Monday, October 16, 2006

What a Weekend

This week we had our chelation appointment on Saturday, instead of Friday. Dr. Imam and Nick (who does the IV's) went to a training conference with Dr. Buttar. He's the doctor who came up with the chelation schedule that we use and used chelation to help his own son with autism.

Michael did really well. It took Nick 2 tries, but the second try was done in 6 seconds. I was counting outloud. There were some new kids getting chelation and Michael was VERY interested. He was actually standing over Nick, narrating the whole process "Put the rubber band on the arm, rub the alcohol", etc....

After the session we went to a birthday party. We actually got there early and Michael just hung out and watched the other parties. He started playing with other kids, following them around (as usual). Then, at the party he befriended a boy who said to his mom he had a new "best friend". Oh, that was nice to hear. Michael sat great, followed with the group, and I barely had to watch him. Parties are so much more enjoyable now.

Then on Sunday we went to the gym (yes, the gym) and then visited our friend from Nigeria at his hotel. Michael was stimming a little off the squares in the carpet (what's up with that). He does it just on that carpet. It's weird to see because when he was 2-4, he would eye stim ALL THE TIME. Now, I rarely see it. So when I do, it's kinda shocking.

The day got better from there. We stopped off at the open house at the Middle Island Fire Deptartment. I had Michael do this thing where he went into a "burning" building with 4 other kids and had to escape thru the window. There was fake smoke and everything. Michael was pretty scared. But, I was thinking that this was something he'll never forget and it may save his life one day. I don't think he was scared of the fake fire or smoke- but he was thinking "why am I going thru the window?".

After surviving the fire, we went to my dad's for his 71st birthday party. MIchael's cousins (age 7 and 12) were there too. The boys were actually playing. Michael made up worksheets for Nicholas. They also started throwing a ball around. I really felt like it was the first time they played TOGETHER. Again, great socialization and talking. We are still giving him the Glutathione pills each morning.

Christine

Sunday, October 15, 2006

New Blog

I started this blog on my myspace page about 2 months ago. But, decided to switch it to a more traditional blog, so I could add photos and video as I get them.

Thanks,
Christine

Sitting Right there in the Cabnit

Friday, October 13, 2006
Sitting Right there in the Cabnit
Current mood: pleased

Sitting right there in the cabnit is a bottle of Glutathione that I bought probably 6 months ago. I had heard about Glutathione at autism conferences, but didn't really understand it. About 10 weeks ago we started chelating and using Glutathione. After each IV treatment, Michael would talk and sing the whole way home. I always had a feeling that the Glutathione helped him process and speak better.

So, on Tuesday, I was looking thru one of my kitchen cabnits. It's your typical shelf, but with rows and rows of suppliments. Sometimes I try things and they don't work. Or I get samples. Some bottles are suppliments I bought, but were afraid to try.

I noticed a bottle of reduced Glutathione from Kirkmans and thought "what the hell". He seemed to do better with the weekly IV, maybe taking the pills during the week will help. Wed, Thurs and Friday he got pills in the morning with his usual mixture of organic babyfood bananas and the worst tasting suppliments in your life (MB12, Vit. C, Fish Oil/Coromega, SuperNuThera, SNT Companion, MSM, TMG & Probiotics). He usually chases the stuff with OJ and some Gorilla Munch (gluten/casein/soy free cereal).

So. This is what his teacher wrote on his communication sheet today (fri) "Michael has been talking like crazy. He has so much more language than ever before!" Wow. Is it the new pill of Glutathione each morning? Maybe. I guess only time will tell. But, it was so amazing to get that note today.

I spent the morning at a breakfast with 600 people in the community- community of the disabled that is. There were people with Downs, MR, wheelchairs, autism, you name it. The panelists were talking about group homes, respite care and job training. I'm sitting there thinking "my kid is 7. I can't think about this now". Not because I don't want to plan for the future. I know parents have to do a lot ahead of time. It was more because I'm still hoping my son won't need these services. I still believe he can recover and lose his dx.

I sat at a table with an adult with MR (I think) who was put in an institution at the age of 2 (Kings Park & Pilgrim State). He's doing pretty well, living in a group home and working a job he enjoys.

Also at our table was a couple. They live in my hometown and have a 40 year old son with autism. The mother was telling me about how bad the services were back then. I could tell this woman has told this story a million times and is haunted by it. The dad just sat there with this glazed look in his eyes. None of us signed up for this. It's not easy. I tried to thank her and said "because of people like you, my son is getting the help he needs".

Is this how it works? people have to suffer? little children are put in pysch wards, parents are left to do everything themselves.... Does it make them feel better to know that the situation is different today. Oh, great. Now they can say "why you and not me?".

