Ready to tell my secret

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Ready to tell my secret

Topic Author: Melanie Shafer

Posted: 8:04 AM Apr 17, 2008

Replies Posted: 81 comments

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Ready to tell my secret

I'm not really sure how to start this, because the title makes it sound so Jerry Springer-something-I've-been-ashamed-of and it is not. It is something that I have spoken only to my family and closest friends about in the two plus years it's been part of my life. I have been in shock and in mourning. I have been too consumed finding a way to do what needed to be done; to be a voice to help the thousands of other moms and dads out there that are reeling from the same word: Autism. One of my precious boys has Autism, and ever since the diagnosis was given, we've been fighting to get our Jack back.

Jackson is our beautiful third child. He is blonde headed and blue eyed and enormous. My husband Terry is 6'4" tall and all my children are tall like Dad, but Jack by far is the biggest one. His babyhood was beautiful and happy. He laughed and crawled and walked at all the appropriate milestones. He played with his brothers and babbled some though hadn't really mastered much language. In a word, Jack was just yummy. A chubby , happy, delicious baby boy. Around 18 months it was harder and harder to get his attention. He stopped pulling his pacifier out to tell me "Ish, Ish, Ish" in his silly sweet way, very adamantly trying to get his point across. We celebrated his 2nd birthday in February and the slow drifting away continued. By June he wouldn't look at us without us shouting. He wouldn't answer to his own name. He had disappeared from us while still being in my arms. By August we were seeing specialists from West Virginia's Birth to Three. And by December 2005 we got that word that Jackson was like one in 90 boys today --- Jack has Autism.

We never knew much about Autism until we were living it. Terry and I have had to forge our way through the sadness and fear to find help for Jack. He is getting better everyday. I’ll be posting about our successes and struggles. I hope that by sharing my family’s journey, manys other will find encouragement, strength and hope to fight their own battle against the kidnapper of Autism.

Melanie Shafer

Posted by: matthew i like suzzanh tommey and my last name is simpson-smith by the way

Posted by: mercedes Fighting autisim my lttle brother has autisim he was diagnosed at age 1 with autisim it hurt my hole familly. I know there is still no cure i hope some day they will find what caused autisim and how to cure it mean while i will help my brother eddie fight his autisim.Me and eddie are really close my mom always says-your in his own world- love him

Posted by: Please share I am an aunt of a "yummy" blue-eyed blonde-haired boy whom I have fallen head over heels in love with. He is 20 months old and is just starting his journey with Birth to Three. We, the family, are just starting on our journey with learning everything we can to help this precious baby of ours. There are so many questions we still have - especially concerning the "diet." I assume you mean gleuten-free or something of that nature. We are trying to read up on autism diets and are so confused as to where to start. Like you, we are in severe mourning and grabbing at anything and holding on to everything that may help him. I read another msg from you about how you felt after you blogged, and I really hate to hear that, but can understand whole-heartedly. I really think that we (people living with this) could help each other. I was wondering, if you felt up to it, if you could post things that seem to be working for your son? Has the diet helped any? Have you seen any improvement?

Posted by: roberta melanie; just read your blog about your son Jackson. Your a wonderful person and may God bless you and your family at this time. Some day there will be a cure. Be stong! Love him for the special child that he is and will become.

Posted by: SHERRI Melanie, i too have a 6 year old son with severe autism and he's pretty much non verbal. He says about 5 single words like mom and bye,go . I know how it pains ur heart just longing to hear the words i love u. My son is also a BIG boy and an only child. So my time is focused on what i can do to help my son. No one truly understands what we endure as parents til they walk in our shoes. Most of the parents with autistic children live in isolation because society has been able so much as to see this as a disability as to an unruly child. My son was diagnosed by the time he was 3 and it has been a battle ever since. Im sure as u know by now, it seems as though we r constantly put on a waiting list for services, sometimes for 2 or more years. What i dont understand is, If time is the of the essence with our children with this disorder, then y should we have to sit and wait. It's ridiculous and heart breaking. But i will not give up and i will be praying for ur family as well. God Bless You

Posted by: Tammy Melanie, Just wanted to say hi,I watch you every morning,love ya. I just wanted to say even though my little boy is healthy, It breaks my heart, to hear about your little loved one, I know a boy that is Autism at my child's school, and he breaks my heart my thoughts and prays are with you and your family.Just pray because God is the only answer to our prays. Tammy...

