National Autism Association NAA New York Metro Chapter

Top Ten Ways to Maximize Reimbursements for Autism Therapies by Jodi Bouer, Esq.

2012-01-30T13:19:00.005-05:00

Jodi Bouer, Esq. has a practice in Princeton, NJ dedicated to obtaining medical insurance reimbursement and coverage for autism related therapies and treatments. She spoke to our group on Thursday, January 26th at the Rebecca School.

Here is her top 10 list:
1. Get copy of your policy - the 150 pager, not the summary HR gives you!
2. Read it! (oy!)
3. Don't believe anything the insurance company says - check your policy
4. Know which law applies - which state law applies
5. Make claims on a timely basis
6. Support your claim - proper documents
7. Make your appeals timely and per the insurance contract (the policy)
8. Use the right codes
9. Make sure your providers are qualified - have the right licenses, degrees, etc.
10. Be organized and relentless - we autism warriors are all relentless!!!

Here is a link to her full Power Point presentation. Bouer Law Top Ten Ways to Maximize Reimbursements for Autism Therapy

Lots of good information here!

NAA-NY Metro Holiday Party - Honoring Our Friends and Supporters and Having Fun!

2011-12-08T11:14:00.019-05:00

Last night the NAA - New York Metro Chapter hosted our annual holiday party. I think it is safe to say that a good time was had by all! The party is an opportunity for us to bring together the many people who, in so many ways, have helped NAA NY Metro throughout the year. I wish that the party could have lasted all night so that I could have had more time to chat with everyone!

A very special thanks to our friends and supporters whose dedication to our Chapter made 2011 a great year. We look forward to more great things in 2012!

As the Dalai Lama says, “When you practice gratefulness there is a sense of respect toward others.” In that spirit, I am so grateful for all those who work so hard to make NAA - NY Metro the success that it is and I respect and appreciate the time, energy, creativity, and giving of self that so many undertake to help this cause. This chapter would not be what it is without each of you – NAA-NYM is a true team effort.

Last night we did not get the chance to personally honor all our speakers and others who collaborated with us this past year and want to acknowledge each of you here. It humbles me that each of you gives so much of yourself to help our organization. I cannot thank you enough. Our 2011 luminaries attending last night included:

A special thanks to Jill Hopler of Your Personal Foodie for the amazing spread (and to Board Member Kirstin Boncher too!) – the food was incredible. Thanks too to Katz Gluten Free for their donation of yummy fruit pies and rugalech.

Thank you also to our many friends – both long-time friends and new ones - who came last night to share and celebrate with us. We so appreciate each one of you and we look forward to many exciting new collaborations in 2012.

I particularly want to thank the Officers and Board Members for a fabulous 2011. Last night was a chance to loosen up and have fun – and for each of you it is well-deserved. What a team - your dedication to NAA-NYM is inspiring. Thank you Peggy, Lisa, Sabeeha, Khalid, Stuart, Kirstin, Kathleen, Mary, Katie, Dara, Amy! Our committee members, volunteers and NAAvigators (parent mentors) are amazing – the work they do is critical to the success of NAA-NYM and, most importantly, to helping families and others whose lives have been touched by autism.

Thanks to our set up crew who made the room beautiful, set up the delicious buffet, and provided good company during the process – Janice, Dara, Lisa, Mark, Jill, Kirstin, Selma - and our clean up crew - including balloon poppers Albert and Mark!

Last night we recognized our former President (and current Officer-at-Large) Sabeeha Rehman and our Advocacy Chair, Khalid Rehman, for their dedication to NAA NY Metro. We have named a $1000 grant in their honor and Sabeeha and Khalid will direct us on how to apply the grant to further NAA NY Metro’s mission. Here is a video clip of the presentation:

SAFE AND HAPPY HOLIDAYS TO ALL!

Kim Mack Rosenberg
President, NAA - New York Metro Chapter

October 5, 2011: Vaccine Epidemic Book Talk and Discussion

2011-10-18T21:19:00.006-04:00

On October 5, 2011, Mary Holland and Kim Mack Rosenberg, co-editor and contributing editor, respectively, of the book Vaccine Epidemic presented a number of key points from the book on law, science and issues in the debate surrounding vaccine choice and led a lively discussion. N. Chin, a parent who attended the Vaccine Epidemic talk, contributed her impressions:

I have continued to seek knowledge about root causes after my son regressed due to vaccines. The book Vaccine Epidemic contains many revelations about how vaccine safety remains a low priority by those who manufacture vaccines and control immunization policy. I welcomed the opportunity to meet with like-minded parents and professionals for a book discussion on Oct 5.

I will focus on the open discussions following the presentations and the goal of knocking down this 'house of cards' as Mary described. She said it has to be through the legal system and as a human rights issue. Others that evening mentioned how results of objective studies will change opinion.

I have to agree with Mary about affecting change through the legal system. Unless these studies receive air time equivalent to what teens see on MTV with HPV/Gardisil ads, or parents see in Parenting magazine, it is indeed extremely difficult to combat long-held beliefs that vaccines are as natural as “mother's milk.” It is clear that Big Pharma can outspend us and squash the most logical and compelling of studies.

We need to help find legal avenues and budget to knock down this house of cards.
One way is to support the Center for Personal Rights. They mentioned organizing with civil rights organizations as well. I plan to see if a couple of my contacts in DC can offer ideas. If we take the time to check our contacts and make some phone calls, we may just get there.

I wish to end on a hopeful note.

In the book, there is a letter by Dr. Francis Moore, who was a very prominent surgeon at Harvard Medical School. If someone as mainstream as Dr. Moore can be convinced of ill-conceived policy, then I remain hopeful that human reason will prevail.

Evaluation, Education and Treatment for Your ASD Child

2011-10-13T13:10:00.009-04:00

On Thursday, October 6, 2011, Staten Island parents and professionals were fortunate to hear from a trio of experts on navigating the complex world of helping your child with ASD get the treatments, education and services they need. Dr. Mark Freilich, a developmental pediatrician, Sarah Birnbaum of NY Special Needs Support, a parent advocate and special education advisor, and Geri Brewster, RD, MPH, CDN, a nutritionist specializing in treating children with autism and related disorders, joined forces to present a comprehensive overview of options to consider for your child.

Many parents in attendance had never encountered a developmental pediatrician and Dr. Freilich explained the important role a developmental pediatrician can play in determining the appropriate types and amounts of therapies, the appropriate type of school program and the appropriate medical and biomedical interventions for your child. A developmental pediatrician can help form and/or work with the multi-disciplinary "team" of professionals your child likely will need. In his practice, Dr. Freilich observes the child in relevant settings (school, home, therapists, play group etc.) to get a holistic picture of a child, since children may be very different in different situations or with different people. This helps him to formulate a comprehensive assessment and series of recommendations that are child-specific.

Sarah addressed finding an appropriate placement for your child and the right to FAPE, a "free and appropriate public education." She addressed parents' rights both with respect to public and private school education options and discussed educational choices parents have to make - including where to live and where to send their children to school and, if private school is the appropriate placement for a child, funding issues. She also discussed parents' due process rights. Like Dr. Freilich, she reiterated that what is appropriate is different for each child and that you, as a parent, perhaps with the help of an advocate or lawyer, are the best person to fight for what your child needs. Sarah's explanation of parents' rights - especially the right to seek what your child needs, not merely what is offered, regardless of whether or not it is appropriate for your child, was an important and empowering take home message for parents.

Geri discussed the importance of a solid nutritional foundation to development and to education. A solid nutritional program can make a child feel better, can improve behavior and attention, and for some children even improve the core symptoms of autism -- therefore making the child more available for learning. She discussed that many children benefit from a gluten-free, casein-free (and often soy-free) diet. Parents likely will see changes most rapidly in removing casein, which leaves the system in a matter of weeks. Gluten takes many months to clear and parents must be patient while trying the gluten free diet before determining if the diet is helping their child. She also discussed that there are many other diets that may be appropriate for specific children and that, based on a child's needs, supplements may also prove beneficial. She noted that an excellent first step - even for those who may not need or be able to follow a special diet - is to clean up the diet, remove junk food and artificial colors/flavors/sweeteners, eat whole foods (not processed) and choose organic when possible, eat grass-fed and grass-finished meats, which have a better nutritional profile, avoid products from animals given a regular diet of hormones/antibiotics.

The trio of panelists provided important information and showed how medical/developmental, educational and nutritional/biomedical pieces of the puzzle work together synergistically to help improve children's outcomes.

Dr. Theoharides on the Science & Treatment of Neuroinflammation

2011-10-06T10:39:00.002-04:00

Dr. Theoharis Theoharides presented two lectures to NAA NY Metro audiences - on September 8, 2011 at Beth Israel Hospital in Manhattan and on September 9, 2011 at the Westchester ARC - targeted to both parents and professionals. He discussed his research concerning neuroinflammation, mast cells and autism, and discussed a practical treatment option. The NYC and Westchester events were well attended and appreciated by all. The Westchester site also included a Webinar which was well received. There was a long Q&A period during which parents and professionals gained a deeper understanding of Dr. Theoharides’s work and contribution to autism.

Dr. Theoharides described how children with autism often present with auto-antibodies against brain proteins, gastrointestinal problems, “allergies” and fatigue, implying a neuro-immuno-endocrine problem. His recent research has shown that mast cells (immune cells typically known for causing allergic reactions and which serve as “sensors” of environmental cell damage) can be activated by environmental, infectious and stress triggers that lead to disruption of the gut-blood-brain barriers.

He also discussed how one mast cell trigger, neurotensin, was shown to be elevated in the serum of young children with autism. Mast cell activation during pregnancy or prenatally, in response to allergic or non-immune triggers, could disrupt the gut-blood-brain barriers and permit neuro toxic molecules to enter the brain, and result in brain inflammation. Through his research, Dr. Theoharides has shown that the natural flavonoids, Quercetin and Luteolin (found in the supplement NeuroProtek) can block these processes.

With so many children on the spectrum struggling with neuroinflammation, it is helpful to understand both the science behind the causes of neuroinflammation and the treatment options.

Dr. Andrew Levinson Brings Hope and Healing to Families

2011-10-04T07:34:00.003-04:00

On September 21, 2011 Dr. Andrew Levinson (pictured at left with NAA NYM Program Committee Co-Chair Dara Berger and President/Program Committee Co-Chair Kim Mack Rosenberg), presented to parents and professionals about his holistic approach to treating not only children with autism but the entire family. He blended biomedical treatment information with insightful, spiritual guidance in a unique approach. He first discussed that children with ASD have many physical ailments including: immune dysfunction, brain inflammation toxicity, metabolic and mitochondrial dysfunction, and gastrointestinal pathology. As a result they are sensitive to many things including change, environmental stimuli, environmental toxins. He mentioned the need to be aware of contmination of municipal water supplies, fish, other foods (including stevia); electro-smog. He spoke knowledgeably about many different biomedical treatment protocols and how different protocols can help children but the most unique aspect of his presentation was the focus on family wellness.

First, on a very practical level, he said that parents should have an honest talk with their doctors about what they can afford to spend on treatment, reminding parents that they need money to live on and to spend on other family members. By being honest, you enable your doctor to devise the best protocol for your budget. You need a team approach and a doctor you can trust.

He spoke about the harm that stress can cause physically and emotionally in a family and how it impacts all family members. Therefore, you need to find ways to alleviate stress. If you are less physically well, you have less energy available to direct toward healing ("You cannot pour from an empty pitcher"). He also reminded parents that ignoring other members of the household is not healthy. Positive family dynamics are important for a better outcome. He encouraged people to find something that enjoy doing - especially something physical, creative or meditative - reminding us that "you have to be a human being" and that children model our behavior so we have to show them healthy behaviors.

He also encouraged parent to seek help from a trusted source if they are struggling. He quoted: "It is only in darkness, that light can be mistaken for nothing else." He encouraged those who have a spiritual belief system to have faith and to pray and reminded us that, for everyone (whether they have a spiritual belief system or not), joy and positive intention can be very powerful. The mind is a powerful tool in healing. He stated that we have to be willing to remove ourselves as an obstacle to healing and see ourselves as instrumental in the change we desire to see. He quoted Yogi Bajan, "Worrying is praying for what you don't want." He closed with these words: "The world is what you make of it but the future is what you imagine it to be" (Yogi M.D.).

Playdates for Children with Special Needs

2011-10-04T00:01:00.008-04:00

On September 27^th, the New York Metro chapter of the National Autism Association organized a talk for parents on Special Playdate, an online service founded by Jane Hsu, and how to successfully develop playdates for your special needs child. Ms. Hsu, who holds a Master’s degree in Special Education from New York University, recognized a gap in services that made it easier for parents of children with special needs to organize playdates and decided to utilize the Internet as a networking tool. Special Playdate was founded on the belief that every child needs friends and that, with the right preparation and facilitation, successful playdates can help children with special needs make friends.

