Hi everyone,

I am a freelance writer in Raleigh, NC.  I am also the mother of two
boys with autism.

I would like to do an article for Today's Officer or Military
Officer magazine about military families with special needs
children.  I was wondering if I could get some information from all
of you.

Anyone with a story they would like to share can email me directly
at diane_morris@....

Here are a few questions I'd like to put out to the group:

Is it difficult to get services for your children (ie - ABA, speech
therapy, occupational therapy)?

If your children go to military schools, are you happy with the
services they get there?  Are the teachers well-trained?

For those of you who have been deployed recently or have deployed
spouses, how have your children handled the changes?  How have you
handled the stress of caring for the kids without your spouse?  Is
there a lot of support from the military and other families?

Thanks to all in advance.

Diane Morris

here is a link for a website with tons of local info on it- for autism


http://www.autismva.org/family_support_groups.htm

military autism support group
norfolk
461-4474

Autism Society of America - Tidewater Chapter #256
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Circle East Bldg., Ste. 140
861 Glenrock Road
Norfolk, VA 23502

Telephone Numbers and Contact Information
(757) 461-4474 Main

Operating Agency: Autism Society of America
Agency Type: Special Interest
Person in charge: Billie Mccoy
Hours of operation: 7:00AM-9:00PM, last Tuesday of each month at
Pembroke Elementary School in Room 49.
Fees: No fees to attend meetings. Optional dues to the national
office-family dues, $30; individual, $20; student, $12.50.
Eligibility requirements: Unrestricted.
Intake Procedure: Telephone referral.
Area Served: Unrestricted


About the program:
Provides a mutual support group for professionals or those who have
family members who have autism, Pervasive Developmental Disorder (PDD),
Asperger's Syndrome, or any related disorder. Various lectures,
workshops, lending library of books, articles, audio and videotapes,
information packets, resource information, social outings, and a
newsletter are among the services provided.

on 2/29/04 11:07 AM, Danielle at jdjespe@... wrote:

> Moved to VA BCH about 3 weeks ago and was looking for support groups
> and or services specifically offered for military families.  Any
> information would be greatly appreciated.
>

well, when i was there I wasn't military (just dating my navy husband at
that time) and didn't have my son yet.

i would call someone at Oceana or NAS Norfolk and ask if there are any
programs.

you already emailed other yahoo groups, right?

maybe there is an ASA chapter.

let me do an internet search-
Christine

on 2/29/04 8:42 AM, virginiagirl2004 at virginiagirl2004@... wrote:

> Christine,
>
> Thanks for the post, I just hope I can help some families in the
> process. Are you a consultant in NY?
>
> Lisa Costello
>

Nope.
I was a lovaas therapist for about a year.  Also was an aide for a year (for
a 6 year old with autism going to kindergarden).

Then, 3 years later, had a son with autism.

Now i live on Long Island.

I did take 2 classes at Tidewater CC- intro to disabilities and behavior
mod.  I was going to continue on at ODU- but decided to go back into doing
video (i have a BA in communications).

Good luck in that area- the education system is pretty lacking.
I know the one Mom I worked for said the school districts treated her son
very badly.  That was about 5 years ago- i don't know if they have gotton
any better.

Are you military?  Are you just there for a couple of years?

Christine
(ps.  the Coyote cafe on Laskin Rd is my favorite restaurant)

Moved to VA BCH about 3 weeks ago and was looking for support groups
and or services specifically offered for military families.  Any
information would be greatly appreciated.

Christine,

Thanks for the post, I just hope I can help some families in the
process. Are you a consultant in NY?

Lisa Costello

on 2/27/04 8:23 AM, virginiagirl2004 at virginiagirl2004@... wrote:

> Hello, I have been working with autistic children for over 16 years
> now. I am in the process of relocating to Chesapeake, VA and have
> openings in my schedule for families wishing to start a new ABA/VB
> program or give an existing program a fresh approach.
>
> If you are looking for someone, and would like more information about
> me and the services I offer, please feel free to contact me at:
>
> virginiagirl2004@...
>
> or (212)696-6862
>
> and I would be happy to discuss things with you further.
>
> Sincerely
> Lisa Costello
>

that area is excellent in general- and you'll have a great time!
i lived in Va beach for 6 years....
Christine, now in NY

Hello, I have been working with autistic children for over 16 years
now. I am in the process of relocating to Chesapeake, VA and have
openings in my schedule for families wishing to start a new ABA/VB
program or give an existing program a fresh approach.

If you are looking for someone, and would like more information about
me and the services I offer, please feel free to contact me at:

virginiagirl2004@...

or (212)696-6862

and I would be happy to discuss things with you further.

Sincerely
Lisa Costello

Summit Chase Country Club
proudly hosts the
National Autism Association Scramble
Monday, April 19, 2004

Hello all!

Time is drawing near for our fundraising golf tournament.  At this point in time
we would like to begin gathering a group of volunteers to help with securing
sponsorships, registering teams,  collecting donations, and to work the day of
the tournament.  If you or someone you know would be interested in helping,
please email me at adrienne@... or call 770-712-9499.

The Gwinnett Daily Post published an article in today's paper about the
tournament.  To read it go to
http://www.gwinnettdailyonline.com/GDP/healthwellness.html .