Why I am so lucky to have a child with autism in 1999? That's funny. Most people probably ask themselves "why did I have a child with autism?" and I'm asking "why I am lucky?". Isn't that weird. I never, ever thought this situation would make me feel lucky. People used to tell me that Michael was lucky to have a mother like me (since I worked with children with autism 10 years ago).

But then, something happened this afternoon. Michael gets off the bus, I read his comment from this teacher and I just didn't know who to call to share the good news. If I tell a fellow parent, I have to make sure not to hurt their feelings. If I tell a friend who doesn't have an ASD kid, they don't REALLY understand. I left a message with Michael's father. And then I called Julia.

(Nicole, Baxter, Julia and Christine at the LIAF&C)

Julia lives in California and has a son who is recovered. We were born the same week in the same state and both have 7 year old boys. One with and one without Autism (for now). Julia and her son are such an inspiration to me (and Michael). They both spoke at our conference last April. I watched the DVD the other day. It gave me renewed hope. I said to Julia "I feel like I'm in a limbo right now".

We are in between two worlds. But, I want to be in Julia's world. I want to have a child who is independant. I want to cherish each word, each friend, each ballgame, etc....
I met a mom today at that breakfast whose 19 year old son recently went to his high school prom. He now attends a community college. She showed me pictures. Guess what his name is? Michael

Thanks for traveling on this journey with me and my son. I really think we are witnessing a miracle. Please send positive thoughts and prayers our way... and to all of those other parents who feel hopeless right now. Thanks.

Big K-Mart

Saturday, October 07, 2006
Big K-Mart

We had a good day today (Sat). First, we went to see a children's concert by Carol & Paula of the Magic Garden TV Show. Honestly, I think I enjoyed it more than Michael. Probably because he didn't know any of the music and I was such a TV addicted child that I probably thought these women were family (and Michael Landon was my dad-lol).

Anyway, after the concert I dropped Michael off at my parents to spend the night. Michael had his Magnadoodle and he kept drawing BIG K with a line under it. You see, we live in Middle Island. Our complex is across the street from the Big K-Mart. Well, I should say the former K-Mart. In August, they closed the store and took the Logo off the building. That is what Michael was drawing. He kept saying "the Big K-Mart is closed". My mom was sitting there with me and I asked Michael "do you like K-Mart or Wal-Mart?" (the Wal-Mart is down the road from us). He says "Well, the K-Mart is closed, so we need to go to the Wal-Mart". It was so perfect. My mom says "he's smart".

Then he starts writing some words on the board. AI ABALES 20 BERSLIN (something like that). My mom and I are trying to figure it out. Michael keeps pointing to the words and says "the K-Mart is closed'. It means something- but what? I'm asking him questions. He writes the same thing again on a piece of paper. He's putting his fingers on the words- trying to sound them out (it was so cute). finally, it hits me.

"Available for Lease- Breslin" There is a big 50 foot sign on the building right over the spot where the Big K-Mart sign was. I wrote "Available for Lease- Breslin" and Michael re-wrote it on the paper. I noticed his handwriting was better than mine (lord help me).

On the way home, I looked at the building and see the sign. It says "Available -phone number- Breslin" Michael didn't know the phone number, but he put some numbers in there anyway. The word "lease" wasn't even on there (i remembered it wrong). But, there is another sign by the road that says "lease". Anyway, this whole situation really shows how Michael is reading, remembering, putting things together, trying to communicate, sounding out words, etc.

Sometimes I try to figure Michael out and my mind races with all these complex possibilities. But, his actions were quite simple. He never got frustrated. He kept trying to write the words over and over. I just didn't see these things a year ago. He has really come a long way and there is still soooo much to learn. On both sides.

Christine

Don't even ask about the cast


Friday, October 06, 2006
Don't even ask about the cast
Current mood: aggravated

Today we got to Dr. Imam's around 4pm. Michael sat really well and it took 2 tries to get the IV in. The only problem this week was the needle was so high on his arm that he had to keep it straight. Anytime he bent his elbow, the drip would stop. This slows the process. I kept saying "michael, please keep your arm straight" but he was busy playing with Dana's old Magnadoodle (the kid can sit with one of those for hours). After about the 10th time of asking him to keep his arm straight, I jokingly asked Nick "do you have a cast we can put on his arm?". Nick actually had one- so we taped it to his arm. It was more of a half cast. It didn't really work- but good try.

Michael was getting a bit ansy towards the end. I think that was because the other child there was watching Barney. Michael has never been a big Barney fan. Next week I have to remember to bring my laptop and dvd's for Michael.

