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increases by $5,000. Today, the offer stands at $90,000 and even though the offer is publicized on over 300 websites, there are surprisingly still no takers.

Kyle's parents and grandparents are driven to wits' end by the emotional and financial burden of trying to resolve the developmental delays and behavioral problems in not just one, but both of their sons. Our family strongly believes that these problems were caused-at least in a large part-by the greed of pharmaceutical companies and indifference of politicians and the medical community charged with protecting the best interests of our children. The family had little or no success with their regular pediatricians who told them they were over-reacting. Seeking every opinion and bit of publicly accessible information that they could, they pushed ahead with full-steam despite many MD's telling them there was nothing wrong, they were able to get an official diagnosis for both boys so that they would have access to the help and therapies that he needs to get back on track.

Now both boys participate in a host of therapies: speech, music, educational play and others. Their diets have been adjusted to include only foods without food colorings, preservatives, chemical sugar substitutes, hormonally and antibiotically laced meat, gluten and casein. Soy products have also been removed, as research shows that it is unhealthful unless fermented prior to consumption. This type of diet has been shown to combat the "leaky gut" syndrome that torments the stomachs of autistic kids, and prevents the absorption of nutrients. It is difficult and expensive to eat this way, but the benefits of this diet have outweighed the cost and inconvenience by far.

If your child displays of delayed speech, lack of interest in social interaction, perhaps has food issues, displays repetitive physical behaviors (called "stimming")such as flapping of hands, screeching or making sounds, spinning or jumping, you may want to start discussing these sypmtoms with a naturopath or holistic medical professional and your pediatrician as well. You will need your pediatrician to help with a formal diagnosis to get help in the long run, but be prepared to endure. Most physicians have not been educated properly regarding autism, and those that have disagree with conventional teachings are shunned by the rest of the medical community, and in some cases have had their license revoked.

Beware of information on the internet. Don't believe it until you've verified it. Here are some internet resources that our family has found helpful:

www.Autismspeaks.org
ww w.vaccinationdebate.com
www.noa malgam.com/vaccinations.html
ww w.cure-guide.com/Vaccine_Guide /vaccine_guide.html
www.thinktw ice.com/vaccine.htm
www.autism- resources.com
www.difflearn.com
www.kylestreehouse.org
www.nati onalautismassociation.org
www.a utism-society.org

There are a million more resources out there. Early intervention and diagnosis is key to success. Take advantage of local and state programs in your area. Read books. Talk to as many people as you can. If you're married, seek counseling-80% of marriages with autistic children end in divorce. Take a break once in awhile-your child needs you to be healthy and well-adjusted in order to give your best to him/her. Most of all, keep trying...your child needs you to unlock the door to a normal, healthy and happy life.

Learn more about this author, Wendy Fritz.
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