Posted by: lynne Melanie, I would like to say "God Bless" your family! While I do not have a child with autism, I do have a child with "special needs" and I think they are called special for a reason! Though they may require a little more attention or time, the love they give back is more than I could ever have imagined. My daughter is almost 17 now and may always live with me, no problem, because God always gives us what we need when he blesses us with our children. Best of luck and look forward to hearing more triumphs along the journey!

Posted by: Kygal Sometimes I ask why. Then I try to look at the person. I can't think of anyone better suited to care for a child with autism. Please don't misunderstand. I don't mean that you deserve a child with autism. I think you are a great mother and I think you and your husband would do whatever necessary to address this issue for your child. I also think that you and your husband would be glad to help others in the same situation. If your husband is as handsome as you are beautiful, it is no wonder that you have such beautiful children(what I have seen on TV. As someoneelse said, it would be expected for you to hide this. But what do you do, you share this with the general public so people in a similiar situation will know they are not the only ones going thru this. I am a HUGE amount of admiration for you. Thank you for sharing.

Posted by: M Melanie, most "famous people" would want to hide something like this and for you to come out and tell your story tells alot I think. You are never alone and God Bless You.

Posted by: Jamie Martin Melanie, God bless you and your family. With all the research going on at this time hope is just a minute away. Lets all keep fighting and praying for this cure/treatment etc. My sister works with autistic adults and I have met a few of her clients. Things are changing for the best we just have to keep fighting!!!!

Posted by: nancy melanie,I have a nephew who is autistic,he has been thru so much in his 10 yrs of life.he was also daignosed with cerebral palsy,he is also suppose to be retarded,legally blind and legally deaf.he hears you with a delay and he sees you,he is far from being retarded,he will say anything you ask him to.he's very loving,he has had several surgeries for hopes he will walk.he goes to therapy at the same place you take your son,so melanie walk over and speak to coty,he would love that,thank you.there's nothing to be ashamed of with kids,THEY ARE SPECIAL!

Posted by: Proud Mom Melanie, My son (age 9), saw you at the WSAZ home and garden show and he wanted his photo taken with you. You graciously consented and that pleased him more than then displays at the show. For my son, with autism, we come to the Home and Garden show to see the WSAZ crew - not the displays. You will discover that autistic kids have idiosyncrasies and what thrills them (and what holds their attention), is so different than other kids. My son was playing in the Habitat for Humanity Play house with your sons - you may have noticed that he played beside them rather than with them. That "hut" was so small and like Jack, my son is a big boy, so what a crowd that made! Please know that you are not alone - many of us have "been there, done that", and still are doing it. Like you, I'm also not keeping it a secret, however, I'm still not the most verbal revealer of the diagnosis - not because of shame, but because I want my son treated like others. The "label" should not disable them.

Posted by: KD My 11 year old nephew is also autistic. I had to smile when you described your son because my nephew is also BIG, blond hair and blue eyed (the most gorgeous blue eyes in the world I might add). At first the family was in shock and even denial...but he has become such an important, wonderful and amazing young man, and we all feel blessed to have him in our lives. I'm sure Jack, being the wonderfully sweet and precious little boy he is will be a blessing to the many he will come in contact with in the years to come. God bless.

