By Lisa Ackerman Watching a perfectly healthy child regress into the world of autism and failing health can do things to really mess with your mind. It's a front row seat I would never wish on anyone. Imagine you have a child, everything seems great, and suddenly things change. This child gets sick, really sick. ... Continue Reading →
It’s about the words: “Outgrow Autism”
By Lisa Ackerman After reading dozens of national headlines, instead of being hopeful I am offended (1.) I will explain why: Individuals with autism typically need many hours if not hundreds or thousands of hours of therapy - many different kinds based on unique needs. An enormous amount of time and energy is also spent... Continue Reading →
Autism needs a Martin Luther King Jr.
By Lisa Ackerman Martin Luther King Jr. means something special to this generation as he did to the ones before us. He was a true inspiration that continues to inspire many today. This past week was his birthday. Children in school get a holiday in his honor. Adults should re-read some of his speeches and... Continue Reading →
Farewell 2012. Welcome 2013!
by Lisa Ackerman It’s the end of another year, 2012 is almost in the history books! It’s only in reflection that I am reminded that what feels like a blink now, wasn’t. As usual, TACA was a whirlwind of activity all year; helping families, building relationships, and expanding our community. This could not have happened... Continue Reading →
Real Stories. Real Hope.
You haven't experienced joy until you have seen the TACA Facebook page (www.facebook.com/talkaboutcuringautism) or FLICKR Page: http://www.flickr.com/photos/talkaboutcuringautism/sets/72157632301247683/ . We asked families what they are celebrating in progress for their ASD child in 2012 last night at 4pm and over 140 photos and motivational stories were sent in. And more keep coming! I LOVE THIS! This... Continue Reading →
Parents with children on the spectrum are not allowed to get sick or die
By Lisa Ackerman I know, a pretty harsh title for a blog. But I wish I could write something as important as this and POOF make it a true statement. You may be asking: what made me go to this topic? It is a simple answer - a story on TV is mirroring emails and... Continue Reading →
Tell Congress. Share YOUR autism story.
By Lisa Ackerman Even though the DC Autism hearing occurred last week in congress there is still a chance to have your voice heard. You can submit your testimony to be part of the public record. You have until December 6, 2012 by 5pm EST to submit your testimony. Please email the testimony to:... Continue Reading →
Urgent Diagnostic Changes to Autism: what parents need to know
By Lisa Ackerman I am deeply saddened to see the new DSM 5 criteria for how autism spectrum disorders will be diagnosed. TACA has been alerting families, pushing for parent feedback and revisions to these new criteria since December 2011. Please read how this will affect your lives http://www.tacanow.org/family-resources/dsm-v-goes-forward-major-shift-in-diagnostic-criteria-for-autism-spectrum-disorder-approved/ Even Allen Frances, Professor Emeritus from... Continue Reading →
They do all the hard work
by Lisa Ackerman OC Family magazine featured 10 Orange County moms to be recognized in their top supermom November issue: http://www.ocfamily.com/t-Cover-Story-top-Orange-County-moms-supermoms-Nov-2012.aspx To be considered one of OC’s top ten moms is a real honor. I laugh thinking about the therapy time I have racked up for my kids or husband. Hopefully this wonderful award somewhat... Continue Reading →
AUTISM DC HEARING SUMMARY
By Lisa Ackerman It was a historical day in DC. There was a hearing on autism on November 29, 2012 with Congressmen Burton and Issa leading the way to answers and help for families living with autism. It has been over 10 years to have another hearing on autism. It is about time. You can... Continue Reading →
Moving Autism Forward by Team TACA 