For more information on the tournament, sponsorship, or registration, please go
to www.nationalautismassociation.org/golftournament.php .  In addition, the
research projects, awareness items, and other projects the tournament will be
funding are available for your viewing on our site as well.

Thanks for your partnership in the fight against autism!

Adrienne Rousseau
National Autism Association
Phone: 877-NAA-AUTISM
Email: Adrienne@...
http://www.nationalautismassociation.org


[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]

Just in case any of you would like this information:

In Dec. 2001 there were 2,788 children being served under the autism eligibility
in Georgia schools.

In Dec. 2002 there were 3,404 children being served under the autism eligibility
in Georgia schools.

In December 2003 there were 4,383 children being served under the autism
eligibility in Georgia schools.  Of those, 3,956 are ages 6-21 and 427 are ages
3-5.

For future inquiries, the person to speak with is Richard Swinson at
404-656-3963.

Adrienne

[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]

Thanks for the input, I think we are leaning to San Diego, because
of the services. Although the cost of living there stinks.




--- In
militaryfamiliesautismsupport@yahoogroups.com, "christine@l..."
<christine@l...> wrote:
> on 1/5/04 12:01 AM, vmi89 at vmi89@y... wrote:
>
> > We just moved to Colorado last year, and are looking to future
> > assignments possibly in the next two years.  We have a 2 and a
half
> > year old son with autism, hearing loss w/aids, feeding
difficulties
> > that resulted in him getting a g-tube.  The potential places are
> > Hawaii, Washington State, San Diego, or Norfolk.  Does anyone
have
> > any input on what states are better providing autism services (ie
> > ABA therapy, special needs services in school, etc?)  We have
found
> > that for early intervention here in Colorado Springs, you have
to do
> > all your own footwork and reinvent the wheel apparently. I am
> > seeking out qualified therapists for my son, because apparently
the
> > early intervention program has never heard of conventional ABA or
> > other treatments for autism.  We will soon see about the
district we
> > live in when it comes to preschool for our son.  I'll write up a
> > summary of that experience when that happens.  I'd appreciate any
> > input, if you have comparisons from any of the listed states, to
> > help us with the decision to move when it comes.
>
> Well, i know in general the Hampton Roads area stinks for services.
> (although i lived there for 6 years before having my son and loved
it)
>
> I would look into San Diego- not only is it a great area for Navy
(i've
> heard from military in general)  california has such a high rate
of autism
> they have to have services state wide (i would think- don't know
for sure)
> But I know there are a lot of autism parent groups there.
>
> good luck, i'm staying on Long Island (even if my husband lives
10,000 miles
> away)
>
> christine

Summit Chase Country Club in Snellville, GA
  proudly hosts the
National Autism Association Scramble
April 19, 2004.


Tournament Format:  4-player scramble
Features:  Putting Contest, Long Drive and Closest to the Pin Prizes

Tournament Schedule:      7:30 am    Registration, driving range and putting
green available for practice.
                                                     8:15 am     Putting Contest
                                                     9:00 am     Shotgun Start
                                                     2:00 pm     Awards Luncheon

Entry Fee:  $125.00 per player or $400.00 for a 4-player team.  Entry includes
tournament registration, cart fee, lunch and prizes.

Tournament Sponsorship

$500.00 Hole Sponsor: Each family or business sponsoring a hole will receive a
sign displayed on one hole during the tournament, entry fee for a 4-player team,
a logo advertisement in the tournament program, and recognition during the
awards banquet.

$250.00 Golf Cart Sponsor: Each family or business sponsoring a golf cart will
receive a sign displayed on one golf cart during the tournament, a logo
advertisement in the tournament program, and recognition during the awards
banquet.

$100.00 Table Sponsor: Each family or business sponsoring a table will receive a
sign displayed on one table at the awards banquet, a logo advertisement in the
tournament program, and recognition at the awards banquet.

Families or companies interested in sponsoring the NAA Scramble, please visit
www.nationalautismassociation.org/golftournament.php to print a sponsorship
form.  Sponsorship forms and payment should be mailed to the tournament
coordinator Adrienne Britt Rousseau c/o Summit Chase Country Club P.O. Box 606
Snellville, GA  30078.

Player Registration

Players or teams please visit
www.nationalautismassociation.org/golftournament.php to print a registration
form.  Registration and payment should be mailed to the tournament coordinator
Adrienne Britt Rousseau c/o Summit Chase Country Club P.O. Box 606 Snellville,
GA  30078 no later than April 12, 2004.  Registration is limited to the first 32
teams, so make sure to register early!  Registration may be paid by cash, check,
or charge.

Donations

Your tax deductible donation of services, items, or financial contributions are
welcome.  We will offer door prizes during the awards banquet and would love to
have a variety of items or services to award.  Please contact tournament
coordinator (Adrienne) at 770-712-9499 for more information.

Volunteers

We would love for you to join our team to make the NAA Scramble a huge success! 
If you have time to give, please contact Adrienne to sign up.  Volunteers will
be expected to work from 7:00 am through the completion of the tournament and
are invited to celebrate with us at the awards banquet.

