Autistic....Our Chunky Monkey???

Light It Up Blue for Autism Awareness

2011-03-26T11:37:00.000-05:00

Union Daily Times - Swing into helping Autism

2010-09-23T13:22:00.003-05:00

Union Daily Times - Swing into helping Autism

2010-09-23T13:22:00.000-05:00

Union Daily Times - Swing into helping Autism

DISABILITY AWARENESS FUN DAY COMING TO FOSTER PARK JULY 31ST

2010-07-25T13:36:00.006-05:00

http://wbcuradio.com/news.htm

Disability Awareness Fun Day will be held at Foster Park on Saturday, July 31, 2010, from 10:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m. Lunch will be free to those individuals with disabilities and special needs. Donations will be accepted from all others. Entertainment and information will be provided by various organizations: The Big Slide, Especially Ours, Autism Speaks, Pro-Parents, Union DSN, Gifted Warriors, Special Olympics, Carolina Miracle League, Disability Action Center, Family Connections, Down Syndrome Family Alliance, Ultimate Rhythm Special Needs Dance Class, and DJ Big. There will also be many items for sale such as: 50/50 Tickets, Cake Walk Tickets, T-shirts, Car Stickers, Baked Goods, Candy, Funnel Cakes, Boiled Peanuts, and more. You are invited to come out, join in the fun, and support a worthy cause.

7-13-10 Union County Council Meeting

2010-07-25T13:29:00.003-05:00

WBCU AM 1460 FM 103.5

Wednesday, July 14

A group of parents of children with special needs appeared before County Council at Tuesday’s meeting, and Betsy Hudson, Kyle’s mom and Autism advocate, addressed the Council on behalf of the group. Their purpose for being there was to promote an upcoming event, Disability Awareness Fun Day, which will be held on July 31, 2010, from 10 AM until 2 PM at Foster Park. They also talked about the fact that Union County offers many opportunities for baseball, softball, football, soccer, golf, swimming, cheerleading, and more, but none is geared towards children and adults in our community with special needs. Ms. Hudson went on to say the former supervisor was approached when the Timken Complex was first being discussed, and asked that children and adults with special needs be considered. She stated that they were told that the County Supervisor had already been talking to someone about this possibility and was informed that a Miracle League field could not be built within a 50 mile radius of one already in existence. That subject has not been brought up again until now. Ms. Hudson stated that the group just recently discovered that this was not the case at all, and that the former county supervisor had been told that they could have the Miracle league field in Union, and that it would be a wonderful idea because of our large special needs population in Union. He was given all the information about how to go about getting grants, and funding, for this project and had the support of our group to host fundraisers to assist. In closing Ms. Hudson said, “You cannot imagine the feeling we had in our stomachs the day we were told that our children could never have this in Union, but the feeling that we had the day we discovered that it was all an untruth was even worse. We ask that you recognize the desire and need of our children and families for a Miracle League field and special-needs playground, confirmation of researching the possibility of such recreational facilities, and ask that the county assist in promoting our first annual Disability Awareness Fun Day on July 31st.”

Kyle will get an education dispite the budget cuts!

2010-06-10T18:02:00.002-05:00

The fight is on Union County Schools!!!! You will NOT push our SPECIAL NEEDS children to the side and say they don't need shadows and aides. THEY have just as much right as every athlete is given special accommodations for out of town events and you give money to them. HOW about lets cut some salaries at the district... level FOR THE SAKE OF THE CHILDREN!!! I promise WE WILL NOT GIVE UP ON OUR CHILDREN.....& Kyle Hudson will receive an education one way or another and NOT FORGOTTEN! He is smart but learns differently than you! Did y'all even look into the info about Autism Speaks school grants? I'll bet that YOU DID NOT!!!! They don't care what is good for the kids and the fact that the shadows and aides are there because they LOVE our kids and want they to excel! And Kyle has come too far this year because of the aides at Buffalo! We are so grateful for them and how much they love him! And I hear not one of them has been in Kyle's classroom to see what he has done! And the special services director has a child with Asberger's but not in Union!

2010-04-12T22:17:00.000-05:00

Here is the latest picture.......

2010-04-12T22:07:00.003-05:00

Just Thinking......

2010-04-12T21:56:00.004-05:00

As I was cooking dinner tonight (rare these days), it weighed heavy on my mind what my friend Jenna said to me..........UPDATE YOUR BLOG!!! It wasn't just those words but what it meant behind them.......sitting down and taking time to do what I want to do and making time for myself. I so need that but with Kyle and home and work ........okay mostly work these days I don't get to. I actually left work today at a reasonable time 5:30pm and am taking tomorrow off to spend with Kyle who will be participating in the Special Olympics at the SC School for the Deaf and Blind. Gator won't be able to be there because he took the morning off to do a radio interview for the upcoming Poker Run he is doing. I haven't even been able to be much help with that and I feel so bad but what can I do when I am spending days, nights and weekends trying to keep up with all the paperwork that comes with protecting the children of our state. Yet I feel like I am not doing enough at home. I am trying so hard to do everything for Kyle yet keep falling short. I so wish we could give him a brother or sister to know that he would have someone to watch over him if something should happen to us. He is doing so much better and saying a lot more but what if it is all not enough. I don't want him to be in a state home somewhere. We did our wills with the help of my cousin before Kyle was born but still I can't help but worry. Guess that's why my Grandmother still cries or gets upset when we go somewhere or I tell her I have been out and had to remove children from their families with law enforcement. My mom worries too but she doesn't show it like Grandmother. Life is so precious but so short. My goal is to focus a little bit more at a time on allowing myself the time to do something that I want and in the process allow you, our family and friends who don't get to see Kyle often, to catch up on what you've missed out on...........our chunky monkey.

Kyle - Naughty or Nice List..........

2009-12-19T10:52:00.003-05:00

See which list Kyle made this Christmas with Family.com and Santa's List.

At what point....

2009-06-11T20:15:00.002-05:00

At what point do I give up on a child?
At what point do I give up on the parent?
At what point do I say its not worth it?
At what point do I stop giving?
At what point do I not care?
At what point do I stop questioning why?

Why? A simple question it would seem.
But why does a child have autism?
Why does a parent fight the doctors?
Why does a parent fight the schools?
Why does a parent fight the critics?
Why does a parent fight the system?

Why? Because there is a CHILD! So....
I don't stop questioning why!
I don't stop caring!
I don't stop giving!
I don't stop saying its worth it!
I don't stop fighting!
I don't stop LOVING the most precious thing in the world....an innocent child!

An innocent child that has a whole life ahead of them.
An innocent child that has a lot to give.
An innocent child that matters.
An innocent child that is special.
An innocent child that is loving.
An innocent child that is autistic.
An innocent child that is mine!

The Union Daily Times, Wednesday, May 13, 2009

2009-05-14T19:38:00.003-05:00

Auction organizers hope to raise autisum awareness

by ANNA BROWN

2 days 10 hrs ago | 80 views | 0 | 0 | |

A silent auction and fund-raiser for Autism Speaks — Walk Now for Autism, will be held Saturday at the Union National Guard Armory.

The event begins at 10 a.m. and concludes at 3 p.m.

Betsy Hudson, who is organizing the event with her husband, Gator, said the money is being raised by the Team Aruba Walk Team which will participate in the Carolinas Walk Now for Autism on Oct. 10 at Lowe’s Motor Speedway. She said the event isn’t just a fund-raiser, it will be a chance to raise awareness of autism and for parents of children with autism to learn about services that could help their family. Michelle Preslar, executive director of Greater Charlotte Autism Speaks, will attend the auction.

“The main thing we want to do is raise awareness,” said Mrs. Hudson, the mother of Kyle, 6, who has been diagnosed with autism. “Whatever we can do to help. We hope people will come out.”

Mrs. Hudson said all money raised will go to Autism Speaks, which funds Autism research.

Non-perishable food items will be collected for the Union First Baptist Church food pantry.

There will be a hot dog and barbecue sale from 11 a.m. until 2 p.m. The Melting Pot Restaurant will be on hand giving out chocolate.

Silent auction items include a fender from NASCAR great Jeff Gordon’s car, restaurant gift certificates, massages, hair products, florals, a weekend drive in a BMW, a birthday party package from Monkey Joe’s, four single game tickets and a gift bucket from Greenville Drive, Disney items — including a large Wally robot, passes to Riverbanks Zoo, passes to the South Carolina Aquarium at Charleston, an autographed tackle box and tackle from Hank Parker, a signed racing uniform from Randy Hawkins, tickets to Flat Rock Playhouse, a baseball autographed by John Smoltz with certificate of authenticity, a family pack of four Wofford football tickets, three month membership to Curves, studio access passes to the John Boy and Billy Show, a pallet of sod, tools, oil changes, autographed racing items, antique table and chairs and many more items from businesses in Union, Spartanburg, Columbia and other towns in North and South Carolina.

Those attending can sign up to be an honorary crew member of Team Aruba.

To you my son....

2009-05-10T22:26:00.004-05:00

On this Mother's Day, May 10, 2009
I look at you and would do it all again
the joy, the pain, sorrow, the gain
to see you struggle and strive
be defeated and succeed
to beat the odds and fight the genes.

You are my one and only,
my chunky monkey,
who laughs and cries,
fights and climbs,
over and under
any stairs, steps or flight,
to reach your ultimate best
and show everyone
that you are not afraid to be you.

As I look at you tonight,
sleeping soundly with Elmo,
I can't help but cry and think
how I am the luckiest mom in the world
to have been blessed with a son like you
who is perfect in every way,
including genetics and autistic ways.

Moms be thankful for what you have,
God knows what he's doing today,
for one day we will all be flawless,
but to moms we are perfect today!

Enjoy the bad days and good,
for I know that all it takes
is one touch from Kyle in a gentle way
to make the worst day go away.

Open your hearts and minds
and appreciate this most precious gift to us all,
that of mothers and motherhood.

You are invited......

2009-05-03T13:24:00.002-05:00

Dr. Threatt...the best there is!

2009-05-03T13:06:00.007-05:00

When you find someone as wonderful as Dr. Threatt has been to Kyle and our family, you drive and hour to provide the best medical care for your son....and Dr. Threatt is the best! And to hear that she is not feeling well and they do not have an expected return date to her practice is very upsetting. Needless to say we are very upset and worried about her. We hope for her a very speedy recovery, because no one can replace her.

No one has gone to bat for our son they way she has. We were very lucky because a lot of parents of children with autism are not. Doctors don't want to listen to the parents, through Autism Speaks, parents and advocates have pushed this issue and doctors are beginning to listen to us. Parents may not be medical experts but they are experts on their children. Parents listen to your gut instincts and doctors listen to the parents. We all have to work together to find a cause and a cure for Autism. In the mean time, we will drive the distance to see our favorite pediatrician. And we have her in our thoughts and prayers!

The Face of Autism

2009-04-07T17:30:00.003-05:00

Autism, is not something you can detect by first looking at someone, nor by a simple test. Parents must use their gut instincts, probe their pediatricians, and fight for the best of everything for their child. And how is this different from every other 'normal' parent out there? Autism Spectrum Disorders vary in levels of ability and skills, so there must be hours of tests, evaluations, and varying types of doctors who pour over what your child can and can not do. The heartache, the devasting news, the evaporating dreams...................all seems to have gone with the few spoken words "I'm sorry, your child has Autism". But with those words comes other dreams and realizations.........like the wish every parent has of keeping their baby forever....well parents of non-verbal autistic children get to delay their child growing up for awhile longer. I know I've certainly enjoyed that part!!! You also look at others differently.....you never know what it going on with parents and their children. So please learn to be considerate when out in public and a child is having a hissy fit, because otherwise you might hear me or another parent of a special needs child say "Welcome to Autism (Downs Syndrome, etc)".

