The Autism Society of Washington
Listserve for November 2007 - Week 1
Click on archived listserve posts here:
ASW Mission Statement
The mission of the Autism Society of Washington is to promote lifelong access and opportunities for `ascribes to the Options Policy established by the Autism Society of America.
*** Introductory Comments from ASW
Introductory Comments from ASW
By Patty Gee, M.Ed SLP, ASW President’s Message – January 2008
AUTISM AWARENESS RALLY PLANNED FOR WEDNESDAY FEBRUARY 27TH,
IN OLYMPIA AT THE CAPITOL ROTUNDA, AT 12:00 NOON
You are invited to attend the Autism Awareness Rally planned for February 27th, 2008, at noon in the Capitol Rotunda. We are inviting families from around the state to come and share their stories with their legislator and gather together in support of issues that are common to all those living with autism. It would be great to bring you children, if they can tolerate the crowd. We would like to put a Face on Autism.....
Legislators and individuals connected with supporting autism issues this legislative session will speak.
Currently, 1 out of 150 children are being diagnosed with autism. Often the waiting lists to receive a diagnosis and then appropriate treatment are months long. This is a difficult waiting time for families.
An Autism Spectrum Disorder can have a devastating impact on families affected by it. Several bills supported by the Autism Society of Washington are directed toward easing some of the distress families feel and thus go toward helping to preserve the family unit. Those bills are:
HB 2862/SB 6448 Intensive Behavior Support Services- Directed toward preserving the family through behavioral services provided at home and in the community.
SB 6736/HB 3078 Live Long Learning Act- Directed toward providing meaningful day services to young adults with significant disabilities interfering with work, therefore needing other activities to preserve their quality of life.
HB 2900/SB 6713 Early Intervention Services- Directed toward providing full funding for this entitlement program to preserve families’ ability to find help for their child early.
SB 6760 Developmental Disabilities Land Trust- Directed toward preserving funds from excess properties at RHCs for the use by DD employment and Individual and Family Services.
I hope to see you at the Autism Rally on Feb. 27th… For information email Patty Gee at
SECTION ONE: How to contact ASW and its Chapters
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1.1 AUTISM SOCIETY OF WASHINGTON- STATE OFFICE
Patty Gee - President
1101 Eastside Street SE, Suite B
Olympia, Washington 98501
Office phone: 360-786-1108
Toll free: (888) ASW 4 YOU
Email: info@autismsocietyofwa.org
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1.2
ASW CHAPTER CONTACTS
ASW CHAPTER CONTACTSAutism Society of Washington - Cowlitz/Wahkiakum Counties
Meetings held in Longview; every third Thurs. of the month at 7:00 pm
Sue Culbertson 360-423-4012
www.autismsocietyofwa.org/ASW-CWC.html
Autism Society of Washington – Spokane
Meetings held in Spokane; meet the third Wed. of each month
Kathleen Stimple 509-624-3323
Email: spokane@autismsocietyofwa.org
www.autismsocietyofwa.org/ASW-SC.html
Autism Society of Tacoma
Meetings held near the Tacoma Community College; 4th Tues of each month
Christina Boutiette 253-759-7995
Email: astpc@autismsocietyofwa.org
www.autismsocietyofwa.org/AST.html
Thurston/Mason Counties - Autism Society of WA
Meetings held in Olympia; meet the second Tues. of each month
Patty Gee 360-754-2584
Email: PattyJGee@comcast.net
www.autismsocietyofwa.org/ASW-TMC.html
Autism Society of WA - Tri-Cities Chapter
Meetings the 3rd Thursday of each month
(The Neurological Resource Center)
712 Swift Blvd, Suite 1, Richland, WA
Terry Buck 509-374-2120
Dana Tolick 509-946-0619
Email: danatolick@hotmail.com
www.autismsocietyofwa.org/ASW-TCC.html
Autism Society of Grant County
Mike Scellick 509-754-4300
Email: asgc@autismsocietyofwa.org
www.autismsocietyofwa.org/ASGC.html
Autism Society of Yakima
Erin Lynch 509-961-0700
Email: asy@autismsocietyofwa.org
www.autismsocietyofwa.org/ASY.html
Autism Society of Washington –
White River Chapter
Tami McGrath 253-826-9112
Email: aswwrc@autismsocietyofwa.org
www.autismsocietyofwa.org/ASW-WRC.html
Autism Society of Washington –
Southwest Chapter
Meetings held in Vancouver, Third Sat. of odd numbered months
Victoria Fitzsimmons at 360-896-6169
Email: aswswc@autismsocietyofwa.org
www.autismsocietyofwa.org/ASWSWC.html
Autism Society of King County
Meetings as announced
Angela Dawson at 206-372-0465
Angela_niccole@hotmail.com
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1.3ASW EXECUTIVE BOARD OF DIRECTORS:
ASW EXECUTIVE BOARD OF DIRECTORS: Cori Valley (Past President)
Spokane, WA 99208
Email: corivalley@comcast.net
Patty Gee (President)
Olympia, WA 98501
Email: PattyJGee@comcast.net
Diana Stadden (Vice President)
Tacoma, WA 98409
Email: advocate4autism@cs.com
Marcy McCarthy (Secretary)
Vashon Island, WA 98070
Email: earait@aol.com
Mitch Freedman (Treasurer)
Bellevue, WA
Email: mitchfree@comcast.net
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SECTION TWO: Upcoming Events, Workshops, Conferences
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2.1
Advocating for Change Together (ACT)
Workshop schedule:
Feb 29 and Mar 1: Self determination and self-advocacy
Mar 28 and 29: Community systems – part 2: housing, transportation, recreation, and mental health
April 25 and 26: Systems advocacy
May 31: Graduation ceremony
We invite you to apply for this unique opportunity to become a better advocate for yourself, your family, and other people with disabilities. The ARC of King County is offering a new Leadership Development Program for adults and families of children with developmental disabilities.
