Parents of Children With Autism
Washington
Parents of children with autism tend to have a more pessimistic outlook about the educational resources available to their children than parents of children without disabilities, according to a new survey.
The parents of children with autism are also more worried about their children’s health, future financial independence, and community support. However, there are differences among families dealing with autism, with the parents of children with Asperger’s syndrome, a less-severe manifestation of the disorder, indicating that they generally had more positive feelings about their children’s futures.
The study was released today by Chicago-based Easter Seals and MassMutual Financial Group, in partnership with the Autism Society of America. MassMutual, based in Springfield, Mass., offers financial and life-planning services to families of people with disabilities.
“The results were not a surprise to us at all,” said Lee Grossman, the president and chief executive officer of the ASA, headquartered in Bethesda, Md. “There are tremendous unmet needs for these people and their families.”
Autism is a developmental disorder characterized by repetitive behavior and impaired social interaction. There are a number of disorders on the autism “spectrum,” including Asperger’s syndrome and “pervasive developmental disorder-not otherwise specified,” which is a diagnosis given to a person who exhibits some, but not all, of the characteristics of autism.
Answers to the online survey were gathered between June 16 and July 17 of this year, and included responses from 1,652 parents of children under the age of 30 with autism and 917 parents of typically developing children. For many of the questions, the survey was able to break down the answers into parents of children with autism, parents of children with Asperger’s, and parents of children with PDD-NOS. No margin of error was available, according to Harris Interactive, which conducted the poll.
Preparation for Life
About 70 percent of parents of children with autism said they were concerned about their child’s education, compared with 36 percent of parents of typically developing children. About 56 percent of parents of typically developing children said they believe their children have “received education to adequately prepare him/her for life,” compared with 19 percent of parents who have children with an autism-spectrum disorder.
However, breaking down the results by diagnostic category showed that parents of children diagnosed with autism were the most affected, with 74 percent saying they were concerned about their child’s education. About 56 percent of families affected by Asperger’s felt that way.
Eighteen percent of families with autism said their children’s education adequately prepared them for life. Parents of children with Asperger’s were slightly more pleased, with 20 percent saying their child’s education left him or her adequately prepared for life.
In the survey, about 50 percent of parents of children with disabilities said their children spent all or most of their time in special education classes as opposed to “mainstream” classes. For children with autism, parents reported that 64 percent were always or mostly in special education classes, compared with 45 percent of children with PDD-NOS and 21 percent of children with Asperger’s.
Schools play a critical role in the lives of children with autism, because for many, it’s the first place that may suggest that their child has a developmental disorder that needs further investigation, said Barbara Gaither, a parent who attended the release of the survey results. School is also the primary provider of services for younger students, she added. Her son Scottie Gaither, 9, has autism and is the Easter Seals’ 2008 National Child Representative.
Though Ms. Gaither said she is happy with Scottie’s school in Columbus, Ga., “I’m still a little worried about middle school and high school.” There tend to be fewer services for older children, she said.
Patricia Wright, the national director for autism services for Easter Seals, said the survey will be used raise awareness of the issues faced by parents of children with autism.
“The one consistent message Easter Seals hears from the families we serve, after the initial apprehension and anxiety of learning their child has autism, is an overwhelming concern about the lifelong supports their child with autism may need to be independent,” she said.
Autism affects 1 in every 150 children.....Care before you have to...
Wednesday, December 17, 2008
Support Group Info
Hi everyone,Due to the closeness of the holidays, there will be no support groupmeeting in January.Our next Asperger's Syndrome/High Functioning Autism Support Group willbe held on Wednesday, February 4th, from 7-9pm in the Wengert ConferenceRoom at Nevada Power Company (6226 W. Sahara Avenue - between Jones &Rainbow) -- parking is in the rear of the building -- walk-up ramp nextto the drive thru tellers.Have a wonderful holiday!Barbie LauverAsperger's Syndrome/High Functioning Autism Support Group
Sunday, December 7, 2008
Social Skills Group
Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) face unique challenges with social interaction in all kinds of settings. To help them develop the necessary skills and understanding to integrate more successfully social skills building groups have been shown to be effective. After school programs offer children with ASD growth enhancing opportunities. Research has shown that structured after school activities promote development in social and personal development.
Tandem Therapy
Specializing in Intensive Behavior and Communication for Children with Autism and Other Developmental Delays.
Offering After School Social Sills Groups beginning January 2009
· Elementary Groups Grades K-5
· Middle School Groups Grades 6-8
· High School Groups Grades 9-12
Groups will meet for one hour sessions once a week. Session cost is $30. Social Groups will be purchased in advance for Six Sessions blocks.