April is Autism Awareness Month...
learn the signs of autism,
spread awareness,
educate others,
and hug an Autistic child today!

www.autismspeaks.org

April 2, 2009 World Autism Day

2009-04-02T07:56:00.001-05:00

We Need Your Help.....or products or services!

2009-03-23T21:28:00.005-05:00

To Whom It May Concern,

Food Lion is hosting a fundraiser for the Team Aruba, an IHRA pro stock drag race team, Walk Now for Autism walk team on May 16, 2009 at the National Guard Armory in Union, SC. We are in need of items to be donated for a silent auction that will be held during the event. Anything you are able to donate for this event will be greatly appreciated -- whether it be race used car parts (ie: pistons, fiberglass, race tickets), gift certificates, clothing, etc. All proceeds from the silent auction will be donated to Autism Speaks at the October walk event at Lowe’s Motor Speedway in Charlotte, NC. Autism Speaks tax id # is **********.

We raised over $2600 last year with our first silent auction and hope to increase this amount and the number of those involved with each passing year. We cannot give up the fight to find the missing piece to the puzzle. Why? Because our six year old son Kyle has Autism, is not yet verbal, potty trained or on his right developmental level. And we will not stop until we find Kyle’s missing piece to his puzzle. Remember pennies add up to dollars and small donations add up to large strides in finding a cure for Autism.

Thank you very much for your time, efforts and having a heart to help such a noble cause. Please contact me with any questions or to find out how to become more involved.

Sincerely,

Gator. Betsy & Kyle

www.autisticourchunkymonkey.blogspot.com

www.autismspeaks.org

Great day for a picnic at the park!

2009-03-08T19:50:00.004-05:00

Kyle at dance class 9-25-08

2009-02-21T20:43:00.000-05:00

Kyle's first real horse ride

2009-02-21T19:52:00.001-05:00

This was from Easter 2008 (March 23, 2008) at Gator's
cousin Sandra and Ed Maxwell's house in Thomson, GA.
Kyle loved this beyond believe. He has always had a
love and way with horses despite being non-verbal.

Sunday is International Day for Prayer for Autism

2009-02-07T22:09:00.001-05:00

2008-07-30T18:34:00.001-05:00

Your Carolina with Jack & Kimberly

2008-07-21T20:09:00.001-05:00

In case you missed us on TV with Jack Roper (Uncle Jack) April 4th...........

We couldn't do this without our friends - old & new!

2008-06-22T08:45:00.002-05:00

"The strongest and sweetest song remains to be sung." -- Walt Witman

Gator and I went on a "date night" Friday for the first time in a long time (thanks Aunt Kim for keeping Kyle). We needed to go to Spartanburg anyway to get Kyle diapers at Sam's Club, but Gator surprised me with dinner (at our new favorite restaurant City Range) and a movie. We first ended up having to go to Verizon Wireless to have our phones checked for some technical difficulties, then to Sam's, and then to City Range (boy was it GOOD!). We had then planned on a movie but I didn't see anything I wanted to see more than "Fool's Gold" that had just come out on Charter Cable On-Demand and decided we would go home to watch a movie.

We had one last stop on our way home -- to Barnes & Noble to see if they had the DRM, IHRA Drag Review Magazine that has an article about Trevor and Team Aruba in its June issue. While there of course I had to check out the latest books on Autism.........and found the "Chicken Soup for the Soul - Children with Special Needs" book. I immediately opened the book as soon as we got in the car and began reading stories to Gator on our way home. I was fine until I read the following story - which I dedicate to all those who we would have never met had it not been for Kyle and his God given specialty of Autism and Fragile X (but one day God and I will have a long talk about this!)

What They Forgot to Mention by Sandy Sotzen

I remember the day of my son's diagnosis of autism as if it were yesterday. The tone of the doctor's voice, the silence in the room, the words "lifelong disability, no cure, I'm sorry" still sting when I allow myself to reflect on that day.
But I have paused on occasions too numerous to count and thought, Someone should've mentioned that this would be part of the package when my child was diagnosed with autism.
Someone forgot to mention that I would listen to my child's simple utterances or attempted approximations as if he were a world leader giving the speech of a lifetime. I could never have imagined the worth of a single word despite the fact that I may never hear it again.
Someone forgot to mention that when my son was finally potty-trained at age nine, there would be few people who could understand the significance of such an accomplishment, and even fewer with whom I could actually share it. Accomplishments of any size, there true worth known only to me, would bring quiet celebrations between my son and me.
Someone should've mentioned that autism is messy! Wallpaper's meant to be shredded, bathrooms are designed to be flooded, walls are bare in order to smear stuff on them, washable paint really isn't, and more food will actually be crushed and dropped than eaten.
I wish someone would've mentioned that autism is extremely expensive! Doctors, therapists, medications, supplements, conferences, and sensory equipment are only the tip of the iceberg. I could not have guessed that my child's disability would allow people to cross our path in life who otherwise would not have, and that such people would willingly respond to a child in need.
Someone should have mentioned that each time a child with autism initiates or engages in a reciprocal hug, that feeling that you had when you held him for the first time comes back time and time again.
And they forgot to mention the day my son was diagnosed with autism that the triumphs over this disability would far outweigh the tears, that laughter would eventually ease the sense of loss, and that sheer faith would allow me and millions of other parents to fall into bed exhausted each night, only to get up the next day eager to discover what else they forgot to mention.

Life’s Choices.....

2008-04-27T20:19:00.001-05:00

Ever wonder WHY?

Why here or now?

Why him or her?

Why can’t I get a break?

Why my child????

Over the last couple of years, I have had a lot of WHY? questions run through my head....some verbalized and other not, some I reacted to and others I fought not to because these days I have to pick & choose my battles carefully --- and there’s only so much of me to go around (no wonder I’m on Lexapro and Ambien).

It has taken a long time to the answer about why we were back in Union, but eventually I did --- there is no way we could have ever accomplised what we have for Autism Awareness like we have been able to here. We have found people to fight with us, for us and others against us; however, we have remained strong (on the outside).

I still don’t know why Kyle has autism, but somedays it’s a lot clearer than others...like when he touches someone’s heart with his smile or simple touch of the hand. And through this connections we have managed to break through beariers, touch lives, raise a little money for Autism Speaks (autism awareness), make life long friends that will be part of our family for the rest of our lives and even make International connections for autism awareness.

In the midst of it all, I have learned (borrowing a phrase from a close friend) that life “moves a little faster for some and slower for others” which puts you in a position to wonder “what could have been”. But you face reality and deal with what you were dealt.

I know that one day I will be having a very long conversation with GOD ‘bout these struggles but until then I have to pray for the strength to accomplish whatever needs to be done in my lifetime. I hope that you, our friends & family, will be there with us wherever the road leads to support our efforts even though you may not agree with our methods or life’s choices sometimes. Just know that we love you more than you will ever know!

Team Aruba officially opens race shop

2008-04-18T20:21:00.002-05:00

Team Aruba officially opens race shop

By CHARLES L. WARNER

Published:

Thursday, April 17, 2008 1:56 PM CDT

Staff Writer

Union County's enthusiasm for motorsports helped make it the U.S. home base for Team Aruba, Ven Eaman says.

Team Aruba's U.S. Home Base Complex held its grand opening celebration Wednesday. The complex, located on the Whitmire Highway, is the centerpiece of Union County's efforts to become a motorsports hub.

While access to highways was important, it was the people of Union County and their commitment to motorsports that was the deciding factor in the team's decision to locate here, Eaman, who is team coordinator, said.

“It's a very exciting day, we've been working toward this day for awhile now,” he said. “We met the people of Union at Rockingham, N.C., at the race. They knew about us, they knew that we didn't have a U.S. base. They invited us over, we came for several meetings and we got to know the people. They are motorsports-minded (and) didn't leave us any other choice but to pick Union as our U.S. home base. We're glad and we don't regret it; we're going to do great things together.”

Eaman predicted his team would win a world championship “in the near future” for both Aruba and Union County. He added that Team Aruba will also work to help attract more racing teams and related motorsports industries to the county.

Eaman's brother, Henny, the former prime minister of Aruba, compared the enthusiasm in Union for Team Aruba to that in his country as it worked to overcome an economic crisis it faced at the beginning of his first term in office.

“We had a big crisis and we made a plan and we had a very enthusiastic team,” he said. “In that enthusiasm that you see today in the eyes of everyone that's involved I recognize a team that is going to grow and is going to work together and is going to accomplish lots of big things for the venture between the City of Union and Team Aruba.”

In addition to motor sports, the Eamans are looking to expand their business by setting up an exchange involving the import of water, beer and possibly aloe products made in Aruba and exporting steel products and machinery from Union County. The Eamans are also involved in the textile industry and will be looking at possible opportunities for trade between the county and Aruba.

Union Mayor Bruce Morgan welcomed the Eamans' commitment to helping bring motor sports and other economic development to the county.

“This has just been a wonderful day for Union, for Team Aruba and for Union's future,” he said. “We think this is just the beginning of being able to recruit additional racing teams and motorsports people to Union.

“This shows the commitment of some of these organizations to the sport and with Ven Eaman and his entire family making Union their United States home base means that they will continue to invest money here in the area and help us recruit additional teams to come to Union,” he said.”

Mike Petrie, president of the Union County Motorsports Association, served as master of ceremonies and spoke on the impact motor sports can have on a community.

“We all understand the economic impact that motorsports can have on Union County,” he said. “Motorsports is an industry and people around here are starting to recognize that.

North Carolina long ago recognized Motorsports as an industry and because of that they're way ahead of the curve,” he said. “A good example is in 2005 motorsports poured $5.9 billion into the state of North Carolina and created 27,000 new jobs. Maybe on a smaller scale, we hope to accomplish the same thing here.”

Supervisor Donnie Betenbaugh pointed out that motorsports has a long history in the county.

“Team Aruba's formally announcing their location here along with all the other things going on in motorsports here in Union County, it looks as though our future will be very bright for the motorsports industry and the economy of motor sports in Union County. We're very excited to be a part of that.”

Team Aruba Grand Opening

2008-04-17T18:55:00.001-05:00

Article published Apr 17, 2008 GoUpstate.com

Team Aruba opens drag-racing shop in Union

By Matt Cobbs
Published: Thursday, April 17, 2008 | Updated: 11:41 am

MIKE BONNER/mike.bonner@shj.com | Order a reprint
Jim and Marie Brady check out the Team Aruba car during the open house of the drag-racing shop in Union on Wednesday.

UNION - The gear and crew have been moved in for a couple months, but Team Aruba officially opened its new drag-racing shop Wednesday afternoon.

The team's new home base - about 3 miles from Union on Whitmire Highway - welcomed Union Mayor Bruce Morgan, former Aruba prime minister Henny Eman and an assortment of other guests for the ribbon-cutting ceremony.

"We know this is going to be very profitable and rewarding for all of Union in the future," Morgan said. "It's just going to be an economic boom for us and something we can all appreciate and love."

Henny said the team's move should help to stimulate economic growth for both Union and Aruba.

"This joint venture is going to give very positive results for Aruba's advertising. Our small island depends largely on tourism," he said.

"It should also be positive for the fast-developing city of Union," he added "I'm sure that we will be visiting Union and tracks very often."

Henny's younger brother, Ven, is the coordinator for Team Aruba.

Trevor Eman, 21, is the team's driver and competes on the IHRA circuit - they have an event this weekend in Rockingham, N.C.

The process of bringing the team to Union began last year when Ven met Mike Petrie, president of the Union County Motorsports Association, at a race.

Petrie began telling him about the town and its love for racing.

