to reserve your spot and be entered into a drawing!

Attached is a flier for our first Community Edcuation Meeting for the 2009-2010 school year. Please note that this meeting (only) is schedule for the 2nd Monday of the month due to Labor Day. The normal schedule will be the first Monday of the Month from 6:30 - 8:30 at the Respite Care Inc. (6203 S. Lemay - FC).

(Below is the flier information for those who may have difficulty opening the attachment)

We will be providing FREE child care through Respite again this year.  Howerver, it is MANDATORY that all first time families using childcare fill out the appropate paper work with Respite at least 1 week prior to meeting time. In order to accomadate families and maintain the proper child-toprovider ratio we also REQUIRE ALL child care reservation to be made one week in advance. You can download the "Childcare Registration Packet" at www.autismlarimer.org under the Support section. Completed packets are to be taken to Respite Care (6203 S. Lemay - FC) one week prior to complete the process.

For meeting information call
Phyllis Zimmerman at 377-9640 or email at aslc@autismlarimer.org

For childcare information call
Respite Care at 207-9435

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Making Friends
By Sam Towers
Towers Behavior Services LLC

Many individuals with disabilities do not make friends easily, leaving them at a great disadvantage. Friends enrich one's life considerably and give individuals the opportunity to practice social skills in less threatening situations.

This training will give the participants the knowledge necessary to structure play dates and other social interactions so that individuals with disabilities can make friends with a greater variety of individuals. This training is applicable to many settings, including home, school, and the community.

Date: Monday, September 14, 2009
Time: 6:30 pm - 8:30 pm
Location: Respite Care Inc. 6203 S. Lemay Ave, Fort Collins

Great for parents, teachers and therapist!

PumpStart

2009-08-20T08:03:00.005-06:00
PumpStart Structured Play Program is here!
Developing social skills and physical abilities has never been so much fun. Our PumpStart program provides unique, weekly, structured play time incorporating jumping, bouncing, fun sing-a-longs, games and other activities all specifically designed for your child's age.

* Children must be 3 years of age .
Want to give your child a whole lot of inflatable fun? A $35 annual membership covers the cost of enrollment for your entire family and provides one Pop-In-Playtime Pass per child.
Enroll before September 22nd and mention promotional code EB0809 , and we'll waive your membership fee. We want to ensure that your little one has the best experience ever, so sign up for our PumpStart program TODAY!
970-472-1122
Pump It Up of Fort Collins
1420 Riverside Avenue, STE 114
www.pumpitupparty.com
SPECIAL OFFER
WE'LL WAIVE THE $35 REGISTRATION FEE
When you register your child before September 22, 2009. You must mention promotional code EB0809 at time of enrollment. Other restrictions may apply, see store for details. Offer good only at Fort Collins Pump It Up.
CLASS SCHEDULE
PumpStart classes begin September 22, 2009.
TUESDAY
From 10:00 AM to 10:45AM
This is a 10 week curriculum for ages 3-5.

2009-08-19T17:35:00.003-06:00

Making Friends Social Skills Group for Children with ASD: Fall 2009

Description: Children will interact with each other in a small group setting, with licensed Speech Language Pathologists facilitating the group. Group objectives will include: playing turn taking games with another child or group of children, initiating play with another child or group of children, playing beside and joining in physical play with another child or group of children, and asking and answering questions with a child or group of children.

Ages: 4-6 years

Cost: $600 for Tuesday group (14 sessions)
$560 for Thursday group (13 sessions)

** can be paid in four monthly payments – due at first session of each month

Criteria: Child should be using at least 3 word sentences to request items from familiar people and is showing an interest in peers and playing with them. Current communication skills should include: being able to accept help from an adult, beginning to take turns and independently able to sit and attend during a group activity. If the child currently has a sensory diet, please specify, as we try to incorporate sensory activities into our group whenever possible. Families should be committed to completing the weekly suggested peer interaction activities at home or in community settings during the program, and must commit to the 14 weeks.

Please call CSRC to set up a free screen to determine appropriateness of group for you child. 419-0486

There will be two different 14-week groups offered this Fall.

Group I: September 8-December 8 Group II: September 10-December 10
Tuesdays Thursdays
10:30-11:30 am 1:00-2:00pm
September 8, 15, 22, 29 September 10, 17, 24
October 6, 13, 20, 27 October 1, 8, 15, 22, 29
November 3, 10, 17, 24 November 5, 12, 19, (no session 11/26 for Thanksgiving)
December 1, 8 December 3, 10

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2009-08-06T23:03:00.002-06:00

Kevin Trudeau on Swine Flu & Mass Vaccinations

By Kimberly Hartke | Published: August 4, 2009

Kevin Trudeau, Wellness Advocate

The Swine Flu Is Spreading & Mass Vaccinations Are Coming Soon!

By Kevin Trudeau, www.ktradionetwork.com

The mainstream media has not discussed one of the most significant events in the last 100 years. Over the last month, the World Health Organization has raised the alert level for the swine flu to level six. This is the highest level the World Health Organization can issue, declaring a worldwide pandemic for the swine flu. This has gotten virtually no national media attention.

When a level six pandemic is declared by the World Health Organization, individual countries have the legal right to require its citizens to get vaccinations or to take drugs if the government deems necessary. Currently, many countries around the world have ordered unprecedented volumes of vaccinations, and are gearing up to have mandatory vaccinations of the population.

I predict that in the fall there will be announcements that the swine flu has mutated into a more deadly, dangerous form. Whether or not this is actually true is yet to be seen, but I predict that the media will create mass hysteria about the dangers of this fast spreading, potentially deadly swine flu. The media and the government will then use scare tactics to convince you to take the useless and dangerous drug Tamiflu and get a vaccination against the swine flu.

While this may sound like the government is taking steps to protect the population from this deadly swine flu, the facts that are missing from this scenario are important and eye opening. The first fact that is missing is that the drug Tamiflu does virtually nothing in the treatment of swine flu. The other fact that is missing is in relation to vaccinations. The vaccine being purchased by countries around the world, to be administered in the fall, is for a strain of swine flu that occurred last year. It absolutely, categorically will do nothing to protect you from the new mutated strain of swine flu that I predict will be sweeping the globe in the fall.