The first step in using the service is to create a profile about your child that will be used to match him or her with other children in the area. Parents can create a free profile on www.SpecialPlaydate.com and at no cost can have Special Playdate’s website make potential matches for your child. Within New York City, either the website can make your “matches” or you can retain Ms. Hsu or one of the trained therapists on her team to help match children based on their strengths, limitations and interests, among other parameters. A member of the Special Playdate team can also help prepare your child for meeting his or her new friend and facilitate during the actual playdate to ensure the greatest chance of success. In New York alone, an estimated 1000 profiles have been created for children ranging in age from 3 years to 16 years. The website also has a special area devoted to siblings of children with special needs.

During the presentation, Jane shared tips on how to plan and facilitate a playdate, how to make contact with a new parent and how to prepare your own child. She recognizes that things that come naturally to typically developing children require planning, explanation, and facilitation to many children with special needs and has tips to make a playdate successful. One point she stressed repeatedly was that parents need to be honest with each other so that each parent has realistic expectations of the playdate and of what each considers a successful playdate. She answered parents questions in a lively Q&A session.

For more information, go to www.SpecialPlaydate.com or e-mail info@specialplaydate.com

(pictured: Jane Hsu of Special Playdate and NAA NY Metro Programming Committee Member Janice Bloch Roth)

Peta Cohen: Systemic and Metabolic Vicious Cycles: A Biomedical Approach to Identifying and Treating

2011-09-21T10:17:00.004-04:00

Peta Cohen, M.S., R.D., a Clinical Nutritionist and Metabolic Specialist, is joining NAA – NY Metro for presentations in Westchester and Manhattan (at the Rebecca School) to discuss an important, complex, and often overlooked issue in people on the autism spectrum – problems in systemic and metabolic functions. Her presentation will review the underlying systems and metabolic problems familiar to many individuals on the autism spectrum. Not only will she will explain their dynamic relationships, she also will provide a framework for assessing and treating these problems. Join us for an evening of learning about these complex issues in an understandable way and learn how you can help someone you know who may be presenting with these issues.

Tuesday, October 25^th from 6PM – 8:30PM

The Rebecca School

40 East 30th St., 5th Floor Gym

New York, NY 10016

6:00pm – 6:30pm: Networking

6:30pm – 8:30pm: Presentation and Q&A

AND

Monday, November 21^st from 7PM – 9:30PM

The Gleeson-Israel Gateway Center (Westchester ARC)

265 Saw Mill River Road (Route 9A)

1^st Floor Conference Room

Hawthorne, NY 10532

No RSVP required for either event

Peta Cohen, M.S., R.D., is a Clinical Nutritionist and Metabolic Specialist and the founder of the Total Life Center, an Integrative Wellness Center located in downtown Englewood, New Jersey. Peta received her Masters in Clinical Nutrition from New York University in 1996 and has since aggressively pursued extensive ongoing education in the field of Functional and Molecular Medicine, with an emphasis on developmental and behavioral disorders and the complex adult patient.

Peta has 15 years of clinical experience successfully treating complex and chronic health issues and has been a Defeat Autism Now practitioner since 1998. While Peta’s innovative approach to healing serious health issues can be applied to help patients with any health condition, Peta has made helping Children with Special Needs and the complex adult patient a particular focus of her practice. Peta has amassed a considerable expertise in this area, developing highly effective proprietary protocols for these individuals and their families.

Peta practices a Biomedical approach to healing based on the principals of Functional Medicine, developing individualized treatment plans that address the root causes of illness based on the unique biochemistry of each individual. Physicians often refer their most challenging cases to Peta when a traditional approach is unsuccessful.

Peta is frequently invited to share her expertise at leading global conferences and seminars, such as: Defeat Autism Now/Autism Research Institute Conferences, The University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey (UMDNJ), The Lyme Autism Association, The American Holistic Medical Association, The Compounding Pharmacy Association, The Maternal Mother and Child Organization of Pascack Valley Hospital (New Jersey).

Ms. Cohen has also broadcast a multi-episode on-line seminar for “AutismOne-Radio” on the topic of Nutrition and Metabolic Issues relating to Autism and other Developmental/Behavioral Disorders.

Join NAA NY Metro in Westchester and in Manhattan For a Presentation By Integrative Neurologist Maya Shetreat-Klein, MD

2011-08-29T11:28:00.010-04:00

Join Us For Two Presentations by
Maya Shetreat-Klein, MD

Treating Complex Neurological Disorders With Herbal Medicine

Thursday, October 27, 2011
7:00 pm - 9:00 pm

Seizures affect many children on the autism spectrum, with many more showing abnormal activity on EEG. A number of these children do not respond to medication or cannot tolerate side effects. For thousands of years, practitioners have used herbal medicine to effectively treat seizure disorder. Now scientific evidence is finally catching up with long-known traditional knowledge. This session will cover the unique benefits of herbs for seizures and their healing mechanisms.

Location:
The Gleeson-Israel Gateway Center (Westchester ARC)
265 Saw Mill River Road (Route 9A)
1st Floor Conference Room
Hawthorne, NY 10532
[no fee and no RSVP required]

AND

In collaboration with Beth Israel's Division of Developmental Pediatrics
The Use of Botanical Medicine for Neurological Disorders:

A Review of Tradition and Evidence

Thursday, November 10, 2011
6:30pm-8:30pm

What can be done for the population of children with complex neurological disorders who (1) have issues that cannot be treated with medications, (2) are refractory to medications, or (3) cannot tolerate problematic side effects? For thousands of years, practitioners have used botanical medicine to effectively treat neurological disorders gently. Scientific evidence has been catching up with long-known traditional knowledge, This session will outline the paradigm of treating with herbs, and will address benefits and mechanisms of some key botanicals used for seizures and other neurological disorders.

Location:

Beth Israel Medical Center

10 Union Square East, 2nd Floor Conference Center

New York, NY

[no fee; RSVP to Stacey Purro, LCSW spurro@chpnet.org]

Maya Shetreat-Klein, MD, is an integrative pediatric neurologist who is board certified in adult and child neurology as well as pediatrics. She has gained international recognition by successfully treating thousands of children with intractable neurological and psychiatric issues using diet, herbs, and other therapies in her New York practice. Dr. Shetreat-Klein also lectures extensively and teaches integrative neurology as faculty at several New York academic institutions as well as the University of Arizona's integrative medicine program. For more information, please see www.brainmending.com.

Tues., August 23, 2011 - Watch An Exciting New Program on Vaccines & Autism

2011-08-22T12:27:00.009-04:00

HDNet World Report Investigates Vaccines and Autism

Tomorrow Night, August 23, 2011, on HDNet World Report, an exciting segment will air on "Vaccines and Autism: Mixed Signals." This segment features authors of "Unanswered Questions From the Vaccine Injury Compensation Program: A Review of Compensated Cases of Vaccine-Induced Brain Injury" (published in the Winter 2011 issue of The Pace Environmental Law Review), board members of the Elizabeth Birt Center For Autism Law & Advocacy, and autism parents. Watch the preview below!

The program will air at 9pm Eastern time, 8pm Central, 7pm Mountain, and 6pm Pacific and again 3 hours later in each time zone. It also will air Saturday morning (Aug. 27) at 11AM Eastern, 10 Central, 9 Mountain, 8 Pacific.

If you're in New York City and would like to watch among friends, come to Amity Hall, 80 West 3rd St. (between Thompson & Sullivan) in Greenwich Village, right next to NYU Law School for the 9PM Tuesday viewing.

HDNet World Report - Vaccines and Autism: Mixed Signals

If the video above doesn't run, here's a sneak preview of the report.

How can you watch "Vaccines & Autism: Mixed Signals"?

If you have a hi def TV:
HDNet TV is on DirecTV, Dish Network, Comcast Cable, AT&T Cable, and many smaller cable systems around the country. To find the channel number, go to http://www.hd.net/programs/hdnet-world-report/ and scroll down to "HDNet channel finder." To search in a TV’s online guide, look for "HDNet" or "HDN."

If you don't have hi def TV and/or your cable company does not carry HDNet:
By Wednesday morning (Aug. 24), you can download the program from the iTunes Store for only $1.99.

Go to http://www.hd.net/programs/hdnet-world-report/, scroll down and click on “World Report available on iTunes.”
If you never have used the iTunes Store, you will be prompted to fill out a one-time-only credit card page; otherwise, you will be taken directly to a listing of recent episodes.
The most recent episode will be either at the top or bottom of the list.

Please consider writing to World Report after the show airs to share your thoughts: at viewer@hd.net and visit their Facebook Page to comment as well.

Special Playdates for Your Special Needs Child

2011-08-17T00:16:00.010-04:00

Have you faced challenges trying to arrange playdates for your child with special needs?

Do you want to help your child establish new friendships, but don't know where to start?

"Special Playdate" is here to help!

Join NAA NY Metro from 7PM to 9PM

Tuesday, September 27, 2011

408 E. 79th St. (between 1st and York Aves.)

2nd Floor

New York, New York

Among the biggest everyday challenges faced by special needs parents is something that parents of typical children may take for granted - the playdate. How do you find the right peer for a playdate? how do you facilitate the playdate - what is too much and what is too little? How do you communicate with the other child's parent?

Thanks to Jane Hsu, there is now help and guidance. Jane, a special education teacher in the NYC public schools, founded SpecialPlaydate.com in 2010. On September 27, she will offer advice and practical tips to help make playdates more successful and will discuss how Special Playdate can help if you need extra support and guidance.

Special Playdate offers a FREE and EASY way to get started in arranging successful playdates for your special needs child. It’s an online service connecting parents with other parents seeking playdate opportunities for their children with special needs. Members are able to securely search for appropriate peers in their local communities and can also use the private message system to connect with other parents, before scheduling a playdate or revealing personal information. Special Playdate's expert clinicians also strive to offer you ongoing benefits - from weekly playdate tips to ongoing workshops and social skills-building programs. Let Special Playdate be that first step towards creating a lasting friendship for your child.

Jane Hsu received her MA Degree in Education from New York University in 2006 and has worked in Special Education for the past 5 years. During this time, she became acutely aware of how difficult it is for children with special needs to make friends, establish rapport with other children, and develop appropriate social and communication skills. Finding no good solutions to this problem, she decided in 2008 to save up her money to begin SpecialPlaydate.com, an online matching service to help parents nationwide to find nearby playdates for their special-needs child.

While majoring in Public and Community Service as an undergraduate at the University of Massachusetts, Jane worked at the League School of Boston, a residential program for adolescent males with autistic spectrum disorders. She also worked at the Day Development & Transition Center in Cambridge, a nonprofit organization offering pre-vocational training to people with developmental disabilities. After graduation, Jane worked as a Vocational Resource Specialist at Work Opportunities Unlimited, an employment and training organization helping people with disabilities to find jobs. She also worked as a Bilingual Chinese/English Employment Specialist and Career Counselor the Jewish Vocational Service Center for Careers and Lifelong Learning in Boston. Born in Taipei, Taiwan, Jane immigrated to the United States with her family at the age of four. She presently works as a Special Education Teacher in Chinatown and lives in New York City.

"Just Diagnosed - What's Next?"

2011-08-16T23:43:00.009-04:00

On Thursday, October 6, 2011, from 7PM to 9PM

NAA NY Metro Presents

Just Diagnosed: What's Next? Perspectives from a Developmental Pediatrician, Nutritionist,
and Educational Consultant

PATH Family Center
1779 Richmond Avenue 3rd Floor
Staten Island, New York

For parents of children newly diagnosed on the autism spectrum or those who may feel feel they have "hit a wall" in their child's treatment plan, NAA NY Metro is pleased to bring together a panel offering a multidisciplinary perspective on treatment options.

Our panel includes Dr. Mark Freilich, a developmental pediatrician, Geri Brewster, a nutritionist who treats children with autism and related disorders through nutritional, biomedical and related interventions; and Sarah Birnbaum, an educational advisor with expertise in the special education system in New York City, therapists, agencies, and related services.

Dr. Mark Freilich will discuss the role of the Developmental Pediatrician in navigating the Autism Super Highway. He will address diagnostic evaluation/monitoring/case management following initial diagnosis, looking holistically at all aspects of a child’s (and family’s) journey.

Geri Brewster will discuss the first steps parents may take in nutritional/biomedical/dietary interventions. Often parents read about these interventions and wonder if they might help their child. Parents should consider a child’s past history of infection or sensory sensitivities and food selectivity as part of the whole picture of their child now emerging with a “formal diagnosis” and consider professional guidance in understanding the interconnectedness of food, nutrients and development, as well as the practical way to implement lifestyle changes to achieve their child’s optimal wellness.

Sarah Birnbaum will address navigating the system, learning a new language and how to conduct yourself when interacting with all the new people in your life, managing your child's therapy schedule and new demands, understanding what your child is entitled to and how to make sure you get it for them, coming up with workable strategies for your life, and - most crucially - coping with all the emotions involved so that they don't get in your way when you're making decisions about your child's therapy and educational future.