For more information and how to apply: www.arcofkingcounty.org/act or contact Mary Jo Magruder at (206) 829-7010 email: mjmagruder@arcofkingcounty.org .
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2.2
Addressing Challenging Behaviors at Home: Working with Families to Find
Solutions
Class meets on Tuesdays from Jan. 8 to Feb. 5
7-9 pm
FEAT Center
14434 NE 8th St.
Bellevue, WA 98007
$100 per person
Contact nancyr@u.washington.edu
Taught by Gusty-Lee Boulware, Ph.D., BCBA and Nancy Rosenberg, Ph.C., BCBA
Does your child refuse to follow directions? Does he get upset when you make transitions? Does she act but when you "don't let her have her way" or when she can't have something she wants immediately? Does he get react negatively when you change his routine?
If you deal with these or other problem behaviors with your child with ASD, this class is for you. Come participate in a 5-week interactive workshop designed to give you the tools and real world solutions to
address the problem behaviors interfering with everyday life. You will be able to try out strategies and come back the next week and troubleshoot what did or didn't work. You will leave with a "toolkit"
of positive behavior support strategies that you will be able to draw on when new problems arise.
For parents of children ages 3-8
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2.3
Washington State Fathers Network
Western Regional Conference
February 23, 2008
Bahai Center, 16007 NE 8th Street, Bellevue, WA
(across from the Kindering Center)
SPEAKERS:
Peter Hunsberger, PhD
Don Meyer, MEd, Director, Sibling Support Project
Margaret-Lee Thompson
Larry Jones, Attorney
Patti Bell, Life Opportunity Trust
Laurie Slater, PhD, & Greg Schell, MEd.
For more information, contact Greg Schell:E-mail: greg.schell@kindering.org
Tel: 425.653.4286 Fax: 425.747.1069
Web page: www.fathersnetwork.org
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2.4
Free AUTISM SEMINAR - “The ABC’s of Functional Lab Testing for Children with ASD”
Saturday, February 16, 2008
1:00pm-4:00pm
Location:
Hannah S. Grunbaum Conference Center
1625 19th Avenue, Seattle, WA 98122
SPEAKER: Dr. Hatha Gbedawo - Naturopathic Physician
1 of 150 children is diagnosed with autism. If you are
a parent, grandparent, therapist, caregiver, medical
professional, etc. you do NOT want to miss this!
FREE
To register, please call LindaBrozanic at 1-800-288-0383
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2.5
Special Needs theme area of NW's Largest Family Expos -- KidFest!
Portland, OR: Oregon Convention Center - February 23-24, 2008
Vancouver, WA: Clark County Events Center - March 8-9, 2008
Seattle, WA: Tacoma Convention & Trade Center - May 17-18, 2008
KidFest is an amazing weekend focusing on active and healthy family lifestyle
and raising kids successfully. Non-stop entertainment, hundreds of interactive
exhibits for babies, kids, tweens and parents, family fun zones, Parent
Workshops, products and services designed to enrich your life.
For further information, contact:
Lori Washburn
KidFest! "Northwest's Largest Family Expo."
BabyFest! "Where the best ideas for babies are delivered!"