Tandem Therapy's Director, Chris Holcomb is the only Board Certified Behavior Analyst who is also a Board Certified Speech Language Pathologist in the state of Nevada. He specializes in the treatment of families with children who have been diagnosed with Autism.
Social Skills Trainer, Nancy Fitzgerald is a certified Special Education teacher. Mrs. Fitzgerald has over thirty years experience with special education children including children with autism. Mrs. Fitzgerald is currently finishing her PhD. in Special Education from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas with an emphasis in Autism and Specific Learning Disabilities. Mrs. Fitzgerald is also a Professional Developer in the Strategic Instruction Model from University of Kansas.
For more information call: Susan 396-0101
Tandem Therapy
Specializing in Intensive Behavior and Communication for Children with Autism and Other Developmental Delays.
Offering After School Social Sills Groups beginning January 2009
· Elementary Groups Grades K-5
· Middle School Groups Grades 6-8
· High School Groups Grades 9-12
Groups will meet for one hour sessions once a week. Session cost is $30. Social Groups will be purchased in advance for Six Sessions blocks.
Tandem Therapy's Director, Chris Holcomb is the only Board Certified Behavior Analyst who is also a Board Certified Speech Language Pathologist in the state of Nevada. He specializes in the treatment of families with children who have been diagnosed with Autism.
Social Skills Trainer, Nancy Fitzgerald is a certified Special Education teacher. Mrs. Fitzgerald has over thirty years experience with special education children including children with autism. Mrs. Fitzgerald is currently finishing her PhD. in Special Education from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas with an emphasis in Autism and Specific Learning Disabilities. Mrs. Fitzgerald is also a Professional Developer in the Strategic Instruction Model from University of Kansas.
For more information call: Susan 396-0101
Tuesday, December 2, 2008
Fall Workshop Invitation:)
From: autism1@unlv.nevada.eduTo: autism@post-office.nevada.eduSent: 11/25/2008 1:49:41 P.M. Pacific Standard TimeSubj: Fundamentals of Behavior
FALL WORKSHOP INVITATION!Fundamentals of Behavior: Understanding Why Problem Behaviors Occur in Order toPromote Positive ChangesThis workshop is designed to provide parents and professionals with vitalknowledge about fundamentals of behavior.Topics Include:•Setting Events•How environment influences behavior•Antecedents to behavior•Consequences that maintain behavior•Functional approach to behaviorCome learn about why people with disabilities often rely on problem behaviors.Understand basic principles of behavior in order to get the behaviors you want!When:Monday December 8th, 2008 5:30pm to 8:30pmWhere:UNLV, Continuing Education @ Paradise Campus 851 East Tropicana, Las Vegas, NV 89119 Room: 103BThis workshop is free, but space is limited!Please RSVP via phone or email at:Center for Autism Spectrum DisordersUNLV Department of Special Education895-5836autism1@unlv.nevada.eduwww.asdcenter.org
FALL WORKSHOP INVITATION!Fundamentals of Behavior: Understanding Why Problem Behaviors Occur in Order toPromote Positive ChangesThis workshop is designed to provide parents and professionals with vitalknowledge about fundamentals of behavior.Topics Include:•Setting Events•How environment influences behavior•Antecedents to behavior•Consequences that maintain behavior•Functional approach to behaviorCome learn about why people with disabilities often rely on problem behaviors.Understand basic principles of behavior in order to get the behaviors you want!When:Monday December 8th, 2008 5:30pm to 8:30pmWhere:UNLV, Continuing Education @ Paradise Campus 851 East Tropicana, Las Vegas, NV 89119 Room: 103BThis workshop is free, but space is limited!Please RSVP via phone or email at:Center for Autism Spectrum DisordersUNLV Department of Special Education895-5836autism1@unlv.nevada.eduwww.asdcenter.org
Monday, November 24, 2008
Governor Creates Commission on Autism Spectrum Disorder
For Immediate Release: November 19, 2008
GOVERNOR CREATES COMMISSION ON AUTISM SPECTRUM DISORDER
(Carson City, NV) – Governor Jim Gibbons today signed an executive order creatingthe Commission on Autism Spectrum Disorder and charged it with continuing the work ofthe Nevada Autism Task Force, which dissolved by statute earlier this year.
