By Lisa Ackerman About 2 1/2 weeks ago, TACA's application to exhibit at the 2nd Annual National Autism Speaks conference was approved. I was excited and arranged travel to go. The conference had approximately 350 total in attendance at the Hilton in Columbus Ohio. The effort took place over two days. The attendees were made... Continue Reading →
Retard! Autistic – Part 3
By Lisa Ackerman Sadly, I thought the topic above would be a “one time” blog (1.) Occasionally, someone in the public eye says something that can deeply offend others. Using the word “retard” happened again in a song. Rappers J. Cole and Drake released a new song, so here we go again with the words “autistic”... Continue Reading →
Reminder: Everyone needs a break!
By Lisa Ackerman Taking a break is something I RARELY do. I am always plugged-in answering calls, emails and writing. (As of this publishing, I still need to finish 4 articles and 6 blogs - not to mention my JOB needs me to focus on 58 things too!) Well, for the next two weeks, I... Continue Reading →
Do you have a sick child with an autism diagnosis?
Action Alert Provided by Safe Minds Editors Note: Lisa Ackerman ACTION ALERT! Let the IACC and AAP know how sick your autistic child is/was, and about their unmet medical needs. SafeMinds believes that the lack of appropriate medical treatment for individuals with autism is a violation of basic human rights. Together we can improve... Continue Reading →
Where did the name “TACA” come from?
By Lisa Ackerman When the very first TACA meeting was held in my living room in Huntington Beach, California almost 13 years ago, I had no idea where it would lead my family (1.) The early days of our son’s diagnosis were frustrating. We spent countless hours researching, reading, talking – wasn’t there a better... Continue Reading →
The DSM-5 Nightmare
By Lisa Ackerman Since 2011, TACA has been warning families about changes proposed to the diagnostic guide used to detect autism (formerly known as the DSM-IV). The DSM-5 is the Fifth Edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders released at the American Psychiatric Association’s Annual Meeting in May 2013. This is a... Continue Reading →
We Salute You
By Lisa Ackerman Raising children diagnosed with autism can be an enormous challenge. What’s harder? Raising children diagnosed with autism while you have a parent in active military duty. Many love Memorial Day weekend to enjoy extra time with the family. We must never forget the importance of this day and what it represents. At... Continue Reading →
Picnic V.10.0!
By Lisa Ackerman Every year, I am full of excitement; it’s not a major holiday or my birthday, but it is absolutely my favorite time of the year. It is PICNIC TIME! I am happy to share with you the upcoming 10th Annual Family Picnic on Sunday, June 2nd at the Phoenix Club in Anaheim,... Continue Reading →
She Must Really Like Kids
By Lisa Ackerman As the family walked away I heard Kenny say “She must really like kids.” He’s right, I do. If I am at a conference, gathering or event and there are kids around, you can find me interacting with the kids. I like hanging out, chatting and playing with them. You could say... Continue Reading →
Just because they don’t speak doesn’t mean they don’t understand
By Lisa Ackerman This past weekend, we had our 11th annual Real Help Now Conference in Costa Mesa, California (1.) It was a great event to educate and empower TACA families. I always love these events. My favorite part is always watching the parents as they leave; now ready to tackle their next steps to... Continue Reading →
Moving Autism Forward by Team TACA 