For More Information
Please visit www.nationalautismassociaton.org/golftournament.php
Please call Adrienne at 770-712-9499.
Please write Adrienne Britt Rousseau c/o Summit Chase Country Club P.O. Box
Snellville, GA  30078.

The NAA Scramble will benefit autism awareness and research through the National
Autism Association, a non-profit (status pending) organization.

[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]

Join Dr. Stanley Greenspan in the Floortime Foundation Web-Based Radio Show





The first live, web-based radio show to focus on children with autism spectrum
and other disorders will begin airing Thursday, Feb. 5th from 10:30 to 11:30
a.m. Eastern time. Infants, Children and Families, a weekly program hosted by
Dr. Stanley Greenspan, will feature a variety of guest speakers and topics;
practical advice for parents, professionals and policymakers; and an opportunity
for listeners to ask questions by phone or by e-mail.



While the first half of the segment will focus on children with special needs,
the second half hour the show will turn its attention to issues related to
typically developing children. The inaugural show, “We Can Do Better,” will
focus on revising educational goals for all children to include thinking-based
academic programs rather than rote-based learning. It will include suggestions
for revising federal and local educational guidelines to include new
intellectual and social milestones. The web broadcast can be accessed at
www.floortime.org.  A telephone number to call in questions will be listed on
the website.



Questions for Dr. Greenspan can be submitted in advance to:
floortimefoundation@...







The Floortime Foundation was established to develop the programs, resources and
technologies to dramatically increase the number of children and families who
will benefit from DIR/Floortime and other innovative methodologies.












       Yahoo! Groups Sponsor
             ADVERTISEMENT





--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Yahoo! Groups Links

   a.. To visit your group on the web, go to:
   http://groups.yahoo.com/group/autism-georgia/

   b.. To unsubscribe from this group, send an email to:
   autism-georgia-unsubscribe@yahoogroups.com

   c.. Your use of Yahoo! Groups is subject to the Yahoo! Terms of Service.



[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]

HI Again,

It has been my past experience working with families that Tricare Prime will
pay, but you must first get the prescription from your primary care manager
(doctor).

I'm not sure how disabled your child is, but you may want to seriously consider
the option of tricare standard for your child.  This eliminates the need for a
middle man in most cases.  For instance, a few weeks ago, my 3 year old stopped
breathing several times throughout the night. (Sleep apnea). If I had tricare
prime I would have had to go through a primary doctor, to get a referral to a
specialist.  Instead I  went directly to the specialist, no middle man, no wait
for referral.

Are you in a state that offers medicaid based on disability rather than on
parentts income? If so tricare standard is also a really appealing option at
that point, as medicaid generally pays your deductibles and catastrophic cap.

Are you also enrolled in Programs for Persons with Disabilities?

Warm regards,
Kelly


---------------------------------
Do you Yahoo!?
Yahoo! SiteBuilder - Free web site building tool. Try it!

[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]

Thank you, Kelly.
We have tricare prime.  Do you know if they pay?  I'll
work on those steps about an OT.  I'll let you know
when I get some answers and/or services!
Christine
--- Kelly Herrick <kellyherricksc@...> wrote:
> Good Morning,
> Both of my sons have been receiving OT since they
> were 2. The OT addresses many skills including
> handwriting, doning and doffing clothes, zippers
> snaps and etc.  As the child gets older they can
> work on pouring, shoe tying, the goals are endless.
> Many OT have specialized in sensory integration,
> which has helped both of my boys with various
> issues.
>
> My son's are covered under tricare standard and
> PFPWD, we received a script for an evaluation and
> treatment as needed. The as needed part gives the
> therapist the leeway to determine how many sessions
> a week are appropriate for your child's specific
> needs.  Tricare standard has been paying for this
> service, leaving PFPWD funds open for other things.
>
> As far as your school system goes....put it in
> writing. Write a request for an occupational therapy
> evaluation.  The school system is sometimes slow in
> following up, make sure you are following up on your
> end.  Make sure that you make a copy for the
> teacher, guidance counselor, yourself and whomever
> else you feel is appropriate from your IEP team.
>
> Let me know how it goes for you! Best of luck!
>
> Warm regards,
> Kelly
>
>
> ---------------------------------
> Do you Yahoo!?
> Yahoo! Hotjobs: Enter the "Signing Bonus"
> Sweepstakes
>
> [Non-text portions of this message have been
> removed]
>
>


__________________________________
Do you Yahoo!?
Yahoo! Hotjobs: Enter the "Signing Bonus" Sweepstakes
http://hotjobs.sweepstakes.yahoo.com/signingbonus

Dr. Arturo M. Volpe
DC, CCN, FIAMA
Natural Health Solutions
1714 Sunset Boulevard
Houston, Texas 77005
713.529.5669
http://www.DoctorVolpe.com

JANUARY 2004 NEWSLETTER

This month's topics:
Welcome Scott Saini, MD
A "Christmas Miracle"
The Dark Side of ADHD Drugs
More News on Vitamin D
Interesting Fish and Meat Websites

Welcome Scott Saini, MD to my office

I am pleased to share the news that Dr. Scott Saini is now working with me at
Natural Health Solutions. 