The Nevada Autism Task Force was created by the Nevada Legislature in 2007through Assembly Bill 629 and presented a report to the Governor on July 31, 2008 thatmade 146 recommendations on how to improve autism services and screening in Nevada.“The incredible growth in the number of children born with Autism is striking,” theGovernor said. “The Nevada Autism Task Force, and all those who partnered with it, did atremendous job illuminating the amount of work that needs to be done to address Autismin Nevada. My hope is that the Commission on Autism Spectrum Disorder will continue thework of the task force and be a strong voice advocating for the recommendations made inthe report.”
The Commission on Autism Spectrum Disorder will consist of three membersappointed by the Governor. It is required to update the Governor on its actions on or beforeJune 30 and Dec. 31 of each year. The three members of the commission have not yet beenappointed.
The incidence of Autism has increased greatly in recent years, and it’s now estimatedthat 1 in 150 newborn babies will be diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder. Studieshave shown that 47 percent of children receiving intensive early intervention go on to leadindependent lives, while 90 percent of children who do not receive intervention need alifetime of care.
The full report of the Nevada Autism Task Force can be found online through theNevada Department of Health and Human Services at: http://dhhs.nv.gov.
Executive Order by the Governor Establishing the Commission on Autism Spectrum Disorder
(http://gov.state.nv.us/EO/2008/EO-2008-11-19_Autism.pdf)
GOVERNOR CREATES COMMISSION ON AUTISM SPECTRUM DISORDER
(Carson City, NV) – Governor Jim Gibbons today signed an executive order creatingthe Commission on Autism Spectrum Disorder and charged it with continuing the work ofthe Nevada Autism Task Force, which dissolved by statute earlier this year.
The Nevada Autism Task Force was created by the Nevada Legislature in 2007through Assembly Bill 629 and presented a report to the Governor on July 31, 2008 thatmade 146 recommendations on how to improve autism services and screening in Nevada.“The incredible growth in the number of children born with Autism is striking,” theGovernor said. “The Nevada Autism Task Force, and all those who partnered with it, did atremendous job illuminating the amount of work that needs to be done to address Autismin Nevada. My hope is that the Commission on Autism Spectrum Disorder will continue thework of the task force and be a strong voice advocating for the recommendations made inthe report.”
The Commission on Autism Spectrum Disorder will consist of three membersappointed by the Governor. It is required to update the Governor on its actions on or beforeJune 30 and Dec. 31 of each year. The three members of the commission have not yet beenappointed.
The incidence of Autism has increased greatly in recent years, and it’s now estimatedthat 1 in 150 newborn babies will be diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder. Studieshave shown that 47 percent of children receiving intensive early intervention go on to leadindependent lives, while 90 percent of children who do not receive intervention need alifetime of care.
The full report of the Nevada Autism Task Force can be found online through theNevada Department of Health and Human Services at: http://dhhs.nv.gov.
Executive Order by the Governor Establishing the Commission on Autism Spectrum Disorder
(http://gov.state.nv.us/EO/2008/EO-2008-11-19_Autism.pdf)
Friday, November 21, 2008
Thanksgiving Tips for Special Needs Children
As many of our families prepare to celebrate Thanksgiving next week, members of the Autism Speaks community have provided tips to ensure that children with autism have a safe and enjoyable holiday. Read more and share your suggestions on our social network.
Tuesday, November 18, 2008
Insurance for Autism
Dear Nevada Autism Advocate,
The autism insurance reform movement in Nevada is ramping up to achieve coverage for children with autism this year. We need everyone's help!
Volunteers in four other states - Arizona, Florida, Louisiana and Pennsylvania have been able to achieve insurance coverage for their children this year! A total of seven states now meet standards of appropriate coverage, ending autism insurance discrimination and covering treatments and therapies that are medically necessary for our children, such as speech, occupational therapy, and applied behavior analysis (ABA) therapy.
HOW CAN YOU HELP IN NEVADA?
1. VISIT the AutismVotes.org website and register to receive advocacy alerts. This will ensure that you receive the most updated information as quickly as possible.
2. EMAIL US if you are interested in serving as a District Captain to lead efforts in your own home district, attend rallies, speak with state legislators, attend hearings at the capitol and help us spread the word.
3. FORWARD this email to your family, friends, neighbors, teachers, therapists and co-workers...anyone who lives in Nevada that would be interested in helping you work to end insurance discrimination for children with autism statewide!
For more information on the autism insurance reform effort in Nevada, visit www.autismvotes.org/nevada.
Have a GREAT week!