"Many people think I found Union. This is far from the truth," Ven Eman said. "Union found Team Aruba. Union has a motorsport-aggressive approach, and everybody in Union loves anything that has a motor, that's loud and goes fast."

Petrie said several particular aspects attracted the team to come to Union.

"We've got friendly people, people that share (Ven's) passion for motorsports, access to three major interstates, a relatively mild climate and the availability and price of (the) property," Petrie explained.

Trevor Eman drives the team's 2006 Ford Escort with an 820 CID Ford Hemi Mountain Motor built by Jon Kaase. He has raced in several categories, including Super Comp and Top Sportsman.

"This was a very special day. There was a lot of excitement," Trevor Eman said. "Now that we've got somewhere to leave out of, we should be much more organized and much better off than we have been the last couple years."

This week in Autism.....Decide for yourself!

2008-03-08T22:25:00.001-05:00

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/david-kirby/the-vaccineautism-story_b_90431.html

One person CAN make a DIFFERENCE!

2008-03-05T10:59:00.005-05:00

Never doubt my love for you or what I won't do for you!

Whether it be correcting you when you are wrong, cleaning up after you, fighting with you for 30 minutes just so that you learn how to do one thing, going to the statehouse and talking to our house and senate representatives for better education for children with special needs in our public schools or keeping logos for autism awareness on race cars and trailers.

I will never stop fighting for you............until you verbally tell me you can do it on your own!

You are my pride and joy and your well-being is my passion. Just remember to thank your mom with plenty of jewelry as your great-grandmother Dummy/G would say.

But until then the kisses, hugs and many times you signed I love you after a very long day in Columbia will do for now.

I love you!

The Piano Too....?????????

2008-02-27T20:23:00.000-05:00

"J-Mac"

2008-02-24T10:39:00.002-05:00

http://abcnews.go.com/Video/playerIndex?id=1727289&affil=wlos

Autistic Basketball Star Makes Bush Weep
President Takes a Break From Politics to Meet the Teen
March 15, 2006 —

There are some moments in life when time stands still. For Jason McElwain -- known to his classmates in Rochester, N.Y., as "J-Mac" -- those moments seem to be happening a lot lately.

Jason, who suffers from autism and learning disabilities, is now known throughout the country for sinking six three-point shots and one field goal in four minutes. For three seasons, he never played on his high school basketball team but rather acted as a motivator and team manager.

"I've never shot that well in my life," said Jason, 16.

His story of overcoming disabilities struck a chord with President Bush, who met Jason.

"As you can see, a special person has greeted me at the airport," Bush said when they met, taking Jason by the arm. "Jason, mind if I call you 'J-Mac?' I'll call him J-Mac. You can call me George W."

Jason and his mother, Debbie McElwain, were excited to meet the president, and she coached her son on how to react to one of the most powerful men in the world. It's been just one of the many changes that have occurred since the miracle game. The family has fielded 35 movie offers, and McElwain said the phone rang nonstop.

"Well, we've lost a lot of sleep, and we've had a lot of phone calls," she said. "The phone calls have died down, but every once in awhile we have to take the phone off the hook so we could take a break."

The president said that Jason's story had inspired many people, including himself.

"Saw it on TV and I wept, just like a lot of other people," Bush said. "It's just one of those stories that touched a lot of people's hearts. You probably didn't realize the impact you were going to have on people all across America and around the world."

For his part, Jason didn't realize just how the world would embrace him.

"I didn't realize that until e-mails came from families and kids with autism," he said. "Autism doesn't affect me at all."

Now, Jason has his sights on March Madness. He predicts the University of Connecticut will take it all because the team is more athletic than Duke, a team he said has a penchant for choking. His favorite college player is Gerry McNamara, known as G-Mac, who led Syracuse to an amazing run in the Big East tournament.

"As you can tell, he's very involved in basketball," his mother said.

Copyright © 2008 ABC News Internet Ventures
====================================================================================
Jason J-Mac McElwain George Bush Autism Song for Awareness

2008-02-15T17:46:00.007-05:00

TEAM ARUBA RAISED MORE THAN $5100 TOWARDS AUTISM RESEARCH

Friday, February 15

A local race team has received recognition for its fundraising efforts to benefit Autism Speaks. Team Aruba, the professional IHRA drag racing team that recently located its operation in Union County with the support of Union Countians and others raised a total of $5,107.12. Gator, who is associated with Team Aruba, along with his wife Betsy headed team Aruba’s effort. They have a son, Kyle, who has been diagnosed with autism and Fragile X syndrome. WBCU News spoke with Betsy and she expressed her appreciation both to Team Aruba and the citizens of Union County for their generosity. She said Team Aruba is the only race team in America sponsoring Autism Speaks on a full-time basis, helping to raise awareness for Autism research. She said they plan another walk this year to raise more money for research, and it will be held at Lowe's Motor Speedway. More details on that will be forthcoming.

Kyle - Our Little Drummer Boy?????

2008-02-05T22:30:00.001-05:00

Not really sure where he gets this from...
unless its watching RASCAL FLATTS?!?!

OR could he really have a GIFT???

Why do I have this feeling that we
need to buy stock in ear plugs????

Let It Snow! Let It Snow! Let It Snow!

2008-01-17T01:35:00.000-05:00

Today began with a new outfit we got from Aunt Janet and Uncle Tommy that kept us warm in the cold morning air......and throughout the day as the clouds rolled in.

Twelve hours later.....

we were twirling dancing under the snow clouds as we caught snowflakes on our tongues.

Hope we don't end up having multiple goldfish funerals this weekend!

Kyle at Sea World & Disney Dec. 2007

2008-01-06T20:17:00.001-05:00

Merry Christmas!

2007-12-25T22:28:00.000-05:00

photography (most of it) by Kyle
& his new Fisher Price digital camera

Thank you for supporting us!

2007-11-08T20:31:00.000-05:00

2007 Carolinas Walk Now For Autism

2007-10-12T18:24:00.000-05:00

Watch for Team Aruba!

2007-09-21T06:13:00.001-05:00

I long to hear those three little words from our son Kyle,but without support from friends and family like you, I may never hear it.

Betsy heard Kyle tell her "I Love You" before he regressed and lost his verbal communication. Yes, he signs it to us and shows affection, which a lot of autistic child do not, and we are very lucky in that respect. Yet, we long to hear those words again, and again, and again.

Simple to most, yet for a child with autism, it's one of the most difficult things in the world. They get frustrated and pitch fits because they can not express what they long to tell you.

We ask that you help us reach this goal by supporting us in our efforts to raise money for autism research/Autism Speaks with Team Aruba at the Carolinas Walk Now for Autism at Lowes Motor Speedway on Oct. 6, 2007. You can donate a little of your time and join our team online or donate a little money.

We appreciate your time and efforts in our fight against autism!
And we thank you from the bottom of our hearts!

Sincerely,
Gator

We Will NEVER Forget!

2007-09-11T16:50:00.000-05:00

I still remember where I was when I heard about the first plane hitting the WTC........on the Internet on the computer in the hallway outside my office at United Supply in Charlotte, NC on the phone to our vendor's marketing mgr and dear friend (whom Gator was suppose to be set up with the night we met but she's too tall for him) Jen P. discussing something about Conso's product lines or a trade show or something.

Gator was driving a hazmat tanker, delivering to Baltimore, MD. I know I wasn't going through anything like the families in NYC, but when your loved one is near danger and you can't protect them or put your arms around them, you are terrified.

Then there was an immediate lock-down on hazmat truck drivers who were anywhere in the vicinity of possible attack targets.......they were afraid the next thing would be tankers used for attacks.

Gator has always had a very big heart and tries to help everyone.......well his next project would soon prove to be the victims of 9/11. We ended up with semi trailers located in our church parking lot in Rock Hill, another at Conso in Union and his mom getting supplies from people in Thomson, GA! We ended up with an article in the local papers in Rock Hill and Union. Then we had our other driver, Willie (we owned 2 semi trucks), family, friends and a reporter from the local tv station in Rock Hill going with us in the semi and a van to deliver the supplies to NYC.

We left at approx. 11pm on a Friday night and arrived in NYC early the next morning..........Gator and Willie took turns driving. We were told we had clearance to go to Ground Zero, but when we arrived we were re-routed to Long Island........ever been on 32nd Street? Well I had before, but try riding in a semi with a van tailing you to make it through red lights while you are being filmed having a pillow fight while you pass Macy's and try to keep your husband calm as he maneuvers around taxis!!!! Yep, been there, done that, have the video!

When we finally arrived at the warehouse on Long Island, we were taken aback by the response from the military guys there who were to unload our truck when they saw the flag that the preschoolers had made at our church with their hand prints. At the bottom it said "our tiny hands are folded in prayer for you NY". They immediately hung it.........there was nothing like that feeling!

After 9/11 there were lots of memorials, commentaries, tv specials, etc., but the one that affected me most was this 2002 Super Bowl commercial by Budweiser........it says it all.

We keep you in our prayers NYC, and we will never forget!

In the news.........

2007-08-07T22:07:00.000-05:00

Publication:Union Daily Times;

Date:Aug 7, 2007;

Section:Front Page;

Page Number:1

Local drag racing team joins couple’s fight against autism

By CHARLES L. WARNER Staff Writer

A card from the father of an autistic child led to Team Aruba joining the fight against autism.

Team Aruba is a professional drag-racing team that located to Union County earlier this year. Crew member Tom Lukans was shown a very special card by local businessman Gator Hudson, designed by Hudson’s wife, Betsy, to inform the public about autism and Fragile X Syndrome (FXS). The Hudsons’ son, Kyle, was diagnosed with autism at the age of 3 1/2 and with FXS at age 4. Kyle’s story is included on the card, which is designed to look like his business card.

Seeing the card moved Lukans to start the process that resulted in Team Aruba becoming a rolling advertisement for “Autism Speaks,” the organization dedicated to finding a cure for the disease. Lukans, along with Team Aruba driver Burt Kelkboom, his son, Shawn and crew chief Andre Loonstra joined with the Hudsons to announce Team Aruba’s plans during an interview on WBCU radio Monday morning.

“The card’s quite overwhelming and my first words were, ‘What can we do to help?’” Lukans said. “‘We have a car, we have a trailer, can we publicize this in any way?’”

Hudson responded by putting Lukans in contact with Lara Collazo, corporate development manager for Autism Speaks. That led to a special “Proud To Be A Supporter Of Autism Speaks” logo being placed on the team’s race car and trailer. The logo was on display last weekend when the team was in Bristol, Tenn., and when it travels to New Hampshire this weekend.

“As we travel down the highway, people can be aware of it,” Lukans said. “From there we discussed a few other things, what our itinerary was for the rest of the year and how close we are to certain areas. We’re going to have the car and rig on display at Charlotte Motor Speedway for Autism Walks Oct. 6.”

The “Carolinas Walk for Now for Autism” is an annual event staged by Autism Speaks to raise awareness of the condition and generate money for research. In 2006, the walk attracted 3,000 participants and raised more than $240,000. The money raised is used to help fund global biomedical research into the causes, prevention, treatment and cure for autism.

The fifth annual walk will be held Oct. 6 and participants will include a team from Union County called Team Aruba/Union, S.C. Tourism. The walk team grew out of Team Aruba’s discussions of carrying the Autism Now logo on its vehicles.

“From there it prompted us to say ‘Why can’t we have a walk team?’ Lukans said. “So Gator and Betsy started putting together a walk team that has over a hundred members walking in it already. That’s fabulous and we just got started.

“We’re going to have the car on display, we’re going to have a walk team that’s a joint venture with Team Aruba and Union County Tourism Commission,” he said. “We’re going to have special T-shirts designed with the car on the back and on the front it’ll have ‘Honorary Crew Member for Team Aruba.’ That’s what our walkers are going to have and that’s what we’re going to have through some of the other special events that we’re going to do throughout the rest of this year with the autism programs.”