A question that comes up is "Kevin, what are you going to do about the swine flu?" My plan is simple. I do not take drugs. I do not take vaccines. I know that the mainstream media is owned by the pharmaceutical companies and the government. I know that the plan is to get as many people to take as many drugs as possible for two specific reasons. First, so that the drug companies can make hundreds of billions of dollars in profits. Secondly, I believe that the government wants to, in effect, drug up the population for various controlling reasons.

My plan is very simple. I have a number of natural products that I take to keep my immune system strong. By taking these supplements, I am making sure that I have no nutritional deficiencies and a strong immune system. I also do not take any drugs of any kind, either prescription or non-prescription. The fact is, nonprescription and prescription medication dramatically suppress the immune system making you susceptible to influenza, colds and other illnesses and diseases. Click here to view my influenza/virus first aid kit and stay healthy this flu season!

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2009-07-29T19:34:00.002-06:00

Chlorine in Your Baby Carrots

The small cocktail or "baby" carrots you buy are made using the larger crooked or deformed carrots which are put through a machine which cuts and shapes them into cocktail carrots. You might have known that already. But what you might not know is that once the carrots are cut and shaped into cocktail carrots, they are dipped in a solution of water and chlorine in order to preserve them.

When a baby carrot turns white ("white blushing"), this causes the bags of carrots to be pulled from the shelf and thrown away. To prevent this consumer waste, the carrots are dipped in chlorine to prevent the white blushing from happening.

Chlorine is a very well-known carcinogen. Organic growers instead use a citrus based, nontoxic solution called Citrox.

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2009-07-27T19:20:00.002-06:00

iPods May Help Asperger's Kids Navigate Life
A Minneapolis center is experimenting with the devices, and parents are hopeful.

By Maura Lerner for the Star Tribune - McClatchy-Tribune Information Services via COMTEX is.gd/1Obg3

Sue Pederson knows that the teenage boys in her treatment program have trouble making conversation. They may not know what to talk about; or once they get started, when to shut up.
That's one of the striking features of people with Asperger's syndrome: they struggle with the social skills that come so naturally to others.
But about a year ago, Pederson, a psychologist, and her colleagues at the Fraser Child & Family Center in Minneapolis found a new way to reach these students -- right through their headphones.
They're using iPods, which play music and videos, to teach them how to fit in.
It may have started out as a form of entertainment, but Pederson says this kind of technology is turning into an unexpected boon for children and teenagers with special needs. The devices, it turns out, can be crammed with the kind of information they need to get through the day. While it's still experimental, she said, "I think it's going to spread like wildfire."
With Asperger's, a form of autism, people lack the inner voice that tells them what is, or is not, appropriate behavior. At Fraser, Pederson's staff came up with the idea of programming iPods to act as an electronic substitute for that missing voice.
In this case, the staff helped students create a series of short videos and slide shows on how to behave in different social settings. Some are barely 30 seconds long: How to carry on a conversation ("Let the other person talk AND change the topic..."); how to respect other people's boundaries, and think before they speak ("Use your filter!")
In the world of special education, these scripts are known as "social stories," used to teach basic social skills. "It's a mental checklist for things to think about when you're interacting with other people," explained Mandy Henderson, who works with Fraser's Asperger's program.
As part of the Fraser project, the students can transfer the videos onto their iPods, and replay them over and over, to drive the lessons home.
Little videos replace signs
Jack O'Riley, of Eagan, said it's just what his 15-year-old son P.J. needed. "This really hit the mark," he said. Like many kids with Asperger's, P.J. is baffled by the normal rhythms of social interaction: in conversation, he may blurt out too much information, or say nothing at all, his father says.
At the same time, P.J. is easily distracted and has a hard time staying on task, another common trait of Asperger's. For years, O'Riley posted laminated signs around the house to remind his son how to get through the day -- take a shower, brush his teeth, get ready for school.
Now, with the videos developed at Fraser, "we can plug this stuff into his little 'extended memory,'" O'Riley said. P.J. is building a library of videos on his iPhone, so they'll be at his fingertips. "He can pull up a topic on his 'to do list' and find everything he needs to know," his father said.
Sixteen-year-old Myles Lund of Lakeville, another student in the Fraser program, said he's learned to use the iPod to help control his emotions by playing his favorite music. "It helps take my mind off of it," he said. At the same time, Myles, who says he rarely initiates a conversation, agrees the videos can help in social situations. "I just pull out my iPod and go through a list of things to talk about."
+ Read More: is.gd/1Obg3

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2009-07-18T23:03:00.004-06:00

Join the CSU & ASLC
2nd Annual
Student Family Community Connections

Join the CSU & ASLC for the 2^nd annual Student Family Community Connections Series. The Autism Society of Larimer County and the CSU occupational therapy department have partnered together to develop a fun learning experience for all involved. Each family involved will provide an opportunity for the CSU student to get a better understanding and appreciation for the lives of individuals and families experiencing life on the spectrum. Each family will enjoy building a relationship with the student through a variety of activities and personal interviews.

The overall goals of the ASLC -CSU partnership are to...

1. Support ASLC families and your child with autism during ASLC programs as well as your regular
social, recreational and family activities;

2. Build the CSU OT student's awareness and understanding of the interests, talents, and lives of
children and families involved with ASLC;

3. Teach occupational therapy students about the larger community where people and families affected
by autism spectrum disorder live meaningful lives.

How will this work?
If you are interested in having your family participate in this student volunteer program please contact
Phyllis Zimerman at aslc@autismlarimer.org There are currently 10 positions available. Last year participants are welcome to participate again.

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2009-07-14T20:52:00.002-06:00

Wrestling with Pigs at the Bad Astronomy Blog

By Kent Heckenlively, Esq.

Okay, I had to do it.

When the Bad Astronomy blog at one of my favorite science magazines, Discover, went after Jenny McCarthy I had to respond. I began by pointing out my dismay that the vast majority of articles on the vaccine-autism theory inevitably left the impression that only Jenny McCarthy and we desperate, deluded parents were making these claims.

I thought by pointing out that the former head of the National Institute of Health, Dr. Bernadine Healy, and the former Chief Science Officer for the U. K., Dr. Peter Fletcher shared many of the same concerns and supported an aggressive research program to identify environmental exposures and vulnerable sub-populations the discussion might be moved in a more reasonable direction.