Dr. Mark Freilich is a developmental pediatrician and founder/medical director of TOTAL KIDS DEVELOPMENTAL PEDIATRIC RESOURCES. TOTAL KIDS provides a holistic, dynamic and integrated approach to evaluation and management of children with differences and variations in development and learning. The TOTAL KIDS approach takes into account every child’s and family’s unique and individual areas of strengths and needs. The TOTAL KIDS approach is not limited to an office based evaluation. It involves observation in venues where the child actually functions on a day to day basis. Dr. Freilich lives in New York City with his wife and two teenage children.

Geri Brewster, RD, MPH, CDN is a certified dietitian-nutritionist with a Master’s in Public Health. She is a member of Dietitians in Functional Medicine and is a Defeat Autism Now practitioner.

She received her BS in Human Nutrition and Foods from Virginia Tech and her MPH at New York Medical College. She has advanced areas of study with the Institute of Functional Medicine. Geri has worked with children with developmental disabilities and autism for over 25 years, addressing complex nutritional needs. Her practice is maintained in NYC and Mt. Kisco, New York. She is the former Director of Nutrition at the Atkins Center for Complementary Medicine in NYC and currently assists families in the implementation of the Modified Atkins Diet for seizure control. Geri speaks frequently on a local and national level on the subjects of children’s health and nutritional needs. She is a contributor to a number of publications and has been quoted in numerous newspaper and magazine articles as well as featured on numerous radio and TV appearances discussing health topics. She hosts a monthly radio show on AutismOne radio on the energetics of food and healing, and nutritional and dietary therapies.

The parent of a child with special needs, Sarah Birnbaum has amassed a wealth of knowledge in dealing with New York City's unique subculture of therapists, agencies, schools, and governmental bodies. She turned her experience into a consultancy helping families navigate the maze of services and educational options here. She helps parents understand what services are available, guides them to schools that can best support their children's needs, gives advice on the application process, coaches them on working with their school districts, and helps them to become powerful advocates. But most importantly, she offers them support in coping with the complicated emotions that accompany the journey of parenting and educating an exceptional child.

Dr. Theoharis C. Theoharides: Lectures for Parents & Professionals on Exciting Research Findings and Novel Treatment

2011-08-16T22:57:00.019-04:00

NAA NY Metro Chapter Invites You to a Special Event with

Dr. Theoharis C. Theoharides
At TWO Locations NYC & Westchester

(Webinar available for Westchester Meeting)

Thursday, September 8^th from 6:30PM- 8:30PM, as part of NAA NY Metro’s Collaboration with the Beth Israel Division of Developmental Pediatrics:

Neurotensin and Extracellular Mitochondrial DNA as Potenial Biomarkers and Novel Treatment
Beth Israel Medical Center

10 Union Square East

2^nd Floor Conference Center

New York, NY 10003

Please RSVP to Stacey Purro, LCSW at spurro@chpnet.org

AND

Friday, September 9^th from 7PM - 9:30PM

Neuro-Inflammation and Disruption of the Gut Blood Brain Barriers:
The Benefits of Natural Flavonoids

In our new Westchester meeting location:

The Gleeson-Israel Gateway Center (Westchester ARC)

265 Saw Mill River Road (Route 9A)

1^st Floor Conference Room

Hawthorne, NY 10532

No RSVP Required

Webinar Available too! Can't make the meeting in person, please register for the Webinar here: click here - Webinar seats are limited.

Dr. Theoharides will present a lecture targeted to both parents and professionals. He will present, in a way accessible to scientists and non-scientists, his research concerning neuro-inflammation, mast cells and autism, and discuss a practical treatment option. Dr. Theoharides’ research sheds new light on symptoms common to many children with autism.

Dr. Theoharides’ recent research has focused on the area of neuro-inflammation and his research results open the way for promising treatment for those with autism. Children with autism often present with auto-antibodies against brain proteins, gastrointestinal problems, “allergies” and fatigue, implying a neuro-immuno-endocrine problem. Dr. Theoharides’ recent research has shown that mast cells (immune cells typically known for causing allergic reactions and which serve as “sensors” of environmental cell damage) can be activated by environmental, infectious and stress triggers that lead to disruption of the gut-blood-brain barriers.

In his research, one mast cell trigger, neurotensin, was shown to be elevated in the serum of young children with autism. Mast cell activation during pregnancy or prenatally, in response to allergic or non-immune triggers, could disrupt the gut-blood-brain barriers and permit neuro toxic molecules to enter the brain, and result in brain inflammation. Dr. Theoharides’ research also has shown that neurotensin induces release of extracellular mitochondrial DNA that could act as “autoimmune” triggers, divert energy from brain growth, and induce an inflammatory state. Through his research, Dr. Theoharides has shown that the natural flavonoids, Quercetin and Luteolin (found in the supplement NeuroProtek) can block these processes.

Theoharis C. Theoharides, MS, PhD, MD, FAAAAI is Director of Molecular Immuno-pharmacology & Drug Discovery Lab, Professor of Pharmacology, Biochemistry and Internal Medicine at Tufts University. He trained at Yale University and has over 290 publications. He has shown that mast cells secrete inflammatory mediators that disrupt the gut-blood-brain barriers, thus playing a critical role in brain inflammation and autism. Dr. Theoharides extends his expertise beyond theory into practical options for patients with diseases that have defied treatment to date.

Vaccine Epidemic - The Book: With Louise Kuo Habakus, Mary Holland, and Kim Mack Rosenberg

2011-08-16T22:30:00.009-04:00

Confused by Conflicting Information about Vaccine Safety and Efficacy?

Unsure of Your Rights?

Looking For Straight Answers?

Join Editors Louise Kuo Habakus and Mary Holland, and Contributing Editor Kim Mack Rosenberg, for an eye-opening discussion based on their groundbreaking book, Vaccine Epidemic.

This enlightening evening will build the case for vaccination choice as a fundamental human right. Come to learn critical information to help you make an informed decision concerning vaccination. Bring your questions!

Wednesday, October 5, 2011

7pm – 9pm

408 East 79^th St. (Screening Room)

New York, New York

(between First and York Avenues)

Vaccine Epidemic - The Book

Rising above the rhetoric, this presentation is neither anti-vaccine nor pro-vaccine. It is pro-vaccine safety and pro-informed consent. The presenters will address the tough questions that parents are asking about vaccination and will discuss vaccine safety and efficacy issues – and share with the audience important and often ignored data on these issues. Next, the presentation will focus on the relevant law and the rights of individuals to refuse vaccination. The presentation will close with a summary of Vaccine Epidemic and a discussion of important topics in this critical and ongoing debate.

Louise Kuo Habakus is the executive director and a co-founder of the Center for Personal Ri ghts. She was a managing director for Putnam Investments, a corporate vice president for Prudential Financial, and a consultant with Bain & Company. Louise graduated Phi Beta Kappa from Stanford University, where she also received a graduate degree in international policy studies. In her advocacy work, Louise lectures and writes frequently and has appeared in numerous media outlets, including ABC World News Tonight, Fox & Friends, and the New York Times.

Mary Holland is a research scholar at NYU School of Law. She has written and edited books and articles on human rights and law. Mary has clerked for a federal judge, worked at the Lawyers Committee for Human Rights, and at prominent U.S. law firms. She has testified before Congress, filed amicus briefs, and appeared on Court TV, Fox, CBS, and NBC. Mary is a co-founder and board member of the Center for Personal Rights and a founder and the director of of the Elizabeth Birt Center for Autism Law & Advocacy (EBCALA).

Kim Mack Rosenberg is a litigator at a prominent New York law firm, where her practice has focused on, among other things, products liability. Kim also has been honored by the Legal Aid Society of New York for her pro bono work. She graduated from Carleton College and received her law degree from Case Western Reserve University School of Law. In addition to being a co-founder and board member of the Center for Personal Rights, Kim is the current president of the National Autism Association New York Metro Chapter and a board member of the Elizabeth Birt Center for Autism Law & Advocacy (EBCALA). She has been featured on Get Connected on 106.7 Lite FM.

Dr. Andrew Levinson: Reversing Autism: Walking the Path with Patience, Peace and Perseverance

2011-08-16T16:26:00.010-04:00

Looking for New Ways to Help Your Child with Autism and Your Whole Family?

Join NAA-NY Metro

Wednesday, September 21, 2011

For a Special Evening with

Dr. Andrew Levinson

Reversing Autism: Walking the Path with Patience, Peace and Perseverance

Rebecca School

40 East 30^th St.

New York, New York

6:00pm – 6:30pm: Networking

6:30pm – 8:30pm: Presentation and Q&A

Dr. Levinson’s unique presentation will cover the most current functional medical interventions for conditions affecting so many people with autism. Among other things, he will take us through interventions addressing immune and endocrine dysregulation, detoxification, oxidative stress and inflammation difficulties. In addition, he will address an area that is very important but frequently neglected – the health and well-being of the rest of the family. Dr. Levinson will teach us coping strategies that the whole family can use!

Andrew Levinson, M.D. is an orthomolecular psychiatrist, functional physician, and yogi. His approach has been featured on the Discovery Health Channel and his work in autism has been the subject of several documentaries. Dr. Levinson received his Bachelor of Science in Psychobiology and his Medical Doctorate from the University of Miami, where he also completed his psychiatric residency. He has great acclaim for his ability to present complicated science in an extremely understandable format and is a frequent presenter at national conferences and elsewhere. Dr. Levinson is the founder of Vitality Health & Wellness in Miami Beach and sees patients in Manhattan in person and by telemedicine. More information about his work can be found at www.vitalitywellness.com.

Review of Scared of Sarah - A New Play About Autism

2011-08-13T10:28:00.007-04:00

Last night NAA NY Metro Chapter President Kim Mack Rosenberg and Vice-President/Treasurer Peggy Becker had the pleasure of attending opening night of Scared of Sarah, a new play about autism (and much more). We were so happy to also catch up with one of our Facebook contest winners, Michele Iallonardi and her husband, Ralph.

.
(L-R: Peggy, Michele and Ralph)

The cast, Carolyn Daucher, Nate Grams, and Brenna Palughi (as Sarah), did a terrific job in navigating the complex emotions of the play, written by Laura Brienza. The play makes you laugh and cry, as the characters confront issues not just about autism but also about marriage, children, siblings, parents, careers - life!

(Laura Brienza and Kim)

Sarah is a complex character. She is an attractive woman who has just turned 30 as the play opens. She has autism and has a job as a conductor on New Jersey Transit. She appears "typical" in many respects, compounds the emotional, sensory and other challenges of autism she faces in the workplace and in her social and family life. Is Sarah like our children? Yes and no. We both noted some similarities and many differences between our children and the character of Sarah, but that is part of what makes autism so complex - no two people with autism are the same. We did not expect Sarah to be exactly like our children (who are different from each other too!). The play does a good job of balancing the complexities of autism - featuring a young woman who largely functions in society but might meltdown if the wrong brand of peanut butter is purchased. Is everyone with autism like that? No. But some are. Scared of Sarah makes no attempt to speak for all people with autism. It is a snapshot of one character and the complexities of her life and the lives of those around her.

There are still four more showings of Scared of Sarah as part of FringeNYC If you can make the time to head to the Lower East Side over the next few days, do try to see the play. FYI, this is a play for grown ups and is not appropriate for young children. There is some strong and suggestive language.

SATURDAY 8/13 @ 7:45
SUNDAY 8/14 @ 12:00
MON 8/15 @ 6:45
WED 8/17 @ 7:45

La Mama First Floor Theatre
74A East 4th Street, New York, NY 10003
F to 2nd Ave, 6 to Astor Pl/Bleeker St., N/R to 8th St.

Tickets are $15 in advance, $18 at the door
www.scaredofsarahplay.com
www.fringenyc.org

The mutated SHANK3 gene, its effect on Neuronal Synapses and Autism

2011-08-13T04:58:00.008-04:00

The following is an extract from an article published in the New England Journal of Medicine (July 14, 2011). The author is Martha Herbert MD, PhD of the Mass General Hospital and Harvard Medical School. She is a research scientist with great interest in Autism. She has presented at the annual conference of the NY Metro Chapter in New York as well as the NAA annual conferences.

The neuron talk to each other and send signals from brain to other organs by releasing chemicals at their very ends. The exchange of these chemicals occurs at the synapses (the ends of the neurons). SHANK3 gene is known to facilitate such transactions. Research scientists have developed a clone of mice who are deficient in beta type of SHANK3 genes (SHANK3B-/-). These mice exhibit clinical and social behavior that is similar to autism in humans. The biopsies of the brains of these mice also show increased filaments (dendrites) of these neurons which looks like a jumble. The part of the brain called Striatum was larger in the SHANK3B-/- mice. This was thought to be compensatory on the part of the brain in an attempt to increase the synapses and communication that is defective due to the genetic mutation. It is known that the brains of humans with autism are larger and have excessive dendrites.