CampFest and Family Vacations! "Your Passport to Family Fun"
360.514.0767 503.310.5677
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2.6
Physicians for a National Health Program
Western Washington Chapter
Annual Public Meeting
Sunday, February 10th
7 pm
Kane Hall Room 120
University of Washington Campus
THE EFFECTS OF UNINSURANCE ON OUR COMMUNITIES
How insurance affects the community's health public services economy and the quality of life for all of us.
Rep. Jim McDermott
Rep. 7th District
Mike Kreidler OD, MPH,
State insurance commissioner
Brent Asplin MD MPH
Director of Emergency Medicine, Regions Hospital, St. Paul, MN
Easy parking under Kane Hall enter via 15th Ave
For more information, email- pnhp.westernwashington@comcast.net
Admission Free
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2.7
Best in the Northwest Special Needs Conference
March 7-8, 2008
Hosted by The Wyatt Holliday Foundation
St. Martin’s University Worthington Center & Pavilion
5300 Pacific Ave. SE * Lacey, WA 98503
Special Education Advocacy & Legal System
Health, Therapies, Adult & Caregiver Issues
CLEs, CMEs & CEUs offered
Featured Films: “Finding the Words” & “The Sandwich Kid”
Exhibitors in the Pavilion open to the public (Tickets $5)
SPEAKERS INCLUDE:
Dan Olmsted, AgeOfAutism.com
Bette Lamont, Developmental Movement
Marianne Wagner, HANDLE
Liliana Saccarin, Tomatis
Brenda High, BullyPolice.org
Jean Bateman, Independent Living
Don Aman, Special Needs Trusts
Elizabeth Horn, “Finding The Words”
Keri Bowers, “The Sandwich Kid”
Andrew Cuddy, Esq. “Special Ed Battlefield”
Michael McCormack, Esq. Health & Law
Mark Geier, MD, Autism & Vaccines
Lawrence Leichtman, MD, Down Syndrome
Gwen Glew, MD, Cerebral Palsy
Michael Belkin, Vaccines and Science
Dietrich Klinghardt, MD,PhD, Energy Med.
Robert Peretz-Rosales, PhD, Relationships
Hunter Hendrickson, Ped.PT, Transitioning
Register online now! http://www.WyattsHouse.org
For more information call (360) 507-0944
Email: info@wyattshouse.org
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2.8
The Autism Early Childhood Training Series
Presented by Margaret Brashers, Ph.D.
Northwest Educational Service District, 1601 R Avenue, Anacortes, WA
These classes are designed for professionals and parents working with children on the autism spectrum. Dr. Brashers is a consultant at the University of Washington for Project DATA, a program for young children
with autism spectrum disorders, and consults with public school districts, preschools, and elementary schools on providing specialized instruction in inclusive settings.
Topics covered in this four-part series include:
Beginning Part 1: Ten Things Kids with Autism Really Want You to Know
Course No. AOP 1539NWV
February 7, 2008 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Intermediate Part 1: What to do When...Dealing with Challenging Behavior
Course No. AOP 1540NWV
March 13, 2008 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Intermediate Part 2: How to Teach so that Kids will Talk
Course No. AOP 1541NWV
April 10, 2008 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Registration: $85.00 per person per session
5 clock hours available at each class $15
Locations:
Contact Nancy Osterhout for K-20 information at (360) 299-4090 or autism@esd189.org.
Ways to register:
Mail registration form with P.O. or check to:
Northwest ESD, 1601 R Avenue, Anacortes WA 98221
Fax in the registration with P.O. or credit card to: (360) 299-4071
Phone in completed registration with your credit card to: 360-299-4082
Register online at:
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2.9
You Are The Expert Conference 2008
"Celebrating Families and Professionals, The Heart of Success"
April 4 - 5, 2008
Lynnwood Convention Center
3711 196th Street SW
Lynnwood, WA 989036
This is a wonderful opportunity for connecting with other parents and professionals: Gain New Ideas, Share your Knowledge and Experience . . . and Have a Great Time!
Cost: $125.00 per person for adults, free to youths 18 or younger attending with and adult. Includes breakfast and lunch both days, reception and silent auction Friday evening and youth dance Friday night.
To register go to:
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2.10
Washington PAVE’s Annual Conference
YOU ARE THE EXPERT 2008
Celebrating Families and Professionals:
The Heart of Success
April 4-5, 2008
Lynnwood, WA
SPEAKERS:
Keynote: Josh Brothers: The State of State—Information about Special Education in Washington State
Keynote: Kimmer Gordon: Using People First Language
•Karen Davis: Dispute Resolution in Special Education
Karen Davis: Dispute Resolution in Special Education•Renee Arcement: Recognizing Stress and Depression in Children
Renee Arcement: Recognizing Stress and Depression in Children•Kate Orville & Cassie Johnston: Children with Special Healthcare Needs and the Medical Home
Kate Orville & Cassie Johnston: Children with Special Healthcare Needs and the Medical Home•Tricia & Cal Luker: Transition under IDEA 2004: Can We Expect Better Outcomes?