And the attacks began. I'm a bad parent, society at large should be scared I teach science, and of course, that old-favorite, I should be exposed to people with infectious diseases which I would catch and die. There were also, surprisingly, a few attacks against Dr. Bernadine Healy, since she was appointed by the first President Bush, which meant, you know, she was a party hack without adequate medical credentials.

I guess it would surprise that commenter to learn Dr. Healy graduated first in her class at Hunter College, went to Vassar where she graduated summa cum laude, earned her M.D. at Harvard Medical School, and completed her training in internal medicine and cardiology at Johns Hopkins. She hardly qualifies as a "party hack" in anybody's book.

One of the most curious claims was that extensive research had been conducted showing that there was no difference between rates of autism and in vaccinated and non-vaccinated children. When I asked for those rates I got no answer.

I then told them that if they did have an answer, it should roughly resemble the study done by Generation Rescue, the results of which I've reprinted here.

"All vaccinated boys, compared to unvaccinated boys:
- Vaccinated boys were 155% more likely to have a neurological disorder (RR 2.55)
- Vaccinated boys were 224% more likely to have ADHD (RR 3.24)
- Vaccinated boys were 61% more likely to have autism (RR 1.61)

Older vaccinated boys, ages 11-17 (about half the boys surveyed), compared to older unvaccinated boys:
- Vaccinated boys were 158% more likely to have a neurological disorder (RR 2.58)
- Vaccinated boys were 317% more likely to have ADHD (RR 4.17)
- Vaccinated boys were 112% more likely to have autism (RR 2.12)

(Note: older children may be a more reliable indicator because many children are not diagnosed until they are 6-8 years old, and we captured data beginning at age 4.)

All vaccinated boys, removing one county with unusual results (Multnomah, OR), compared to unvaccinated boys:
- Vaccinated boys were 185% more likely to have a neurological disorder (RR 2.85)
- Vaccinated boys were 279% more likely to have ADHD (RR 3.79)
- Vaccinated boys were 146% more likely to have autism (RR 2.46)

All vaccinated boys and girls, compared to unvaccinated boys and girls:
- Vaccinated boys and girls were 120% more likely to have asthma (RR 2.20)
- No correlation established for juvenile diabetes

All vaccinated girls, compared to unvaccinated girls:
- No meaningful differences in prevalence were noted for NDs (which may be due to the smaller sample size of the study because girls represent about 20% of cases.)"

Of course, that didn't win me any friends, either. I gave all the necessary caveats, noting that the Generation Rescue study cost less than two hundred thousand dollars and a full study should cost more and involve a greater number than the 17, 674 children surveyed, but to my knowledge it was still the only study looking at vaccinated and unvaccinated children.

It also didn't help when I pointed out research from U.C. Davis, Harvard University, or Johns Hopkins University supporting many of the planks of the theories of the bio-med community. Even noting a recent article in Forbes magazine about research published in the Journal of Pediatrics (a journal of the American Medical Association) showing a high level of auto-immune disorders and celiac disease in the mothers of autistic children garnered no respect. The comment from one person was something along the lines of, "Oh, if it was in Forbes, then it must be true!"

In recounting this story to a friend he said he had finally lost his desire to "wrestle with pigs" as he knew he wasn't going to change any minds. Maybe that's good advice, but the former lawyer in me still relishes the clash of dissenting viewpoints.

The day after my battle at the Discover blog I got a book I'd long wanted to read. It was Autism – Current Theories and Evidence edited by Dr. Andrew Zimmerman of Johns Hopkins University. (Hefty price tag, too - $107 on Amazon) I'd heard Dr. Jon Poling speak positively of the book, claiming it put together much of the latest research and theories about autism while "avoiding the third-rail" of vaccines. However, after looking through the book I must respectfully disagree with Dr. Poling. It doesn't completely avoid that third-rail.

Part VI of the book is entitled "Environmental Mechanisms and Models" with a great article by Dr. Isaac Pessah of the UC Davis MIND Institute, entitled "What We Need to Know About Gene X Environment Interactions." It reads like a litany of what many DAN doctors have told me about the factors involved in autism. There's a discussion of problems with neuro-transmission, chemicals that interfere with calcium signaling, and GABA transmission.

The concluding chapter was written by the always wonderful Dr. Martha Herbert, a neurologist at Harvard University, and entitled "An Expanding Spectrum of Autism Models – From Fixed Developmental Defects to Reversible Functional Impairments." In her section "Ongoing Environmental Contributors to Chronic Encephalopathy" she writes, "For example, heavy metals such as lead, cadmium, mercury, or other neurotoxicants . . . can penetrate the nervous system. Once there, it is possible for them, by various mechanisms . . . to promote an oxidative response in these cells to stimulate a cytokine/chemokine inflammatory response within the brain. . . Various metals and persistent organic pollutants also accumulate in a number of body compartments, such as fatty tissue and liver, where they can have chronic metabolic impact such as inhibition of mitochondrial or hepatic enzymes. Viral infections might also contribute to chronic metabolic alterations."

In the bio-medical community we talk of autism being the result of some combination of "toxins and infections", and if you can decipher the above paragraph, it's essentially saying the same thing.

I think it would surprise the Bad Astronomy blog and many of their commentators to understand how much convergence is taking place between the bio-med community and some of the top people in science.

Kent Heckenlively is Legal Editor of Age of Autism

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2009-07-12T21:59:00.001-06:00

In Memoriam: Dr. Ted Carr

It is very difficult for me to write this about my good friend Ted Carr: Dr. Carr and his wife Ilene were killed in a car accident on June 20 by a drunk driver. He was a supporter of Dr. Bernard Rimland's work and the Autism Research Institute.

Dr. Carr was one of the giants in the ABA community. He did his post-doctoral training with Dr. Ivar Lovaas at UCLA, after which he became a professor at the State University of New York at Stony Brook. Dr. Carr was a true pioneer in the fields of severe behavioral problems (e.g., self-injury, aggression), functional analysis, positive behavior supports, and communication. He published many studies on understanding and treating pain in those on the autism spectrum. You can read more about his contributions to the field, as well as post your thoughts and a message, on the Autism Society of America's website.

Dr. Carr realized the importance of biomedical treatment, and was planning to spend the next ten years of his career integrating biomedical and behavioral approaches. Last year, he co-wrote an article on this with Dr. Martha Herbert, and another paper with me, which will appear in the upcoming issue of The Autism File. In addition, we had a number of research projects planned over the next few years.