SHANK3 gene is also present in the gut and other tissues. SHANK3 gene has two other isoforms (alpha and gamma) and the level of activity of those isoforms may be related to the variability in cases of autism and may explain the improvement in clinical symptoms and social behavior that is sometimes seen after certian treatments and high fever. Dr. Herbert's article was published in:
The New England Journal of Medicine. Vol: 365, Page 173. 14 July 2011
http://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/NEJMcibr1104261

If you wish to read the full scientific article, please contcat me at klrehman@yahoo.com
Posted by Khalid Rehman MD, Chair Advocacy and Awareness Committee,
National Auatim Association, New York Metro Chapter.

Scared of Sarah - A New Play About Autism

2011-08-03T20:20:00.004-04:00

JOIN US FOR THIS EXCITING NEW PLAY THAT
GRAPPLES WITH ISSUES OF

PARENTING A CHILD ON THE AUTISM SPECTRUM.

ENTER ON OUR FACEBOOK PAGE TO WIN A PAIR OF FREE TICKETS!!!

A new play by Laura Brienza
Directed by Reginald L. Douglas
Starring: Carolyn Daucher, Nate Grams, and Brenna Palughi*
*Appearing Courtesy of Actors' Equity Association

developed at the Lark Play Development Center and the
Kennedy Center Page-to-Stage New Play Festival

World Premiere in the New York International Fringe Festival

Sarah's autistic. Lily's pregnant. Sam's scared. Could they handle a child like Sarah? When these two people make a third, the fear that sets in threatens to destroy their relationship.

SCARED OF SARAH investigates the challenges of parenting a child on the autism spectrum, the intricacies of personal relationships with those on the spectrum, and Generation Y's complicated love affair with selfishness.

FRIDAY 8/12 @ 5:00
SATURDAY 8/13 @ 7:45
SUNDAY 8/14 @ 12:00
MON 8/15 @ 6:45
WED 8/17 @ 7:45

La Mama First Floor Theatre
74A East 4th Street, New York, NY 10003
F to 2nd Ave, 6 to Astor Pl/Bleeker St., N/R to 8th St.

Tickets $15 in advance
www.scaredofsarahplay.com
www.fringenyc.org

Urge Gov. Cuomo to sign the landmark Autism Health Insurance Bill

2011-06-24T07:24:00.011-04:00

Good News. (Friday, 24 June 2011)

Both the houses of the New York State Legislature have passed the Autism Health Insurance Bills. (S4005A and A6305A). Now it is upto Gov. Andrew Cuomo to sign them into law.

The bills require insurance companies to provide coverage for screening and treating people with autism spectrum disorders, with methods including behavioral health treatments as well as speech, occupational and physical therapy.

Twenty-five other states already have a similar requirement for insurers.

Please call Gov. Andrew Cuomo (518-474-8390 )today and urge him to sign S4005A and A6305A into Law. Thank You.

Khalid Rehman. MD
Awareness and Advocacy Committee, NY Metro Chapter, NAA.

"Mom's Night Event"

2011-06-05T19:31:00.003-04:00

Calling All Moms!!!

NAA NY Metro Chapter is throwing a "Moms' Night" event this Thursday evening to celebrate each and every one of you special moms for all your hard work. Please come out to enjoy a glass of wine, try some food from different special diets, exchange treatment options and ideas with other moms or just meet some new and interesting people. There will be a raffle and giveaways! The Moms' Night event takes place Thursday, June 9th 7-9pm at 408 East 79th Street, 2nd floor

Support Bills in Albany, NY: Autism Health Insurance Bills. A6305/S4005.

2011-06-02T08:09:00.004-04:00

These bills are currently making their way through various committees in Albany, NY. The sponsors of these bills need to hear from every family affected by Autism with words of thanks and call or connect via fax or e-mail their own representatives to become co-sponsors of these bills.

The assembly bill A6305 and its sister bill in the N.Y. State Senate S4005 relate to coverage for the screening, diagnosis and treatment of autism spectrum disorders. It will cover speech, occupational and physical therapies, which are specifically identified in the bill so there is no mystery. It will cover behavioral therapies including ABA. It will cover rehabilitative and habilitative care. It doesn’t force treatments for autism to meet a much higher standard for efficacy than other treatments; in fact. It applies the exact same efficacy standards that are used for all other health care. There is no lifetime or annual caps. There are no age limits. It will cover assistive technology, and psychological and psychiatric care. This is the kind of bill that can make a substantial improvement in the quality and quantity of care available to people with autism. And it will prevent families from going broke caring for their kids. This bill sets a new standard for autism health care that hopefully other states and the federal government will emulate once we get it passed here in NY.

As the legislative session is coming to a close, amendments have been proposed that significantly reduce the scope of the coverage offered in the autism health insurance reform bill currently moving, A6305/S4005. ST, OT and PT are limited to policies that already offer it, and existing limits on the number of sessions for those therapies will remain. Every one affected is urged to contact the sponsors noted below and ask that no amendments be allowed and that the bills are introduced and passed as written. Please contact:

Justin Wilcox In Morelle's office: 518 455 5647 (Assembly sponsor)
Tim Ellis in Fuschillo's office: 516 455 3341 (Senate sponsor)
Chris Hamm in Silver's office: 518 45 3791 (Assembly Speaker)

Support Bills in US Congress: ‘The Combating Autism Reauthorization Act of 2011’ (S-1094/ HR-2005)

2011-06-02T08:06:00.001-04:00

These bills are currently making their way through various committees in Washington DC. The sponsors of these bills need to hear from every family affected by Autism with words of thanks and call or connect via fax or e-mail their own representatives to become co-sponsors of these bills.

The Combating Autism Reauthorization Act (CARA) of 2011 introduced in the Senate (S-1094) by Senators Robert Menendez (D-NJ) and Mike Enzi (R-WY) and in the House (HR-2005) by Rep. Chris Smith (R-NJ) and Rep. Mike Doyle (D-PA) in May 2011. S-1094 referred to Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor and Pensions; HR 2005 referred to House Committee on Energy and Commerce.

The new bill reauthorizes the Combating Autism Act of 2006 (CAA), which has played a critical role in advancing autism research and treatment. The original CAA, set to sunset on September 30, 2011, expanded federal investment for autism research through NIH, increased services, diagnosis and treatment through HRSA, and enhanced surveillance and awareness efforts by the CDC. The CAA authorized nearly $1 billion in federal research spending over five years—increasing autism research spending by almost 50 percent. This research has led to improved understanding of the causes of autism and has helped us begin to develop new interventions. Additionally, the research funded through CAA has increased the ability of professionals to more properly screen, diagnose, and treat individuals with autism. The Combating Autism Reauthorization Act of 2011 ensures that the programs established under the original law continue for an additional three years, including CDC surveillance programs, HRSA intervention and training programs, and the Interagency Autism Coordinating Committee (IACC).

2011-05-27T11:35:00.029-04:00

Come to Kelly Dorfman's book signing of

"What's Eating Your Child"

Wednesday, June 8
MENDHAM BOOKS
84 East Main St
Mendham NJ 07945
7:00 PM talk/signing

Backed by cutting-edge science and the know-how gained from a 29-year career in clinical nutrition, WHAT’S EATING YOUR CHILD? by Kelly Dorfman, MS, LND, reveals the surprising role nutrition plays in healing children’s ailments. No ordinary nutrition book, WHAT’S EATING YOUR CHILD? is refreshingly unique because it pairs practical, scientifically-supported advice with fascinating case studies that read like medical mysteries. As a mother of three, Dorfman understands the challenges parents face and she empowers caregivers to become Nutrition Detectives by revealing simple, practical ways to uncover the clues behind a child’s health problems and find an accurate, nutritional treatment immediately.

Win a copy of Kelly Dorfman's new book "What's Eating Your Child"!

2011-05-27T11:35:00.025-04:00

WHAT’S EATING YOUR CHILD?, by Kelly Dorfman, is a must-read for parents, doctors, teachers, and anyone interested in the relationship between nutrition, health, and wellbeing.

MAKE A COMMENT TO WIN a signed copy of WHAT'S EATING YOUR CHILD? 1) To enter, please comment on this post (Click on "comments" below.) 2) Post your comment by 11:59 pm on JUNE 8, 2011. One entry per person, please. 3) One winner will be chosen by random and announced on Thursday morning, JUNE 9, 2011. 4) NOTE: If you wish to be contacted by e-mail if you win, please include your email address in your comment or make a comment and then email us your comment at rsvpNAANYC@naanyc.org. Otherwise you must check back on Thursday, June 9, 2011 to see if you have won. Unclaimed prizes will be forfeited to another winner after 72 hours.

How Sound Therapy Influences the Social Nervous System

2011-05-24T01:42:00.011-04:00

On Monday, May 16th the Westchester sub-chapter of the NAA NY Metro chapter was delighted to have Sarah Gayle Schoenbaum present. Sarah an very experienced Occupational Therapist (OT) presented information on the therapeautic program, Solisten®, which is the portable application of the Tomatis® Method. She described how Solisten's revolutionary sound training program strengthens the ear and energizes the brain, improves many areas including auditory and sensory processing, stress, speech and balance. Furthermore, Sarah discussed how hearing is composed of both air and bone conduction . Solisten stimulates both of these as well as the vestibular receptors in the ear. The result is a nervous system that is more efficient including speed and accuracy. With this efficiency the body trusts its own resourses to keep it safe. This may include safety in a complex social environment and safety in a physically challenging environment.

Solisten particularly addresses the social nervous system which is the part of the nervous system that helps us to efficiently respond to complex social situations by stimulating the cranial nerves that help our mouth move and our eyes move and our eardrum hear. This is why solisten is so helpful in reducing the anxiety in children on the spectrum because their social nervous system is brought on line.

The social nervous system is part of the polyvagal system. It is the part of the nervous system that is on line when one feels safe. When one does not feel safe one looses the efficient use of this system and has to rely on the sympathetic or dorsal vegal system which causes fight, flight or freeze. We have all seen this response in our kids. Besides supporting the social nervous system Solisten can positively effect balance, motor planning, auditory processing, and visual spatial awareness. Sarah recommended Stephen Porges' new book The Polyvagal Nervous System to further delve into the intricate nervous system.

The take home message was that children & adults with autism spectrum disorders are in stress and they freeze or overreact to their environment due to dysregulation. By balancing the nervous system through listening therapy one can become balanced and more equipped to handle the surrounding environment.

Sarah Gayle Shoenbaum, MA OTR/L has been in the field since 1979. Sarah is an instructor and clinician of occupational therapy, craniosacral therapy, neurodevelopemental treatment (NDT) and sensory intergration. For more information you can contact Sarah at insidemoves@optonline.net

NAA NY Metro Chapter Presents: Mealtime Success for Kids on the Spectrum

2011-05-23T23:33:00.002-04:00

Mealtime Success For Kids on the Spectrum: Integrative Nutrition for Picky Eaters
with Susan Roberts, MDiv, OTR/L
Date: Wednesday, June 22, 2011 
Time: 6:00 pm - Networking /6:30-8:30 pm - Presentation
Location: Rebecca School 40 East 30th, 5th Floor New York, NY 10003

Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders have difficulties during mealtimes for a variety of reasons. Poor muscle control affects lips, tongue, jaw, facial muscles, hands and core body movements—all of which impact our ability to move food into the digestive system. Sensory processing problems produce aversions or obsessions with specific smells, textures and tastes that compromise good nutrition—which in turn increases hunger and food cravings. Mealtimes nourish our souls as much as our bodies, through the sharing of conversation and social relationships. Instead of a time for enjoyment, mealtimes often become battlegrounds—nourishing no one.

SUSAN L. ROBERTS, MDiv, OTR/L, teaches a seminar on this topic and recently returned from appearances throughout the nation. Come join us on June 22nd for the opportunity to share Susan’s expertise in this area and to share your own thoughts and concerns.

Ms. Roberts is an award winning Occupational Therapist with more than 30 years of experience in school-based pediatrics, as well as home health care, rehabilitation, ergonomics, long-term care, adaptive driving and psychiatry. Susan earned a Bachelor of Science in Occupational Therapy from Boston University. Research interests in the sensory aspects and neurobiology of healing rituals led her to complete a Masters in Divinity from Harvard University. Susan added nutrition to her repertoire through the Institute of Integrative Nutrition in New York City, and became a member of the American Association of Drugless Practitioners.

Ms. Roberts’ current practice places a special emphasis on transforming behavioral issues in families with non-verbal and pre-verbal children. Her clinical and research interests lie in the primary occupation of childhood, play, as well as the use of mind/body approaches for achieving optimal health and wellness. Ms. Roberts gives lectures & seminars around the USA on how to help children enjoy mealtimes, playtimes & school. Through individual coaching, play experiences, and support groups, she provides a safe space where children (and the adults who care for them) can discover their own path to happiness and healing.