Oh ya, Michael got Ringworm this week. It's not actually a worm, but a fugus- like yeast. He had alittle circle on his neck. He didn't even notice. Of course he noticed when I had to put the cream on him. I'm glad it didn't get bad. I saw some pix on the internet that were plain gross.

Well, overall the chelation is going fine. Michael is talking more and more each day. We got a script for blood work- which we'll do next week. We are going to check his liver and other levels. I love doing tests. Well, it's not the needle in MY arm, so I can say that. But, I love getting data back on Michael. It's proof. You know? So, when someone says "how do you know it's the chelation that recovered him?" I can show them the urine tests....

Thanks,
Christine

Inspector Michael

Saturday, September 30, 2006
Inspector Michael
Current mood: exhausted

What a day today. I picked up Michael from school and did our weekly visit to Dr. Imam's office. Michael sat pretty good for the needle and again, sat for about 2 hours with the IV fine.

About 5 min after he was done, Michael started walking around the office. He goes behind a wall where items are stored and says something like "No wonder if you can't find anything Nick, your workshop is a mess". The whole room started laughing. Gotta love Michael- honest to a fault. ( I also asked my friend if she ever heard Michael say that and she said he got part of it from a Franklin video- but he definately put a couple of ideas together).

Then we went to my sister's for a party and Michael was awesome all night. He played with this kid Jonathan (who used to hate him). They were chasing each other, hugging, laughing, screaming... It was so cute. Michael wanted to sit at the table for dinner (he never really did that before this year). He also said a few new statements while there. The house was full of people- probably 40. About 5 people came up to me and said "michael is doing so much better". These people remember 4-6 years ago when Michael would sit in the boy's room and watch the ceiling fan- for hours and not play with any kids.

Michael was so at ease- so happy to be around the other kids- listened so well. It's like I'm at the point where I do have to worry about him. I know he won't run out the door or play with knives. Best of all, the other kids look out for him, give him toys to play with, they understand him. They try to include him. They don't make fun of him. We are all really lucky.

Oh ya, we got our 2nd urine test back today. We do it every 8 weeks. Michael had high levels of aluminum again, less lead (which is a good sign) and same amounts of most of the other stuff (mercury, arsenic, etc). Again, we haven't seen any negative side effects. No stomach or gut problems, no increased yeast, sleeping fine. He did very well in school this week. Overall- going great in my opinion.

I think the best part of the night for my mom was when Michael came running over to her and gave her a BIG hug. I think as time goes on, we will see more and more improvement- or miracles as I like to call them.

Take care everyone and thanks for reading my blog.... Christine

Social Butterfly

Thursday, September 28, 2006
Social Butterfly
Current mood: tired

Wow. I think my son is turning into a social butterfly. You know, one of those people who talks to everyone.

This past week we've been hanging out with a family from Nigeria. They are here to do chelation on their 9 year old son. We met them in the office last Friday. They are really nice and stuck with not much to do on the off days. So, Michael and I have been taking them places- the outlets, Fun4All playground, Health Food Store, etc. Anyway, it's so cute to see Michael with the boy (who he actually calls "boy" because it's hard for him to say his African name) playing together. When we went to the outlets, they were holding hands and wouldn't leave the store without each other. Seriously this is amazing, because a year or two ago, he wouldn't care about other kids.

Michael has this thing where he likes to follow other kids around- especially in the playground. Sometimes he finds a kid who likes the attention. Usually I hear "stop following me" a hundred times. Well the boy from Africa doesn't mind Michael following him- so of course they are like best friends now. Michael is very easy to please :)

Then last night (Wednesday) I left Michael with my Best Friend Nicole and her two kids (5 and 7). Nicole told me that the boys were playing and Michael was very social. He also cleaned up, ate dinner with the family, and had a good time. She said he seemed much better since June (when they had a pool party in the backyard). Honestly, Nicole's son, Kyle, used to be scared of Michael because he went thru a period of knocking kids down (thanks to Calliou) and now he's not scared. Which really means a lot to me. For those of you who don't know Michael, he's a pretty cool kid to be around. He loves to snuggle and give hugs. He's silly and many times just breaks into song. I hated that Nicole's son was scared of him. I understand it- because Michael did freak him out a few times. But, they are getting along. Even at Michael's 7th BD party in August, Nicole's son sat RIGHT next to Michael at the table and gave him a big hug.


So, as the days go on I see more and more improvement with Michael. I can't say for sure if it's the chelation or glutathione. I guess it doesn't matter- as long as he's getting better.

One thing for sure, as the days go on I'm more and more grateful that I have a wonderful kid. Autism or not, he's "the best".