Ted was a very warm and kind-hearted person, always full of energy and enthusiasm about finding ways to help children.

And finally, Ted Carr will best be remembered for his thirty-plus years of research, which will continue to improve the lives of hundreds of thousands of children worldwide. In these and many other ways his spirit will always be with us.

Steve Edelson, Ph.D.

2009-07-09T08:55:00.002-06:00

Girls used as Guinea Pigs in HPV Trials Admits GSK

By
Jamie
Published: 08 July 2009 10:05 PM MSTPosted in: Disease, Featured, HPV, News

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July 05, 2009
Christina England

Full Article Here.

We have always suspected it and now they admit it,GSK are using young girls (as young as 9 in some areas) as human Guinea Pigs in HPV vaccine Cervarix trials. This was only discovered after reading a document that was meant for 'Scientific Background and Informational Purposes only'

Cervarix GlaxoSmithKline´s Cervical Cancer Candicate Vaccine Mandate. Media Backgrounder makes very disturbing reading as it states exactly what trials are to be carried out, with one particular very interesting line

"Phase III Trials Phase III studies are underway in 37 countries with more than 39,000 subjects planned."

So this appears to prove that all our children are part of one big experiment to enable the drug companies to line their pockets whilst they sit back and watch what happens to our children.

Whilst trawling the Internet a fellow member of ICAP also came up with this gem of a document which also appears to prove that our children are part of trials.

The document is the Presentation of advisory report Vaccination against cervical cancer from the health Council of the Netherlands to the Minister of Health, Welfare and Sport

This is an official political document. It is called 'Vaccination against Cervical Cancer' and it was accompanied with a letter addressed to the Minister of Health, Welfare and Sport in the Netherlands, from the Health Council. Interestingly the report outlines some very alarming points. The report discusses the differences between the two HPV vaccinations Cervarix and Gardasil.

It States:-

"Both vaccines are designed to provide immunity against HPV-16 and 18: the two types of the virus responsible for about 70 per cent of cervical cancer cases. Gardasil also provides protection against HPV-6 and 11, which together cause nearly all genital warts. Broader-spectrum vaccines capable of protecting against hrHPVs other than HPV-16 and 18 may become available in due course. The vaccines differ from one another in terms of the adjuvants (vaccine-aiding agents) they utilise. Gardasil uses the well-established adjuvant aluminium hydroxyphosphate sulphate, while Cervarix uses the equally widely employed aluminium hydroxide, but in combination with monophosphoryl lipid A, a chemically modified lipopolysaccharide, that influences the innate immune system. The latter complex is known as ASO4. Cervarix stimulates higher levels of antibody production, but the significance of this phenomenon for its protective effect is not known."

The report states that there is no real knowledge to how long the vaccine lasts or if a booster will be needed or if in fact it does protect against cervical cancer.

"Conclusions

Vaccination protects against persistent infection and the precursors of cervical cancer

The initial effect of vaccination is favourable: vaccination leads to the formation of antibodies against the target hrHPVs and thus to protection against infection by those hrHPVs. This in turn brings about a major short-term reduction in the incidence of the precursors of cervical cancer. It is known that the development of such precursors is a prerequisite for the subsequent development of the cancer. Vaccination against cervical cancer itself. However, whether vaccination does in fact protect against cervical cancer will not be known for many years to come."

Lovely isn't it? Then it states:-

"It is not yet clear whether booster vaccinations will be needed

The duration of the protection afforded by vaccination has yet to be determined.It is known, however, that high antibody levels persist for at least five years and that immunological memory is created. Protection is required, however, for several decades. The possibility that re-vaccination will be needed in order to provide such prolonged protection cannot be excluded at the present time."

It carries on

"Although the available data provide an incomplete picture of the effectiveness of HPV vaccination, they are sufficient to support the expectation of significant health benefit: vaccination leads to fewer infections and thus to a reduced incidence of the precursors of cervical cancer. We may therefore move on to the next criterion. Thus, this chapter of the report considers whether vaccination might have any adverse effects that offset the attainable health benefit.

Although the trials so far conducted have involved the administration of HPV vaccine to thousands of women (nearly 12,000 have been given Gardasil and more than 16,000 Cervarix),the numbers are small compared with those that would be involved in general vaccination.If vaccination were made available to all twelve-year-old girls in the Netherlands,that would mean treating roughly 100,000 young people a year. Certainty regarding the vaccine´s safety and insight into any rare side-effects that it might have are therefore very important."

For me however, the hightlight of whole report and letter is in the Executive Summary at the beginning where it states quite clearly:-

"With regard to safety, the third assessment criterion, there is currently no reason to suppose that the vaccine has any adverse events that might preclude its inclusion in the NIP. Nevertheless, the possibility cannot be excluded that, if it were administered to large numbers of people, relatively uncommon adverse events might come to light in due course. This underlines the importance of careful monitoring following the introduction of this form of vaccination."

I would particularly like to draw your attention to this phrase "relatively uncommon adverse events might come to light in due course" In other words the more they vaccinate the more likely it is that a serious adverse reaction will show up. That is really great news to all parents out there with children about to be vaccinated with Cervarix or Gardasil. Your children are part of a nationwide test but it is OK because if your child gets very bad reaction it will help determine the safety of the vaccine. I am sure that will be a great comfort to mothers of children like Ashleigh Cave who is still in hospital after a Cervarix vaccination. She has now been in hospital for 9 months, is just beginning to be able to put a very small amount of weight on her legs, cannot stand unaided and has recently lost bladder control at 13.

The news gets better for all you parents out there because Suzanne Garland who is the director of Microbiology and Infectious Diseases at the Royal Woman's Hospital in Melbourne has decided she wants to include babies in the HPV vaccine trials. She is on the advisory boards for both rival companies Merck and Glaxo Smith Kline and has proposed to test cervical cancer vaccines in babies, with a view to adding the vaccine to the infant immunisation program. This is according to The India Times in 2007

Suzanne Garland has a special interest in the management of herpes in the pregnant woman and the neonate. She is an advisor to World Health Organisation in the area of sexually transmitted infection diagnosis and the prophylactic HPV vaccine Obs-Gyne Exhibition & Congress Speakers Tackle Cervical Cancer Vaccine Issues And Encourage Advocacy

So she has no real conflicts of interest there then does she? Not only is she on both boards of advisers for Merck and GSK but she is an advisor to WHO! It appears that no matter who advises Governments on vaccinations whether it is WHO or the JCVI,the members have strong links and alliances to the pharmaceutical companies who manufacture the vaccines, therefore, how can the general public trust the people who tell us the vaccines are safe? As we have seen we are all just human Guinea Pigs to them, of course they are safe!