NAA NY Metro Chapter's First Mom's Night Out

2011-05-23T23:31:00.002-04:00

Calling all Moms!
NAA NY Metro Chapter would like to celebrate you and give you a much needed night out. Come spend time with other special mom’s. We know that in the course of your busy busy day caring for your children, shuttling them back and forth to appointments and doing research late at night on the computer-it just doesn’t leave a lot of room for you! So come out and enjoy en evening among your peers. This is a great opportunity for you to exchange ideas, talk about treatment options and just meet some new and interesting people. There will be plenty of allergy friendly food to give you some new ideas to serve your family as well as cocktails. Please enjoy this “night off”, since we all know that you definitely deserve it!

On Thursday, June 9th 7-9pm
At 408 East 79th Street, 2nd Floor
Join us for NAA NY Metro Chapter’s first Mom’s Night Out!

For more information go to: www.naanyc.org

NAA NY Metro Chapter (Westchester) Parent Roundtable-AutismOne Conference Highlights

2011-05-23T23:16:00.005-04:00

Tuesday, June 7, 2011, 7 to 9pm
Washington Engine Fire Company
130 White Plains Road, Tarrytown, NY
(across from blding #150)

Tricia Zarro and Lisa Rudley, Co-Leaders of the Westchester NAA NY Metro sub-chapter will moderate a parent roundtable to discuss AutismOne Conference Highlights. AutismOne Conference information: http://www.autismone.org/ This conference is being streamed "live" see AutismOne's website for details.

Tricia the mom to three children and a Special Needs Teacher in Westchester. Her youngest son has a diagnosis of ASD. She has been a facilitator of a local Westchester support group for the past five years. Tricia has a wealth of experience using special diets, biomedical treatment options and rehabilitative therapies.

Lisa is the mom of three children and a Special Needs Financial Planner. For the last five years, she has utilized a variety of healing modalities to help her son with ASD and many others in her community to improve the lives of children with autism and their families. Lisa has worked extensively with Homeopathy, Reiki, and various supportive therapies including Neurofeedback, HANDLE, NAET, Vision Therapy, Brain Gym and Tomatis. Lisa also moderated a local Westchester support group for the past four years.

Both Tricia and Lisa have combined efforts this January to form the Westchester sub-chapter of the NAA NY Metro Chapter. This Westchester sub-chapter holds 1 to 2 meetings monthly and alternates between the Tarrytown and Briarcliff Manor locations.

For more information, please visit our website http://www.naanyc.org/

NAA NY Metro Chapter (Westchester) Bike Clinic for Children with Special Needs

2011-05-23T23:12:00.003-04:00

NAA NY Metro Chapter Invites you to our special event Bike Clinic For Special Needs Children
With Maria Bizzaro At the Law Memorial Park Fields ,Briarcliff Manor, NY On Saturday, June 4th 2-4pm Raindate: Sunday, June 5th 2-4pm

Come teach your child to ride a bike or further their existing riding skills!
Learning to ride a bike can be a frustrating experience for both parent and child. So come learn some easy techniques to apply to teaching your child how to ride a bike. Maria Bizzaro has years of experience teaching children to ride a multitude of things such as skateboards, roller blades and scooters. She will break it down for each individual child’s level. There will also be “NY Bike” trained volunteer therapists on hand from The McCarton Center www.mccartoncenter.com, Holistic Learning Center www.holisticlc.com, and Watch Me Grow sensory gym www.watchmegrownyc.com to help parents apply these new teaching techniques. So it doesn’t matter if your child is brand new to bike riding, on training wheels or has been riding for a while and still needs those extra skills to master it.

Maria Bizzarro, MS, OTR/L is a pediatric occupational therapist. She earned a Bachelor of Science in Psychology, Bachelor of Arts in Therapeutic Studies, and a Masters of Science in Occupational Therapy at Boston University. She is licensed in New York State and certified as a therapist with pediatric emphasis by the National Board for Certification of Occupational Therapists. She is a member of the American Occupational Therapy Association. Maria currently works as the Director of Occupational Therapy for The McCarton. Her areas of interest include enhancing participation of all children in the natural environment, vestibular habilitation, listening therapies, and combining behavioral science with a sensory integrative approach. Maria is a member of the Avanti network and is currently working towards becoming a mentor for Vital Links.

The event will take place in the fields behind Atria Nursing Home at 1111 Pleasantville Road, Briarcliff Manor, NY 10510. Please make sure to bring a bike if you have one helmet. We may be able to have a few extras to be used on a first come first serve basis. Refreshments will be served.

Please rsvp to daraberger@nyc.rr.com by June 1st.
For more information, please visit our website www.naanyc.org

Kelly Montross: LENS Neurofeedback and Complementary Therapies

2011-05-19T09:30:00.003-04:00

From one of our NAA Board Members who attended this informative presentation:

On April 13, 2011, parents and professionals gathered to learn about Low Energy Neurofeedback System (LENS). Our speaker was Kelly Montross, a Licensed Medical Social Worker at the Hallowell Center on the Upper West Side. Kelly talked about the difference between LENS and the traditional form of neurofeedback. LENS is easier for children who may not be compliant with traditional neurofeedback - the child could be doing pretty much any activity they wanted such as watching a DVD - and LENS can be done less frequently.

I have to admit that I was a little nervous at the thought of hooking my child up to electrodes to stimulate parts of the brain. Because things can sound scarier than they actually are, Kelly asked for someone in the audience to come up and let her hook them up to her LENS equipment. She promised not to actually do LENS therapy on them. This demonstration showed us what the children would experience with the equipment. This demonstration was very helpful. I know that I had a different attitude once I was able to see how benign the current would be.

After the demonstration, the conversation turned to another therapy that Kelly finds complementary to LENS and that she likes to use in conjunction with LENS. It is called iLs (Integrated Listening Systems), a listening program. A dialogue began as many parents chimed in talking about their own experience with Tomatis or Tomatis-like listening programs. Many had tried these programs and, of those who had not, many said they would like to. Attendees then began asking many questions about LENS as well. The conversations became very lively and informative, with parents sharing all kinds of experiences with different therapies for their children. This is exactly the sort of thing the Parent Mentoring Committee had in mind when they created these more intimate meetings with less mainstream topics. I personally really enjoyed this particular event.

Kelly’s presentation was held at NAA NY Metro’s newest event location, Jayme Lewin Rich’s sensory gym, conveniently located in the Union Square area. The cozy setting was perfect for this presentation!

A big thank you to Kelly Montross and Jayme Lewin Rich!

Unanswered Questions: Compensated Vaccine Injury & Autism

2011-05-16T00:02:00.002-04:00

From NAA NY Metro Secretary Lisa Rudley:

On Tuesday, May 10, 2011, I attended the press conference in Washington DC on the release of “Unanswered Questions from the Vaccine Injury Compensation Program (VICP): A Review of Compensated Cases of Vaccine-Induced Brain Injury,” a peer-reviewed paper published in the Pace Environmental Law Review.

Many media outlets showed up along with several families. It was a heartfelt experience to personally meet the families who publicly spoke out regarding their experience with the VICP and their children's autism. Mary Holland, Louis Conte, Robert Krakow (pictured), and Lisa Colin, the study's authors, did a tremendous job along with the brave families who spoke out publicly at the press conference. The press conference can be viewed here.

My personal experience with this project began two years ago, as several of us contemplated the “what if” we showed the world that compensated cases in the VICP also had autism and that there were not just a few, but that there were many. The project was launched and the rest is history. As one of the ten parent volunteer interviewers who called families, I found the families extremely willing to share their stories.

Mary Holland, Lou Conte & Lisa Colin stayed on Capitol Hill to hold a congressional briefing on Thursday, May 12th, where only 25 staffers attended. There is much more work to be done but the ball is now rolling!

The announcement below, from Autism Action Network Executive Director John Gilmore, contains many links to media reports on this important event.

Autism Action Network Alert from John Gilmore, Executive Director:
Support the Journalists Who Support Us -Watch the Fox Videos and leave Comments
Most of you are probably aware of the study released Tuesday that found 83 people who were compensated through the Vaccine Injury Compensation Program, who also have autism as one of their injuries. These people are not supposed to exist according to the government, and the researchers were able to review only a small fraction of the more than 2000 cases compensated by the VICP.

The feds new this study was coming and organized efforts to squelch any media coverage of the story. Fortunately. Fox News covered the story extensively. If you haven’t seen the videos of the news coverage you will find them below. Please watch the videos and then make comments on the web pages. Stations pay close attention to the number of hits and comments their stories receive. The more hits and the more positive comments the more likely they are to do stories like this in the future.

Thank you to Lisa for this terrific, first-hand account!

Westchester Recap: Craniosacral Therapy & Reiki - Using These Techniques Together

2011-05-16T00:00:00.002-04:00

On Saturday evening, May 7, 2011 the NAA Metro NY Chapter –Westchester Branch hosted Annie Samojedny and Lori Segal presenting "Multiple Hands Healing - Combining Cranio-Sacral Therapy and Reiki."

This unique approach to healing combines two well-established, hands-on therapies to bring about a profound restoration of health and balance.

Individually, these therapies hold benefit for children on the autism spectrum, but in combination the two therapies can provide a deep release of mental, emotional and physical blockages. By working with the Chakra, nervous and energy systems, the body’s ability to achieve homeostasis, relaxation, feelings of peace and improved health can be achieved. The process of this combined therapy can enhance the immune system and facilitate healing on multiple levels.

Annie Samojedny and Lori Siegel work out of their office in Croton, New York.

More information can be found here or by calling 914.271.3040.

Geri Brewster: Nutritional and Biomedical Interventions in ASDs

2011-05-15T23:59:00.002-04:00

On May 4, 2011, in collaboration with the Beth Israel Division of Developmental Pediatrics, NAA NY Metro welcomed Geri Brewster, RD, MPH. CDN, to present the first of a two-part series on Nutritional and Biomedical Interventions in Autism Spectrum Disorders. The purpose of part one of the series was to explore theories linking gastrointestinal ("GI") issues and ASD symptoms - particularly neurologic and immunologic symptoms - and discuss various dietary interventions that have been used by families of children with ASD. Geri's presentation provided a compilation of information, including the scientific bases underpinning the relationship between autism and GI issues as well as how effective certain dietary interventions are and why they may work.

Geri walked the audience through a brief history of ASD and even showed us that the majority of cases of autism first identified by Dr. Kanner in 1943 had GI symptoms! In fact, studies have shown GI symptoms to be more common in children with autism than in the general population. Geri pointed us toward many studies discussion GI problems in children with ASD - studies which confirm what so many parents of children with ASD long have reported. She also explained important links between the immune system and the GI system. She explained the scientific information that supports a link. She then went on to discuss, given this knowledge, the need to remove offending or disruptive factors, add supportive ones, reduce inflammation, support detoxification and optimize each child's well-being. She referred to the "4R" program - remove, replace, re-innoculate and repair. For many children, these offending and supportive factors might, at least in part, be nutritionally based and she recommended working with a nutritionist or doctor familiar in nutritional interventions to individualize your child's diet to his or her needs and to make sure that nutrient needs are being met.

Geri emphasized that there are many dietary interventions (GFCF, Feingold, SCD, low-oxalate, yeast-free and others) available to parents and walked through considerations for each. At a minimum, parents should look to which foods it is important to buy organic. She pointed parents to the Environmental Working Group website as a good resource on this issue. She also discussed reducing exposure to BPA as important to good health for all of us. She discussed concerns over genetically-modified foods as well.

Geri explained that there is no one diet solution that works for everyone - we must learn to respect the individuality of our (and our children's) bodies. She encouraged parents who explore dietary intervention to keep records of positives and negatives so that the professionals working with the child can tweak recommendations to fit the child's needs.

We are all looking forward to exploring these issues more in part two - on Thursday, May 19, 2010 at 6:30 at Beth Israel's Phillips Ambulatory Care Center, 2nd Floor, at the southeast corner of Union Square.

Westchester Recap: Special Needs Financial Planning

2011-05-15T23:58:00.001-04:00

On Tuesday, May 3, 2011, the Westchester Branch of NAA NY Metro hosted an event centered on a critically important but difficult to face subject - financial planning for your special needs family member. As the numbers of children with autism have increased, so too will the number of adults with autism who need specialized financial arrangements to preserve benefits to which they are entitled but also to allow them to live full and meaningful lives. NAA NY Metro brought together a panel of professionals: NAA NY Metro board member Stuart Flaum, who specializes in special needs family planning with AXA Advisors, spoke about insurance issues. Sheryl Frishman, of Counsel to the law firm of Littman Krooks LLP, spoke about legal issues and trusts. Michael Sanders, President of Clark Dodge Asset Management, LLC, spoke about investments and presented a case study of a special needs family.