Christine

A Challenging Day

Friday, September 22, 2006
A Challenging Day
Current mood: thankful

Ok. From my title you would think that it was a hard day at the doctors. But, it wasn't. Today we did a "challenge test". We give an amount alittle more than usual of chelation and then test Michael's urine for 12 hours. It's the same amount we gave the first week (8 weeks ago). The results will tell us if he is getting rid of certain metals. His Lead and Aluminum were high last time. I can't wait to see the next results. The peee goes in the mail Monday and the results may be available on Friday (the next dr. visit).

Michael did really well today. First, he sang Maroon 5 songs the whole way there, looking into the mirror and making funny faces. There was a new kid in the office. He and his mother came all the way from Africa to do chelation. WOW. I got all the info from themom and I hope to spend some time with them while they are here. I'm trying to find them a therapist too.

Anyway, Michael sat pretty well (like the first couple of weeks). He said "no spray", so Nick didn't use the spray. The spray numbs the area so he doesn't feel the needle going in. I think Michael doesn't like the spray because it's cold. It took 3 or 4 tries to get the needle in and working. I didn't have to sit with Michael this time. And, of course, once it was in he sat for like 2 hours and played with 2 MagnaDoodles.

Michael got pretty tired at the end of the session. In the car I didn't hear much from him. Then I saw some horses in the back of a truck and I said "Look- horses". Michael paused and then added "they are going back to the farm". I thought that was so funny. Then when we were driving down and up a hill- Michael was saying "down, down, down, up, up, up". I NEVER heard him do that before. Then in the bathtub, he was talking and singing for like an hour. I definately see improvement everytime we use the Glutathione. Interesting.....

Well, Chelation is going well and both his dad and I are working hard to pay for it. I'm working on next year's conference, which will be Oct. 20-21, 2007. I'm very excited and we're having it at a beautiful hotel next year. I hope by then Michael will be able to give a speech or something- at least say the pledge. Who knows- It's 13 months away.

Thanks for reading my blog and making comments. I'm so grateful for Michael's progress. Everyone has been working so hard.

Christine

The Day After

Saturday, September 16, 2006
The Day After
Current mood: mellow

I keep noticing the day after Michael goes to the doctor he seems to talk up a storm. We spent all day together, playing and watching tv. Michael actually WANTED to watch the Yankee/Red Soxs game. Which, of course, made me VERY happy. We also spent some time looking things up on the internet. I did a YAHOO search of trees and snow. Michael is very into the change of seasons and keeps talking about the snow. He was looking at the photos on the computer screen, saying things like "that is winter. there are no leaves on the tree" and "The trees are blowing in the wind".

It's hard to describe, but I see a difference in him. I was talking to this Mom the other day (she has a kid with ASD) and she said something like "you know how in the past you thought your child was improving, but he wasn't?". She was talking about her own experience, but I really couldn't agree with her. I felt kinda bad to say "well, actually Michael shows a lot of improvement and it's real. Other people see it too".

I have some other friends whose children are SLOWLY improving. Some of them can't read or write. This amazes and confuses me. Why can Michael read and write and not their kids? What is it about my son's brain? Is it genetics? Is it the suppliments? Many of them use suppliments too. OK. So, I get it. It's random. There is no reason to any of this.

So, how do I encourage other people without "bragging and showing off"? How can I be a proud mom? I'll tell someone with typical kids my son said whatever- and they don't get it. I tell someone who has a kid with autism my son said whatever- and it hurts their feelings. So now people can't be happy for each other? It's a contest? It's a race? And it's not about who tries harder or spends more money- because I've spent a lot less money than some people- and their kids have progessed very little. Then I know some parents who dedicate their lives to their kids- some are still affected- others are recovered.

I wonder if parents who have children with Cancer go thru this. It must be just a part of the human condition. I guess I just need to focus on my son and not worry about what everyone else thinks (ha- easier said then done). One thing that I try to practice everyday is visualizing the future. I think about Michael graduating HS, getting married, etc. I have to. If I can't see something, I can't make it happen. So, that's my plan. And for the rest of it- it's luck. Wish us Luck :)

Don't forget the cold stuff

Friday, September 15, 2006
Don't forget the cold stuff
Current mood: content

Today we had another visit to Dr. Imam's office for Chelation and Glutathione. After talking to a friend, we realized that the last couple of weeks we didn't use this cold spray that numbs the area where the needle goes in. We used the spray today and got the needle in. It did take three times, but the 3rd time was definately a charm and took about 5 seconds. I hope Michael put 2 and 2 together and now understands that it hurts a lot less if he stays still. Of course, the rest of the visit he sat there, eating, drinking, watching Letter Factory and playing with the Magna Doodle. He was pretty mellow during the visit. When he got home he was talking a lot (like he usually does after). It was raining today and he was talking about it. He's been alittle obsessed with the weather lately.