The team has also brought together Autism Speaks with an autism foundation in Aruba. This led to contacts between the two organizations which are now working together on a joint venture on the island.

———To learn more about Team Aruba and its activities log on at www.teamarubamotorsports.com.

For more information about the Oct. 6 Carolinas Walk for Now for Autism, log on at www.walknowforautism.org/carolinas.

Fragile X Syndrome a genetic condition that leads to autism

By CHARLES L. WARNER Staff Writer

When Betsy Hudson gave birth to her son, Kyle, she didn’t know she’d passed on a neurological condition that will affect him the rest of his life.

Kyle Hudson, 4, has autism and Fragile X Syndrome (FXS). The latter is a genetic condition which can cause a child to have autism, which impairs a person’s ability to communicate and relate to others. “It is genetic, it was passed down from me; we were not aware of anything in our family,” Mrs. Hudson said. “It came down from my father’s side.”

Mrs. Hudson and her husband, Gator, joined the members of Team Aruba on WBCU radio Monday morning to discuss autism and FXS and local efforts to raise awareness of the conditions. Mrs. Hudson has designed a card that tells about her son being diagnosed with autism and FXS. Her husband showed the card to a member of Team Aruba which led to the team getting involved with “Autism Speaks,” a group that raises awareness of autism and generates funds for medical research. The card also describes the conditions.

Fragile X

The card describes FXS as being able to cause a child to have either autism or Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) “though not all children with fragile X syndrome have autism or an ASD. Fragile X is a family of genetic conditions, which can impact individuals and families in various ways. These genetic conditions are related in that they are all caused by gene changes in the same gene, called the FMR1 gene.”

Like all women, Mrs. Hudson has two X chromosomes while men have an X and a Y chromosome. FXS occurs when the FMR1 gene on an X chromosome does not get enough protein for normal growth and development. She said that since she has two X chromosomes and the genetic abnormality was passed on to her by her father, she was not affected. Since Kyle has only one X chromosome and the condition was passed on to him by her, he developed FXS. (Girls can as develop FXS as well but it is not as common as among boys.)

Autism

The card describes autism as “a complex neurobiological disorder that typically lasts throughout a person’s lifetime. It is part of a group of disorders known as Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD).

“Today, 1 in 150 individuals is diagnosed with autism, making it more common than pediatric cancer, diabetes and AIDS combined. It occurs in all racial, ethnic and social groups and is four times more likely to strike boys than girls.

“Autism impairs a person’s ability to communicate and relate to others. It is also associated with rigid routines and repetitive behaviors, such as obsessively arranging objects or following very specific routines. Symptoms can range from very mild to quite severe.”

Mrs. Hudson said that to look at her son you wouldn’t know he was autistic, until you tried to talk to him. “He is not verbal and he gets very frustrated by that because he cannot communicate with us, but he does kind of do some sign language and we’ve kind of learned some of the things he’s trying to tell us,” she said. “He goes to Spartanburg Regional and has occupational and speech therapy. He gets speech therapy through an early intervention class at Foster Park (Elementary School). He will be back in this class this year and he will get the same thing there.”

Despite his lack of verbal skills, Kyle, like many with autism, is intelligent and creative. “They’re very creative and they’re very smart,” Mrs. Hudson said. “He is not verbal, he cannot communicate really what he’s trying to get across, but you hand him a flashlight and he’ll take it apart and put it back together.”

Mrs. Hudson welcomed the involvement of Team Aruba in promoting autism awareness and in helping raise money for autism research. “People aren’t aware, we want to make them aware,” she said. “We’re trying to make everyone be more considerate of parents and of children with autism, because you get looks. Like ‘Why can’t you control your child!’ and there’s nothing you can do sometimes. We want to raise money because the money going to Autism Speaks is for autism research so that we can hopefully find a cure for autism.”

For more information about autism and FXS, log on at one of these websites:

• betsygatorh@yahoo.com

• www.autismspeaks.org

• www.fragilex.org
• www.autisticourchurchchunkymonkey.blogspot.com.

On the radio......

2007-08-06T22:43:00.000-05:00

WBCU 1460AM Radio

RACING TEAM WITH LOCAL TIES TO PROMOTE AUTISM AWARENESS

Tuesday, August 7

A car racing team based out of Union is helping to spread the word about autism by supporting Autism Speaks, a network started to raise awareness about the condition.

Team Aruba, an all-Aruban racing team that travels to the US and back to race in the NMRA Pro Stock category, is based stateside out of Union, and a chance meeting with a local parent of a child with autism led the team to provide support.

The racing team decided to provide assistance after receiving information from Gator and Betsy Hudson, two Union residents whose son, Kyle, suffers from autism and fragile x syndrome. Fragile x is a genetic disorder known to be the most common cause of inherited mental impairment, which can range from learning disabilities to more severe cognitive or intellectual disabilities. The disorder is also the most common known cause of autism.

Tom Lukan, of Team Aruba, said he asked, “What can we do to help?” after Gator Hudson came into the team’s shop with an awareness card his wife had designed. The information on the card was overwhelming, according to Lukon.

The team’s decision led to several phone calls and connection with Autism Speaks, and now the team’s cars and trailer are the first to sport a special logo identifying it as a proud supporter of the organization. Team Aruba is the first to display the special logo on racecars and trailers.

A Team Aruba car will be on display during an autism walk at Charlotte Motor Speedway on October 6, and an autism awareness walk team has been put together, as a joint venture between Team Aruba and the Union County Tourism Commission; Union's walk team is being organized by the Hudsons. More than 100 people have already signed up to be a part of Union's team. Proceeds raised from the walk go toward researching a cure for autism.

For more information on the walk, or autism in general, e-mail Gator and Betsy Hudson at betsygatorh@yahoo.com. The Hudsons also have a website, www.autisticourchunkymonkey.blogspot.com.

TUNE IN!

2007-08-05T07:34:00.000-05:00

We will be on our local radio station Monday, August 5th to announce locally that Team Aruba is a proud supporter of Autism Speaks! You can listen to us online (being streamed especially for the island of Aruba and Autism Speaks!) on WBCU AM 1460 in the morning at 9am EST (until 10am) to hear all the details. Hope you all tune it!

What Can We Do?

2007-08-01T22:31:00.000-05:00

I know you are wondering where we’ve been lately………..well you won’t believe it! I had started (and just posted last night) a “Christmas in July” post with pictures of Kyle at Christmas and was going to then do one with pictures from his birthday party 12-23-06…..with Kyle in shorts! You would have really thought it was July!

Anyway, I have designed a business card with Kyle’s diagnosis history of Autism and FXS that includes his blog and the websites for Autism Speaks (AS) and National Fragile X Foundation (NFXF). Gator handed one to Tom Lukan with Team Aruba (TA) Motorsports…..drag racing team from the island of Aruba who are making their US home base here in Union. Gator knew that Tom did not have Internet access, but thought he might have a chance one day to look at Kyle’s blog. The next words out of Tom’s mouth were “What can we do to help?”. We never dreamed what would happen next (details to be announced at a later date)!!!!!

Tom asked us to contact Autism Speaks about being a sponsor and having their logo on TA’s drag cars and trailers. I emailed the Carolina division of AS and received a reply back saying their Corporate Development Manager, Lara, would be contacting Gator. Gator then put Lara in touch with Tom. After exchanging info. about TA, Union, and TA’s race schedule, Tom then asked how to make this go national.

Before the day was through, Tom and Lara were discussing Union and how to bring more awareness to the epidemic of Autism (we are waiting to see where this may lead us!!!) That was Thursday! By Saturday afternoon, we had the beginnings of a team to walk and raise money for AS at Lowe’s Motor Speedway on October 6th, 2000+ t-shirts being made to give to participants & more to sell to raise money! By this weekend the "Proud Supporter of Autism Speaks" logo will be on the TA trailer and car.

Tom has since made more phone calls and we have others involved! Tom has also arranged other things........of which we can not yet discuss. Bless Tom’s heart…he just kept asking “what can we do” and “what else can we do”. Needless to say, our lives have been very hectic……..oh we have therapy sessions, work, laundry, groceries, etc. to do in between organizing and raising money for all this!

Hang on gang; we are in for a wild ride!

Christmas in July

2007-07-10T19:59:00.000-05:00

We've had a lot going on lately, but much of which we can not yet share with you.

So in the mean time I thought I'd share a few moments from Christmas 2006.

ENJOY!

Happy 4th of July!

2007-07-04T21:16:00.000-05:00

As Kyle and I sit on the front porch this evening, swinging, watching daddy leave for Atlanta and the fireworks above, I can't help but feel very thankful for our forefathers and our military!

Thank you to them all!

We send our love and warm wishes for a safe return to all those who are away from home and your loved ones this Independence Day.

Here's to more family, friends, food, fireworks & Freedom!!!

US Congress designates July 22 as National Fragile X Awareness Day

2007-07-01T17:06:00.000-05:00

The following is very tragic and am very sorry that this is how the public has to become aware of genetic disorders. I also found this article regarding the Benoit family murders and their dealings with Fragile X on ESPN.I do hope that people will become more aware of how serious Fragile X is on those affected by it!

PRESS RELEASE June 28, 2007

The National Fragile X Foundation shares in the sorrow surrounding the death of wrestler Chris Benoit and his wife and son. Early reports indicate that the son had fragile X syndrome, the world’s leading cause of inherited intellectual disability, and that Mr. Benoit may have been depressed over that fact. While the parents and professionals who make up the National Fragile X Foundation fully understand and appreciate the difficulties associated with raising a child with fragile X syndrome, we urge all citizens to learn more about the condition and about how, with the proper diagnosis and intervention, those boys and girls, men and women, can be active participants and contributing members of their families, schools and communities.

The U.S. Congress has designated July 22 as “National Fragile X Awareness Day.” The National Fragile X Foundation uses this opportunity to help spread awareness about the condition as well as to educate professionals about the best forms of treatment and intervention. This year, on July 20, the National Fragile X Foundation has organized a three-hour, international audio/video webcast featuring many of the nation’s leading fragile X syndrome clinicians. This free event is an excellent opportunity to learn about what can be done to provide the maximum opportunities for children affected by the syndrome.

Throughout the world, scientists, doctors, teachers, therapists and counselors are working hard to provide better forms of treatment and intervention. The National Fragile X Foundation has been organizing those professionals and disseminating information to the worldwide Fragile X community since 1984. Unfortunately, it sometimes takes a tragedy, such as that involving Chris Benoit and his family, to bring attention to so-called “rare” conditions.

To learn more about fragile X syndrome, as well as the upcoming webcast, please visit www.FragileX.org.

The National Fragile X Foundation

__________________
Deborah A. Kwan

Welcome Home......NOT!

2007-06-30T23:51:00.000-05:00

After spending all week, in Columbia learning about how to better protect vulnerable adults (ie: bored out my...), staying in an old renovated hotel that used to have pay phones in the bathroom??, and looking forward to coming home to hugs and kisses from our monkey and Gator....all I got was rejection from Kyle (okay Gator did greet me with welcome arms...and an unclean bathroom, but at least he didn't pitch a fit like someone else did).

When I got to mama's to pick him up, Kyle had not had a nap and was ill as a hornet! Make that a whole hornet's nest. I sat in the middle of mama's kitchen floor, waiting and hoping for just a little sign that he was glad to see me..........but nothing except for screams and stomping of the feet.

Now with FXS and autism you have to be very patient.......something I have never been....and allow them to come to you. You can not force them to do anything, because it will most definitely backfire on you. So, while my heart was breaking and mama was trying to reassure me that it was because he had not had a nap and probably this was his way of expressing his being upset with me for not being there all week, I just sat there telling him I loved and missed him and let him continue his tantrum.