Together, this dynamic trio presented families with invaluable information concerning planning for children with special needs as they become adults with special needs. None of us likes to think about these issues - it forces parents to face tough questions, not only their own mortality but also the issue of whether or to what extent their child with special needs will be able to function independently or at what level. As the panel discussed, parents need to look at many issues and are wise to seek professional counsel for this very complicated area of estate and life planning. Because adults with special needs may be eligible for certain governmental benefits, parents need to know that their financial planning efforts may negatively impact their child's eligibility for services he or she very much needs if not correctly planned. Parents need to understand the roles of insurance, investments, and the various trust options that parents might consider in providing for their child as he or she becomes an adult. Moreover, parents need to plan and take action to establish themselves as their adult child's guardian before the child becomes emancipated at age 18. Many parents may not realize that they cannot simply continue to make decisions for their child after age 18, even if the child is unable to do so. Rather, the parent must be legally appointed the adult child's guardian. Failure to formalize the guardian relationship can lead to many difficulties. Moreover, parents need to be aware that their school districts are required to begin planning for transition from educational services to adult services years before a child turns 18. Westchester ARC has many valuable resources on transition planning on their website - simply search "transition" on their site and read up on your child's rights and the district's obligations - many parents are unaware of transition planning, which can be a valuable tool as your child grows up.

Many thanks to our speakers for sharing their wisdom with us concerning this important but very emotional and difficult subject.

Dr. Sidney Baker’s Treatment Options Under the Autoimmune Umbrella

2011-05-09T10:41:00.000-04:00

Living the difficult reality of autoimmune diseases becomes even more daunting in face of the barrage of information about their causes and treatments. But at a groundbreaking presentation for NAA NY Metro Chapter in collaboration with Beth Israel Medical Center’s Division of Developmental Pediatrics on April 7, 2011, Dr. Sidney Baker provided a unique perspective, effective treatment options, and hope for those struggling with these diseases.

“Until proven otherwise – all chronic illness is autoimmune,” Dr. Baker said and explained that autoimmune diseases share common roots of problems in oxidative stress, detoxification, and inflammation. Connecting these commonalities in autism, Alzheimer’s, and Parkinson’s is the challenge Dr. Baker is facing every day. “There’s not much light difference between these shades,” he said.

Citing several stories of patients with chronic illness who responded well to his treatment options, Dr. Baker argued for “an approach that focuses on each person as an individual.”
Dr. Baker spoke of a woman he treated for many years. As she grew older, she suffered from dementia and began to wander from home. Dr. Baker explained that nothing seemed to help her, including prescription drugs, until he happened on a recommendation of using a combination of the herb Valerian and Chamomile tea. To his surprise, these natural treatments helped and with their regular use the woman’s wandering stopped. The moral of the story, Dr. Baker said was simple – subtle therapies work!

Dr. Baker shared another story of a 15.5 months old child who had stopped growing, an emergency situation for a toddler. With the right combination of treatments, including, among other things, specific dosages of Trichuris Suis Ova (TSO), and coenzymes and probiotics, the child’s autism symptoms disappeared and he is now healthy and growing.

Cases like these and over four decades of experience led Dr. Baker to form a paradigm that asks two basic questions: 1. Does this person have a special unmet need to get something beneficial? 2. Does this person have a special unmet need to avoid or get rid of something allergic or toxic? Finding answers to these questions is crucial in finding effective treatments.
“Nothing is as hasty as a diagnosis,” Dr. Baker said because it can distract you off of the path to recovery and cure.

Sharing some of his experience from medical school, Dr. Baker recalled that in a case of a child with developmental problems, one of his teachers said, “don’t look for answers.” Someone from the audience asked why a teacher would instruct students not to look for answers. Dr. Baker responded that the teacher wanted to dissuade the future doctors from giving parents “false hope.” He added that experience has taught him that “there is no such thing as false hope.”

Dr. Baker has authored several books and is the Associate Editor of the Journal of Integrative Medicine, and has a private practice in Sag Harbor, NY, focusing on complex chronic illness. Most recently, his research interests include the development of a patented coding system for medical narrative that forms the basis for Autism360.org, a website funded by The Moody’s Foundation providing interchange between individual and collective medical experience and “letting the data talk.”

Reiki with Hilary Mc Cann

2011-04-27T09:51:00.000-04:00

Thursday, May 12th
6:30-8:30pm
408 East 79th Street, New York

Reiki is a Japanese healing technique that can be used to relax, reduce stress, and ease pain associated with chronic illness. It also promotes healing. In recent years, Reiki has moved into the mainstream use of alternative medicine alongside acupressure, acupuncture and Tai Chi. Reiki is used in many hospitals nationwide in their complimentary care/integrative care departments as well as being used to treat autism spectrum disorders. Reiki can help alleviate some of the symptoms associated with Autism and it may produce an overall calming effect without the use of drugs. It also does not interfere with other conventional and alternative treatments. Reiki can address sleep troubles, stomach pains, headaches, anxieties and fears.

Reiki is administered by laying your hands on certian points of the body and is based on the idea that an unseen "life force energy" flows through us and is what causes us to be alive. It is a simple, natural and safe method of spiritual healing and self-improvement. Reiki can be used to treat specific illness or for general wellness. This powerful energy healing method can be used on yourself or your child.

There is no fee and no registration required.

Please circulate this invitation to family, friends, and colleagues

Please visit our website for more information www.naanyc.org

NAA NY Metro Adovocates for Philosophical Exemption

2011-04-26T10:04:00.000-04:00

The NAA NY Metro Chapter’s representative along with other autism advocates and activist had a private meeting with N.Y. State Assemblyman Richard Gottfried, who chairs the Assembly Health Committee. The meeting was held on 4/17/2011 at the district office of the assemblyman. Those joining in this meeting included John Gilmore, Exec. Director of Autism Action Network, Rita Palma of My Kids My Choice, Mary Holland Esq and Robert Krakow Esq of EBCALA. Lisa Rudley and Khalid Rehman represented the NY Metro Chapter.

Assemblyman Gottfried is very sympathetic to our cause. He currently has sponsored two bills, A00592 and A00593. If enacted, the boll A00592 will “provide protections to parents who decline to have their children immunized on the basis of religious beliefs; will allow a parent to submit an affidavit stating that the parent, parents or guardian hold genuine and sincere religious beliefs”. The bill A00593 will “extend the protections of the medical exemption from mandatory immunizations for students to ensure deference to the professional assessments of physicians and nurse practitioners in the care of their individual patients”.

The group asked the assemblyman to go a step further and support an alternative bill that will be broad based and provide exemption based on secular grounds. The data from CDC shows that in 2009, the rate of vaccination in the States that offer religious and philosophical exemption was not lower than other states or the national average. In fact and contrary to what will seem obvious, the rate of vaccination in the States with religious and philosophical exemption was higher than many States without such laws. This was explained by the fact that when parents are allowed to seek such exemptions, they choose to have their children vaccinated against some serious illnesses, whereas without such exemptions, such parents avoid all types of vaccinations. This data was shared with the assemblyman.

The legal issues of personal choice and inability of families to seek remedies and damages due to defective vaccines were discussed by Mary Holland and Robert Krakow. Dr. Khalid Rehman spoke about lack of informed consent and the impact of mandated vaccines on the immune system of vulnerable children. Lisa Rudley and Rita Palma emphasized that we must be allowed to have choices and that mandatory vaccinations alienate such families, force them no avoid vaccinations. This “all or none” attitude is contrary to good public health policy, a goal that the assembly health committee strives to achieve.

Tips for Air Travel with Your ASD Child

2011-04-25T17:00:00.000-04:00

A friend asked for some tips on air travel with his ASD child. One of our board members, who travels far and wide with her ASD son, sent this and I thought it was great and really worth sharing!!

Jet Blue allows you to get a bulkhead, extra legroom seat for about $35 per person each way - worth it! Other airlines may have this service as well or, if you let them know your child is disabled, may assign such a seat to you. Bulkhead might be best if you are at all concerned about kicking the seat in front or snapping the tray table up and down (a favorite of my son's for awhile). Also you can board first or last, whatever suits you best (the extra leg room seating entitles you to priority boarding). If you have lots of carry-ons I would say get on first, to secure space but if not, your child might feel better getting on later. I would definitely call the airline in advance and also talk to them at the gate if you have concerns.

If you think your child be agitated, talk to your MD about possible sedatives (and try them out before the trip -- you know how some sedatives have the opposite effect on some people - the last thing you want is him bouncing off the wall, right?) Portable DVD/iPad/iPod or the like are important but, keep in mind that until a cruising altitude is reached they have to be off so if your child is using it before take off, it will have to go off until they announce. If that transition will be hard, then consider not giving it to him or her until you are in the air. Jet Blue also has seat-back TV (incl. Nickolodeon, cartoon network and the like!) which helps (electronics also have to go off during descent and landing).

Might want to check the TSA re screening etc. Some airports have the nasty new screening machines with the radiation concern. I had us screened by hand when we flew back a few weeks ago because we were put on the line for those machines. They had to separate us b/c I needed a female screener. My son always in my sightline but they screened me first. When they screened him I was very close though not in the screening space (which was roped off). You could also inquire about private screening if you are concerned about your child not cooperating. With regard to the regular x-ray - they want children to go thru alone, so you will need to decide if you going before or after works best or talk to TSA at the airport about another way to do it if you are concerned.

I think advance planning is the key for everyone. Does your child do well with social stories? Those might help prepare him or her too because lots of things he or she has never experienced before will happen! Also if concerned about ears popping - take gum if he chews it (my son won't and always has ear issues flying).

NAA - NY Metro Rings The NASDAQ Opening Bell

2011-04-24T13:37:00.000-04:00

On April 18, 2011, NAA NY Metro had the great honor of ringing the opening bell at the NASDAQ Exchange during Autism Awareness Month. A number of NAA Board Members, friends and family gathered for the ceremony. In attendance were: Kim Mack Rosenberg and Henry Rosenberg; Peggy, Rob and Daniel Becker; Stuart and Cameron Flaum; Khalid Rehman; Homeira Kalim; Sujata Setya, Raj Dhanda and Debbie Pieri; Kathleen Reily; and Lisa, Max, Derek, and Lexi Rudley. The broadcast was carried by many media, including CNBC, CNBC India, CNBC.com, Itsaboutfinance.com, Business News Network (Canada), NDTV (New Delhi), Bloomberg, FOX Business, & KTVU (a FOX Affiliate). We also were broadcast on the 7-story jumbotron in Times Square!

NASDAQ made us feel welcome from the minute we walked in the door. Our logo was everywhere, on all the screens and even projected spinning on the lobby floor! In the Times Square studio there were beverages for all as we did a practice run through the ceremony. When the ceremony began at about 9:15, host Jay Heller spoke about the NAA NY Metro chapter and introduced Kim and Peggy. Kim spoke for a few minutes on autism awareness, difficult issues such as wandering and adult services facing families caring for a loved one with autism, and the work of NAA NY Metro and how we hope to reach families in need. then it was time to push the button to ring the bell and open the market. Everyone gathered onstage for the bell ringing, amid much clapping, waving and cheering. We then went outside for a photoshoot on Times Square with our images projected on the jumbotron - a real kick for the kids and adults alike.

You can watch the ceremony here, just look for the April 18, 2011 opening ceremony, and read more about it here.

A big thank you to all who made this happen - it was truly a special day for NAA NY Metro!

Photos are copyright 2011, The NASDAQ OMX Group, Inc.

Westchester: Neurofeedback, A Non-Invasive Brain Training Intervention

2011-04-23T18:20:00.000-04:00

On Monday, April 11, 2011, Drs. Mary Jo Sabo and Mala Datta presented "The Neurofeedback Approach to Train the Brain Non-Invasively in ASD and Other Disabilities." This well-attended program was very informative and we present below the materials shared by Mary Jo and Mala, which provide a wealth of information for those interested in learning more about the benefits of neurofeedback. Mary Jo and Mala gave the audience an overview of the history of neurofeedback and the benefits they have been observing in children with autism, ADHD and other developmental challenges. A number of parents in the audience have already been using neurofeedback with positive results in their children.

Drs Sabo and Datta Neurofeedback Presentation 2011
Sabo and Datta Neurofeedback and Autism 2011
Autism and Case Studies Research-1

Raising A Child On The Spectrum. A Single Parent's Perspective

2011-04-21T20:21:00.001-04:00

Speaker: Ken Siri

Date: Wednesday, May 25, 2011

Time: 6:00 pm - Networking. 6:30-8:30 pm - Lecture

Location: Rebecca School. 40 East 30th, 5th Floor. New York, NY 10003

Ken Siri, author, advocate, and entrepeneur, is the single father of a 12-year-old boy with autism in New York City. Ken spent 14 years on Wall Street as a healthcare analyst and is the Founder and Chairman of Consilium Global Research, helping under-covered companies achieve recognition in the investment community. During the past two years, Ken has published Cutting-Edge Therapies for Autism (now in its second edition) and 1,001 Tips for the Parents of Autistic Boys. He is a passionate voice within the autism community speaking at autism related conferences and has been interviewed on local and nationally syndicated radio, print, and television.