Tricia & Cal Luker: Transition under IDEA 2004: Can We Expect Better Outcomes?•Barbara Curtis: Traumatic Brain Injury
Barbara Curtis: Traumatic Brain Injury•Paul Alig: Specific Learning Disabilities and Response to Intervention
Paul Alig: Specific Learning Disabilities and Response to Intervention•Helen Jones: Strengthening Families Through Early Care & Education
Helen Jones: Strengthening Families Through Early Care & Education•Kristen Hennessey: Conversations with OSPI’s Ombudsman
Kristen Hennessey: Conversations with OSPI’s Ombudsman•Robin Higa: Community Café: Changing the Lives of Children through Conversations that Matter
Robin Higa: Community Café: Changing the Lives of Children through Conversations that Matter•Vicky McKinney: Practice-Based Evidence
Vicky McKinney: Practice-Based Evidence•Tricia & Cal Luker: Restraint, Seclusion and Positive Behavioral Interventions in Schools: The Good, The Bad & The Ugly
Tricia & Cal Luker: Restraint, Seclusion and Positive Behavioral Interventions in Schools: The Good, The Bad & The Ugly•Sarah Pennington: Dancing on Quicksand while Gargling Peanut Butter
Sarah Pennington: Dancing on Quicksand while Gargling Peanut Butter•Andrea Sheehan: Starting a New Journey—Transition to Preschool Special Education Services
Andrea Sheehan: Starting a New Journey—Transition to Preschool Special Education Services•Diane Davis: Working with Children with Fetal Alcohol Syndrome, Fetal Alcohol Effects, and Autism Spectrum Disorders
Diane Davis: Working with Children with Fetal Alcohol Syndrome, Fetal Alcohol Effects, and Autism Spectrum Disorders•Kris Hirschmann & Mark Conley: Washington Virtual Academy—Meeting the Needs of Students in the 21st Century
Kris Hirschmann & Mark Conley: Washington Virtual Academy—Meeting the Needs of Students in the 21st CenturyThe Youth Strand of the conference—for ages 12-21 years—features classes, workshops, and activities for building self-advocacy skills and other talents. It will be a fun, and active, as well as educational time. In addition, there will be a dance with a live band on Friday evening! The Youth Strand is free for youth who accompany their parent or caregiver to the conference.
The registration cost of $125.00 also covers breakfast, lunch, and evening reception with silent auction and great hors d’oeuvres on Friday plus breakfast on Saturday. Child care will not be provided.
To register go to www.washingtonpave.org and click on You Are the Expert Conference link.
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2.11
2008 ASA National Conference, July 9-12, at the Gaylord Palms
Resort & Convention Center, in Orlando, Fla.
Mark Your Calendars!
Sponsorship & Advertising Opportunities
Think about supporting the 2008 ASA National Conference as a sponsor
or an advertiser. These spots go fast. With nearly 2,000 attendees
anticipated at the conference from around the US and internationally,
it's a great way to reach the autism community. For more
informati on, go to www.autism-society.org/conference and click on
"Exhibitor Information" to see the Sponsorship and Advertising
opportunities. Read more:
Exhibitors
If you're interested in exhibiting at the 2008 ASA National
Conference, please visit www.autism-society.org/conference or call Meg
Ellacott, ASA's Exhibit Sales Director, at 302-260-9487. To date, over
45 percent of the available exhibit floor space has already been sold,
so you'll want to take action today. Read more:
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FOCUS TOPICS/ARTICLES OF INTEREST
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3.1
Autism group getting the word out
Kings County Register
Efforts by the Valley Autism Support Team (VAST) to educate the public about
autism have paid off.
A recent donation by four Medical Office Assistant students from NSCC's
Kingstec campus - Jennifer Sabean, Melissa Tenyenhuis, Katelyn Halbgewachs
and Holly Boudreau - is just another initiative to fundraise in support of
VAST. VAST director Norm Donovan made a presentation at the college in
October, Autism Awareness Month. The students raised $389 by selling candy
packages and tickets on a basket.
VAST had been looking at holding a summer camp for autistic children, but
Donovan said the financial challenges associated with hosting anything on a
long-term basis proved considerable.