During the week his teacher said he was alittle unfocused and calling out- but I think that had to do with the rain and seasonal allergies.

Sometimes Michael calls me "mother" which sounds so funny to me. I keep thinking of that book "are you my mother?". After living in Virginia and having the nickname in college, I always wanted my kids to call me "mama". Now I get "mother" and "mommy" and sometimes a "mommy christine". Hey- you know what? I'm just so happy my kid talks. I wouldn't care if he called me "mud".

Can't wait for the Red Soxs/Yankee series this weekend. Please stop raining.

thanks, Christine

Sing, Sing a Song...

Friday, September 08, 2006
Sing, Sing a Song...
Current mood: tired

Today we did another round of chelation and glutathione. My mom came with us. She's the 3rd person to come and watch. I think everyone is curious. I think they also want to be there for Michael- who is much loved.

First, I wanted to point out that school started on Thursday. Michael transitioned beautifully. He has the same teacher, but they are in a different classroom. I think there is a new student in his class, and some of the assistants have changed (get well gina). I stopped by the first day to give the nurse his Epi-pen and to bring supplies the teacher asked for, and Michael came walking down the hallway, saying hello to everyone. I actually heard him ask "how are you?" to one of the teachers. I've NEVER heard him say that unprompted before. His teacher also said Michael seemed to improve after his 3 week rest from school.

OK. So today was like last week. Michael didn't take the needle well, but the process was quicker than last time. We had to change the time from 3:30 to 4:30pm. The bus dropped him off around 4:05pm. So, because of the later start, the session seemed to last forever. Thank goodness for the TV/DVD in the office.

I think it really helped to have my Mom there. She met Nick, who does the IV's and saw that he knows what he is doing. She also saw another child in the office doing chelation too.

On the way home, Michael was singing, loudly, the whole way home. It was like he was happy. Then when Michael's Dad called, Michael started talking about him, in full sentences. Repeating phrases he already knew- but saying them so perfectly.

Well, overall, I think the process is going well. I do see Michael improving everyday. He's still happy, silly, and full of surprises. I look forward to the next challange test, where we will see the level of metals coming out of him.

Thanks for reading our blog :)

Christine

Mixed Day

Friday, September 01, 2006
Mixed Day
Current mood: tired

Today we had our 5th visit to Dr. Imam's office for IV Chelation. Usually it takes about 2-5 minutes to get the IV in Michael. Today it took 20 min and 3 people to hold him down. I don't know why he was so upset. Afterwards, he sat wonderfully for 90 minutes- no problems. I really hope next week he does better. I hate to see him so upset.


He had a good week- talking and playing. Of course, I see him getting better and better- but I'm alittle biased. But, other people are saying things to me. About how well he is doing. I'm very proud of him. We went to this amusement park called Adventureland yesterday. Michael waited on line and went on a ton of rides. There was one point, when Michael was waiting in line for the ladybug rollercoaster and I sat on the bench waiting. I didn't even feel the need to keep my eyes on him every second. It was as if he was a typical child. He ran from ride to ride- kind of skipping. He does this when he's really happy. It was so cute. I'm glad we went and he was able to enjoy it soooo much.

Christine

"Mommy, put your seatbelt back on please"

Monday, August 21, 2006
"Mommy, put your seatbelt back on please"
Current mood: impressed

Of course I don't know 100% for sure that the Chelation or Glutathione is the reason, but Michael is talking up a storm. Today he said to me "Mommy, put your seatbelt back on please". I had to take it off for second and when I put it back on, he said "thank you". He just REALLY seems to be talking more- complete sentences- more natural talking. I just never know what is going to come out of his mouth.

We were at the book store today and I told Michael he could go into the boys bathroom by himself- for the first time ever. I walked into the lady's room. He walks in and I ask him "aren't you going to go in the boy's room?". He says "Michael use the boy's room on Aug. 25th". That's the day his father is going to visit- and he is the only one who takes him in the boys room. He usually goes in the lady's room with me.

I couldn't believe he connected all those actions. Also, when we were at the bookstore with my 2 friends, Michael kept saying "let's go Dory". He was very aware of the 2 other people we were with and didn't want to leave them behind. Usually he couldn't care less- every man for himself. Oh ya- and right before that we all went for Thai food and Michael sat at the table for the whole meal- eating his food and playing with a magnadoodle. It was one of the best times at a restaurant.

I'm just so proud of him- he's dealing with everything so well.

Christine

Third Round - Interesting

Friday, August 18, 2006
Third Round - Interesting
Current mood: shocked

Today we did the third round of chelation, plus we added Glutathione. Here is some information that can be found on the website www.tacanow.com.