Come hear Ken discuss the therapies and treatments that helped (and did not help) his son, and his perspective on how to remain positive and on top of things as a single parent raising a child with special needs. The presentation will include ample time for Q&A and for Ken to autograph copies of his books.

NAA NY Metro Commemorates Autism Awareness Month: NYC City Hall Autism Awareness Event

2011-04-20T15:29:00.001-04:00

On April 5, 2011, in recognition of Autism Awareness Month, NAA NY Metro and its supporters gathered on the steps of City Hall in New York City. The event was MC’d by the co-chair of NAA NY Metro’s Parent Mentoring Committee, Dara Berger, who shared her own family’s journey of helping her son.

NAA NY Metro also was pleased and honored that William Lopez, Assistant Commissioner, Bureau of Mental Retardation and Developmental Disabilities at NYC Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, joined us and addressed our group.

Continuing parents’ personal stories, Dara was followed by Ken Siri, a single dad who shared his son’s story, with frankness and with humor. Following Ken was NAA Board Member Katie Wright, a mom and advocate, who shared powerful words about her own family’s journey.

Next, Kim Mack Rosenberg, NAA NY Metro’s new President, spoke about the importance of awareness and advocacy, and how we can all take little steps in our daily lives to make those around us more aware of what autism is and what impact it has on a family. She also explained that it is important to have our voices heard in local government, in Albany and in Washington DC – and how simple steps like an email, a phone call, fax or letter can make a big difference.

Kim then presented NAA NY Metro’s 2011 Spirit of Hope Award to Mary Holland, in recognition for her tireless advocacy work and her “never give up” attitude that embodies the spirit of hope. In accepting the award, Mary shared some of her own experiences as a mother and an advocate and discussed the importance of the work that we as parents and advocates do. Mary is a res earch scholar at NYU School of Law, director of the Elizabeth Birt Center for Autism Law & Advocacy, a founding board member of the Center for Personal Rights, and an editor of and contributor to the groundbreaking book, Vaccine Epidemic.

Dara then introduced Mary Coyle, to address “Fighting Back and Winning.” Mary spoke of her own son’s challenges and successes and shared how well he is doing today. Her story was an inspiration to parents who dream that their child with ASD will achieve great success in life. Mary is also a homeopath with extensive training in homotoxicology and through her work, she helps other parents achieve success with their children as well.

Finally, Khalid Rehman, Chair of the Advocacy Committee gave an update on current advocacy efforts and shared a beautiful poem written by Danson Mandela Wambua, a non-verbal young boy with autism, capturing so poignantly that so many of our children are full of insight, intelligence and life but have difficulty communicating and sharing all they know.

While April is Autism Awareness Month, NAA NY Metro strives to make every day one in which autism awareness, education, advocacy and change happen.

Robert MacNeil Returns to PBS Series on Autism beginning April 18

2011-04-15T08:40:00.000-04:00

The PBS TV stations will air a series on Autism; narrated by Robert MacNeil (of the MacNeil Lehrer News Hour) starting Monday 18 April. Please check your local listing for stations and time. Please forward this information with friends and family and share it as widely as possible.

It is important to increase awareness. Increased awareness brings out the the public support for the policy change that will eventually impacts the lives of our families. It has happened because unfortunately, Robert MacNeil's grandson has developed autism.
Here are two links to this news:

PBS NEWSHOUR: Autism Diagnoses Bring Slew of Costs for Families
Robert MacNeil Returns to Newshour for 'Autism Today' Series

Thank You. Khalid Rehman

Biomed 101 - Two Part Series

2011-04-10T16:26:00.000-04:00

Geri Brewster, RD.MPH, CDN
Speaker: Geri Brewster, RD.MPH, CDN

Wednesday, May 4th, 6:30-8:30 pm (session 1)
Thursday, May 19th, 6:30 - 8:30 pm (session 2)

Location: Beth Israel Medical Center
10 Union Square East
2nd Floor Conference Center
New York, NY 10003

If you have ever wanted to learn about the nuts and bolts of Biomedical Interventions, then this is the event for you.

Geri Brewster plans to pack as much teaching as she can into two evenings. During one session, she will go over all the different dietary interventions including GFCF (Gluten Free Casein Free), SCD (Specific Carbohydrate Diet), Feingold, Allergy Free (soy, yeast, etc). And if that's not too much information for you, she will also go over all the testing that will help you and your practitioner decide which diet and supplements might be best for you or your child. Then during the next session, Geri will walk you through the most common and poplular Biomedical Treatments beginning with some simple supplements such as Vitamin D and B12 continuing down the list to chelation and Hyperbaric Chamber. So no matter what the diagnosis is or isn't, this is an event for everyone.

Come even if you can only make one night. You can get the power point for the other night you miss.

Geri Brewster RD MPH CDN began her clinical career nearly 30 years ago, specializing in pediatric and young-adult developmental disabilities, including metabolic and gastrointestinal disorders; specialized tube feedings; dysphagia; autism; behavioral, attention, sensory and oral-motor integration disorders; and eating disorders. In her current practice, she develops comprehensive individualized lifestyle, nutritional and supplement programs for each client's specific conditions. Ms. Brewster earned her Masters in Public Health Nutrition from New York Medical College in Valhalla, New York . She lectures extensively on nutrition issues and practices in the NYC-Westchester area.

How Therapeutic Listening Enhances the Social Nervous System

2011-04-06T10:49:00.000-04:00

Speaker: Sarah Gayle Shoenbaum, MA, OTR/L

Date: Monday, May 16
Time: 7:00 - 9:30 pm
Location: Washington Engine Fire Company, 130 White Plains Rd / Rte 119, Tarrytown, NY 10591

Sarah Gayle Shoenbaum, MA OTR/L will present how therapeutic listening enhances the social nervous system. Sarah will provide information on the therapeutic program, Solisten®, which is the portable application of the Tomatis® Method. It is a revolutionary sound training program that strengthens the ear and energizes the brain, improving many areas including auditory and sensory processing, stress, speech and balance.

Sarah Gayle Shoenbaum, MA OTR/L has been in the field since 1979. Sarah is an instructor and clinician of occupational therapy, craniosacral therapy, neurodevelopemental treatment (NDT) and sensory intergration.

Multiple Hands Healing: CranioSacral Therapy & Energy Healing, The Dynamic Duo, Multiple Approaches for Calming the Central Nervous System and more...

2011-04-06T10:42:00.000-04:00

Speakers: Annie Samojedny, PT, PLLC and Lori Siegel, Reiki Master/Instructor

Date: Saturday, May 7
Time: 7:00 - 9:30 pm
Location: Clubhouse, 1501 Pheasant Woods Road, Briarcliff Manor, NY 10510

Annie Samojedny, PT, PLLC & Lori Siegel, Reiki Master/Instructor, Integrated Energy Therapy Master/Instructor, NYS Certified Teacher will present the benefits of Craniosacral therapy on the Central Nervous system and much more.

Anne Samojedny is a New York State licensed physical therapist with a B.S. in physical therapy from New York University, 1982. She worked for a variety of hospitals and outpatient clinics including Hospital for Special Surgery. Later Anne received her Dance Medicine Certification from the Harkness Center at New York University.

Continuing education has afforded Anne advanced manual therapy skills in many areas. These include spinal and extremity mobilization with Stanley Paris. Courses in Cyriax and McKenzie approaches to spinal treatment. Coursework with the Upledger Institute in CranioSacral therapy I, II and cranial pediatrics. Lymph Drainage Massage I & II, Somatoemotional release I and Visceral Manipulation I. Anne's training at the Barral Institute includes Neuromeningeal Manipulation I, Visceral Manipulation II and Visceral Applications for Pediatrics.

Lori Siegel is a Reiki Master/Instructor certified by the Center for Reiki Training by William Rand, a Reiki Master certified by the John Harvey Gray Center for Reiki Healing, a Karma Release Practitioner certified by Gerda Veneman of the Center for Inner Light and an Integrated Energy Therapy (IET) Master/Instructor certified by Stephen Thayer's Center of Being. She is also a certified New York State teacher with an MS in Early Childhood Education. She is presently training in Gestalt therapy and for a master's degree in Art therapy.

Special Needs Planning Made Simple In A Complex World

2011-04-06T10:36:00.000-04:00

Speakers: Michael Sanders, Stuart Flaum, Sheryl Frishman
Date: Tuesday, May 3 Time: 7:00 - 9:30 pm
Location: Washington Engine Fire Company, Opp. Bldg. #150 130 White Plains Rd / Rte 119, Tarrytown, NY 10591

Michael Sanders, President, Clark Dodge Asset Management, Stuart Flaum, Managing Director, AXA and Sheryl Frishman, Esq. will each share the importance of planning and preserving for the future and how families can avoid major pitfalls financially and legally. As President of Clark Dodge Asset Management, Michael Sanders brings more than 19 years of investment management experience to his roles as principal and chief investment officer. Mike is passionate about helping families to plan for their future and has been extremely instrumental in guiding families with special needs through comprehensive planning.
Prior to Clark Dodge, Mr. Sanders was Managing Director and Director of Sales with Gerstein Fisher & Associates where he was responsible for the Client Advisory and Business Development teams. During his tenure from 2004 to 2010, the firm tripled its assets under management and was ranked as one of the leading independent investment advisory firms in New York. Mr. Sanders previously worked for two of the oldest firms on Wall Street. From 1999 to 2004 he was a Vice President at Stein Roe Investment Counsel and from 1992 to 1999 he was Vice President and Investment Officer for J. & W. Seligman & Company. Mr. Sanders earned his BS in Business Administration from the State University of New York at Buffalo and an MBA from Long Island University's CW Post Campus. He is Series 65 licensed. He serves as Treasurer of the Byram Hills Education Foundation in Armonk, NY where he lives with his wife and four children.

Stuart Flaum is the Managing Director of the Special Needs Family Planning Group at AXA Advisors which educates and empowers families in which an individual has a disability through unique long- term health, financial and estate planning strategies. Stuart serves on the board of the following organizations: Parent to Parent of New York State, National Autism Association New York Metro, and The Devereux Glenholme School in Washington, CT. He is on the advisory board of Strokes of Genius, an international exhibition of savants and artists on the spectrum. In addition, Stuart is the Autism Speaks NYC Walk Co-chair and founder of the Disabilities Leadership Council.

Sheryl Frishman, Esq. is of Counsel to the law firm of Littman Krooks LLP. Prior to joining Littman Krooks, Sheryl was a partner in the law offices of Frishman & Faber, P.C. a practice devoted entirely to the advocacy and life planning needs of children and adults with disabilities and their families. Previously, Sheryl was the senior associate attorney at a prominent New York law firm where she managed their Elder Law Department. She has served numerous times as court evaluator, guardian, guardian ad litem, and court appointed counsel for incapacitated persons in New York State Supreme Court and Surrogate's Court.
Currently, she serves as President of the Board of Directors of Westchester Arc the largest agency serving people with developmental disabilities and their families in Westchester County. Sheryl also serves on the Board of Governors and Legal Committee of NYSARC Inc., is on the advisory board for the WIHD Autism Expansion Grant, the fundraising Board of Directors for S.A.I.L. at Ferncliff Manor, and serves on the Family Support Services Council of the Hudson Valley Developmental Disabilities Services Office. Sheryl is an active member of many other organizations in the disability and legal community and has been instrumental in developing and implementing programs in the Hudson Valley for people with disabilities and their families. She speaks regularly and conducts workshops for professional and family organizations in the areas of special education law and life planning in addition to authoring articles on these topics. Sheryl has been the recipient of many awards and honors for her work in the special needs community, including recently being named one of Westchester County's "40 under 40 Rising Stars" by the Business Counsel of Westchester. Sheryl is also a co-host of the Family Network TV show "It's a Matter of Law", a show that covers all legal aspects of having a child with special needs. Sheryl received her B.S. from Union College, and her J.D. from Cardozo Law School of Yeshiva University. Sheryl is the mother of three children, one of whom has Autism.

Scott Smith, PA Answers Parents' Questions

2011-03-31T09:54:00.000-04:00

On Wednesday, March 23, 2011, attendees at NAA-NY Metro's monthly educational meeting were given a unique opportunity to get answers to specific questions about their own children. Scott Smith, PA, of Full Potential Wellness Center (Edison, NJ), spent over two hours going around the room, answering questions posed to him by the dozens of parents in attendance. Not only were parents given the chance to ask a question about their own child, we also had the opportunity to hear answers about other children that might have relevance to our children. Scott's ability to comprehensively answer questions on a variety of topics - everything from GFCF diet, to mitochondrial issues, to PANDAS - was impressive. He provided strong scientific support for each answer in a way that parents could easily understand and asked followup questions that allowed even more relevant information to each parent.

After several years in practice with Drs. Bradstreet and Rossignol in Florida treating children on the autism spectrum, Scott Smith recently moved north to Edison, NJ and the Full Potential Wellness Center, where he is affiliated with Dr. James Neubrander.