Today, Gator suggested that we go to Spartanburg for dinner and a movie because he had to go by the office and Verizon anyway. We decided on Red Lobster, where Kyle ate every shrimp on his plate and part of his applesauce (rare moment for him to eat a good meal), and Disney's new movie Ratatouille.

When we got to the theater, we had to hurry Kyle past the concession stands and into the restrooms before he could pitch a fit for popcorn...which is one of his most favorite foods! Of course, Gator later went back and rewarded his good behavior with a bag of the buttery goodness, which he hoarded and ate almost every kernel.

Anyway, the movie is about rat that can cook. Now this sounds very unappetizing, but of course its Disney and they always have a way of seeing the "humorous" side of the story. Kyle loves to cook and tries every chance he gets to "help" us in the kitchen. He loves to watch Paula Deen, too.....so maybe we have another "Emeril" on our hands. He may not be verbal, but he will try anything and learns very fast..........including the bad habits!

P.S. Later on last night, Kyle climbed up in my lap on the couch and hugged my tight and kissed me. Gator said that when he put his head on my shoulder he was grinning from ear to ear....so thanks for a great welcoming home........better late than never.

Missing You!

2007-06-26T18:02:00.001-05:00

As I sit here in Columbia (at my week-long training session), I am deeply missing our monkey. Since he's not verbal, our phone conversations usually end up with some garbled words, kissing sounds, and "bye" followed by the inevitable hang up that is soon to follow.....and the whole call lasts approximately 45 seconds!

Although, I am thoroughly enjoying "a break" from the everyday routine of chasing our monkey, cleaning up the house, cooking, reminding Gator about something, and of course work, I still miss it.

All it takes is one hug or laugh from Kyle to forget my troubles....even if it is only for a second!

Good night, sweet dreams, and mommy will see you soon! I love you!

P.S. I miss you too, Gator!

Forget Toys, I've found better things to PLAY with!

2007-06-20T08:51:00.000-05:00

Ever wonder why we bother buying our children, even special needs children, any and everything to assist with their growth, development, and overall play skills?

Oh my gosh, I'm hearing my dad in my head again saying "I told you so" and "you shouldn't be wasting your money on that"!

Somehow you just don't want them to miss any opportunity to learn something new...or have the hippest toy.

All the while hoping that you know more than your parents do because this is YOUR child and YOU know them better than THEY do...right?

How is that with all the new technology and innovation in today's modern world........

from one generation to the next..........

a cardboard box or laundry basket is the best imaginative toy to date that has the power to capture a child's creative side more than a Leap Frog toy ever could?

(with the exception of our child who must also have a side of Disney or a DVD to watch at all times!)

Happy Father's Day!

2007-06-17T21:10:00.000-05:00

As I look back on the last 4 1/2 years, I am still in awe of the wonderful husband and father to Kyle I found in this big, crazy world.

He constantly amazes me at the attention and love he provides for Kyle amongst all the everyday chaos....sorry I don't tell you enough!!!!

He didn't even mind that I couldn't find his Father's Day card today and just said he would get it whenever I found it...which I did this evening and he'll get when he returns tomorrow from his run to Kitty Hawk, NC with another load of telephone polls.

Gator is versatile, yet nerve wrenching at the same time....if he would only finish the projects he starts!

And all the while, he always has his heart in the right place even though I tend to always disagree with the route he takes.

I know all too well how much he misses his own father, Junebug, today, who died two weeks prior to Kyle's birth, of Leukemia.

I know Junebug is proud of how good a father Gator has turned out to be and watches down with love, as do Gator's grandfathers and mine.

So on this Father's Day, we send love to those who are with us and to those who are not.

All the same, you are with us in spirit and surround us with love, and we thank you for all the things you helped us through.

Lesson Learned....for ONE of Them

2007-06-07T05:36:00.000-05:00

Remember the fishing lesson off the front porch? Well it did pay off at the annual Jake's Fishing event where Kyle caught his first fish!

However....Gator has yet to learn his lesson and I still am not sure if either of them is or will be an adult! You see Gator bought Kyle his first tackle box, Lightening McQueen of course, and proceeded to put our digital camera in it during the fishing expedition. Now, for those who have been around Kyle know that we have our little "fits" when we don't get our way......wait that's normal, right?

Anyway, guess who decided to throw his tackle box - with the digital camera - into Foster Park Lake (really a pond, but welcome to Union)!?!?!? Yep, our Chunky Monkey! Gator did think to take the memory card out, but alas the camera is no more. Now, wouldn't the logical thing have been to keep the camera in Gator's pocket in order to keep it safe? I try, but just can't think for both of us all the time, everyday, everywhere, together or separate.

I am glad Kyle learned how to fish, and we will be having his first one mounted...........but still don't think Gator learned how to think ahead!

See the Monkey in the Tree

2007-06-04T18:51:00.000-05:00

My mother, JoJo to Kyle (MeMa to Jay, my nephew because although I researched names for grandmothers, none suited my mother and by the time Kyle started talking I gave in to JoJo of which my brother has not forgiven me)....anyway, keeps Kyle everyday....YES GOD BLESS HER!

Before Easter, all she wanted was a picture of Kyle among her azaleas in the front yard...aren't they gorgeous?!? But instead, in return for all of the diaper changes, Disney Playhouse programs, runny noses, peas & viennas, potty training, chasing him down off of her bed (you know...10 little monkeys jumping on the bed).........he decided he would rather climb the sweet gum trees than to provide her with just a little satisfaction as having a memento of her beloved grandson among her very large, beautiful azaleas.

Didn't think it was too much to ask? BUT she didn't ask Kyle that! And this is all she got!

Oh, well...maybe next year JoJo.

For Autism's Sake.....

2007-05-31T13:13:00.000-05:00

The following are articles from http://www.greenvilleonline.com/. Please read them and our plea below.

Autism insurance bill lands on governor's desk

Published: Friday, May 25, 2007 - 2:00 am
By Liv OsbyHEALTH WRITERlosby@greenvillenews.com
What's your view? Click here to add your comment to this story.
A bill that would require insurance coverage for children with autism passed the state House on Thursday and is on its way to the Governor's Office.
Intensive early intervention has been shown to have a remarkable impact on autistic children, helping many of them to become mainstreamed. But it's costly, often more than $50,000 a year, leaving many families unable to afford it, or going into debt to finance it.
If the bill is signed into law by the governor, insurance would pay for treatment for children up to age 16 up to a maximum of $50,000 a year beginning in July 2008.
"We could not be more thrilled and grateful," said Marcella Ridley, a Columbia mother who's been advocating for the measure. "This is landmark legislation."
Read online: http://www.greenvilleonline.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=2007705250344

Governor should support coverage for autistic children

Bill would provide needed therapy for young people up to $50,000 a year

Published: Tuesday, May 29, 2007 - 2:00 am
State lawmakers approved a bill that would require private insurance to cover treatment for autistic children. Gov. Sanford should sign the bill.
A spokesman for the governor on Friday said the bill had not yet reached Sanford for his review. In the past, however, Sanford has been reluctant to impose mandates on the insurance industry. The hope among advocates is that he will set aside his personal misgivings and approve this needed legislation.
In 2005, a similar situation arose: Sanford, despite his reservations, allowed a bill to become law that required many private health plans to provide greater coverage for serious mental illness. Sanford refused to sign the bill but neither did he veto it, and by his passive support it became law.
The current autism bill is equally worthwhile. Autism, a disease that can severely impair a young person's ability to communicate, form relationships and adapt to change, is the only neurological disorder not required to be covered by private insurance in South Carolina. The bill would require insurance to pay for treatment for children, age 16 and under, up to a maximum of $50,000 a year beginning in July 2008.

In South Carolina, about 2,000 children under 18 have autism. Advocates argue that early intensive therapy can do wonders for some autistic children. Advocates say that about half of children who get at least 40 hours of therapy a week can enter the first grade on time. Another 40 percent make considerable progress, they say.
But that therapy can cost up to $75,000 a year, putting it out of reach of many families with autistic children. Advocates say families across this state are forced to get second mortgages on their homes or face bankruptcy trying to provide the intervention their children need. Or they face the heart-wrenching experience of placing their children in group homes or institutions -- although there's often a 15-year waiting list for such institutions.
Even though therapy may be costly for insurers, it could save the state considerable sums in the future. An autistic child who receives insufficient treatment sometimes can end up being cared for in an institution at taxpayer expense. That can cost the state $4 million to $7 million for each patient.
Compassionate consideration for children suffering from autism helped persuade state lawmakers to follow the lead of at least 17 other states that require coverage. Early intervention for children also may save the state millions of dollars in the future. Gov. Sanford should sign the bill and give autistic children the opportunity to lead more productive and perhaps even more fulfilling lives.
Read online: http://www.greenvilleonline.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=2007705290336

Please help us by calling or emailing SC Governor Sanford's office and let them know you support the bill on his desk requiring private insurance companies to cover medical costs up to $50,000 per child/year with Autism. You can send to anyone and they can put in the comments section on the email on the Governor's website that they know a family in SC or know Kyle, etc. and support this bill....because this could help to set precedent in other states.

Phone number is 803-734-2100 or email at http://www.scgovernor.com/Contact.asp?sitecontentid=33

We need your help and thank you from the bottom of our hearts...............for our son Kyle!

Our First Marathon

2007-05-17T21:59:00.000-05:00

Things have been really crazy around here. I started this new post last week and am just now getting back to finishing it....sorry for the delay.

The Union Public Safety Department held its first annual Torch Run to benefit Special Olympics on Saturday, May 12th.

They began with a marathon for anyone that wanted to participate, held special events for the kids and ended with a mini-marathon for the special needs children...including an awards ceremony.

Hope you enjoy these photos of Kyle....but especially our little man as he completed his first marathon...all the while playing politician along the way!

Who's the child here?

2007-05-16T19:01:00.000-05:00

As much as I love the fact that Gator wants to teach Kyle everything, some things have to be thought all the way through!!!

I ended up having to work late today due to a case regarding an adult an two children who may end up in DSS custody. Anyway, Gator proceeded to call me several times about going to pick up Kyle, supper and lastly to say that he had emailed me these pictures. Now what do you think I was more concerned about at the time.........the safety of that adult and those two children!

The pictures are the big problem! I am so thankful that while Kyle may not yet be verbal, he is very mechanical and fast learner BUT he has a VERY GOOD MEMORY! Now, with my present job at DSS, I think of all the dangers in situations more than ever. And what problem does learning how to fish off of our front porch cause???? Try heading to the water pond every time the front door opens. Try leaning in to get sticks or leaves out of the water pond every time the front door opens. Try trying to fish out the goldfish out of the water pond every time the front door opens. Try possibly leaning too far off the front porch trying to fish in the water pond every time the front door opens. Get the picture?!?

What shocks me even more is that when Gator called to tell my mother that Kyle was learning how to fish, is that my own mother did not think any of the above scenarios could be possible. My mother who I though I got all of the situational thinking from, thought it was cute. Let's hope that it stays just CUTE!

P.S. Mommy is very proud of you today despite the dangers that lurk around the corner of the house!

Everyone has a "Dummy" in their life!

2007-05-10T18:30:00.000-05:00

For those of you who know me, knows that "Dummy" is my grandmother. For those of you who don't, let me explain. I was born saying "Grandmother"....not Grandma, Granny, etc. I was Dummy's first grandchild and eventually gave her her first great-grandchild. (Please note that Dummy held Kyle before Gator did - and he knew better than to argue with her!.) Gator also had to worry more about telling Dummy than my parents that he had proposed.