Posted by: Angie Melanie, you are such an amazing person and friend. I know that your heart hurts and we try our best to say the right words at the right times but sometimes we ourselves are speachless due to the lack of knowledge on our part. You are a fabulous mother and don't ever let yourself think otherwise. Jack has come so far and I know he will continue to progress! You have the ability to bring this diagnosis to the forefront and share your experiences with others who are confronted with the same issues. You have five beautiful children and all they ask for is your love and there is no doubt that you give them all that you have!! This goes out to you from all of your scrappin' buddies "WE LOVE YOU!!"

Posted by: Anonymous My god bless your family, and know that you are not alone...we all have a story or two to tell but we were given these special children for a reason...he knew we could handle them...thanks for telling your story...Denise

Posted by: JM God bless your family, Jack is lucky enough to have a loving family who will seek the help he needs. And again blessed to have parents in newcast to get the word out, and clear up the myths about this disease.

Posted by: Margaret I'm 67 years old. When I was 13 yrs. my Mother gave birth to a little girl. Up until that time I was an only child. I was so happy to have a little sister. When she was 6 mo. old, she was given her 3-1 vaccination. Tetnus, Diptheria, Whooping cough. That night she had a temp of 104 and gradually, was never the same. She could no longer sit up and she lost the "light" in her eyes. After many Dr. and errors, a childrens hospital determined she had had a reaction to the 3-1 shot. She never walked, talked and she took nourishment in a baby bottle. With my Mom's loving care, she lived to be 13 years old. When I see kids like your Jack now, I'm always reminded of Janie and think how lucky they are that they have the new technology and medicine and indeed, the diagnosis of Autism. I know it's hard, but be thankful for what you have.....as my Mom always said, "it could always be worse." Good luck and God Bless

Posted by: patsy Melanie, I have a special Grandson who is my best buddy in the World who has Autism, who will soon be five. Your story is so much like our family and many others. I will keep thoughts of Jack and your family close in heart. May God give us strength. For he has given me much LOVE for a little boy named Hayden, my Grandson.

Posted by: Karen Melanie,Please think...what are my hopes and goals for him when he is five, when he is a fifth grader, even when he graduates! Examine the goals reached by other students and then get to work. Set your own short term goals which have a definite purpose...to reach each of your long term goals. For example: I want Johnny to say Hi_____ and Bye______(putting in name is best) consistently by age 3 or 4 or 5. Then get to work! Every time the opp presents, you and EVERYONE practice this goal. Imagine how this goal feeds into social skill goals for fifth graders and even seniors in high school! So, begin with the end in mind. If you want certain goals reached, break them down and develop the milestones to get to the goal. You can do it! Lastly, realize not some, but many days, you will drop the ball, lose consistency, get discouraged, be sick, sad and/or not ABLE to try as hard. Pray hard, call a friend, pat yourself for all the miraculous work you've done, and do what comes next!

Posted by: Autism Proj of So OH Melanie and others: I am President of our group of 75 members..over 3/4 of them are parents of kids with autism. Some of us are joining the march in Washington DC. Please go to and learn www.generationrescue.com and contact me if you want to go with us. Wendy 740-259-0055. We are a big family you know...pulled together not by blood, but by something so much more stronger--AUTISM. The power of love is so much stronger when you have a child with autism--we become like a lioness...join us. We only have 52 seats, one of them could be yours. We need media coverage beyond imagination!

Posted by: SLL Melanie, The battle will seem hard and long at times. The questions in your heart will not always be answered. Sometimes, life will seem like a roller coaster ride that you would like to get off of but will never stop. However, in time, life seems to be brought into perspective in a way that you have never been able to see before. You can reach a point of peace and acceptance that leads to a different perspective. I will keep you and your family in my prayers. May God bless you and give you the strength you need.

Posted by: Brenda Melanie, my son married a wonderful woman 4 yrs. ago this May. She has two beautiful sons by a previous marriage. Both sons have autism. The first time my son met them the youngest one came over and sat down beside him and smiled, that is all it took. My son bonded with those two boys almost immediately. My daughter-in-law said that was something these boys had not done before. My two grandsons are very special and very precious just as your Jack is. I know some of what you have been going through and I will keep you, Jack and you family in my prayers. May God bless you and that very special child He placed in your care.