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2009-07-08T22:08:00.002-06:00

July 08, 2009

Chronic Seizures and Immune System

You might want to check David Kirby's Autism One Presentation (HERE) for more about the microglial cells mentioned in this article. Read the full article at SCIENCE DAILY.

ScienceDaily (July 7, 2009) — Chronic seizures caused by traumatic head injuries may result from chemicals released by the brain's immune system attempting to repair the injured site, according to a study led by the University of Colorado at Boulder.

The findings could help prevent one of the most common forms of adult epilepsy, called acquired epilepsy, which is often found in people who have suffered a brain injury or infection, according to CU-Boulder psychology and neuroscience Professor Daniel Barth, the study's chief author.

For decades researchers have focused on neurons as the culprits in seizures, which can be characterized as debilitating "electrical storms" in the brain.

However, recent research has shown that micro-glial cells may play a major role in seizures. Researchers have found that glial cells, which are supportive cells that also constitute a major part of the brain's immune system, cluster within areas in the brain when a severe brain injury has occurred.

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2009-07-08T10:30:00.003-06:00

Celiac Disease Presenting as Autism

The Journal of Child Neurology published a special article online June 29, 2009 (published ahead of printing) entitled "Celiac Disease Presenting as Autism." The article is a case study of a 5-year-old boy diagnosed with autism and celiac disease.

The boy was described as "an increasingly picky eater and would reject food on the basis of taste, smell, or appearance." He had severe language problems, as well as gastrointestinal symptoms including bloating, belching, abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. He had deficiencies in fat-soluble vitamins (vitamins A, D, and E) and fatty acids (omega 3, omega 6, saturated fat), as well as low coenzyme Q10 and folate.

Upon being assessed and diagnosed with celiac, the boy was put on a gluten-free diet and nutritional supplementation based on deficiencies. "Fruits and vegetables were juiced to make nutrients easier to absorb, and fat-soluble vitamins, omega 3 fatty acids (in the form of cod liver oil), omega 6 fatty aids, and folic acid were given as supplements." According to the published article, "The patient's gastrointestinal symptoms rapidly resolved, and signs and symptoms suggestive of autism progressively abated."

"Within 1 month, the boy's gastrointestinal symptoms were relieved and his behavior had changed dramatically. The mother excitedly reported that for the first time, her 5-year-old boy became progressively more communicative and told her that he loved her. Within 3 months, his functioning had improve so much that he no longer required an individualized leaning program and was able to enter a normal classroom with no aide."

The authors of the article postulate that nutrient deficiencies caused by malabsorption from celiac disease caused the symptoms of autism, as they stated, "This case is an example of a common malabsorption syndrome associated with central nervous system dysfunction and suggests that in some contexts, nutritional deficiency may be a determinant of developmental delay. It is recommended that all children with neurodevelopmental problems be assessed for nutritional deficiency and malabsorption syndromes."

Genuis SJ, Bouchard TP. Celiac Disease Presenting as Autism. J Child Neurology Online First. Published on June 29, 2009 as doi:10.1177/0883073809336127

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2009-07-06T21:42:00.005-06:00

Television and Your Children

TV for children - especially young children - is a very controversial subject these days. For good reason, many, many children watch Far Too Much TV! We believe our videos and DVDs, used appropriately, are wonderful teaching tools. Here are some guidelines to help you select and use educationally appropriate video & TV programming for your kids:

Use Your Own Judgment - Your own judgment will often tell you what is "Good TV" and what is "Bad TV". If you are not sure what your child is learning from a program the answer is probably nothing! There isn't any independent agency for "educational" content. Producers can label almost any video as educational - regardless of real educational value.

Is The Program Age Appropriate? - Another point to consider is age. What is educational for your infant, may well be mind-numbing for your 4 or 5 year old - and vice versa! The educational content of a video should be achievable - yet challenging.

Spend Some Time Watching TV With Your Kids - Try not to use the TV as a Baby-sitter. Enjoy some programs with your child. See how he or she has progressed with the material contained in the video. Your involvement will help reinforce learning.

Let Your Kids "Graduate" From a Video - Once the educational content of a video has been learned, that video is no longer educational. Many children become addicted to a book, a puzzle or a video. Once a child has mastered the material in a book, puzzle, or video introduce more challenging material. They will come to love the new just as much as the old.

Look for Videos That Teach Specific Skills - Material that is labeled "stimulating" may have little to offer your child. Stimulation is found primarily through active exploration of the world around us. Be selective and choose videos that have a specific learning focus.

Avoid Introducing "Entertainment Only" Videos Too Early - Introducing your child to videos that provide little educational content can make it very hard to get your child interested in educational TV fare. Just as you would not feed your child cookies before a meal - don't introduce "fluff" TV before introducing solid educational programming. Just like a cookie, this can spoil an appetite for better stuff!

We believe TV should be used as a supplement to regular stimulation, love & fun. It is our belief that parents should be very, very selective about what they allow young children to watch, and also very careful about limiting the total quantity of TV viewed. The best way to assure that your child's viewing time is used well, is to spend time with your child while watching TV. Be sensitive to his or her skill level and choose material that is appropriate to his or her developmental stage. TV can be a great teaching tool - or it can be a big problem. How TV is used is up to you, the parent.

www.autismlarimer.org
aslc@autismlarimer.org
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M12 Lollipops

2009-06-24T21:41:00.001-06:00

Testimonials for "revitaPop" MB12 Lollipops

By Kim Stagliano

You've got to check out the revitaPop, methylcobalamin (MB12) in a tasty lollipop.

I tried my first revitaPop at Autism One last month (HERE.) Holy cow! Within seconds I felt a distinct "ping" in my brain and I became more alert, bubbly and energetic. Trust me, if I hadn't felt anything I'd have smiled and walked away from the booth to go find coffee.

Click HERE to view a quick video of testimonials from Autism One.  You'll see familiar faces, including Kimberly Linderman, yours truly and our Contributing Editor Abdulkadir Khalif.