Shelley HendrixDirector, State Advocacy RelationsAutism Speaks
The autism insurance reform movement in Nevada is ramping up to achieve coverage for children with autism this year. We need everyone's help!
Volunteers in four other states - Arizona, Florida, Louisiana and Pennsylvania have been able to achieve insurance coverage for their children this year! A total of seven states now meet standards of appropriate coverage, ending autism insurance discrimination and covering treatments and therapies that are medically necessary for our children, such as speech, occupational therapy, and applied behavior analysis (ABA) therapy.
HOW CAN YOU HELP IN NEVADA?
1. VISIT the AutismVotes.org website and register to receive advocacy alerts. This will ensure that you receive the most updated information as quickly as possible.
2. EMAIL US if you are interested in serving as a District Captain to lead efforts in your own home district, attend rallies, speak with state legislators, attend hearings at the capitol and help us spread the word.
3. FORWARD this email to your family, friends, neighbors, teachers, therapists and co-workers...anyone who lives in Nevada that would be interested in helping you work to end insurance discrimination for children with autism statewide!
For more information on the autism insurance reform effort in Nevada, visit www.autismvotes.org/nevada.
Have a GREAT week!
Shelley HendrixDirector, State Advocacy RelationsAutism Speaks
Town Hall Meeting
CLARK COUNTY SCHOOL DISTRICT PUBLIC MEETING ON BUDGET CUTSThe Clark County School District will be hosting a public meeting todiscuss the pending budget cuts for elementary, middle and high schools.This meeting will take place at Western High School, located at 4601 W.Bonanza Road at Decatur Boulevard. The meeting will begin at 6 p.m. onTuesday, Nov. 18. This is an important meeting to attend to share yourinput with the school board.The Clark County School District wants to get public feedback on theupcoming budget cuts.The district will hold two town hall meetings.• Nov. 18 -- Western High School, 4601 W. Bonanza Road, 6 p.m.• Nov. 19 -- Chaparral High School, 3850 Annie Oakley Drive, 6p.m.__._,_.___
Monday, November 17, 2008
Positive Behavior Support; Las Vegas
POSITIVE BEHAVIOR SUPPORT – NV
LAS VEGAS PARENT TRAINING
A new session of PBS Parent Training is about to begin!
Understand challenging behaviors and develop effective strategies
Who is this for?
PBS Parent Training is for parents, family members, friends, teachers, staff and other professionals of individuals with disabilities who engage in challenging behaviors. Children do not attend the trainings. Daycare is not provided; please make other arrangements.
What do we mean by challenging behavior?
Challenging behaviors are behaviors that create a significant barrier to participation in
family life, school, work, or community activities. Challenging behaviors may be
dangerous, aggressive, self-injurious, or highly disruptive.
What is the goal/outcome of this training?
In this training, you will: 1.) Identify one challenging behavior 2.) Understand the purpose of that behavior 3.) Develop strategies to decrease the problem behavior 4.) Increase overall quality of life for everyone involved
Dates: Thursdays on 11/13, 11/20, 12/4, 12/11 & 12/18.
Each session builds on the previous session- you must plan to attend ALL sessions.
Time: 6:00 – 8:30 pm
Dinner provided
Location: Desert Regional Center 1391 S. Jones Blvd. Administration Building.
Fees: A ONE TIME donation of $20 is requested to cover the cost of dinner. If you cannot pay, please still attend. The donation is tax deductible and if paid with check, you will receive a receipt.
For more information or to register, please contact Ray Reece @ (702) 332-3555 or rreece@unr. Edu Space is limited- call today to reserve your spot!
Sponsored by:
PBS-NV, Sierra Regional Center & UNR, with funding from:
The Fund for a Healthy Nevada and
The Office of Disability Services
LAS VEGAS PARENT TRAINING
A new session of PBS Parent Training is about to begin!
Understand challenging behaviors and develop effective strategies
Who is this for?
PBS Parent Training is for parents, family members, friends, teachers, staff and other professionals of individuals with disabilities who engage in challenging behaviors. Children do not attend the trainings. Daycare is not provided; please make other arrangements.
What do we mean by challenging behavior?
Challenging behaviors are behaviors that create a significant barrier to participation in
family life, school, work, or community activities. Challenging behaviors may be
dangerous, aggressive, self-injurious, or highly disruptive.
What is the goal/outcome of this training?
In this training, you will: 1.) Identify one challenging behavior 2.) Understand the purpose of that behavior 3.) Develop strategies to decrease the problem behavior 4.) Increase overall quality of life for everyone involved
Dates: Thursdays on 11/13, 11/20, 12/4, 12/11 & 12/18.