The group, which meets at the autism centre at Kingston school, now has a
membership of 32 families who are caring for a total of 35 autistic
children. Instead of the summer camp, VAST members have decided to focus on
establishing a year-round autism centre in the Valley. The Kingston site is
not available to families during the summer months, a time when support is
much needed by families.
Pointing to the Halifax Autism Centre as a model, Donovan said "we envision
a centre staffed by paid employees that would be open all year in an
accessible location."
In the meantime, Donovan continues his efforts to inform the public about
autism. He recently hosted a presentation to the Kingston and District
Volunteer Fire Department on risk management for people with autism. He said
about 150 firefighters and paramedics were on hand.
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3.2
We just visited Disneyland in October with our eight-year-old son who is Asperger's and high-functioning. One thing we wished we had brought were ear-plugs and sunglasses, as the loud and brightly-lit rides bothered him. He spent the first time through both Pirates of the Caribbean and The Haunted Mansion with his eyes tightly shut and his hands clapped over his ears. (We went through both a second time and he wasn't so bothered, I think because he knew what to expect.) He also wasn't that keen on the rides that threw him around a lot. He did love the raft ride (Grizzly Mountain, I think it's called) in California Adventureland, and he got soaked on that, but he hated Splash Mountain; go figure. He and I skipped Space Mountain and let his dad and seven-year-old sister go on that. The three of them went on the huge rollercoaster, Screamin' Over California, and neither of the kids liked it too much. I stood by the entrance until they got on and told them they could leave their dad if they decided they didn't want to do it, but they both went. I hate rollercoasters.
The one thing he absolutely adored was getting to fight Darth Vader in the "Jedi Training" in the Tomorrowland area! He and his sister were lucky enough to be among the group of kids picked to go up and be "trained" to fight with toy light sabers, then each kid got to "fight" with either Darth Vader or Darth
Maul; it was a hoot! He had the best time with that since he's a big Star Wars fan.
We never pursued any sort of special pass due to his Asperger's, and for the most part, there were no other problems. We had a great time, overall. I'm so glad we went in the off-season (at the end of October and on Wednesday and Thursday) when there were fewer crowds. I think that made all the difference since we rarely had to stand in any lines.
- Molly K.
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3.3
Courant.com
A Leg Up On Life
Adults With Autism Are Getting Help With Life Skills
By KATHLEEN MEGAN
Courant Staff Writer
January 20, 2008
Above Jonathan Ross' computer is taped a list of his long-term goals: Lose 200 pounds. Get a job. Become more socially active.
Next to it is another note that says, "I believe in myself," written five times.
"So have you been saying it?" asks Caitlin Kenny, his life-skills coach, referring to the "belief" note.
"Yes," Ross replies. He's been repeating it out loud once in the morning and again later in the day.
If you were to meet Jonathan Ross, you might not know there was anything different about him. He is perfectly affable, has interesting observations and lives in a well-organized apartment.
But for years, Ross, who is 47, has had trouble making friends, following through on his life goals and leading an independent life. Finally, a few years ago, a doctor told him he has Asperger's syndrome, a disorder that is considered a mild form of autism.
Asked how it is that Asperger's affects him, Ross spoke about his feelings: "There's some connection that has to be made, and I don't have the connection" to form relationships with people.
"If there are seven things in life you need to do things, I have six of them, and that seventh thing, I don't have," said Ross. "It's some kind of learning experience that you have that I don't.
"I feel like if I could get my hands around that one thing: Maybe I could get something out of life different."
To view full article visit: courant.com/features/lifestyle/hc-autisticadults.artjan20,0,6145933.story?coll=hc_sports_golf_promo
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3.4
In 1971 California added full syndrome autism to it's list of eligible
conditions that could qualify for admittance into California's eligibility based
developmental services system. During the next 22 years, from 1971-1993, the
system grew to serve some 4000 persons with full syndrome autism.
According to a report just released this week by California's Department of
Developmental Services (DDS), during the most recent 12 month reporting
period from January 1, 2007 through December 31, 2007 California added 4,143 new
cases of professionally diagnosed full syndrome cases of autism to it's
system. What took 22 years to accumulate in the system in raw numbers of persons
with autism now takes just 12 months. Twenty years ago in 1987 there were 2,778
persons with autism in the system, by the end of 2007 there were 36,952.
During the 4th. Quarter of 2007 alone, there were 1,236 new children added
to the system with full syndrome autism...an all time record number of new
cases for a Quarterly reporting period in the 39 year history of California's
system. It was the recent 3rd. Quarter of 2007 that brought in, for the first
time ever, more then 1,000 new intakes (1,060) in the history of the system,
followed now by another record number (1,236) of new intakes during the 4th.