The revitaPop tastes great (I tried Pomegranate) is gluten and casein free and uses no artificial colors or flavors. I was really happy to learn from Dave Dobkin (that's he in the photo), that the folks at revitaPop employ people with developmental disabilities to sort, pack and ship the product. And they support Generation Rescue and the new Rescue Family grant program. revitaPop was created by Stan Kurtz who also invented the MB12 Nasal Spray and is President of Generation Rescue .

There is a patent pending on revitaPOP's novel administration of MB12. Their first shipment sold out in days. Their next shipment arrives this week.

Go to www.revitaPop.com to learn more.

RE: Autism Community Mourns Passing of Dr. Ted Carr

2009-06-22T20:53:00.001-06:00

Autism Community Mourns Passing of Dr. Ted Carr

Pioneer Psychologist Transformed Understanding and Treatment of Autism Behaviors

Bethesda, MD (June 22, 2009) -- The autism community lost a great leader this weekend, Dr. Edward Carr, who was killed by a drunk driver the afternoon of June 20. Dr. Carr, the Leading Professor in the Department of Psychology at the State University of New York at Stony Brook, was a top advisor to the Autism Society. We are deeply saddened by the loss of our friend and colleague and his wife, Ilene Wasserman, who was also killed in the crash, and we send our thoughts and prayers to their family.

Dr. Carr was recognized internationally for his research on new treatments for autism and related disabilities. He co-developed Functional Behavioral Assessment and Positive Behavior Support, a strategy for dealing with learning and behavior issues endorsed by the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). Dr. Carr wrote numerous articles on autism treatment and authored the best-selling book, Communication-Based Intervention for Problem Behavior (Paul H. Brookes, 1994). He has received numerous awards, including the Applied Research Award in Behavior Analysis (American Psychological Association, 2001) and the Distinguished Research Award for Career Achievement (ARC, 1999).

Dr. Carr was a strong supporter, valued contributor and beloved colleague at the Autism Society. As a member of the Autism Society's Panel of Professional Advisors, he was a frequent contributor to the Autism Advocate, most recently co-editing an issue on ABA therapy (http://www.autism-society.org/site/PageServer?pagename=autismadvocate_aba), which was one of his many areas of expertise. With Drs. Martha Herbert and Brenda Smith-Myles, Dr. Carr developed the Autism Society's Treatment Guided Research Initiative and was the main inspiration for the "Quality of Life" objectives the Society uses to develop and evaluate its programs. A frequent presenter at the Autism Society National Conference, Dr. Carr was scheduled to moderate this year's keynote panel on "The Future of Autism" on July 23. The panel will continue to be held in his honor.

"Ted was passionately committed to improving the quality of life for people with autism and their families," said Lee Grossman, President and CEO of the Autism Society. "Those of us who were privileged to work closely with him will miss his insights, his humor, his deep compassion and advocacy for people affected by autism. We will miss him greatly but we will ensure his legacy lives on."

"Dr. Ted Carr was a pioneer in the field of positive behavior supports and autism spectrum disorders. His focus on enhancing quality of life and understanding of the systemic issues surrounding behaviors forced practitioners to think more broadly when designing interventions," said Dr. Cathy Pratt, Chair of the Autism Society Board of Directors. "He was a gentle man and quiet innovator with a quick wit and amusing perspective. His work will truly live on and serve as an inspiration for generations to come."

Dr. Carr was Past President of the Association for Positive Behavior Support and a Fellow of the American Psychological Association and the American Association on Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities.

In Dr. Carr's honor, the Autism Society has set up a Tribute page for colleagues, friends and admirers to post their thoughts and messages on Dr. Carr at www.autism-society.org/ted_carr_memorial. The page will be shared with his family and colleagues.

Carin Yavorcik
Media Specialist
The Autism Society
301.657.0881 x 115
cyavorcik@autism-society.org
www.autism-society.org

NOTICE: This message is confidential, intended for the named recipient(s) and may contain information that is (i) proprietary to the sender, and/or, (ii) privileged, confidential and/or otherwise exempt from disclosure under applicable Maryland and federal law, including, but not limited to, privacy standards imposed pursuant to the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act ("HIPAA"). Receipt by anyone other than the named recipient(s) is not a waiver of any applicable privilege. If you have received this email in error, please delete it immediately. Thank you in advance for your compliance with this notice.

2009-06-17T16:40:00.002-06:00

Recipe:

Crispy Rice Treats

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4 cups brown rice crisps cereal

2/3 cup raisins

1/2 cup smooth almond butter

5 tablespoons raw agave nectar

1 tablespoons vanilla extract

1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

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Makes 12

Almond butter, brown rice crisps, raisins and agave nectar give this classic treat a healthier update.

Ingredients

4 cups brown rice crisps cereal
2/3 cup raisins
1/2 cup smooth almond butter
5 tablespoons raw agave nectar
1 tablespoons vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Method

Place cereal and raisins in a large mixing bowl. Heat almond butter and agave nectar over medium-low heat until the mixture is warm and thinned like syrup. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla and cinnamon. Pour over cereal and raisins and stir until completely coated.

Spray a 7-by-11-inch baking dish with natural cooking spray. Transfer the cereal mixture to the baking pan. Pat it down with wet fingers to even out the top. Chill for an hour before cutting into squares. Keep chilled between servings.

Nutrition

Per serving (1 square/about 1oz/39g-wt.): 160 calories (60 from fat), 7g total fat, 0.5g saturated fat, 0mg cholesterol, 90mg sodium, 25g total carbohydrate (1g dietary fiber, 13g sugar), 3g protein

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Dangers of iPhone

2009-06-16T13:16:00.004-06:00

The cell phone companies surely will not broadcast this – especially in a down economy – but your cell phone can do some serious bodily damage resulting from radiation.

And these dangers are skyrocketing at an alarming rate… though you may not be hearing about it because of the economics involved.

Brain cancer recently surpassed leukemia as the number one cancer killer in children. I'm sure you'll agree that's an alarming development.

Dr. Charlie Teo, preeminent Australian neurosurgeon, believes a significant contributing factor in the exponential increase in pediatric brain tumors is excessive exposure to electromagnetic fields (EMF) and electromagnetic radiation (EMR) from mobile phones and other electrical and electronic equipment and appliances.