+++

Glutathione helps to defend the body against damage from cigarette smoking, exposure to radiation, cancer chemotherapy, and toxins such as alcohol. As a detoxifier of heavy metals and drugs, it aids in the treatment of blood and liver disorders.

Glutathione protects cells in several ways. It neutralizes oxygen molecules before they can harm cells. Together with selenium, it forms the enzyme glutathione peroxidase, which neutralizes hydrogen peroxide. It is also a component of another antioxidant enzyme, glutathione-S-transferase, which is a broad-spectrum liver-detoxifying enzyme.

Glutathione protects not only individual cells but also the tissues of the arteries, brain, heart, immune cells, kidneys, lenses of the eyes, liver, lungs, and skin against oxidant damage. It plays a role in preventing cancer, especially liver cancer, and may also have an anti-aging effect. Glutathione can be taken in supplement form. The production of glutathione by the body can be boosted by taking supplemental N-acetylcysteine or L-cysteine plus L-methionine. Studies suggest that this may be a better way or raising glutathione levels than taking glutathione itself.

Glutathione is not technically an amino acid, however, due to its close relationship is normally groupedwith the amino acids. Most glutathione is found in the liver where it detoxifies many harmful compounds to be excreted thru the bile. Some glutathione is released directly by the liver into the bloodstream where it helps to maintain the strength of your red blood cells and also protecting your white blood cells.


Glutathione can also be found in the lungs and in your body's intestinal tract system. It is required for carbohydrate metabolism. Glutathione also appears to have anti-aging effects by aiding in the breakdown of oxidized fats that may contribute to atherosclerosis. As we get older glutathione levels in the body get lower and this can cause an increase in the aging process. Thus glutathione supplementation is useful to prevent this from occurring.

Glutathione deficiency maybe indicated by: coordination problems, mental disorder, tremors, twitching, nervous system disorder, and difficulty in balancing. Currently, believed to be caused by lesions in the brain.

+++

Now, after the 2 hour doctor visit, we went to my sister's. Michael was sitting on my lap and pointed to me and said "Mommy is a mother". I have never heard him say this before. Then I told him he could play downstairs (by himself). All the kids were in the pool. I didn't want him to swim after doing the IV. He made a comment about how he didn't want to go downstairs alone because all the kids were outside. Usually, he runs down there and plays with the toys (aka lines up the cars). He actually had tears in his eyes. That was weird.

The past week he seemed to be talking more and after today's treatment- I really felt a difference. I'm very hopeful that the chelation is working and I'm very grateful to Dr. Imam and Nick and especially my friend Tina, who introduced me to Dr. Imam and attends the appointments with us (her daughter is getting chelated also).

Christine

ps- this morning he woke up and said "Michael and Mommy had fun at the Yankee game yesterday".... amazing

Michael's First Yankee Game



Thursday, August 17, 2006
Michael's First Yankee Game
Current mood: satisfied

If you don't know me personally, it's hard to understand my love of the Yankees. I was about 8 years old when I started watching games. Every year my parents would take me and my older sister to a game. One time I caught a ball in batting practice and got signatures from Don Mattingly and Tommy John. In college I interned for a triple A team in Buffalo and also kept score for the Cortland State team for a season. I don't know how college players do it. I pulled a 2.0 that semester- I just attended the games (not the practices).

Anyway, I always dreamed of bringing my kids to Yankee Stadium, teaching them about baseball, maybe even have them play in the Major Leagues. For the longest time my son with autism couldn't say the word "baseball" let alone play the sport. Parents always come up with "dreams" for their children- but most of the time, it's better those kids find their own dreams. This was definately one of those situations.

Michael was born in August of 1999- the Yanks won the World Series that year. I remember being so tired and falling alseep during the Series, but thinking it was a good sign that they won the year he was born. They also won the day he was born!

So, my plan was to take Michael to the Stadium as soon as he understood the game. Well, time went on and by 3 years old, Michael couldn't sit still, listen to instructions or tolerate VERY loud places. I didn't know if I'd ever be able to take him and felt bad that I didn't take him when he was 1 or 2- before the autism REALLY kicked in.

Last year, when Michael was almost 6, we went to 2 Long Island Ducks game. He didn't enjoy them. Wanted to run around and bang the seats. He got upset when they turned on the lights and it wasn't dark yet. We had to walk around a lot and he kept asking to go home.

So, today I drove over 2 hours each way to the Bronx and Michael went to his first game. It was against the Baltimore Orioles. We had seats behind the visitor dugout and about 3 rows from the top. Wow. They were high up. While making the walk up- with Michael holding my hand- I was thinking how crazy this was. I couldn't even look down- it was so scary. But, when we got to our seats- we were in the shade- awesome. It was about 85 degrees with little wind- and being in the shade was a life saver.