Posted by: Rhonda Melanie, You have just told my family's story. Our grandson was getting ready to turn two and gradually lost the thirty words he knew and drifted away from us emotionally. Thank God we got Birth to Three to intervene right away but we were in denial. We have finally accepted the diagnosis but we are taking him to different doctors in search of a biomedical treatment that will cure him or at least make things better. And most importantly, we continue to pray as we will for your precious Jack. The Burcham Family

Posted by: Amber Melanie, it was a huge decison to share something so personal, especially when it involves your child. One thing is certain the best thing for any child, is a loving and stable family, this is especially true for little ones who may need a little more attention. God only gives you what you can handle and you must be so special to have been chosen to be Jacks mom. He's a lucky little boy to have you in his life. I hope nothing but happiness comes your way.

Posted by: walker... the walk for autism yesterday in gallipolis raised over 20,000. research is getting better and more advanced.

Posted by: Anonymous That sweet yummy boy is just were it needs to be - -With the Loving Schafer family

Posted by: Pam Church Melanie, thank you for allowing Jacks's story to be told, thank you for sharing your heartache and heartbreak, as a mom of an autistic child its the worse thing we can face but also the most rewarding. Fight autisim with love ,compasion, dont give in , I have a saying about my daughter"my child has autisim,but autisim doesn't have my child." These children with autisim is a special gift, and its up to us as parents to fight for them. but please remember Autisim is not a curse but a challenge that takes over if we let it, fight it combat it and Jack will be back as my daughter has. I pretended to be autistic and after 6 months i slowly came"out" of it and brought her with me every time.and after 5 years of doctors shes nothing and will be nothing I heard "mommom i wuv you" autisim can be defeated with proper help, also remember Autistic children are genius's.LOVE UNDERSTAND AND PATIENCES' ARE THE KEYS God Bless, my prayers to you and your family.

Posted by: Laura Melanie - Jack is still yummy! He has forever touched my heart and life.

Posted by: PAM Melanie, I have a 6 yr. old daughter (Sarah) who has Autism. I understand the struggles that you are going though. Everyday is an emotional roller coaster but hang in there because there is nothing like hearing Mommy & I love you for the first time. These are milestones we never thought we would hear. It will break your heart when you hear these words for the first time. We think Sarah is a blessing from God & would not change her for anything. Do not let anyone put restrictions on Jackson because his progress will amaze you. We also laugh at Sarah because she is so smart she just has to communicate in her own way. There are alot of struggles but the rewards far outweigh those struggles. Sarah makes us laugh & enjoy the simple things in life that we are missing. You can be such a blessing & have an amazing impact for families dealing with Autism with this blog. Thanks for sharing your secret.

Posted by: Carmellla Melanie, My husband and I have a grandson with Autism as well. with his case he can't eat food unless it's blended up, he's 3 years old and still can't enjoy a happy meal or anything like that unless it's baby food. he's in therepy to help him learn to eat he's learning to talk more as time goes by to he couldn't talk for the longest time. so just stay strong and God Bless you and your family.

Posted by: Anonymous Melanie I read about your story and i am so sorry to hear about your son. Please just love him for ever for who he is and god bless you and your family

Posted by: Hilary Mealnie, I believe that you and Jack will be an inspiration to many families who include childern with autism. Increased awareness will help to find a permanent solution to autism. Your family will be in my prayers, and I am sure you will find much love and support as you help Jack to grow into his full potential. I watch you every day and you seem like such a wonderful person and mom. I always wonder "how does she do it"? By the way, Jack has always been my favorite name for a boy. Keep us updated on Jack's progress!

Posted by: Anonymous I fill sorry Melanie and Jessica Ralston

Posted by: Becky Melanie, I am so proud of you for sharing this! I know it was very hard but you have taken a huge step for Jack and your family. I am glad I get to be a part of your life and Jack's life and look forward to helping you guys in any way I can. You have a wonderful family!