Anyway, she and other Dummy (Granddaddy Butch) always took me shopping, out to eat, or just to ride wherever. I was ALWAYS at their house and they have always been a very BIG part of my life. One day, when I was little, Mama and I went out to their house to get something......don't know what.........but they were not at home and Mama sent me in with her key to their house. I left them a note and in it spelled the word dummy wrong - DUMBY! After that it became a running joke and I was able to get away with calling Grandmother something else - albeit Dummy.

And to this day, I receive very weird and sometimes wrongful looks at people who hear me call her this - like at the hospital Monday when she had to be admitted for low blood pressure and dehydration. Yes, the last couple of weeks have been hectic to say the least. First, I had a bad stomach virus that left me nauseous for 10 days - and wondering if we were pregnant (because of this and a very light period, but we have taken 4 p-tests and 2 said "see leaflet" and the other 2 said "not pregnant"). The pregnancy would have opened a whole 'nother can of worms due to the higher risk of another child having Fragile X Syndrome!

Grandmother ended up getting the stomach virus and ended up in the hospital - and guess who ended up having to put her foot down and insist on following doctor's orders - yep ME! Do you know how hard it was to fuss at Dummy! However, dealing with Kyle's autism and FXS has helped me better cope with situations and I was able to keep her laughing all during her admission, tests, blood work, pokes, prods, x-rays, IV hook up, etc. I even promised her M&Ms if she pee peed and poop pooped in the potty.........you have to understand that she does not like chocolate and she was hooked up to the IV, which my mother was holding, while I was holding her very couture hospital gown! (And she will kill me - if my mother doesn't first - if she finds out about this!!!) But it's funny to Mama and me since we are trying to potty train Kyle!

But it was nice to be able to take care of her for a change - you know we all can't live to be 39 (and yes she is still 39 for those of you who know that running joke - if I want to live) Mama is 29 and I am 19. I even climbed in the bed with her to help warm her up because the sheet, 3 blankets and heat on 75 were not doing it.

She was released from the hospital today and Kyle got to ride in her lap down to the car - and everyone in between the room and the front door heard about how he was her first great-grandchild and I was her first grandchild. So, you all may not have a "bad" name to call your grandmother, but make sure you call her.......because one day I won't be able to call her, but she will ALWAYS BE MY DUMMY! And a very beautiful one at that!!!

Easter Pics

2007-05-01T17:12:00.000-05:00

I wanted to get these Easter photos posted weeks ago; however, a certain Cuz of mine inadvertently downloaded all of the pics on our memory card instead of copying them! So I have been waiting on her to email them to me and I finally received them today.

Due to a migraine that I have had since Saturday night, I'll leave this post short-n-sweet with several photos. I'll do my best to do another post within the next day or so to update you on the latest doctors' appointments. Until then....enjoy!

Hello? Poison Control?.......

2007-04-18T09:32:00.000-05:00

The very words I thought that I would never say....I said late Saturday afternoon! Remember me saying that we have to give Kyle Clonodine every day for a nap and every night, along with Melatonin, to go bed? Well, I had his medicine, just the Clonodine, in a daily pill box, in my center console of my car, when we were going to Georgia Easter weekend. I saw the pills earlier Saturday, but didn't put them in my purse 'cause Kyle has a tendency to ramble for the car keys and/or cell phone.....how ironic...right?

Anyway, I was standing in front of the car talking to a couple of friends of ours.....all three of us watching Kyle get in and out of my car trying to crank it and unlock the trunk. I realized that he opened the center console and remembered that Gator had left 3 Snickers bars in there and that they had probably melted by now and I did not want chocolate all over the inside of my car. I took the Snickers out and proceeded to the trash can, with my back to Kyle for a split second, and I guess he went back in to the console. (See Lee stopped me from throwing them away, saying he would make Snickers popsicles, and had my back turned for two seconds.) I got Kyle out of the car for him to tell Lee and Brian bye and Lee then proceeded to the passenger side of the car to make sure Kyle did not escape....it was then that my heart stopped! My child was foaming at the mouth! There was a flash before my eyes and I quickly realized that he could not have rabies....our dog, Hershey, and Lee's dogs, Jazz and Amos, have all had there shots and are fine, plus Kyle has not been bitten by anything.....and then it hit me like a ton of bricks.....Kyle had taken all of the Clonodine in the travel pill box!!!!! And I knew that there had to have been at least four, if not five, pills in that box!

Lee, Brian and I rushed Kyle into the house and proceeded to try to rinse his mouth out over the sink with the spray nozzle. I then called the after-hours number to our pediatrician (Dr. T we will be there on Friday and all is well, except for this little fever of 101+ that showed up today...but he's still bouncing around as normal!)...the answering service transferred me to Poison Control who then called ahead to the nearest hospital.....Wallace Thompson aka: death trap. I was not happy about any of this, but our son's life was at risk, though since he has been taking Clonodine for over a year, thought he might sleep a little longer...seriously - very concerned!

Because we had not had to go to WTH and I didn't know anyone that worked there really, I called my DSS Mama, Lynne Crocker...who I woke up and lives 10 minutes away....to ask who was there that I might know or who would take care of us. Lynne said that she and her husband Joe were on their way...and they made it to WTH right on my heals and I was only one mile away! With Lynne's connections and the fact that I too worked at DSS, we were taken very good care of and luckily the doctor in the ER was from CMC out of Charlotte, NC who now owns WTH.

They first did the initial questioning and tried to get Kyle to drink the "charcoal"...yeah right. And we tried keeping him asleep, then letting him rest, then waking him up, and then came the fun part...the IV! Now, we warned the nurses of how strong our monkey is, but they did not believe it until they attempted to put an IV in his left foot and failed twice all the while 5 adults are holding a 4 year old down who is practically zonked out! The finally got the IV in his right foot, finished hooking him up to all the monitors....heart, breathing, blood pressure, etc.....and did an EKG.

While this was happening, the nurses called Lynne over because they had a new report on an adult, so Lynne ended up working most of the night anyway while Joe sat with Gator, me and the monkey. (He also ran to the house to get Elmo....have you not met our Elmo....the poor Blind, Demented, Gingivitis Elmo.....but he is LOVED!!! and Joe thought he was Hershey's doggie chew toy....boy how wrong he way!) Anyway, Lynne later told me that the doctor asked her if I really worked at DSS and should he think that this was anything other than an accident? Of course, Lynne set him straight very fast and said No and that I was the best mama on the planet....don't know about that, but thanks for having my back! Of course, Dawn, the CPS worker on call, would have just laughed at the nurses when she found out it was me had they called. Gator just kept saying he was glad it wasn't' on his watch, because I would not have let him off the hook and he's probably right!

They finally let us go home about 1:00 am after the doctor jokingly said we may have found a cure for Kyle's insomnia..........WRONG!!!!! Kyle was up at 8:00 am! and was bouncing off the couches, running around the house and jumping on the bed while playing pirates. Now does anybody doubt that I birthed the Energy Bunny! Not even an adult blood pressure medicine overdose, that could have gone severely in the wrong direction and been very bad, could be this hyper 7 hours after leaving the hospital? Maybe I should have taken them instead....at least I would get a little rest for once! What is it like to have a toddler go to bed at a reasonable hour? I guess I may never know.

Genetically Speaking.....II

2007-04-11T08:39:00.000-05:00

What are the odds? Well I no longer like that question! After hearing last Thursday that there would be a 50/50 chance of passing Fragile X to another baby and then that those odds go up another 30% if it is a boy..........the odds of us having another child may be slim to none. As much as that hurt to hear, it would hurt even more to hinder another human being. Now, don't get me wrong, I know that this is not my fault and that Kyle was a gift from God and meant to be, but we are just so unsure of the future now.

The genetics staff did take my blood and are doing DNA testing on me. The test results should be back in a couple of weeks and then they want to test my mom, dad and grandmother. It would be very unusual for the FXS to be passed down from my dad and they want to make sure where the FXS is in our family history before making any further recommendations. Of course, now Scott and Jessica are very concerned that Little Miss "Pistol M&M" may be affected too. The genetics staff has assured me that there would be a very slim chance that she would have FXS because Scott would have had to of shown some of the characteristics of it, but we still need to wait for the other DNA tests to come back. And I pray that it Scott is not a carrier!

What are the odds that Kyle will...? "grow out of this"? be able to live independently on his own? be able to go to regular school? talk? marry? have children of his own? be able to enjoy Walt Disney World?

Wouldn't I love to be able to answer these questions! The genetics doctors would too. They can not guarantee that he will not end up in a group home one day or be able to fully live independently on his own. They hope that they are wrong, but they do not want to give us false hope. Everything depends on his attitude, therapies, agencies and assistance that he is able to receive.

We already have him in an early intervention class in school, public and private therapy (occupational and speech), Medicaid, and have the ball rolling at the Department of Disabilities and Special Needs (DDSN) and the Piedmont Autism Chapter. We have bought (or have been given) books, toys, computer software, online websites, and therapy items. I also went to my first support group meeting last night.

I guess now its up to God and Kyle to see where this goes from here. All we can do is our best and try to give him the best....and PRAY! And of course LOVE HIM WITH ALL OUR MIGHT even when he's pitching a fit!

Calling the Easter Bunny.....

2007-04-04T17:37:00.000-05:00

If you need help this weekend, just call us because we have your partner in crime...........the Energizer Monkey! This one keeps going and going and going....you get the picture. And for proof, I've included just a few photos of the Monkey in action last week at the park and then at home.

Now when you look at our Monkey, do you see MENTAL RETARDATION?!? I think not, but what do you do when you read all of this bad stuff about Fragile X Syndrome and Autism? I know Cuz I'm not suppose to be reading anymore until the genetics appointment tomorrow, but I've only read a little (haha).

He's smart, responsive (non-verbally of course), understands everything you say, and has more energy than our USA Olympic Athletes combined! He is quickly picking up sign language and knows how to work the DVD players and crank my car! Yes, I alerted another police officer (one that is kin to you Mama Patti) today of the possible 4 year grand theft in our household!

Now how could a mother in her right mind (no comments from any of the peanut galleries out there) let someone call her child mentally retarded when they know they are NOT! I'm done with the guilt and ready for a fight 'cause our Monkey is not and I will not allow him to be labeled that either.........so just try and stop me. And Lord be with the doctors and brace them for Hurricane Betsy 'cause she's on the war path!

Now I know that he has to overcome and catch up on a lot of developmental issues and we are dealing with each of them, but I refuse to believe that our beautiful, little tease, full of energy, loving, smart, non-verbal child will end up in a group home. If I have anything to do with it, and I will!, he will grow out of this and be a normal, fully functioning young man in no time!

Any objections............deal with it or Hurricane Betsy!

Is this MY fault........

2007-04-03T07:26:00.000-05:00

I know you have been wondering why I haven't updated Kyle's blog lately....well hold on to your hats 'cause we have added another "spoke to the wheel". After I returned from my three weeks training in Columbia, I had a lot of catching up to do at work, home and more importantly - playtime with Kyle....yeah spent time with Gator too (LOL).

Anyway, I received a call from the genetics lab and 3 of the 4 tests had been completed. Two of the tests showed no abnormalities, but the third showed a positive result for Fragile X Syndrome. Yes, we have something else to worry about and I don't like what I am reading on the internet. My cousin Kristi told me to stop reading and concentrate on our Monkey....just to wait and see what his genetics doctors say on Thursday.

I had a bout with guilt because I was the one that passed the "X" gene to Kyle that gave him the "fragile X syndrome". Now, I know logically that it was not anything that could be helped, but it was like I was going through a period of grief.....again....first autism and now this. I know that God is not going to give us more than we can handle.....but......????? With the help of wonderful friends, family and Kyle's doctors, I am getting over the "guilt" and focusing once again on Kyle. Just like Leigh Anne told me, take the internet with a grain of salt and listen to Kyle, my gut feelings and his doctors because every child is different and the internet usually has the worst cases on there.