Michael sat in his seat for about an hour and a half and didn't move an inch. He was facinated by the music, people, vendors, diamondvision (or whatever they call that huge screen) and atmosphere. When Michael was little I used to teach him to clap and say "let's go Yankees". Well, when the crowd started that chant- Michael had such a cute look on his face. Like "hey, I know that one".

We lasted about 4-5 innings. Which was fine because the Yanks were losing 8-2 at that point and we had a long ride home. I never, ever, ever leave a game early- but Michael had had enough. I bought him a hat and t-shirt- which he wore. When we first walked into the stadium, they handed us two hats- it was hat day- lol. Well, now we have 3 hats. I guess you can never have too many. I wore mine. I think the last time I wore a baseball cap was 10th grade softball.

Overall- great experience. I got alittle chocked up when we first sat down. I was thinking- "look at us. Me and my kid. Sitting at a Yankee Game." He's enjoying it- I'm in heaven. I was just soooo grateful. He was so good, always holding my hand and listening. I was so proud of him today.

A couple of years ago I didn't think a day like today was possible. I was wrong. I'm glad I can say I was wrong. The Yanks ended up losing 12-2, but it was the best game of my life.

-Christine

Second Visit

Saturday, August 12, 2006
Second Visit
Current mood: grateful

So, we had our second trip to the Doctor. There were 3 other people there and Michael's loved watching the other people get their IV's in. He told this one adult "It will only pinch alittle". LOL.

Michael did better with the needle this time. We were also more prepared- bringing my laptop and playing our friend's DVD of Monsters Inc. and plenty of snacks.



Michael's urine test came back and he got rid of Aluminum and Lead- which is great. We are testing his urine again in 5 weeks. I posted the urine test here- just click on it to see a bigger file. Also note that when we tested his hair 4 years ago, he had high levels of lead, aluminum, mercury and arsenic. Doctors say that lead and aluminum are usually the first metals to come out- the mercury is last.

Here is a photo of Michael with the IV in his arm. Thankfully, he rarely tries to get up.

First Visit

Photo is of Dr. Imam (R) with his Brother and Senator Hillary Clinton

Saturday, August 05, 2006
First Visit
Current mood: shocked

Yesterday, we went to our first visit with a new doctor about 25 min away. Pretty easy trip and grateful he is so close- because some parents have to travel hours or even fly to their doctor.

Anyway, we started with IV chelation. Some minerals, EDTA and DMSA were given by IV. I know what you are thinking- how crazy to keep an almost 7 yr old sitting for an hour with a needle in his arm. Well.... the kid did it. It was amazing. Thankfully, I had my Ipod with me so Michael listened to Maroon 5 and John Mayer and sat in the chair and didn't move. I'm still learning what all this stuff is- but it was great to see my son listening and following directions.

We took his urine for 12 hours and Monday we'll mail it to the lab. That will tell us how much heavy metals have come out. Michael was high in arsenic, lead, aluminum and mercury when we did a hair test about 3 years ago.

I'll post the results when we get them. I need to go and finish editing a Bat Mitzvah, so I can pay for future treatments.

thanks- Christine

And Away We Go

Sunday, July 23, 2006
And Away We Go
Current mood: optimistic

Last night I saw Michael's new doctor and he told me that all of Michael's blood tests came back normal and he's ok for chelation. He also said that we could start next week.

NEXT WEEK! Wow. After waiting four years to try chelation- it's going to start NEXT WEEK. I'm excited. Wished we would have done it sooner, but none-the-less, starting it is the important part.

I really have to start reading up on what we need to do. I feel good that I have many friends who are moms & dads (of ASD kids) and they are a wealth of information. I keep thinking of Baxter, who is now recovered. I really hope I can say the same thing about Michael one day.

I met Hillary Clinton last night and although I didn't have a chance to talk to her about autism, I did speak with one of her staffers. I handed the staffer a program from our Conference and explained to her that there is hope and treatments that work. From all the people I know who know Hillary, they seem very caring. I think if I can document Michael's progress with videotape, that could make a difference.

I feel like i'm trying to save my son- but all the other kids out there. And their families.
Wish us luck. We'll probably meet with the new doctor this week.

Christine

Facts about Chelation

Sunday, July 23, 2006
Facts about Chelation
Current mood: excited

First, I want to explain exactly what chelation is:

(from the GenerationRescue.org site)

The most direct way to remove toxic metals from the body is through chelation. Chelation (key-LAY-shun) therapy is a simple process by which an agent is administered that binds to heavy metals and helps flush them from the body. Chelation is derived from the Latin "chele", or claw, as in to pinch the metal and hold it like the claws of a crab. Chelation can be given through a variety of forms (oral, transdermal, intravenous) and with a variety of chelating agents (DMPS, DMSA, EDTA, PCA-RX, NDF, Chlorella, Cilantro, Garlic, and ALA, to name some of the most common agents).