Dr. Saini, a board-certified family practice physician, earned his Doctor of
Medicine degree at Queen’s University in Kingston, Ontario and completed his
medical residency requirements through the Family Medicine Program at Queen
Elizabeth Hospital in Montreal.  Dr. Saini holds a Diplomate from the American
Board of Family Practice and has been a Houston resident since 1999, where he
was previously associated with the Frostwood Medical Group and Houston Family
Practice.

I will continue to be responsible for targeted nutritional therapies for
children and adults as well as implementation of the DAN protocol for
individuals
with autism.  Dr. Saini will be available for the general medical needs of
both children and adults. 

In addition, Dr. Saini and I will collaborate in cases where prescription
medications are indicated for my patients, or when Dr. Saini’s patients can
benefit from therapeutic nutritional programs.  We look forward to combining
our
fields of expertise to provide the best care possible.

A Christmas Miracle

There is no better way to end a year than with a Christmas miracle. There is
also nothing that can give you more hope and confidence for the year to come.

Whether you are working on your own health challenges or those of your child,
and whether you are seeing me, another health professional, or are doing it
by yourself, remember that miracles do happen. Sometimes they may look like
miracles but they are no miracles at all, just the result of hard work and
dedication to the task.

With permission (and names changed to protect the family's privacy), I would
like to relate a portion of a touching e-mail I received during the holidays
from the mother of one of my patients, a child with autism.  The e-mail's
subject line was “Christmas Miracle.”

In this case, the parents have been steadfast in their determination over the
last year to help their son, even though for the first several months of
treatment he was no better and at times was worse.  This often happens, as
natural
treatments for autism and other chronic conditions frequently do not progress
in a linear fashion.

The email reads  “A friend of mine from high school popped in to see my
brother while he’s in town for the holidays. In the past, my son Jimmy would
look
at my husband and ask (semi-rudely, I might add) 'who’s that?' or 'why is he
here?'   This time Jimmy looked at my friend and said 'Hi, I’m Jimmy and
I’m
seven, who are you?'   When introductions were made, Jimmy smiled real big and
said 'All I want for Christmas is my two front teeth' (which are indeed
missing).  Later he spontaneously burst into the song, which he has heard me
singing
to him lately.  This is new, too. He just doesn’t burst into song when we are
sitting around the table. His sister does, but never Jimmy!  My husband
mentioned this to me…he noticed it, too. My friend doesn’t realize he
witnessed a
miracle, but we do. I have received my Christmas miracle. He’s getting better.
It’s really real and true....”

The Dark Side of ADHD Drugs

Most of the medications prescribed for ADHD are either closely related to
cocaine (Ritalin and similar drugs), or are classified as amphetamines (Adderall
and others).

Amphetamines and cocaine alike are known troublemakers, causing such
undesirable side effects as permanent brain damage, heart valve damage, and
other
serious problems. However, ADHD drugs have been consistently hailed as
breakthroughs, marvels of modern science, and their safety was rarely
questioned.

In reality there were simply no long-term safety studies on these
medications.  I have searched for such studies on Medline and was surprised to
find that
many of the studies relating to safety lasted a grand total of two weeks. If
you have a little time, go to www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed
and find out for yourself.

Consider also that brain damage caused by long-term use of a drug is one of
the hardest things to prove without cutting the brain open and looking for
physical evidence. Consequences may be such hard-to-define events as decreased
initiative, tendency towards depression, and so on.

To clearly identify such effects in humans we would need to have groups of
children, all with the same diagnosis, some of whom are treated with a
medication and others with a placebo, and they would have to be followed for a
decade
or longer. Such studies may be desirable but they are simply not going to
happen.

At long last, several recent rat studies at least raise legitimate concerns
that the long-term use of Ritalin causes some form of brain damage.  Juvenile
rats were administered Ritalin at doses equivalent to those most commonly
prescribed for children. In adulthood, treated rats showed large increases in
learned-helplessness behavior, suggesting a tendency toward depression.

Another observed difference was that previously medicated adult rats had no
interest in cocaine. This might seem like a positive outcome but in this
circumstance it really isn’t. Rats generally like cocaine and the loss of
interest
suggests that treated rats lost some degree of their capacity to experience
pleasure.

William Carlezon of McLean Hospital and Harvard Medical School, author of one
of the studies, stated in his conclusions that he does not believe these
results are specific to Ritalin and it is more likely that they are an effect of
all stimulant drugs.  (Carlezon, W. A. Jr. Biol Psychiatry, 2003 Dec 15; 54
(12): 1330-1337, also see same journal pages 1317-29).

You may wonder why these studies were performed only now.  It may be a
coincidence, but patents of many older stimulant drugs have either expired or
are in
the process of expiring and a newly patented non-stimulant drug for ADHD has
recently been released.

Many doctors and parents are excited about this new drug, precisely because
it is not a stimulant. But are we again jumping to premature conclusions? Are
we again assuming safety when we simply do not have all the facts?

The new drug is called Strattera and its mechanism of action is through
norepinephrine (NE) reuptake inhibition. NE is a derivative of the
neurotransmitter
dopamine that is widely known to be the centerpiece of attention.