However, there are phones that create moderate risk and those that create serious risk.

Is Your iPhone the Worst Offender of All?

As innovative and popular as it is, the iPhone may well be one of the worst offenders, for a number of reasons.

Even when you're not using your iPhone but have it on, it still operates as a base station, transmitting radiation to you.

Further, iPhones tend to get a great deal of use due to their amazing plethora of applications, which increases your risk.

Data waves from your iPhone substantially affect your biology, altering intercellular communication. Thing is… you want your cells to talk to each other in a 'normal' way, not to take on abnormal communication habits.

Now I'm pretty sure you won't be willing to give up your cell phone in today's world. But there are some things you can do to minimize your risk.

Before I tell you about that, let me tell you a bit about how we got where we are…

Sometimes you just need to take matters into your own hands.

For the last ten years, I've been convinced that cell phone radiation is a real concern for all of us. That's why I first introduced the RF3 Headset to help you minimize your radiation exposure.

However, as time went on, I realized that some improvements could make the RF3 Headset even better -- and more convenient to use. And that's exactly what I asked my team to do.

A few issues that I challenged my team to improve on were:

Poorly designed earpiece -- mine occasionally came loose and I had to glue it back in place.

Annoying constantly tangled cord -- this wasted loads of time, as I would have to unknot it nearly every time I wanted to use it.

Awkward earhook design – earhook configuration was frustrating and difficult to adjust

Well, my team came through in flying colors and upgraded the Blue Tube Headset – an improved RF3 with enhanced Aircom™ 2 technology.

But before I get into more details on this new and improved headset, here's what's behind my decision to use one in the first place...

Cell Phone Radiation -- A Growing Concern
The first cell phones were introduced in 1984.

By 2004, we reached one billion cell phones. It only took EIGHTEEN months to reach the second billion. But wait it gets far worse: it only took NINE months to reach the third billion. And to get to four billion cell phones? Only SIX months!

Cell phone use is pervasive.

That makes your personal use even far more of a concern. Why? Your total radiation exposure is rapidly increasing -- even if you don't use a cell phone. And when you add your personal exposure, it only compounds the problem.
The emission of EMR (electromagnetic radiation) from cell phones continues to become a growing concern. However, you'll not hear the large wireless corporations or the federal government publicly talking about cell phone EMR emission issues.

Why? Big-time profits linked to large powerful corporations. Sound familiar?

Why You Won't Catch Me Using My Cell Without
an EMR-Reducing Cell Phone Headset
Before I became educated on this issue, I used my cell phone regularly and thought that my off-the-shelf headset minimized EMR emissions. However, I eventually discovered that:

Cell phones emit a radiation plume.

Most cell phone headsets have a wire that can act like an antenna, and simply make matters worse.

A great deal of scientific data has been suppressed by the cell phone industry and the government to protect their multi-billion dollar profits.

Now I simply refuse to talk on any cell phone unless I am using a speaker phone or headset designed to reduce radiation.

In fact, as you already know, my team and I improved the Blue Tube Headset that comes with my full recommendation.

Getting rid of your cell phone is probably not an option these days. Today's cell phones are much more than phones. They can also be your camera, video recorder, hand-held computer, and your lifeline to staying in touch with your work and family.

So, how do you continue to use this convenient device and reduce cell phone radiation?

5 Ways to Help You Minimize Cell Phone Radiation Emissions
Here are some sound solutions that can help minimize the EMR your phone emits:

Use your cell phone on speakerphone. While this is a great solution and I strongly recommend it, it's simply not practical much of the time. Especially if you are in a public place where rules of discretion and proper etiquette prevail. Another problem is that not all cell phones have speakerphones -- and even those that do may have poor sound quality. I do recommend that if you are choosing a new cell phone, make sure it comes with a speakerphone option.

Always keep your phone as far away from your body as possible. There's a dramatic drop-off in radiation exposure for every inch you keep your phone away from your body.

Get yourself a Blue Tube Headset with an airtube. In my opinion, this new RF3 design with Aircom 2 technology is the best headset on the market. Others may actually increase the amount of radiation emitted.

Limit your cell phone use to the bare minimum. Your cell phone is constantly searching for signals and emitting EMR while you're using it.

Turn off your cell phone when not needed OR keep it a few feet away from your body. Even when not in use, as long as your phone is turned on, it continually emits EMR as it connects to its base station.

Get the New and Improved Cell Phone
Accessory You Need to Help Reduce EMR
The telecommunications industry is constantly deluged with new devices being marketed and sold that claim to reduce the amount of radiation during cellular phone use. When it comes to cell phone headsets, don't be fooled by false claims.

For the last ten years, I've been convinced that cell phone radiation is a real concern for all of us. That's why I first introduced the RF3 Headset to help you minimize your radiation exposure. Just like the RF3 Headset I previously recommended, the new and improved Blue Tube Headset was developed specifically to help minimize EMR. Again, it's the only cell phone accessory I personally use and can recommend for you and your family.

It's simple -- the further away your phone and all electronic components are from your head, the better. The new Blue Tube Headset with advanced Aircom 2 technology was developed with simple physics in mind to keep radiation to a minimum.

The main advantage of using an airtube headset, like the Blue Tube, comes from incorporating an acoustic exchange principle (similar to a doctor's stethoscope) to eliminate using a wire all the way to a headset earpiece that can emit microwaves.

By replacing the typical wire found in nearly all cell phone headsets with this airtube, the Blue Tube Headset helps you reduce radiation emissions.

Plus, the Blue Tube Headset features advanced acoustic technology, delivering safe, superior communication, and hassle-free use by combining the following state-of-the-art features:

Enhanced speaker for louder, clearer sound

Specially designed internal wiring system that reduces feedback and distortion

More ergonomic positioning -- the sound chamber hangs freely in the air between your cheek and collar bone, reducing contact with your body

However, as time went on, I realized that some improvements could make the RF3 Headset even better -- and more convenient to use. And that's exactly what I asked my team to do.

A few issues that I challenged my team to improve on were:

Poorly designed earpiece -- mine occasionally came loose and I had to glue it back in place.

Annoying constantly tangled cord -- this wasted loads of time, as I would have to unknot it nearly every time I wanted to use it.

Awkward earhook design – earhook configuration was frustrating and difficult to adjust

Well, my team came through in flying colors and upgraded the Blue Tube Headset – an improved RF3 with enhanced Aircom™ 2 technology.