The three most widely used chelating agents are DMPS, DMSA, and EDTA. DMPS is the most effective chelator of mercury and was specifically designed for mercury removal. It has been around for more than 60 years and has been demonstrated in tens of thousands of cases to effectively remove mercury from the body. DMPS is sold over the counter in Germany, is approved by the European equivalent of the FDA (Agency for the Evaluation of Medicinal Products), and is approved by the FDA in the United States for bulk compounding purposes. The transdermal form of DMPS (TD-DMPS), which was developed in the last 5 years, is in Generation Rescue's opinion the most gentle and effective means of chelation for autistic children. Learn more at: www.tddmps.com. Many parents have also had great success treating their children with DMSA, an FDA approved chelator of lead that also binds to mercury

1. Chelation therapy is effective.

The science of chelation has been around for more than a hundred years. Chelation therapy has been proven in hundreds of thousands of clinical examples to effectively remove toxic metals from people's bodies. According to the CDC, over 60,000 Americans used some form of chelation therapy in the past year. Many major health insurers have policies endorsing chelation therapy as the appropriate therapy to address heavy metal toxicity. (See the policies of: Aetna, Blue Cross, and CIGNA as three examples.) The package warning label of Thimerosal states that in the case of overexposure, chelation therapy should be used. Recently, the National Institutes of Health launched a chelation therapy trial for adult heart disease patients which you can read about here. Furthermore, at Arizona State University, a three-month trial of chelation therapy in autistic children is beginning soon.

2. Chelation therapy is safe.

The side effects of chelation, at the dosing levels used with children, appear to be both mild and manageable. Because chelating agents also bind to minerals (they too are metals), a possible side effect is mineral depletion. This is managed through mineral "repletion" by supplementing with extra minerals. A secondary potential side effect is kidney or liver stress induced by the pace of detoxification. This is addressed by temporarily adjusting the dosage. Most doctors treating autistic children run monthly or bi-monthly lab tests to monitor for these issues.

In the FDA's Federal Register addressing the approval of DMPS as a bulk compounding agent, they note, "DMPS has been used to treat heavy metal poisoning. At doses reported in the literature for this indication, DMPS appears to be relatively nontoxic, and serious adverse reactions associated with its use have not been commonly reported."

Now go to the next blog titled "and away we go"

Autism and Parents


Sunday, July 16, 2006
Autism and Parents
Current mood: mellow

Those of you who don't have a family member with autism, this may be a bit shocking. In the last few months, there have been a couple of parents who have killed their children.

The stress and hopelessness of raising a child with autism is too much for some people to handle. Every child is different, but one of the problems is that many people with autism don't understand danger, especially small children. Many times children with autism have escaped their homes- drowned in a neighbor's pool or even froze to death. Most parents I know have a story about their child running away and almost getting hit by a car. My son has done it too, thank god only once. But, it's a constant fear.

Some children with autism easily burn themselves because they don't feel pain. Other children bang their heads. Others cut their skin with razor blades or knives. Some children punch themselves in the face. Why you ask? they are looking for sensory input. To them, it feels good. Remember that everything is done for a reason- they are looking for a certain reaction. It's not all random.

So, yesterday there was a story online about a Dad in DC who shot his son and then himself. We are still waiting for more details. But, it's never good. Many times you hear about parents asking for help and it's never enough.

Thankfully, my son, who is almost 7 and has autism, is a joy to be around- except for the occasional melt-down or escape. I can't believe that I actually feel blessed. But, I look around and see the 1 in 166 children with autism and feel the pain of their families. I hope to god these people get the help they need. Some parents and I started an Autism Conference here in NY- which I think is a positive step in the right direction. But, we need our gov't officials to take this problem seriously. It's not going to happen overnight, one step at a time. One child at a time.

Next week, hopefully, we are going to see a new doctor and start a new treatment called chelation. It's a process that takes the heavy metals out of my son and will hopefully cure his autism. cure? yes, cure. The term we use officially is "recover" or "lose the dx". I wish for my son to no longer need services and be able to live on his own. He's already happy- so we'll continue with that too.

I'm going to use this blog to document my son's progress. He's responded well to diet and suppliments, so i'm hopeful about chelation. Wish us luck!

To anyone out there who has a family member with autism- THERE IS HELP. THERE IS HOPE. THERE ARE TREATMENTS. try, try, try. Never give up! for more info visit; http://www.generationrescue.org and http://www.autismfair.com

thanks,
Christine

ps- the photo below is me with President Bill Clinton in Sept. 2006