Marty Hinz, MD, a researcher and expert on the use of amino acids in
neurotransmitter disorders (see http://www.neuroreplete.com makes the following
points
regarding Strattera:

“One: while we have not fully tested Strattera, due to genetic polymorphism
20% of people Strattera are compromised in metabolizing the drug”. In
layman’s
terms this means that some people have normal genetic traits that make it
difficult for them to break down this drug, and as a result it may be especially
toxic for them. 

"Two: All reuptake inhibitors (that work by redistribution of
neurotransmitter molecules) have the ability to deplete neurotransmitters in the
long run.” 
This implies that in the long run these drugs aggravate the original
deficiency of neurotransmitters.

"Three: In our eight years of studies with amino acids and drugs whose
mechanism of action is by reuptake it is apparent that norepinephrine drugs are
associated with the most long-term problems (problems after the drug has been
discontinued). Again we see no evidence to the contrary with regards to
Strattera.”


Perhaps instead of searching for the perfect drug we should look at the
basics a little more closely. Although focus is a complex and multi-factorial
process, its foundation is the neurotransmitter dopamine. Dopamine comes from
the
amino acid tyrosine that in turn is derived from protein in food (see footnote
1 below).

To put things in perspective, three scrambled eggs contain 840 mg of tyrosine
while a chicken breast contains 900 mg. Other types of animal protein contain
similar amounts of this amino acid.

By contrast, it takes 24 almonds to get a scant 140 mg of tyrosine even
though almonds are an excellent source of vegetable protein. Soy, often hailed
as
the king of vegetable proteins, actually contains chemicals that inhibit the
conversion of tyrosine to dopamine (Biochem Pharmacol 1997, Nov 15; 54 (10):
1087-96).

Foods that are widely regarded as “kid foods” like pizza, noodles, French
fries, donuts, etc. only contain negligible amounts of this all-important
nutrient. These are nutrient-depleted foods that also interfere with absorption
of
dopamine and other proteins by inducing food allergies and poor intestinal
health. For more information on this topic read “The Crazy Makers: How the
Food
Industry Is Destroying Our Brain and Harming Our Children” by Carol
Simontacchi.

From this perspective it is clear that many children with attention problems
simply do not get enough tyrosine from their diets. In many of these cases a
higher-protein diet, combined with temporary supplementation with tyrosine and
associated nutrients, can correct the problem.

In more complex cases, a broader assessment is necessary and less-obvious
culprits may include food allergies or environmental toxins. In a portion of
these cases medications are unavoidable because they are the only way to achieve
adequate performance in school.  Even in these cases, medications should be
seen as a short-term remedy, while more fundamental nutritional approaches are
given time to work.

The efficacy of nutritional approaches for ADHD was again confirmed in a
study that used objective assessment tools to compare improvements among
children
who took Ritalin and children who received a combination of dietary
supplements. The study found comparable results but with negligible side effects
in the
supplement group (Altern Med Rev 2003 Aug; 8 (3): 319-30).

(1) Technically speaking, the body can also make tyrosine from the related am
ino acid phenylalanine. I haven’t made this point here because phenylalanine
is contained in the same foods that also contain tyrosine.

More News on Vitamin D

Although I have written about the importance of vitamin D before, new
information on this vitamin continues to surface.  The more we learn about
vitamin D,
the more we find how many critical roles it plays in the body.

A “Vitamin D Council” was set up as a cooperative effort by a group of
research scientists and recently launched a new website that can be found at
www.cholecalciferol-council.com

Members of this council include Robert Heaney, MD, Professor of Medicine at
John A. Creighton University.  Dr. Heaney is considered the world’s leading
expert on vitamin D, having published over three hundred original papers on this
topic.

According to Dr. Heaney, the current government vitamin D recommendations are
so low they ensure deficiency for anyone who adheres to them and also avoids
the sun.  Oddly enough, Dr. Heaney participated in setting up those very
recommendations, but later discovered that humans need 4,000 IU of vitamin D per
day, not the recommended 400.

The council’s purpose is stated on the front page of their website and reads
“
To end the needless death and disability from vitamin D deficiency.”  Can
this be true? Are we dying and becoming disabled from vitamin D deficiency?  
It
would seem so.

The list of possible disorders resulting from vitamin D deficiency is
astounding. It includes osteoporosis, heart disease, high blood pressure,
autoimmune
diseases, Type 2 diabetes, multiple sclerosis, chronic muscle and bone pain,
numerous cancers, chronic fatigue and even depression.

According to experts at the Vitamin D Council, the problem is one of enormous
proportions with as many as 70% of American deficient in this vitamin, mainly
because of widespread avoidance of the sun. While most of us know that our
bodies make vitamin D from the sun, few realize that we cannot synthesize
vitamin D if the sun's rays are filtered by glass or if sunblock is used. In
addition, pollutants in the atmosphere and even chlorine in swimming pools may
hinder
the body’s ability to make vitamin D from the sun.

This situation is particularly severe among older individuals.  Studies of
nursing homes have found all residents to be deficient in vitamin D.  Many of
these people suffer from osteoporosis and unremitting pain of osteomalacia, both
of which are caused by vitamin D deficiency and can be treated successfully
by replenishing this vitamin at a cost of pennies per day.  Instead, these
patients receive expensive patented drugs that further compromise their health.
(J
Clin Endocrinol Metab 2003 Nov; 88 (11): 5109-15).