Posted by: GrammaKnows Giving my grandson a healthy body has begun to lift away the symptoms of his autism. No longrer is he silent. He speaks, tells us he loves us, reads, uses the computer, plays with toys and fights with his brother. It has made the world of difference. No one can claim what we are doing for him is bad for him, or was the wrong thing to do, because now he doesn't have pain. He can't get enough of exploring the world he couldn't reach while autism was between him and the world. Your boy is there - that sweet yummy boy is behind the veil of autism. Check into the organizations I posted - they are the roadmap to helping him come back to you again. Trust me...Gramma really does Know.

Posted by: GrammaKnows MElanie - the best possible outcomes for your son are available through biomedical interventions. Someone in your are is with a group called TACA, and readily available is information online from TACA (Talk About Curing Autism) and the Autism Research Institute. My son is now 32. He wasn't diagnosed until age 29. He, too, was a "yummy, precious child" who lit up the room. Now that I have a grandson who was diagnosed with severe autism, I know what happened to my "yummy" boy. My "severely autistic" grandson is recovering from the myriad of medical issues that underly the symptoms of autism. My son, smart, funny, still almost took himself from this world because the pain he lived with was too much. Fortunately, we have been able to help him as well...even a verbal and smart child with autism faces a lifetime of challenge that is often not happy. "Doing fine" is a relative term for an adult with autism. Loving your child includes making the effort to give him a healthy body.

Posted by: Cristi I ran today for Autism and It was great. I came in close to last but thought about you and a couple of my friends whos children have Autism everytime I wanted to just quit. It was so worth the soreness Im feeling right now! lol...I feel as good as I feel sore though. So worth it!

Posted by: Tanya Please don't be ashamed and keep fighting. Jack is in there as you know he is. Just keep on loving your baby !!!!!

Posted by: Betty I was told by son might be Autistic before he was 1 year old. I am blessed to have him as my child. We have been through this together as well as his grandpaw and grandmaw and family. Wayne County school has been a tremendious help in his education. My son has had many obsticals and still has them.With Gods help and others we are doing good. I don't know what his future holds, but we are in it together. With Gods help. God will help us through it. There is help for your child. Autism Service Center in Huntington. They are super. Remember to pray. Love Betty

Posted by: One more mom Love your son for who he is. This was our best advice. He may never be "normal" but we wouldn't want him that way anyhow. Our son is bright and funny, and teaches us a new perspective. Our child does not have a disability or a special need he is just a different child, just like we are different people. He sees things I never will and vice versa. Embrace the person you have been given the opportunity to raise and enjoy learning about life in a new way. Once you get through the shock, the anger, and then the sadness you will realize you are just a parent with another child to love.

Posted by: Kathy I have a very special cousin Alex who has autism. I can say this that early detection and intense therapy do work miracles. Alex is a very, bright happy 9 year old. He may be out of touch at times but he is so special and completely adorable. Its truly a blessing to see him reach milestones that years ago would have been unattainable. I know you will have days when you will feel so tired and heartbroken but NEVER give up keep reaching believe in miracles they do happen. God Bless You and your beautiful family.

Posted by: Courtney There are few things more heartbreaking than autism. But remember God gives the special children to the most special mothers! We are the chosen ones---the ones going to battle day in and day out against the big hole that autism has ripped in their futures. At least this is what I tell myself on my good days :) Jack is so lucky to have his brothers and sister fighting for him too!