I know you are wondering....what is Fragile X Syndrome.....it is "the most common cause of inherited mental impairment. This impairment can range from learning disabilities to more severe cognitive or intellectual disabilities. (Sometimes referred to as mental retardation.) FXS is the most common known cause of autism or "autistic-like" behaviors. Symptoms also can include characteristic physical and behavioral features and delays in speech and language development. " (according to www.fragilex.org)

Fragile X syndrome can cause a child to have autism or an Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) though not all children with fragile X syndrome have autism or an ASD.
FACT: For between 2% and 6% of all children diagnosed with autism, the cause is the Fragile X gene mutation.
FACT: Approximately one-third of all children diagnosed with fragile X syndrome also have some degree of autism.
FACT: Fragile X syndrome is the most common known single gene cause of autism
For more information please click here: http://www.fragilex.org/html/autism.htm

So, is your head spinning like ours has been???? But you look at Kyle and you do not see "mental retardation". I can not imagine our precious Chunky Monkey in a group home....he's too smart and I will not allow it! As Gator said...."we will beat this and we'll show them all" that our Monkey will overcome whatever is thrown at him! And to prove that the last three pictures here are him signing "I Love You".....see one way or another....he will be able to communicate!

Drum Roll Please.......

2007-03-15T15:08:00.000-05:00

As a parent you don't want to believe that anything is wrong with your child. For me, I've been in a little state of denial and it's been really hard to admit that our Chunky Monkey is AUTISTIC! Yes, we did get the official diagnosis last Thursday.

I have been procrastinating writing/updating Kyle's blog because I still don't want to put it in black-n-white.....although we have been telling a few close family and friends.....writing it makes it even more real to me. (It may have been more real to me had I been able to be at the informing session instead of via conference call.) And yet we were given a 9 page report by one of his specialists, along with a packet of resources and information on autism...still unreal.

Now, don't get me wrong - I've been in a "sort of" reality mode and have known in the back of my mind that Kyle is autistic. BUT you hold out for that ever so slight chance that there's not enough to support the diagnosis and it is just something minor. I guess my very attitude toward dealing with the reality of our situation (and other parents in the same boat) is why they also include information on behavioral assistance for all of the family members...to help them cope.

On a positive note though, we are already doing most of their recommendations to assist Kyle in becoming more communicative.........
1. speech therapy at school
2. early intervention pre-school class
3. will resume private speech therapy at Spartanburg Regional Hospital
when another therapist returns from family leave
4. occupational therapy at Spartanburg Regional Hospital
5. learning sign language at school, therapy and soon at home

Now, we still have to contact some local and state agencies for further assistance, but we are on the right track.

Kyle is starting to respond to the various treatments.....though he may not be happy to participate all the time. He shocked me a couple of weeks ago by telling/signing "I LOVE YOU"! (I'll try to get some pictures of him signing this weekend.) And the look of pure joy on his face when I very excitedly responded verbally "I Love You TOO"!!!! He also verbally answered his occupational therapist on Monday with "more" and "no" -- slurred of course, but audible/understandable.

Sometimes I feel like we are being cheated by Kyle not doing and saying the typical things that 4 year olds do, but then we get that cute little smile or laugh and you forget about it. I know that we are blessed with a very special Chunky Monkey though!!!! And once we give him the tools (pointing, sign language, words, etc.) to more effectively communicate to us what he wants or needs, then his frustration level will decrease making him an even more funny, loving, smart, tease than he is today. He may not talk, but he sure is cute....and he's mine!

Kool Kyle

2007-03-06T18:42:00.000-05:00

For the next three work weeks, I am in Columbia for DSS Child Protective Services training. While I'm here, my parents have "the Monkey" ....well mainly my mom! Gator has to leave very early each morning and its best to just let Kyle spend the night Monday-Thursday nights.....I'll be back Friday afternoons and go back on Monday mornings. He's in good hands, but those hands need your prayers for the ENERGY to keep up with the Energizer Bunny!

Anyway, as I was packing, Kyle decided he was ready to go too! Now, when his uncle Scott sees this....he's gonna flip! Oh well, mom's prerogative to take all the "good" pics of her child.

These are the things of which memories are made.........the funny ones that is. And I'm glad I caught this moment in time 'cause I'm really missing our little tease. It's really hard not being at home, especially since we find out on Thursday what the autism specialist has to say about Kyle. My mom is going with Gator and they are going to include me via conference call, but I still feel bad that I won't be there in person.

He may not be verbally communicative, but he definitely gets his point across. And guess what....no talking back...yet....just grunts.

Still, don't know where he gets the attitude/personality from?!?!?!?!?

Genetically Speaking.....

2007-02-28T21:30:00.000-05:00

The latest in the quest for a diagnosis for Kyle involved Genetic Testing. We spent over two hours yesterday repeating (again) our family histories, stories, medical backgrounds, etc. I just whip out Kyle's 3 inch file folder with medical surveys, IEPs, therapy evaluations, school records, immunization records, etc. and hand them over to be copied into yet another doctor's file on our Chunky Monkey.

We won't have any test results for 4-6 weeks! So, again, we wait. I just want to know what we are dealing with in order to move forward. I feel like we are trapped in a time warp! I know that all of these specialists are working together to establish a formative diagnosis and that they don't want to rush it.........which is the right approach....but I am sick of spending my life in a doctor's office.........and believe you me Kyle is too!

Unless the want to take a picture of you and then we turn on the charm!

Just don't know where he gets this from?

Genetics?

You be the judge!

MRIs and EKGs.....we need a BREAK!

2007-02-25T20:55:00.000-05:00

In order to rule out seizure activity and heart problems, Kyle's specialist ordered an MRI and EKG. There is nothing more heart breaking to a mother than to watch as her 4 year old is held down by his parents and nurses in order to inject an IV into his arm....then only to watch as he passes out in 6 seconds after receiving the "sleep" medicine. Kyle went so limp that he could not support his head.......just like an infant.........in 6 seconds flat! We then had to watch as he was put into the MRI machine and sit there just praying for it to be over. I almost rubbed a hole in Gator's hand worrying. After the MRI, they did the EKG. It took Kyle over an hour to fully wake up from the anesthesia and be able to support his head again.

What's worse it that we had to wait days for the results. The MRI came back negative, but the EKG showed signs of mild Arrhythmia. Kyle is now being referred to a Pediatric Cardiologist for further testing. See, there is a history of heart disease in both Gator's and my families, plus Gator has Wolf Parkinson White syndrome (he had surgery a couple of years ago that corrected it though). The specialist can not give Kyle any kind of medicine to slow him down, in order for him to learn, until he gets a clean bill of health....heart and head wise.

We have genetic testing on Tuesday and are suppose to get some form of diagnosis on March 8th from the specialists. Who knows, but I am ready to know exactly what we are dealing with so we can attack it head on.

Along those notes, after the MRI and EKG on 2-16-07 we took Kyle to Myrtle Beach for the weekend (after a trip to Wal-Mart for a much deserved toy). WE ALL NEEDED A BREAK! We had a great time.....just relaxing. Kyle had a blast at Ripley's Aquarium, swimming in the indoor pool & hot tubs, chasing waves on the beach and flying a kite for the first time. We also got to see my former youth director and very dear friend, Harry Tokunaga.

Thanks for all of your prayers and support! We love you!

Our Little Valentine

2007-02-20T22:56:00.000-05:00

Boy how things have changed. I use to only see Valentine's Day as "gifts (jewelry) for me day". Of course that was before a husband and a chunky monkey! Now what my perfect Valentine's Day consisted of....starting the day off by giving kisses to the monkey, enjoying others get flowers and a little party at work, was having the monkey walk in with his daddy with ONE single red rose (and goodies from my mom - homemade truffles - I have the best mom!), Gator fixing supper (and cleaning up), watching Winthrop on TurnerSouth beat Charleston Southern, and seeing the pure look of joy on Kyle's face as he dug into his own little Valentine's Day cake! Not what I used to want for Valentine's Day........but MUCH, MUCH BETTER!

We hope you all had a wonderful Valentine's Day!

Rascal Flatts

2007-02-15T09:15:00.000-05:00

You may recall me mentioning our favorite music group, Rascal Flatts in an earlier post. Well Gator and I had 5th row seats in Columbia Friday night (2-9-07)for their concert.......which was out of this world as usual! We are fan club and Flatt Dog Pound members with VIP ticket access and Meet & Greet opportunities. I was fast enough online to get my name on the list to go backstage Friday night, but Gator was not.......oh well!

Flatt Dog Pound members were asked to wear red t-shirts to the concert in Columbia decorated with Rascal Flatts.com and Flatt Dog Pound stuff. Of course we wore our red t-shirts! I had put a photo of RF with Kyle at a concert in Columbia October 2003 when he was 10 months old on the front of our shirts. {I had made him a onesie with "I was listening to Rascal Flatts before I was born" on the front and "Flatt Dog Pound" on the back. Gator had surprised me with fan club memberships for both of us and the meet and greet passes. You are allowed one M&G a year and one photograph and autograph per member at the M&G (which has now changed - no personalized autographs - just pre-printed ones). We chose to have one photo with all three of us and one with just Kyle. They signed Gator's cowboy hat and Kyle's onesie.}

Anyway, while I was backstage awaiting my turn for a M&G and photo-op, my shirt caught Gary's eye..........the lead singer for RF. He stopped the M&G and walked across the room to take a closer look......at the photograph of Kyle with them on my shirt. As he walked back, he joked to others in line to "take a look at that hair", meaning his 4 1/2 years ago. Of course the woman in front of me 'bout passed out because he walked over to look at my shirt. When it was my turn, Joe Don walked over to look at my shirt and asked "if that was our baby"? Well, of course Kyle was......just joking! I went on to explain that Kyle was 10 months old at the time of the photo and they recognized that it was the CMT tour. I told them that Kyle was now 4 and was being tested for autism. Gary took the recent photo of Kyle as I told them how much their music meant to us and that it was the only thing that would always calm Kyle down! (He knows them.........I even recorded them on the Grammys Sunday night and he knew them even though they were singing Eagles tunes!) They were stunned and caught their breath as I told them the story and they thanked me for telling them as they hugged me (okay.....eat your heart out). Anyway, as we were getting ready for the photo to be taken, Joe Don took the picture of Kyle from Gary and asked "if it was for him and could he keep it?"..........now do you think I am going to say no to a RF?!?!?!?!.........well, of course not. Now, I am also a realist and they may have just forgotten what I told them and Kyle's picture could have been thrown away, BUT nothing will take away the look I say in their eyes of amazement and wonder when I told them what they meant to Kyle!

So, when asked what are some of Kyle's favorite things........horses, airplanes, Disney movies and Rascal Flatts.........believe me he will one day M&G them too and hopefully tell them for himself what they mean to him. For now, "My Wish" for Kyle is that he grows happy, healthy, wise and someday will be able to tell everyone what his wishes and dreams are.

What Is Autism?

2007-02-02T09:27:00.000-05:00

So what is AUTISM? "Autism is a complex neurobiological disorder that typically lasts throughout a person's lifetime. It is part of a group of disorders known as Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD). Today, 1 in 166 individuals is diagnosed with autism, making it more common than pediatric cancer, diabetes, and AIDS combined. It occurs in all racial, ethnic, and social groups and is four times more likely to strike boys than girls. Autism impairs a person's ability to communicate and relate to others. It is also associated with rigid routines and repetitive behaviors, such as obsessively arranging objects or following very specific routines. Symptoms can range from very mild to quite severe.......Currently, there are no effective means to prevent autism, no fully effective treatments, and no cure. Research indicates, however, that early intervention in an appropriate educational setting for at least two years during the preschool years can result in significant improvements for many young children with Autism Spectrum Disorders."