So, you can see why I feel my team came through and delivered an even better headset. The Blue Tube Headset will now become the new standard by which all new headsets will be measured.

This sleek and sophisticated headset will have your friends asking where they can get one.

5 Solid Reasons Why I Recommend the Blue Tube Headset
As cellular phone use increases throughout the world, so do concerns about overall cell phone radiation emissions.
I highly recommend the Blue Tube Headset specifically with this in mind. It is durable and won't quickly wear out on you. Plus, it's so comfortable you will actually enjoy wearing it.

But most of all, I recommend the Blue Tube Headset because it:

Helps minimize your EMR emissions – features the RF3 Aircom 2 patented technology.

Delivers you state of the art, crystal clear sound - you receive high-clarity sound using advanced acoustic technology through an air-filled wireless tube and advanced sound chamber.

Comes with a smooth working retractor – simply pull the retractor from both ends for quick and easy operation

Delivers you trouble-free day-after-day operation - through its versatile retractable cord and easy storage capability.

For those of you who like the convenience and freedom of movement that comes with using a hands-free kit, the Blue Tube Headset offers you one of the most convenient and safest alternatives on the marketplace today.

Both the airtube and earpiece contain no metal conductors -- reducing the radiation otherwise present in typical hands-free units.

This headset is backed by the highest level of quality from the manufacturer.

Bluetooth Wireless Headsets Are NOT the Answer
Notice I said Blue TOOTH (our headsets are Blue TUBE).

Bluetooth wireless headsets are even worse than regular ones. Why? Because the wire is replaced with a transmitter and receiver operating with low power at frequency levels between 900 MHz to 2.4 GHz.

The maximum frequencies for wireless products compliant with Bluetooth specifications are 2.497 GHz. The frequency power of wireless headsets rivals that of microwave ovens, which also operate at 2.4 GHz.

And, while in a few cases emission may be lessened by the use of a cell phone headset or earpiece, it may not reduce radiation enough. This means that even a product that offers up to 70 percent reduction in EMR is not nearly as effective as it seems.

I doubt you'll find as much radiation reduction in other headsets on the market. The Blue Tube Headset advantage is clearly illustrated below.

Conventional Headsets use wire to deliver sound to the earpiece and may also emit electromagnetic radiation.

The Blue Tube advanced Aircom2 technology delivers the clearest sound achievable through an air-filled wireless tube that reduces the emission of radiation.

Don't Be Sorry Tomorrow -- Order Your Blue Tube Headset Today!
The stylish Blue Tube Headset is available in 2.5mm plug version, with an earbud ear piece design (pictured right), that will fit many cell phones.

Regarding Adapters:
This headset uses a 2.5mm jack. If your phone does not have a 2.5mm jack, you will need an adapter. To determine what size jack your phone has, consult the product manual, the product manufacturer or the retail store where you purchased it.

A small percentage of phones will require an adapter for use with the headset.

Luckily, we have adaptors available to fit your phone.

Don't put off providing you and your family with the best cell phone headset on the market that helps minimize EMR emissions. Do yourself a favor and help your family take advantage of this incredible product today.

Even though we greatly improved on the design of its predecessor, the Blue Tube Headset is priced less.

Your loved ones DESPERATELY need this vital EMR reduction. So, if you want your whole family (or friends) to minimize EMR from their cell phones, take advantage of our "3-Pack" of Blue Tube Headsets at a steeply discounted investment of only $61.97!

BlueTube Headset 3-Pack
w/ Adapters
(Adapters are chosen during checkout)

List Price: ~~$134.70~~
Your Price: $76.88
You Save: $57.82 (43%)

BlueTube Headset 3-Pack

List Price: ~~$104.85~~
Your Price: $61.97
You Save: $42.88 (41%)

BlueTube Headset
Single Headset
w/ Adapter

List Price: ~~$44.90~~
Your Price: $29.94
You Save: $14.96

BlueTube Headset
Single Headset

List Price: ~~$34.95~~
Your Price: $24.97
You Save: $9.98

Individual Adapters

Regarding Adapters: The Blue Tube headset uses a 2.5mm jack. If your phone does not have a 2.5mm jack, you will need an adapter. To determine what size jack your phone has, consult the product manual, the product manufacturer or the retail store where you purchased it.

iPhone
(also works w/
most Blackberries)
Motorola V3

Sony Ericsson K759

Sony Ericsson T28

~~$9.95~~ $4.97
~~$9.95~~ $4.97
~~$9.95~~ $4.97
~~$9.95~~ $4.97

www.autismlarimer.org
aslc@autismlarimer.org
970-377-9640
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2009-06-16T07:32:00.001-06:00

What Fathers Think:
Quotations from Ordinary Fathers
by Robert Naseef, Ph.D.

Often times men seem to have a more muted language, so it is no surprise when others wonder what a man really thinks. I asked a number of men who have children with special needs about their reflections on fatherhood. Here's what they told me:
"Now that I am a father, I have a different relationship with work. It's not my whole life anymore."
"Having a daughter with Down syndrome has changed my notion of what comprises a bad day. I appreciate life in such a different and more profound way."
" I have learned to see past what my son (who has autism) isn't and focus on who he is. It takes time to find it in your heart."
"My children's smiles are my smiles—the one who has CP and the one who doesn't. They light up my life."
" My father was a hard worker and he taught me to be. He required it. Now I have a child with special needs, and I work hard to be the best father I can for him."
"I grew up without my father because my parents divorced when I was very young. I was always determined to be there for my children. Now that I have two boys with special needs, they need me more than ever."
"My father had a horrible temper. I was determined to do better. My daughter's disability taught me such humility as I learned to accept what I could not change."
" I am a fixer, and I can't fix this. There is not a wrench to pull out of my toolbox."
"When I get home at night and my kids run to greet me and laugh – that is the best part of my day."

As you can see, there is much wisdom in the observations and reflections of these fathers. They are fairly typical of many fathers I have met both with and without children with special needs. Fathers are vital. When a child is diagnosed with special needs, it can be a grief like no other. It is an event that changes and transforms us. It will drive us places we never wanted to go. Men and women alike look to their fathers for comfort and strength and acceptance. As hard as it has been, I must say that my son, autism and all, is a good son and loving him has taught me to be a better father.

.