Posted by: TYLER'S PROUD MAMA IF IT WAS JUST AS SIMPLE AS AUTISM-MY SON HAS DOWN SYNDROME AND AUTISM. I PREFER TO REFER TO HIM AS TYLER, MY SON, WHO HAPPENS TO BE AUTISTIC AND HAS DOWN SYNDROME. BUT I THINK IT'S PRETTY OBVIOUS TO ANYONE WHO MEETS HIM. NOTHING KIDNAPPED HIM OR STOLE HIM AWAY FROM ME-HE IS TYLER-NO SECRETS. BORN TO US AS GOD MADE HIM TO BE. HE IS A FUNCTIONING MEMBER OF SOCIETY, AT SCHOOL, AT WALMART, AT CHURCH, AT ALL OF HIS BROTHER'S BASKETBALL AND BASEBALL GAMES-OUT IN THE WORLD LIKE ANYOTHER "NORMAL" 11 YEAR OLD BOY WOULD BE. WHEN TYLER WAS BORN, HE HAD RIPPED A HEART VALVE FROM THE LONG LABOR AND WE HAD TO SEE DR. HEYDARIAN. AS I WAS LEAVING ONE OF MY APPOINTMENTS, HE PATTED ME ON THE ARM AND SAID, "MOM, JUST GO HOME AND RAISE HIM NORMAL." BEST ADVICE I EVER RECEIVED. AND THAT'S ALL I'VE EVER DONE SINCE.

Posted by: Trish Melanie, So glad you are sharing your secret. I work with children like your Jack. Let me tell you something, It is one of the most rewarding jobs in the world. You will be amazed at what Jack will do and what he can learn. One of my students is now 14 years old, I have been with him since kindergarten and he just totally amazes me! He reads, talks, plays computer games, but most fo all he enjoys laughing at jokes and laughs when we do silly things together. He is wonderfuland your Jack will be wonderful too.

Posted by: Amanda Melanie--you're an amazing friend and mom. Jack and the rest of the crew are blessed to have you. I have ALWAYS admired you, no matter what you're doing. Jack has the BEST parents anyone could ask for!

Posted by: Marg I work with an autistic child. He can be trying at times, but the love he has for everyone he meets is enormus. I thank God every day for bringing us together. My prayers are with your family. God has placed him in a safe and loving home.

Posted by: Alberta Hello Melanie. I have a son that is getting ready to turn 12 years old in June.. He has autism.. He is so special to me.. All my children are special but I feel blessed to have such a talented son.. I understand were you are coming from..My family is also in this battle against the monster of Autism... I will keep your family in my prayers...

Posted by: k Jack is a special little boy. Just love him!!

Posted by: MICHELLE No matter what goes on with our children, we will always love them. We will always have struggles no matter if they have an illness or not. God will only give us what we can handle. My thoughts are with you and Terry and your other children. Stay strong and always look above for strength.

Posted by: Hel I agree with Brandy that the Birth to Three program is important and we need to make sure it is funded. As a person on the autism spectrum myself, though, it is strange to hear autism called a "silent monster that gets a hold of our children." Autism isn't a monster that comes and takes kids away - autism is a *part* of each autistic person. I'm doing fine, I'm married with children, a full-time job and I'm working on my college degree. Every day I notice things I would not notice if I didn't have autism. I'm a part of the world too. I don't think it's a problem that I am "different" - that's how I was created.

Posted by: Pamela A. McCall If God brings you to it he will bring you through it. This is my motto and he has gotten me through so much. My prayers are with you and your family. Be Blessed, Pam

Posted by: Sue Previous comment submitted.

Posted by: Sue After the initial shock - which I am sure was very heart breaking- ane now - the treatment you have found to help Jack will help heal your hearts. I have a brother who is mentally challenged. When we were children there wasn't schools, etc. to help my prarents deal with his disabilities. My prarents were told to put him in a mental institution. We (the other children) have always accepted him and have never treated him any different. If you can imagine - the joy he has brought us and those he meets is unreal. After I married and had my first child - I understood why God had entrusted him to our family. Yes - there were times I'm sure my Mother & Father did not understand - but they never questioned or faltered - God knows exactly what he is doing and rest assured he does "not make mistakes"!! We will pray for you and your family. Prayer, family, and friends are the key to help you through this difficult time. There are so many, many, blessings awaiting you!!!!