A recently published review article indicates that vitamin D has been proven
to 1) reduce blood pressure in hypertensive patients who are deficient; 2)
improve blood glucose in diabetics; and 3) improve symptoms of rheumatoid
arthritis and multiple sclerosis (Br J Nutr 2003 May; 89 (5): 552-72).

Vitamin D has also been found to play a role in mental function, and
deficiency may be associated with conditions ranging from mild depression or ADD
to
true mental illness including bipolar disorder, schizophrenia and possibly
autism. Although the exact role of vitamin D in the brain is not fully
understood,
it appears to play a role in the synthesis of dopamine and other
neurotransmitters.

As pointed out in the Vitamin D Council’s website, studies reveal that mental
illness is less common with adequate sun exposure and that vitamin D
deficiency occurs more frequently among individuals with mental illness than in
others. Finally, several small studies show that vitamin D supplementation can
alleviate mental illness. The absence of larger and more conclusive studies is
unquestionably due to lack of interest in an inexpensive vitamin (see the
Vitamin
D Council’s website for references).

The first step towards identifying and correcting a possible deficiency is to
have your blood levels of this vitamin tested. Unfortunately most doctors are
unaware of the importance of vitamin D and don’t even know how to test it or
how to interpret the results.

In most cases of suspected Vitamin D deficiency, doctors will order a test
called 1,25-dihydroxy vitamin D (calcitriol).  However, this test is unreliable
because it does not accurately portray levels of vitamin D in the body.  The
only test that truly tells us the actual level of vitamin D is called
25-hydroxy-vitamin D (calcidiol).  The names of the two tests are similar but
the tests
are very different.

This can lead to confusion, since laboratories then report "normal" ranges of
vitamin D that are incorrect, reflecting a state of widespread deficiency in
which deficient levels have come to be considered normal. According to
research performed by Dr. Healey and others, levels above 35 ng/ml are truly
normal
and a level of 32 or below is indicative of clear deficiency.  By contrast,
many labs indicate 10 as “normal.”

The dose needed to correct a deficiency ranges from 5,000 to 10,000 IU per
day. This should not be seen as a maintenance dose and should be taken only
under supervision because blood levels must be monitored to avoid possible
toxicity.

Alternatively, deficiencies can be corrected with daily or almost daily
exposure to the sun. The entire body should be exposed without sunblock and the
front and back of the body should receive equal exposure. Required time in the
sun depends on a number of variables, but is equal to 1/3 of the time it takes
the skin to begin turning pink.  This might only be a few minutes for very
fair-skinned individuals, but increases 5 to 10 times in those with darker
complexions.  In these individuals, vitamin D supplements may be the only
realistic
way to correct a deficiency.

Interesting meat and fish websites

A cartoon on the op-ed page of The New York Times earlier this month depicted
a restaurant patron telling his waiter "I’m worried about mad cow disease so
I won’t be having steak today."  The waiter replies "In that case, may I
offer
you some mercury laden fish with a serving of genetically engineered
vegetables?"

I don’t know how real the risk of mad cow disease is in our country, but one
thing is for sure: healthy cows pastured on grass don’t get it.  To find a
source of pastured beef in your area, and learn more about the health benefits
of
natural beef, see www.eatwild.com.

You may not be able to find a good source of pastured meats that is
convenient for you.  If not, there are various internet sites where you can
order meats
and poultry.  However, my wife and I have found that shipping charges can
make ordering from these sites prohibitive. One solution might be to join up
with
others and share the cost.

Here are some sites I have found:

www.williebird.com sells free-range turkeys, but their smoked products
contain nitrates and are not recommended.
www.healthychickenchoices.com has free-range and organic chickens
www.nimanranch.com offers free-range beef, pork and lamb
www.vanwienaturalmeats.com sells a broad selection of natural, nitrate-free
fish, beef, lamb, pork and free-range chicken

The following sites sell mercury free wild Alaskan salmon:

www.vitalchoice.com
www.wildsalmonseafood.com
www.buyseafooddirect.com
___________________________________________

© Copyright Dr. Arturo M. Volpe, 2004. All Rights Reserved. This content may
be copied in full, as long as copyright, contact, and creation information is
given, only if used only in a not-for-profit format. If any other use is
desired, written permission is required.
___________________________________________

IMPORTANT NOTICE:  This material is not intended to replace your personal
consultation with a qualified healthcare provider, nor is it meant to encourage
diagnosis and treatment of illness, disease or other medical problems by the
layman.  This information should not be considered as a substitute for
professional care.  Any application of the recommendations set forth in this
document
by the reader is at the reader's sole discretion and risk.
___________________________________________

You have subscribed to Dr. Volpe's free e-newsletter.To unsubscribe, e-mail
staff@... or call 713.529.5669.


Dr. Arturo M. Volpe
DC, CCN, FIAMA
Natural Health Solutions
1714 Sunset Boulevard
Houston, Texas 77005
713.529.5669
713.529.5590 fax
http://www.DoctorVolpe.com


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Good Morning,
Both of my sons have been receiving OT since they were 2. The OT addresses many
skills including handwriting, doning and doffing clothes, zippers snaps and etc.
As the child gets older they can work on pouring, shoe tying, the goals are
endless.  Many OT have specialized in sensory integration, which has helped both
of my boys with various issues.