Quarter of 2007. Autism now accounts for 59% of all new intakes entering the
system that also includes children with mental retardation, epilepsy, and
cerebral palsy.
Last year, for the first time ever, California's developmental services
system served more persons with autism then cerebral palsy, and by the end of the
first quarter of 2008, autism will surpass epilepsy as the number two
condition served by California's developmental services system. Historically,
autism, prior to 1980, accounted for just 3% of the total population and ranked a
distant fourth among all the eligible conditions.
The most telling fact surrounding California's autism epidemic is the age
distribution in the autism population. Whereas with all the other conditions
that are served in the system where between 55- 60% of those populations are
over the age of 22 years old, in the autism population only 15% are over the
age of 22.
85% of the autism population is under the age of 21, 78% under the age of
18, and over 1 out of 4 persons with autism in the system is between 6 and 9
years old. No children under the age of three are included in the DDS reports.
Due to the strict eligibility requirements to enter California's
developmental services system, the director of DDS estimates that California's
developmental services system serves less then 20% of the autism and autism spectrum
population in California.
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3.5
Gene Expression Profile Distinctions In Autistic Children Identified
Genomic analysis could add biological certainty to behavioral diagnosis
A group of genes with known links to natural-killer cells -- the first to attack viruses, bacteria and malignancies -- are expressed at high levels in the blood of children with autism when compared to children without the disorder, according to a new study from the UC Davis M.I.N.D. Institute. Researchers also found gene expression distinctions in children with early onset and regressive forms of the disorder. The outcomes, published in the January issue of Genomics, offer hope that gene expression analyses can provide biological evidence of autism, currently diagnosed only through behavioral assessments,
in some children.
"What we found were 11 specific genes with expression levels that were significantly higher in the blood of children with autism when compared to the blood of typically developing children," said Frank Sharp, senior author of the study and professor of neurology with the M.I.N.D. Institute. "Those 11 genes are all known to be expressed by natural-killer cells, which are cells in the immune system necessary for mounting a defense against infected cells. We were surprised by our results because we were not looking for these particular genes. And while a number of studies have shown immune system dysregulation to be an important factor in autism, ours is one of the first to implicate these particular cells."
In conducting the study, Sharp, molecular pathologist Jeff Gregg and their M.I.N.D. Institute colleagues used blood samples from 35 children diagnosed with autism, 14 with development delay but not autism and 12 typically developing children. The samples were subjected to gene expression analysis using microarrays and compared for common patterns. In addition to finding the 11 genes with natural-killer cell connections shared by all of the children with autism, they identified a pattern of 140 genes differentially expressed in children with the early onset form of the disorder and a pattern of 20 genes differentially expressed in children with the regressive form of the disorder. The team is the first to use genomic profiling of blood to observe differences in children with autism.
A serious and increasingly prevalent neurodevelopmental disorder, autism is characterized by language impairments, social deficits and limited, repetitive behaviors. While some parents report they knew something was wrong with their child close to birth, others report their children progressed just like others and then lost social and/or language skills later, usually between the ages of 1 and 2.
These separate experiences led clinicians to hypothesize that there are at least two types of autism -- early onset and regressive. This study offers biological evidence of those two subtypes. Microarrays are used to examine the expression levels of thousands of genes simultaneously. Because of its accuracy, the technology may become an important diagnostic tool for a variety of neurological conditions, including
ischemic stroke and multiple sclerosis. To perform the analysis, RNA is isolated from cells in the blood. Complimentary strands of DNA (cDNA) are then created using the RNA as a template. Fluorescently labeled cRNA is next made from the cDNA and hybridized with the DNA on the array.
Scanners using laser technology then read the array, revealing which genes are expressed and at what levels.In addition to being expressed by natural-killer cells, some of the 11 genes found to be expressed at higher levels in children with autism are also expressed by CD8+ T lymphocytes -- cells that target infected cells and, once bound to them, destroy them. It is not yet clear whether autism involves a primary problem in natural-killer cells, CD8+ lymphocytes or both.
"What we are seeing can reflect something in the environment that is triggering the activation of these genes or something genetic that the children have from the time they were conceived," Sharp explained. "Such an immune response could be caused by exposure to a virus, another infectious agent or even a
toxin. Another possibility is that these changes represent a genetic susceptibility factor that predisposes children to autism when they are exposed to some environmental factor."
He added that the current study also does not identify whether or not the natural-killer cells are functioning abnormally, which further work by M.I.N.D. Institute immunologists will reveal.
"If the natural-killer cells are dysfunctional, this might mean that they cannot rid a pregnant mother, fetus or newborn of an infection, which could contribute to autism."