Each session builds on the previous session- you must plan to attend ALL sessions.
Time: 6:00 – 8:30 pm
Dinner provided
Location: Desert Regional Center 1391 S. Jones Blvd. Administration Building.
Fees: A ONE TIME donation of $20 is requested to cover the cost of dinner. If you cannot pay, please still attend. The donation is tax deductible and if paid with check, you will receive a receipt.
For more information or to register, please contact Ray Reece @ (702) 332-3555 or rreece@unr. Edu Space is limited- call today to reserve your spot!
Sponsored by:
PBS-NV, Sierra Regional Center & UNR, with funding from:
The Fund for a Healthy Nevada and
The Office of Disability Services
Wednesday, November 5, 2008
Cecilia's Dog Fancy article
This Friday I have a wonderful opportunity to speek to 5 separate 3rd grade classes. They are all at Cecilia's school. Which will gratefully cut my travel time!
While searching and preparing I remembered Cecilia's Dog Fancy article. You may view it by clicking on the following link. Request a copy of Dog Fancy article.
http://bnhtomahawking@gmail.com
It shows a sweet little portion of our life here at home.
While searching and preparing I remembered Cecilia's Dog Fancy article. You may view it by clicking on the following link. Request a copy of Dog Fancy article.
http://bnhtomahawking@gmail.com
It shows a sweet little portion of our life here at home.
Tuesday, November 4, 2008
Being Heard
The day is finally here. Did it not seem like a long time? The atmosphere at the polling place was palpable. No matter who the candidate, there was a great deal of history to be made. I will note one small bit that I did notice while watching NBC's coverage. They referred to Barrack Obama as "President". It was only 5 pm. Pacific Time. (where I live) Without much hard data reported. I must say all opinions aside, what a privilege it is to stand there and make our own choices. With that said, as my personal plea to our loosening of tongues, I cast my ballot in privacy.
Monday, October 27, 2008
The Blonde Buddah
It is hard to believe that 11 years ago, I was already in labor with Cecilia. She wasn't born until 5pm. the next day! 22 hours! It has gone fast since then.
Her school teacher calls her the Blonde Buddah. That she is, when she is near there is always a sense of peace.
Her school teacher calls her the Blonde Buddah. That she is, when she is near there is always a sense of peace.
Current Events for Families Affected by Autism or Disabiity
The Great Vehicle Adventure
Fun & affordable family event, showcasing entertainment and event cars. Over 70 vehicles even a mini submarine!
November 1st & 2nd
Cashman Center
9am to 5pm
Jennifer Bradley Candlelighter's Childhood Cancer Foundation of Nevada: jbradley@candlelightersnv.org
"Because Kids Can't Fight Cancer Alone"
FEAT Annual Family & Friends Picnic
November 8, 2008
11am to 2pm.
Discovery Park in Henderson
*Donation of $5.00 per family kindly requested. Every donation receives a ticket to win some great give away prizes.
RSVP to Jennifer at
jennifer@featsonv.org
Food, Fun, Games, Prizes, Bounce houses, Face painting .
Enjoy a day with fellow families
Fun & affordable family event, showcasing entertainment and event cars. Over 70 vehicles even a mini submarine!
November 1st & 2nd
Cashman Center
9am to 5pm
Jennifer Bradley Candlelighter's Childhood Cancer Foundation of Nevada: jbradley@candlelightersnv.org
"Because Kids Can't Fight Cancer Alone"
FEAT Annual Family & Friends Picnic
November 8, 2008
11am to 2pm.
Discovery Park in Henderson
*Donation of $5.00 per family kindly requested. Every donation receives a ticket to win some great give away prizes.
RSVP to Jennifer at
jennifer@featsonv.org
Food, Fun, Games, Prizes, Bounce houses, Face painting .
Enjoy a day with fellow families
Visual Supports Workshop
Fall Workshop Invitation
Monday November 24th
5:30 to 8:30 p.m.
Free, but space is limited!
This workshop is designed to provide professionals and parents of children with autism spectrum disorders, developmental disabilities or children at-risk for developing difficult behaviors.
- Develop and activity schedule for your child or student.
- Learn to use routines and schedules to increase your child's appropriate behavior & promote independence.
- Learn to arrange the environment to help your child choose the behaviors YOU want!
- Visual supports hands on Make-n-Take opportunity! You can make a visual activity schedule for your child, student or classroom.
- Materials provided at no cost.