My son's are covered under tricare standard and PFPWD, we received a script for
an evaluation and treatment as needed. The as needed part gives the therapist
the leeway to determine how many sessions a week are appropriate for your
child's specific needs.  Tricare standard has been paying for this service,
leaving PFPWD funds open for other things.

As far as your school system goes....put it in writing. Write a request for an
occupational therapy evaluation.  The school system is sometimes slow in
following up, make sure you are following up on your end.  Make sure that you
make a copy for the teacher, guidance counselor, yourself and whomever else you
feel is appropriate from your IEP team.

Let me know how it goes for you! Best of luck!

Warm regards,
Kelly


---------------------------------
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Yahoo! Hotjobs: Enter the "Signing Bonus" Sweepstakes

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I was talking to a friend who is a PT.  She told me to
ask for an occupational therapist for my daughter as
services for autism.  It's suppose to help with life
skills.  Can anyone help me where and whom do I ask
for this service.  Do I go to the pediatrician and
then request an IEP?  Please help.

__________________________________
Do you Yahoo!?
Yahoo! Hotjobs: Enter the "Signing Bonus" Sweepstakes
http://hotjobs.sweepstakes.yahoo.com/signingbonus

NEW - FAQ
on the Autism Europe EYPD 2003 web pages on
< http://www.autismeurope.org >

from your contributions collected through the 'Lisbon 2003 - Call for
Questions' forum and discussed at the special session "Living with Autism"
at the 7th Autism Europe International Conference in Lisbon.

Help to increase autism awareness - consult, print and disseminate the
documents available on the EYPD 2003 pages:

… Autism Awareness document
… Autism Awareness Leaflet
… Autism and Inclusion Position Paper
… Autism and Employment Position Paper
… Autism and Ageing Position Paper
… Autism and Health Position Paper (revised)
… Autism and Education Position Paper (revised)
… Non-discrimination and Disability (on the Good Practice and Legislation
Forum)
… FAQ (on the supplementary forum: Lisbon 2003 - FAQ)


Please forward this message to those you know who have a concern for people
with autism and their families
With thanks



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Fire Sale!
In an effort to raise critically-needed funds for the multi-org projects listed
below, everyone in the community has a chance to get some bargain-priced goodies
for 24-hours only!

Thursday, January 15th, 2004, starting at 8:00 AM, prices on autism-themed
merchandise will be marked down 50% to 70%.

For 24 hours, everyone in the autism community and beyond can snag some mega
deals for a good cause. If you'd like to buy all the Moms in your support group
a gift in time for Valentine's Day, this is the way to do it! Some items will
sell for as low as $.50 for 24 hours only! Buy for your kids, your family, or
yourself. Imagine the awareness you'll raise in your community while helping to
raise funds for research and family programs. Limited quantities available on
some items so shop early!

ALL proceeds will go to the projects listed below. The National Autism
Association is a nonprofit, not-for-salary organization. Prices will be marked
back up starting at 8:00 AM January 16th.

Please forward this on to family and friends. With everyone's help, we all can
get so much accomplished in 2004. Thank you.

Projects:

NAA Crisis Fund:
Sometimes tragedies happen within the ASD Community. A family may lose their
home, their employment, etc. The crisis fund would provide families in urgent
need with financial support whether it be for emergency shelter or covering
medical/funeral expenses should the unthinkable happen.

SafeMinds
Vaccine Safety Database Research Project

Enter our Online Store Here!

The NAA Team
National Autism Association
Phone: 877-NAA-AUTISM
Email: naa@...
http://nationalautismassociation.org/


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on 1/5/04 12:01 AM, vmi89 at vmi89@... wrote:

> We just moved to Colorado last year, and are looking to future
> assignments possibly in the next two years.  We have a 2 and a half
> year old son with autism, hearing loss w/aids, feeding difficulties
> that resulted in him getting a g-tube.  The potential places are
> Hawaii, Washington State, San Diego, or Norfolk.  Does anyone have
> any input on what states are better providing autism services (ie
> ABA therapy, special needs services in school, etc?)  We have found
> that for early intervention here in Colorado Springs, you have to do
> all your own footwork and reinvent the wheel apparently. I am
> seeking out qualified therapists for my son, because apparently the
> early intervention program has never heard of conventional ABA or
> other treatments for autism.  We will soon see about the district we
> live in when it comes to preschool for our son.  I'll write up a
> summary of that experience when that happens.  I'd appreciate any
> input, if you have comparisons from any of the listed states, to
> help us with the decision to move when it comes.