Facts & Stats
1 in 166 births(1)
1 to 1.5 million Americans(2)
Fastest-growing developmental disability
10 - 17 % annual growth
Growth comparison during the 1990s(3):
U.S. population increase: 13%
Disabilities increase: 16%
Autism increase: 172%
$90 billion annual cost(4)
90% of costs are in adult services(4)
Cost of lifelong care can be reduced by 2/3 with early diagnosis and intervention(4)
In 10 years, the annual cost will be $200-400 billion(5)

Kyle's pediatrician says that Autism merely means that his brain functions differently than ours does and that we have to find out which way that is. But don't we all think differently? If we didn't the world would be a very boring place. How can his be so different as to limit his normal means of communicating? This too we have to find out after the series of tests and evaluations we have in the upcoming weeks.....which include: occupational therapy evaluation, speech therapy sessions, genetic testing, MRI and EKG. He's 4 years old! Why should a 4 year old be going through this? Especially when it means putting him to sleep during the MRI and EKG (they will be done at the same time 2-16-07).

Of course, Kyle now has not only his favorite pediatrician, but also a Developmental-Behavioral Pediatric Specialist, Speech Therapist, ENT doctor, and soon to add: occupational therapist, genetics doctor and a 2nd Dev.-Beh. Ped. Specialist in Autism. Our heads are spinning with doctor's appointments and therapy sessions that Gator bought me a PDA to keep up with them all (and all of my training sessions and meetings with work). Guess it's a good thing that I had those 7 months of unemployment to relax, unwind, sleep late, play with Kyle, watch cartoons and soap operas, do nothing, and brush up on my research skills................looks like all were much needed to get me ready for our never ending road of dr. appts. See God knew I needed all that rest to prepare me for this long haul.

The other day I was amazed at a co-worker's response to our learning stage of Kyle's possible autism . She knew from the day her son was born that he had Downs Syndrome and could not imagine finding out 4 years later that something is wrong with her son. (He is now 4 and in Kyle's special needs pre-school class.) She can't believe it.......going with the typical stereotype you would think that Kyle's autism is nothing compared to the road ahead of them with DS.

Talk about getting it wrong. She has helped me realize what a blessing Kyle is and how our wish was granted by God to not let him grow up too fast. It is definitely true that God is in control of our lives and puts us where he knows we need to be for his-sake and our own. I never would have believed that moving back to Union would be a blessing to our family, but once again...God knows better than I do what is best for us.

Autism........we're not sure

2007-02-01T18:33:00.001-05:00

The past month has been a blur of one doctor appointment after another.....most of which were for Kyle, but a couple were for me and the healing torn ligament in my right ankle and its lack of strength and of course my first mammogram (which wasn't so bad----so go have yours).

Anyway, we are still learning about Kyle's possible autism. Possible.........well, we still have many appointments and tests to go before a firm diagnosis will be made. We're in it for the long haul and I'm glad that a hasty decision is not being made---though I will be glad to know what we are dealing with.

As it turns out, there is a very broad spectrum of Autism disorders that range from very severe to very mild. Of course we are hoping for the mild end of the spectrum, but really just want to know one way or the other. It's so hard to look at this most perfect looking child----except for the clear evidence that he is a Sherbert----and wonder how their could be anything wrong with him. That is until you realize that he should be back-talking his parents and asking a million "why" questions. You never want to believe that your child has "special needs" because of the stereotypes. However, you also realize that you have been blessed with such a very special human being by God.

I think every parent never wants their infant to crawl, walk or talk. They want to hold them in their arms forever. Well guess what, parents of special needs children get their wish. You see we get to hold on to that infant a little longer.......though they do continue to grow and gain weight making it harder to lift to the changing table for a new diaper.

Special needs children have the biggest hearts too! Kyle gives the best hugs and kisses. He has to shake the hand of everyone he meets and has the best laugh.........you know when you have to break out the tickle monster to tickle him to death so you
won't really strangle him because he has gotten on your nerves.

Yes, Kyle still does all the annoying things a typical 4 year old would, without the normal communication skills.

Kyle has started speech therapy and will be evaluated next Wednesday for occupational therapy (sensory skills). He is also in a special needs pre-school class and we do what we can at home to assist in his therapy.........homework last week was to drink milkshakes and play with bubbles and whistles to work the mouth muscles for speech.

For now, its playtime in the 3 inches of snow we got today and then a few movies with the tickle monster. You know we really are the lucky ones....maybe we should be called special parents instead of Kyle a special needs child.

2006...the year in review

2006-12-14T21:07:00.000-05:00

I haven't done very well keeping up with this blog, but maybe you'll understand what's been going on with us.....and I promise to try to be more timely with updates.

2006......Well, what can I say except it has been a doosey! What started out as promising, soon turned into the worst – job wise for both Gator & me. I was laid off as Sales Operations Mgr. for MasterWorks Décor on 4-14-06 due to the bad financial situation of the company. Then a couple of months later, Gator lost his job at Logistic Leasing because he was charging his laptop while he was working – on trucks – not on the computer. The computer was never on and we have heard some other things that indicate he was “set up”.

So, with only unemployment checks in hand, we turned more of our attention to Gator’s real estate ventures and KYLE!!! As many of you can guess, real estate is very slow in the big city of Union! He’s left Weichert and is now working with Century 21. He’s had a few recent sells, but Gator’s only been in real estate 1 ½ years – it will pick up a little, but not ever enough to be full time for him........unless a miracle happens in Union. You can check out his website: www.gatorhudson.com Gator recently began working for a company in hauling telephone poles. YES, Gator is back driving a semi! He’s home every night & weekends with good pay & benefits – YEAH!! He loves it.

I just started working for Union DSS as an Intake worker. I will have to go to Columbia, SC for three weeks of training in March, so I’m doing a lot of hands on training – in between naps and spider solitaire games – well I am a state worker now, what did you expect?!?!?!? I am learning a lot and hope to eventually be a big help to this community. I will be the person that takes the initial reports, works with the school guidance counselors and police officers, and anything else that is thrown my way. This is a big departure from my previous manufacturing worlds of trim and flowers/trees. Pray that I have the strength to handle the issues that will “be” my job.

On to the “Chunky Monkey” – aka: Kyle. He is great – wild as ever. Had our first trip to the hospital a few months ago from jumping on JoJo’s bed and fell off, bumping his head and ended up with 4 staples to the top/right/back side of the head. Kyle started going to a special preschool class this Fall where he gets 60 min. of speech therapy a week. Kyle is still not talking yet. The school specialists feel he is just delayed and is only on a 1 ½ - 2 year old developmental level. We did see a couple of people in July with the Developmental Behavioral Pediatric Specialist in Greenville, SC and we have two appointments in January. There has been talk of possible mild autism and ADHD (which I have not doubt he has since Gator is ADD).

He is such a happy, playful child – and the biggest tease! Kyle loves school and is very mechanical – has to figure out how everything works. He is very smart and amazes us everyday! Of course he loves to try our patience and is very impatient himself, but we wouldn’t trade him for anything – even though he is THE ENERGIZER BUNNY!

We’ll be celebrating Kyle’s 4th birthday on 12-23-06 with a “Cars” (movie) theme amongst all the Christmas decorations. We took him to see his 2nd favorite band, the Doodlebops, in November. We don’t want to risk hearing damage to see his #1 group – Rascal Flatts! (don’t know where he picked that up???) ....no Christmas music CD playing with Kyle in the car because it has to be Rascal Flatts!!!!

Please keep us in your prayers as we learn more about Kyle in the coming months, we get more involved in our new jobs, and we re-cover from many, long months of unemployment. (Though it was kinda nice to have the summer off with Kyle!!!)

First Day of School

2006-10-08T21:05:00.000-05:00

Well, we've had a few things happen lately. Our Chunky Monkey has started school and is riding the school bus home!

Kyle is now in a special education class Monday - Thursday each week from 8:00 - 10:30 am with 60 minutes of speech theraphy a week. You see Kyle is not talking yet and he'll turn 4 on 12-23-06. After many evaluations and some speculation that he may be mildly autistic, the majority feel that he is just delayed on many levels - mainly communication. Yet through all this, we know he understands every thing we say. Of course it could be he's just stubborn........don't know where he would get that from?!?!?!?!?!

He's also fearless and will climb on any and EVERYTHING. We've already warned his teachers that they will have their hands full. And all reports so far are GREAT. He plays and interacts well with other students and is very curious and interested in learning new things. We hope very soon he will start talking and we won't be able to shut him up....you know all I want for Christmas is for my son to TALK and say I LOVE YOU! (Also, to prove those specialist wrong that he is not autistic!)

Yet, on the other hand, my mother is taking a class to renew her teaching certificate (she's retired but can do homebound and long term subs and make more money by renewing her certificate......she says this is the last time) and she is taking this opportunity to make it all about Kyle and is possible diagnosis of mild autism by learning all she can about it .........just in case it turns out that he is.

In the mean time, we just go day by day and laugh by laugh until we him tell us all what he thinks!

Why "Chunky Monkey"?

2006-08-28T22:36:00.000-05:00

Some of you may be wondering why we call Kyle aka Chunky Monkey, well it all started when I was in college............my love of Ben and Jerry's Chunky Monkey Ice Cream. Kyle is a very active 3 1/2 year old who loves to jump, no matter what! One day my mom and I were joking around about his jumping and we referenced it to my favorite ice cream (next to Baskin Robbins Chocolate Chip of course)..........well the name stuck and he has lived up to this nickname.........believe you me!

I have never seen a child jump as much as he does. If only we could bottle his energy.....we would be millionaires and you would not be reading of our parenting adventures. I used to sing Kyle the "Ten Little Monkeys Jumping on the Bed" song all the time and he would just laugh and then fall asleep in my arms. Now, he still laughs at me.......while he jumps away into mischeif. And we have had the run to the Urgent Care Center at 9pm for the 4 staples to be administered into his head while me, my mother, and 4 nurses try to hold him down for the doctor to clean, shave, clean, staple, and clean again his head. (And it happened on grandma JoJo's watch.........don't you know I would have gotten a safety lecture if it had happened on our watch!) And believe you me, JoJo felt pretty guilty.......though the only fault was Kyle's for not listening.

You need to understand how fast this three year old is...........he can even beat you working the safety doorknob cover! My mother had to take the doorknob off of her dining room door so to slow him from getting to the china and crystal. He has since learned to take keys or anything else he can get his hands on to open the door anyway. Given the chance and a set of car keys, he can start that too. I've already alerted one of the Union police officers that if he hears of a toddler car theif, it will probably be mine!

All this, and he still isn't talking.....we found out this summer that he may have a mild case of autism and we are being very proactive and having testing done as per his pediatrician. All of this I'll save for another installment. For now I leave you with this, another picture of our Chunky Monkey who prefers a shower instead of a bath.....

2006-08-24T18:03:00.000-05:00

Here are a few older pictures of Kyle.

2006-08-24T15:45:00.000-05:00

This is what Kyle came home to December 25, 2002.......an under the sea world to explore. Not bad since he was born (December 23rd @ 8:30pm) in the middle of winter. The nursery always seemed warm and inviting. We were living in Rock Hill, SC at the time and when we moved in May of 2004 this room was the hardest part to leave behind. We put a lot of love and hard work into making this a wonderful room for Kyle.

2006-08-24T09:45:00.000-05:00

My friend Jen over at Amazing Trips has introduced us to blogging. I love that she is keeping a journal of their triplets daily adventures for their future reading amusement. I hope that I follow in her footsteps of recording Our Chunky Monkey....so enjoy getting to know our non-stop 3 1/2 year old - Kyle.