Where: UNLV, Continuing Education @ Paradise Campus
851 E. Tropicana
Las Vegas, Nevada 89119
Room511
RSVP via phone or email
Center for Autism Spectrum Disorders
UNLV Department of Special Education
4505 Maryland Parkway, Box 453014
Las Vegas, Nevada 89154-3014
Phone 702.895.5836 Fax 702.895.0984
Thursday, October 2, 2008
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Surfer's Healing
Each summer we venture out to our old stomping grounds in San Diego to attend Surfer's Healing. It is a wonderful surf camp for children affected by autism, as well as a day of hands on respite their families. As you can see by our photos it is a day enjoyed by all of us. Including the dog! This year when we were flying Cecilia looked out the window and said "anticipation". It was an incredible moment for us to hear her speak about her thoughts and feelings in one word. She is a great blessing.
Saturday, September 27, 2008
Dog Safety Tips
Dogs are truly man's best friend. They can also be mischievous creatures. When I came across the list of "household toxins", some were surprising.
Harmful Foods
Alcholic beverages
Chocolate (all forms)
Coffee (all forms)
Fatty foods
Macadamia nuts
Moldy/spoiled foods
Onions & onion powder
Raisins & grapes
Salt
Yeast dough
Garlic
Products sweetened with xylitol
Harmful Foods
Alcholic beverages
Chocolate (all forms)
Coffee (all forms)
Fatty foods
Macadamia nuts
Moldy/spoiled foods
Onions & onion powder
Raisins & grapes
Salt
Yeast dough
Garlic
Products sweetened with xylitol
Wednesday, September 24, 2008
Resources
When my daughter was first diagnosed with autism, I wondered why there was no place to find answers. Of course technologly and access have changed in the past 8 years. Following are some links. Each may lead you closer to peace and learning. Be active and purposeful. That is my only advice as a Mom.
http://www.surfershealing.org/ A Personal Favorite
http://www.difflearn.com/ Teaching Tools
http://www.chadd.org/ For the ADD in us all:)
http://www.autism-society.org/
http://www.positivelykids.org/
www.nichy.org.statehe/nv.htm
http://www.autismspeaks.org/
http://www.shanesinspiration.org/
www.autismvotes.org
www.lasvegas@autismspeaks.org
http://www.surfershealing.org/ A Personal Favorite
http://www.difflearn.com/ Teaching Tools
http://www.chadd.org/ For the ADD in us all:)
http://www.autism-society.org/
http://www.positivelykids.org/
www.nichy.org.statehe/nv.htm
http://www.autismspeaks.org/
http://www.shanesinspiration.org/
www.autismvotes.org
www.lasvegas@autismspeaks.org
Tuesday, September 23, 2008
We've got Sole-
One of my favorite, for sure, most comfortable pair of shoes are my TOMS. There is a great story behind them. They bring the soul back to soles. Curious... http://www.tomsshoes.com/
One of my favorite, for sure, most comfortable pair of shoes are my TOMS. There is a great story behind them. They bring the soul back to soles. Curious... http://www.tomsshoes.com/
Isha II
Should you have crossed the path of our beloved Isha II. Here is a great link for you: WWW.CCI.org
Due to recent changes in the disabled population there is an increased interest in placing dogs with veterans. Why? Because they are generally motivated, strong and organized individuals. Which are characteristics that are desirable for recipients.
To the Vets out there; all I can say is that a sudden change in life circumstances can be eased by the companionship of a dog. It takes the 'dis' out of disabled. It is the strongest and easiest bridge to cross between the akward stares of the stunned and the tender heart of the recipient. It may take you longer to get around. But more likely than not it will be because people want to stop and talk to you. Being on the 'go' will take on a new meaning, hopefully at a slower yet more joyful pace.
If you are interested take a moment to view the Canine Companion website.
Should you have crossed the path of our beloved Isha II. Here is a great link for you: WWW.CCI.org
Due to recent changes in the disabled population there is an increased interest in placing dogs with veterans. Why? Because they are generally motivated, strong and organized individuals. Which are characteristics that are desirable for recipients.
To the Vets out there; all I can say is that a sudden change in life circumstances can be eased by the companionship of a dog. It takes the 'dis' out of disabled. It is the strongest and easiest bridge to cross between the akward stares of the stunned and the tender heart of the recipient. It may take you longer to get around. But more likely than not it will be because people want to stop and talk to you. Being on the 'go' will take on a new meaning, hopefully at a slower yet more joyful pace.
If you are interested take a moment to view the Canine Companion website.
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