Posted by: Brandy Melanie, I was so saddened when I read this blog. I have watched you throughout th years and loved hearing info on all your pregnancies and deliveries. I have often remarked how amazed I am that you are able to have such a successful career and be a wonderful mother to your children. I know Jack will be fine with you and your husband fighting for him. Maybe you can use your media access to lobby for further research for this silent monster that gets a hold of our children and also to lobby state government to do whatever is needed to keep the Birth to Three program going strong. God bless you, your family and especially Jack.

Posted by: Goldie MELANIE: MY HEART AND PRAYERS GOES OUT TO YOU.I TOO HAVE A SPECIAL CHILD, SHE DOESN'T HAVE AUTISM, BUT SHE HAS SEIZURES, WHICH HAS LEFT HER MILDLY MENTALLY CHALLENGED. I FEEL VERY LUCKY I HAVE HAD HER NOW ON APRIL 29, THIRTY NINE YEARS. HERE IS HOW I FEEL ABOUT HER. I FEEL VERY SPECIAL THAT GOD WOULD TRUST ME WITH THIS VERY SPECIAL CHILD. SO I THINK GOD CHOSE YOU, BECAUSE HE KNEW YOU GUYS ARE VERY SPECIAL PARENTS. AND YOU ARE VERY BLESSED. MY PRAYERS WILL BE WITH YOU AND YOUR VERY SPECIAL CHILD.

Posted by: Karen Melanie, you and Jackson are in my thoughts and prayers. I know that God sent that precious child to you because He knew that you could handle it. From one Gator to another!

Posted by: Jan Melanie, My grandson Jake (age 14) has a form of autism, he is strong and healthy and a joy in our lives. Somedays are challenging, but each is a special gift. Cherish him.

Posted by: Terri Melanie, please remember that our thoughts and prayers are with you as you travel this difficult journey with your son.

Posted by: TIm I as well have 2 sons diagnosed w/autism,so i can relate to your story also reminder to everyone April is National Autism Month.Take care

Posted by: Stephanie Your family is in my thoughts and prayers. Just give him all the love in the world and everything will work out.

Posted by: brenda Thanks for sharing.My prayers are with you and your family. Love is the most important thing for Jack and it sounds as if he has lots. From-----Brenda and Cindy at Prestera Center for Mental Health.

Posted by: Brenda God be with you, Melanie. The increase in autistic children is alarming. We must put more resources into discovering causes and cures. I hope it's soon and will benefit your family.

Posted by: Anne Melanie and family: I will keep you all in my prayers. Your children are all so beautiful. I have great hope that Jack will thrive in an environment such as the one that you and your husband, family, friends, etc. will provide.

Posted by: Daughter with CP Melanie,first i want to say that my prayers are wit hyou and ur family.I have a bit of experience with Autism and it is a hard and challenging thing,having a child with any disability is hard and stressful I know cause my daughter has CP but just have faith in the lord and he will get you through. My daughter is 11 now and with out him I couldnt have made it this far

Posted by: Mel Fan I watch you nearly every morning. Anyone can see how much you love your kids. Jack is lucky to have you for a mom. It really doesn't matter to a mother what condition her baby has. Her love can conquer anything.

Posted by: Mommy Finding out a child has autism may be difficult, but in the end it turns out being okay. Autism is just part of who they are, a turn in the road that can lead to wonderful things.

Posted by: Carrie Melanie--Jack IS improving by leaps and bounds everyday! Gabbie and Jack's entire preschool class have enjoyed his company and bright smile! I'm so glad your secret is out. God has blessed you to be a powerful voice for Autism to not only encourage the many other families out there fighting the same battle, but to also motivate others to join the fight. Together, we can beat Autism. Way to go Melanie! We love you! Many contiued prayers to you and your family!

Posted by: d k and the trio We love you and Jack so much, stay strong like you always are. Kara and I have always admired you and Terry.