Gregg and Sharp consider the findings preliminary until they can be replicated, but still believe the study results point them in a new research direction that will shed light on the biological foundations of autism and eventually lead to new therapeutic targets.
The study, "Gene Expression Profiles in Children with Autism," was funded by the National Institutes of Environmental Health Sciences and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency through the UC Davis Center for Children's Environmental Health and the UC Davis M.I.N.D. Institute. A copy can be downloaded at www.sciencedirect.com
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3.6
MANDARIN LESSON
In China, Grass-Roots Groups
Stretch Limits on Activism
A Mother Leads Quest
To School Autistic Kids;
Selling the Family Home
By IAN JOHNSON
January 9, 2008; Page A1
TAIZHOU, China -- For nearly two years, Ma Chen and a group of her
friends have run a volunteer effort to help children with autism. They
opened three schools, raised $200,000 and brought in outside experts.
Now the 35-year-old mother of an autistic girl wants to turn an
overgrown plot of land into a working farm for the children when they
grow up.
"We need to grow in size," says Ms. Ma, as she tramps through a tangle
of orange trees and creeping vines.
But her ambitious goals will require a bigger, better-organized
charity -- and that is propelling her into delicate territory. She is
part of a grass-roots movement that is testing China's tolerance of
groups that operate independent of official supervision.
The outcome has important implications for China. Independent centers
of power, such as charities and advocacy groups, have begun popping up
here in response to social problems. Beijing is gradually permitting
nongovernmental organizations, but it restricts their scope. The
country's leadership worries that too much civil society could stir up
conflict, challenge its grip and put at risk the stability that has
underpinned 25 years of fast economic growth.
[go to slideshow]
Ian Johnson
Ma Chen and her daughter, Yu Miao, who suffers from autism, share a
quiet moment at school.
To view full article visit: http://online.wsj.com/public/article/SB119980515239074901-PF0OvHPbu7SnBlXo6pTUufYd8cI_20080208.html?mod=tff_main_tff_top
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3.7
Children's Mental Focus Foundation Announces A Scientific
Breakthrough For Children Who Have Been Diagnosed With Autism, ADD
And ADHD
25 Jan 2008
Children's Mental Focus Foundation (CMFF), a nonprofit organization located in Henderson, Nevada, has discovered a virus that may be linked to children with autism and other mental disorders. CMFF is a "Research Foundation" currently working with doctors that have patients afflicted with mental disorders. This new discovery may help children and adults cope with behavioral problems associated with mental disorders such as Autism, ADD and ADHD, says head of research at CMFF, Rick C. Hunt, PhD who discovered the virus. The virus is called the R1H2 virus. Further evaluations on some 200 children who had been diagnosed with Autism also revealed this same specific virus present in the brain of these children.
CMFF has already developed a natural technology approach, to prompt the child's own immune system to respond correctly to this virus and support the elimination of this virus. The challenge facing the CMFF researchers and their affiliate physician offices across the USA is the task of creating a comprehensive brain healing therapy, so that these children can slowly recover from this disorder.
To view full article visit http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/95064.php
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3.8
Washington PAVE has established an annual award to recognize those who have exemplified PAVE’s mission to individuals with disabilities, their families, and communities.Up to 3 nominees will be awarded with the Coin of Excellence at Washington PAVE’s You Are The Expert Conference. All nominees will receive a certificate of recognition.
Winners will be selected by how they demonstrate PAVE’s mission in supporting:
• the community,
• classroom/school/work environment,
• individuals, and/or
• Family lives.
MISSION OF WASHINGTON PAVE
PAVE, a parent directed organization, exists to increase independence,
empowerment, future opportunities and choices for consumers with
special needs, their families
and communities, through training, information, referral and support.
Deadline to accept nominations will be on FEBRUARY 29, 2008 (EXTENDED). Winner needs to be chosen prior to You Are The Expert Conference 2008.
Please nominate someone for the “2008 You Make a Difference Award” by sharing your story about how that person made a difference for you or for others. Who is that person for you? Who do you know, who has reached outside their own comfort zone to help someone? Many people don’t even realize what they have done to help a life of another person. Each person has a choice in making the world better. It could be something as simple as a smile for the person standing in line at the grocery store, or offering a helping hand to a fellow community member in need. Up to 3 nominees will be awarded the Coin of Excellence at Washington PAVE’s You Are The Expert Conference 2008. For more information, please call Joanne Butts, Executive Director, at 253-565-2266 (v/tty) or 1-800-5-PARENT (v/tty) or check our website at www.washingtonpave.org.