Well, i know in general the Hampton Roads area stinks for services.
(although i lived there for 6 years before having my son and loved it)

I would look into San Diego- not only is it a great area for Navy (i've
heard from military in general)  california has such a high rate of autism
they have to have services state wide (i would think- don't know for sure)
But I know there are a lot of autism parent groups there.

good luck, i'm staying on Long Island (even if my husband lives 10,000 miles
away)

christine

We just moved to Colorado last year, and are looking to future
assignments possibly in the next two years.  We have a 2 and a half
year old son with autism, hearing loss w/aids, feeding difficulties
that resulted in him getting a g-tube.  The potential places are
Hawaii, Washington State, San Diego, or Norfolk.  Does anyone have
any input on what states are better providing autism services (ie
ABA therapy, special needs services in school, etc?)  We have found
that for early intervention here in Colorado Springs, you have to do
all your own footwork and reinvent the wheel apparently. I am
seeking out qualified therapists for my son, because apparently the
early intervention program has never heard of conventional ABA or
other treatments for autism.  We will soon see about the district we
live in when it comes to preschool for our son.  I'll write up a
summary of that experience when that happens.  I'd appreciate any
input, if you have comparisons from any of the listed states, to
help us with the decision to move when it comes.

my son is tube fed currently, and his formula (similar to pediasure)
is paid for by Tricare. At this time it is paid by Tricare Prime, I
was told that I could save the PFPWD benefit for something else so
we don't have the pharmacy bill PFPWD.  I think that if you can get
the doctor to write a prescription for the pediasure, you may be
able to get it paid for.  Your Tricare case manager should be able
to help you too.  As far as diapers, because your child is disabled,
you could probably see if PFPWD would pay for them.  Best of luck
there.  What state do you reside in if I may ask?  We are in CO.
--- In
militaryfamiliesautismsupport@yahoogroups.com, "shy1hummingbird"
<shy1hummingbird@c...> wrote:
> Just curious if anyone knows if Tricare would give prescriptions
for
> pull ups, diapers, or pediasure... My son is almost 4 with autism
> and is not potty trained yet. I know some insurances pay for
diapers
> and stuff and was wondering if Tricare is the same?
> Probably not, but just curious if anyone has tried...
> Thanks
> Sharon

http://www.supportourtroopsiniraq.com
Listing servicemembers in 50 states -- LIST YOURS!
Soldier-letters-and-news from the Iraq-front, photos, learn how to "Support Our
Troops" - Post messages, email messages and more. Learn, explore, support, JOIN
THE EFFORT!
www.supportourtroopsiniraq.com
"Support Our Troops" live-internet-radio-show COMING SOON! Call the show, email
the show. Listen via computer by visiting the website. Join
www.danforantiniraq.com


---------------------------------
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Yahoo! Photos - Get your photo on the big screen in Times Square

[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]

http://www.supportourtroopsiniraq.com

Listing servicemembers in 50 states -- LIST YOURS!
Soldier-letters-and-news from the Iraq-front, photos, learn how
to "Support Our Troops" - Post messages, email messages and more.
Learn, explore, support, JOIN THE EFFORT!
www.supportourtroopsiniraq.com

"Support Our Troops" live-internet-radio-show COMING SOON! Call the
show, email the show. Listen via computer by visiting the website.
Join

www.danforantiniraq.com

Hi there! Happy Holidays!
I'm curious to see if any of you on this listserv have lost SSI due
to BAH? Its my understanding that BAH is not supposed to be
calculated as income as of this past April. I realize this is a new
concept to many SSA offices, however, the case worker for my sons
seems to have no clue. Any thoughts on this would be greatly
appreciated.
Warm regards,
Kelly
www.specialneedsconsultant.com

Oh, I also received the following in an email, thought you all may
find it interesting.

SCHAFER AUTISM REPORT                "Healing Autism:
                              No Finer a Cause on the Planet"
________________________________________________________________
Sunday, December 21, 2003                    Vol. 7  No. 252



       The Sound Of Silence

       [With apologies to Simon and Garfunkle.]

       Hello autism, my old friend.
       I've come to battle you again.
       Because an insult softly creeping
       Left its seeds while I was sleeping
       And the insult that was planted in his brain
       Still remains
       Within the sound of silence.

       In restless dreams we walked alone,
       Narrow streets of cobblestone
       `Neath the halo of a street lamp,
       I held my son from the cold and damp
       When my eyes were stabbed by the flash
            of a neon light
       That split the night
       And touched the sound of silence.

       And in the naked light I saw
       Ten thousand children, maybe more.
       Children talking without speaking,
       Children hearing without listening.
       Children singing songs that voices never shared,
       No doctor dared
       Disturb the sound of silence.

       "Doc," said I, "you do not know,
       Autism like a cancer grows.
       Hear my words that I might teach you,
       Take my arms that I might reach you."
       But my words like silent raindrops fell
       And echoed in the wells of silence.

       And the doctors bowed and prayed
       To the pharma gods who paid
       And the sign flashed out its warning
       In the words that it was forming.
       And the sign said "The words of the parents are
             written often, loud and tall;
       Emailed one and all:
       Raging against the sound of silence."

       -By L. Schafer

Merry Christmas!!

The article written about Xander and his canine companion, Woody is finally up
on the website.  You  may see it at www.gwinnettcitizen.com

If anyone wants to pick the article up, calling is quicker than email for the
editor.  Her name is Carolyn.

Adrienne Rousseau
Vice President
National Autism Association
Phone: 877-NAA-AUTISM
Email: Adrienne@...
http://www.nationalautismassociation.org



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