Posted by: Jen My daughter, now almost 12 years old, has Autism. She is unique and wonderful, an active Girl Scout, interested in learning about history and taking care of animals. Autism is part of who she is and always will be. Autism is not a kidnapper of children; she's still here, she lives with me, she's a part of our family and nothing has taken her away. Autism is part of our family. There are challenges, but also strengths. After my daughter's diagnosis with Autism, I was diagnosed with Asperger Syndrome and we have found that others in the family have traits of autism. People with autism, by thinking and understanding the world differently, have come up with many innovations - in science, math, music, a wide variety of fields - that would not have been discovered without them (and their autism is part of them.) Autism is part of the diversity of human beings and diversity helps us survive. It's okay, and it's going to be okay. Your son is a boy with autism, he's still your son.

Posted by: Amy How fortunate your son is to be in a loving family such as yours. Autism is difficult and heartbreaking, but, in a family like yours, I know your son will thrive. Good luck, and I am praying for you.

Posted by: Allie Melanie, When JD was 3 he was diagnosed with Autism as well. He is now on some medication and is excelling in Kindergarten. He had been in the Birth23 program since he was 6 weeks old, because of sissy, and I believe that helped him. I remember Jack as a baby and had no idea really about his Autism. I do understand your frustration and where you are with this. I will continue to pray for you and your family.

Posted by: Anna Melanie...I was so touched by reading your blog. I,too, have a son with autism and I have felt all the emotions you felt too. Thank you for sharing your story with all of us, the more people are aware the more we can fight to beat it! God bless you and your precious son. You are in my thoughts and prayers!

Posted by: Belvenina Melanie, imagine going thru what you are, without the help of the Birth to Three program..... The therapists that will help you thru so many hard times are not getting paid. My daughter was born without the lower portion of her left arm, and I don't know what I would have done without them! Hopefully, you can use your position in the media in order to push for these caring people to get paid what they are worth!

Posted by: Citizne I will pray for yoru family and yoru son I couldnt imagine hwo nervouse you must be, I am only twenty, but I knwo if I had a child and had to deal with that I would be a nervous wreck, its great your being string for your son...your family is my heart and prayers...goodluck with everything!

Posted by: Diana Melanie, your tv family has watched you since before Mr. tall Terry proposed during the torch relay--and we've cheered for you in your faithfullness to Motherhood. Remeber that the good Lord above will never give us more than we can bear--he gives us just what we need--when we need it. Blessings on your family--and maybe God placed that darling Jackson exactly where he needed to be to get the upbringing he needed. Keep the faith and keep on keeping on.

Posted by: Cristi I just wanted to let you know that you, Jack and the rest of the Family are in my thoughts and prayers. Try to keep up the positive thinking and speaking. That in my opinion will go along way toward his healing. Keep us updated on his progress.

Posted by: Mom Thank you for sharing. My four year old daughter was diagnosed in December 2007. We are still feeling our way through autism. Sometimes prayer and tears is what gets you through. I'd love to hear if you have found any good treatments. My daughter has big beautiful blue eyes too and is very tall for her age. Thanks again for sharing.

Posted by: Jessica Ralston Melanie, It melted my heart to read this because I had no idea. My 4 year old nephew Connor also has Autism. He was showing signs of improvement but now his teachers are telling my sister-in-law that he is regressing, so it's beyond frustrating. He can speak a little bit, but has trouble making eye contact and communicating directly. But we love him with all of our hearts and are hoping that he'll get back on track. I will keep Jack in my prayers.

Posted by: Penny Melanie... that sweet yummy boy is just where he needs to be -- with a big loving family who will fight for him with all you have. Much, much love.

Posted by: Debbie Melanie I emailed you the article

Posted by: Debbie Melanie, log on to wave3.com and go to the bottom of the screen under health reports!! There is a new and promising treatment being developed by U of L researchers. It's in trial stages now and does appear to be helping, they say especially with Aspergers, a form of autism. My nephew has that and I just informed his mom about it. she too is fighting the fight. Best of luck to you and Jack and the whole family, because it really affects everyone involved.