Please, email the nomination form to Diana Lloyd at dlloyd@washingtonpave.com or fax it at 253-566-8052.
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3.9
Autism help scarce
By Maureen O'Hagan
Seattle Times staff reporter
"Arthur," therapist CJ Stout said quietly.
No response.
"Arthur," he said again. And again, and again.
Eight-year-old Arthur sat inches away. He alternately stared into the distance and squished his nose with his fingers. Six years ago, he was diagnosed with autism. He still hasn't quite perfected the skill of responding to his own name. Stout was beginning a behavioral-therapy session with Arthur at the boy's home in Seattle's Madrona neighborhood. It's an intensive treatment involving repetition and rewards. And national experts say it should be done about 25 hours a week with kids like Arthur.
When Arthur was diagnosed, the neurologist told his parents, Ned Conroy and Katrina Davis, to start him on such therapies quickly if they wanted to see his condition improve.
To view full article, visit: http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/cgi-bin/PrintStory.pl?document_id=2004136303&zsection_id=2003925728&slug=autism21m&date=20080121
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SECTION FOUR: Information for Eastern Washington
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4.1
AUTISM SOCIETY OF WA – TRI-CITIES CHAPTER
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4.2
AUTISM SOCIETY OF WA – SPOKANE CHAPTER
Upcoming Events:
Annual Meeting-
Preview movies for April Autism Film Fest
Sign ups for volunteering for this event
Wednesday Feb 20, (6:30-8 pm)
Saint Luke’s Rehab Institution
711 S. Cowley, Rm 200 Spokane
If you have an autism DVD to preview, contact
Mocha Group
Wednesday Feb 13th (7-9pm)
Rocket Market
723 E 43rd, Spokane
(South on Grand, Left at Highdrive (43rd))
DVD & discussion (Jepson./Biomedical issues)
Autism 204: SOCIAL SKILLS
Instructor: Steve Becker, PhD
“Sexuality & Relationships”
Thurs January 21th, 2008 7:00-8:30 pm
ESD 101 Video Link W/ Children’s Hospital
4202 S. Regal Conference Room
Teen/ Youth Group
Bring a game to play.
Trying to schedule the 3rd Sunday of the Month
Sunday Feb 17th 1-3pm
Service Station Coffee House
9317 N. Nevada, Spokane
Adults with Asperger’s
Looking to start new social group—
meet at Service Station Coffee House same time as
Young Adults/ Teen Group
Bring ideas and game to play
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4.3
The SCPC Family Scholarship Fund was established in 1999. The purpose of this fund is to assist parents, foster parents, guardians, siblings, or other family members of children with developmental disabilities in Spokane County to attend workshops, conferences, seminars, or other trainings specific to the disability of their family member. Funding can be used for registration fees, respite care, travel expenses, fuel expenses, and/or lodging involved with attending an approved event.
For more information contact Lance Morehouse at (509) 328-6326. Or mail your applications to: Arc of Spokane, 127 W. Boone, Spokane, WA 99201
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SECTION FIVE: Information for Western Washington Families
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5.1
THURSTON/MASON COUNTY CHAPTER OF THE AUTISM SOCIETY OF WA
THURSTON and MASON COUNTY ASPERGER AND AUTISM SUPPORT GROUP
This group meets the second Tuesday of each month, 6:30pm at the
Open Door Autism Clinic, 1101 Eastside Street SE, Olympia.
Sponsored by the Autism Society of Washington, Olympia Chapter
The family support group continues each month the second Tuesday of each month. We continue to meet at the Open Door Autism Clinic, 1101 Eastside St SE, Suite B (take exit 105B and go right on Plum to Eastside St)
For your information, the Tuesday Night Support Group for family members living with autism and/or Asperger’s (no cost to participants) will meet monthly, beginning at 6:30 p.m.
2nd Tuesday of the month: Parents and family members living with ASD
If you have any questions feel free to email Patty Gee at pattyjgee@comcast.net or call 360-754-2584
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5.2
Steve Becker and Associates is offering four exciting new groups for families living with persons with Asperger's Syndrome!
Partner Therapy Groups give clueless significant others ways to live more happily with their spouses with Asperger’s: self-care, setting realistic expectations, anger and avoidance, and sexuality.
Des Moines Group
Runs: February 8th-29th
Day: Friday afternoons
Time: 12:00-1:30
Fee: $150
Parenting Children and Teens class offers practical strategies for caregivers coping with stress, bullying, avoidance, anger, aggression, and other behavior problems.
Runs: February 7th-28th
Day: Thursday mornings
Time: 10:30-12:00
Location: Des Moines office