(pictured: NAA-NY Metro President Kim Mack Rosenberg, Scott Smith, PA and Peggy Becker, NAA-NY Metro Vice President/Treasurer)

Our Second Annual Bowlathon on March 21st Was A Success!!

2011-03-31T00:06:00.000-04:00

What a great time everyone had at the Bowlathon on March 21st! It is so great to be able to bring your ASD child to an event where you don't have to worry about anything - we all fit right in - what a warm, accepting, supportive and wonderful bunch of people - all there raising money for a great cause. Thank you to everyone who made it possible! We raised, after expenses, $51,000 and we are thankful and honored to have received donations from so many! That is enough to keep our Summer Program going and to continue and expand our Helping Hand grants, as well as help support all our other activities. A huge shout out to our sponsors: Platinum Plus Level: Transperfect, Watch Me Grow - A Children's Sensory Gym & Speech-Language Center; Platinum Level:
Lindamood Bell; Gold Level: Elmy's Special Services, Michael S Licitra, CPA CFP, P.C., S.N.A.C.K., Special Needs Family Planning at AXA; Silver Level: Devlin McNiff Real Estate, Glow Gluten Free Cookie, Hopewell Pharmacy, Houston Enzymes, Lee Silsby Compounding Pharmacy, Special Playdate, Udi's, Zico Pure Coconut Water.

Westchester Parent Roundtable on "Wows and Not So Wows on the ASD Journey"

2011-03-30T00:30:00.001-04:00

On Monday evening March 21, 2010 approximately 20 parents came together at the Washington Engine Fire Company. The topic for the evening was “Wows and Not so Wows on the ASD Journey”. Parents were greeted by the two NAA NY Metro Westchester sub-chapter’s leaders, Lisa Rudley and Tricia Zarro. Lisa and Tricia asked parents to add topics and questions on the “Topic Board.” Various topics discussed included: detoxification protocols, supplementation, sibling relationships, lyme disease testing and treatment, diet options, neurofeedback, homeopathy, vision therapy, listening therapies and social skill classes. The evening was facilitated in such a way that a parent asked a question or brought up a treatment option. Discussion then proceeded by each attendee sharing their experiences and information about that topic.

Parents shared information and made contacts that will provide them guidance as they travel along their individual ASD treatment journey. The sentiment of the evening could be summed up by one of the facilitators:

“We are each traveling this journey without a road map or GPS. The only way that we can navigate our way through, is to look to each other to share experiences, offer help and give the support that is needed so that our children can reach their full potential.”

Monthly Support Group Meeting

2011-03-29T17:18:00.000-04:00

Moderator: Lauren Tobing-Puente
Location: Watch Me Grow 361 East 19th Street (between First and Second Avenues)

Lauren Tobing-Puente, Ph.D has generously volunteered her time to moderate our support group. She is a licensed psychologist and has extensive experience working with children with ASD and their families. Dr. Tobing-Puente is currently the Clinical Coordinator at the Rebecca School and also maintains a private practice in NYC where she provides Floortime, play therapy, consultation, services, and evaluations. Since space is limited for the support group sessions, Please RSVP to: NAAvigators@naanyc.org You will receive a confirmation email. We send out a monthly reminder. Please remember to RSVP each month. Meetings generally take place on the first Thursday of each month, from 7:15pm to 8:45 pm at Watch Me Grow. While we make every effort to adhere to this schedule, please understand that there may be times when the moderator needs to reschedule a meeting. If this occurs, we will post any changes to our website and notify directly (by email) those who have already sent us an RSVP for that meeting. If you would like more information, please visit our website at: www.naanyc.org For information on Dr. Tobing-Puente's services, please visit her website

The MERIT Approach: Integrating ABA with Developmental Models for Treatment of Children on the Autistic Spectrum

2011-03-29T17:12:00.000-04:00

Speaker: Jenifer Clark
Wednesday, April 27, 2011
Time:6:00 pm: Social Hour/Networking
6:30 pm: Lecture Location: Rebecca School, 40 East 30 Street, 5th Floor
event directions

Jenifer Clark received her master's in psychology from NYU and is completing her Ph.D. in clinical psychology at CUNY. She has worked as an ABA consultant and therapist since 1992. She specializes in working with children with autism and has taught atypical development at Hunter College. Currently she is the director of Boost!, an afterschool program for children with autism focussing on socialization and leisure skills for children on the spectrum, incorporating typically developing children as peers and social models. Ms. Clark is also the co-founder and therapist for SibFun, a support group for siblings of children with special needs. She consults at special needs and typical schools, and continues to consult with children and families.

Ms. Clark's presentation will focus on her hybrid approach to treatment entitled MERIT, which utilizes traditional ABA therapy and incorporates other more developmentally based approaches to address emotional and mental development. Refreshments will be served.

There is no fee for the event.
If you have any topics you would like to see at future educational events or feedback on any previous events, please email your comments to mraisbecknaa@gmail.com

LENS Neurofeedback and ILS (Integrated Listening System)

2011-03-29T17:01:00.000-04:00

Speaker: Kelly Montross
Wednesday, April 13, 2011
Time: 6:30-8:30 pm
Location: 39 West 14th Street Suite 307/308, New York

Come learn about Low Energy Neurofeedback. It has many of the same positive benefits of standard neurofeedback without some of the negatives. The main goal of both forms of neurofeedback is to build new neurons or pathways in the brain which is what is referred to as neuroplasticity. LENS neurofeedback uses radio waves at a much smaller frequency than the traditional form. This can alleviate a whole range of unwanted symptoms such as headaches, tics, sleep disturbances, anxiety and behavioral problems. Many parents with children on the spectrum have reported very positive results.

LENS neurofeedback does not require the patient to do anything, so children are able to sit passively and even watch a video during their session. This is especially good for children with attention disorder issues. Another plus is that LENS only needs to be done once a week as opposed to traditional neurofeedback that usually requires several sessions per week for longer durations.

Kelly will also talk about using Integrated Listening System alongside LENS, which she feels compliment each other. ILS sound and movement programs may improve learning, attention and processing abilities.

So whether you are a newcomer to neurofeedback or have tried the standard form and would like to find out more about LENS and ILS ....then Kelly's event is for you.

For more information, including directions to our events, please visit our website at www.naanyc.org

Neurofeedback Approach to Train the Brain Non-Invasively in ASD and other Disabilities

2011-03-29T16:42:00.000-04:00

Speakers: Drs. Mary Jo Sabo and Mala Datta
Monday, April 11, 2011
Time: 7:00 - 9:30 pm
Location: Washington Engine Fire Company, Across from Bldg. #150, 130 White Plains Rd / Rte 119, Tarrytown, NY 10591

Dr. Mary Jo Sabo and Dr. Mala Datta will discuss the history of neurofeedback and assisting children and adults with autism, ADD, ADHD, LD, SPD and other challenges. They will provide ways in which neurofeedback improves on focus, language and mood. Drs. Sabo and Datta will also discuss the uses of neurofeedback with seizures.

Dr. Mary Jo Sabo of Biofeedback Consultants Inc. is a Neurotherapist, Educator, Lecturer with a strong emphasis in the Wellness Health Care field. Dr. Mary Jo Sabo has been in the field of biofeedback/neurofeedback for over 20 years. She was instrumental in bringing Neurofeedback into the public schools of Yonkers, New York and has consulted with many private schools in assisting them to utilize neurofeedback for students. Dr. Sabo has been instrumental in teaching other professionals how to successfully integrate neurofeedback into their private practices. Her work has appeared in the media, both on television (CNN, Good Morning America, Westchester and Manhattan Cable) and in newspapers, magazines and books. She teaches Neurofeedback for an Internationally accredited program (BCIA) and has lectured extensively on Applied Psychophysiology. Dr. Sabo has a private practice in Rockland County, Suffern, NY and is well known in the field of Biofeedback/Neurofeedback. She works with all age groups and most diagnoses.

Biofeedback Consultants Inc. (www.therippleeffect.org) has on staff Dr. Mala Datta, a psychologist and certified Neurotherapist who specializes in Psychological and Educational testing and individual and family counseling. Dr. Datta teaches college courses at Dominican College in Orangeburgh, New York. She also teaches for the internationally accredited Neurofeedback program (BCIA). She will be presenting information on Neurofeedback with Dr. Sabo at this lecture.

For more information about the Westchester meetings including directions, please visit our website or contact Tricia Zarro (914) 261-2509 or Lisa Rudley (917) 414-9190

Dr. Sid Baker author of Detoxification and Healing at Beth Israel

2011-03-27T17:28:00.000-04:00

Dr. Sidney Baker author of Detoxification and Healing: The Key to Optimal Health on "Autism, Alzheimer's and Parkinson's - Treatment Options Under the Autoimmune Umbrella.

Thursday, April 7, 2011 - 6:30 - 8:30 pm

Location: Beth Israel Medical Center
2nd Floor Conference Center
10 Union Square East
NY, NY

More people are afflicted with chronic illness than ever before. Come learn what many of these autoimmune disorders have in common and how to treat them.

Dr. Sid Baker is most well known for his books and treatment of children on the Autism Spectrum. However, he has been treating both children and adults with a vast array of chronic illness for years. He is going to explain how many of these autoimmune diseases actually have some common underlying causes and that many of the treatment options tend to overlap. He plans to go over some of the more common alternative treatment options as well as some of the newer ones. Dr. Baker will cite examples from his own case studies drawn from patients he has treated over the years that have made significant progress with the treatment options he will describe.

This event will be very helpful for those who suffer from a chronic illness and for those wanting to prevent one. Come learn about some exciting healing options under the autoimmune umbrella and walk away armed with some important information that can make a difference in yours or someone you knows life.

Dr Baker received his undergraduate, medical, and specialty training from Yale where he held a faculty position from 1969 to 1989. His medical career included being Peace Corps Volunteer, family practitioner, Director of the Gesell Institute of Human Development in New Haven, and private practice focusing on complex chronic illness in adults and children, now in Sag Harbor, NY.

His books include two co-authored Gesell Institute books on child development. He is the author of Detoxification and Healing and The Circadian Prescription and co-author of Autism: Effective Biomedical Treatments. He is Associate Editor of the Journal of Integrative Medicine.

His research interests include the development of a patented coding system for medical narrative that forms the basis for Autism360.org, a website funded by The Moody's Foundation providing interchange between individual and collective medical experience and "letting the data talk."

Come join us for this FREE informative event. Refreshments will be served
Please RSVP to Stacey Purro, LCSW at 212-844-8431 or email at spurro@chpnet.org

Location: Beth Israel Medical Center
10 Union Square East - NY, NY - 2nd Floor Conference Center
6:30 - 8:30 pm

Worldwide Autism Awareness Event in NYC at City Hall

2011-03-27T16:01:00.002-04:00

Join us on Tuesday, April 5th from 6 to 7 pm on the steps of City Hall in New York City as we commemorate Worldwide Autism Awareness Month and honor Mary Holland with our annual "Spirit of Hope" award.

Mary Holland is a lawyer with a deep background in human rights. She is a tireless advocate in the fight to recognize the rights of people with autism. In addition to her support of NAA NY Metro, Mary is a co-founder and the director of the Elizabeth Birt Center for Autism Law and Advocacy and a co-founder and board member of the Center for Personal Rights. She is an editor and author of the recently released book Vaccine Epidemic.

Gather with family and friends to raise public awareness. If we don't, who will? Other speakers will include ASD families talking about their challenges and successes.

Wear blue to show your support for autism awareness.

The program will start promptly at 6PM.
There are two entrances to the City Hall steps. You may enter either from is from Broadway at the intersection of Warren Street, or from Park Row (across from Pace University).
Inform the security guard at the gate that you are attending the Autism Event.

For more information, click here.

Thursday, March 10, 2011: Dr. Nancy O’Hara: "Preventing Harm During Pregnancy and Baby's First Years"

2011-03-21T23:03:00.000-04:00

While the cause or causes of autism remain elusive, there are steps parents and parents-to-be can take to foster a healthy environment before and during pregnancy and in a child's first years. During a presentation to the NAA NY Metro Chapter in collaboration with Beth Israel Medical Center's Department of Developmental Pediatrics, Nancy O'Hara, M.D., of the Center for Autism and Integrative Health, in Wilton, CT, provided a broad overview of preventing harm and fostering a healthy environment before, during, and after pregnancy.

Dara Berger, Co-Chair of the NAA NY Metro Chapter’s Parent Mentoring Committee, introduced Dr. O’Hara and spoke of the help and guidance she received from Dr. O’Hara on her journey to have a second child after her first child was diagnosed with ASD.

Dr. O’Hara covered a wide range of topics, including oxidative stress, nutrition, vaccination, and interventions. She said that this generation of children is sicker than previous ones and that early intervention, particularly during the first years of life is critical in preventing further harm.

She explained that prevention should begin before a woman decides to get pregnant. Checking the medical history and the physical condition of the mother and first-degree relatives to look for potential risks is a first step in creating a good foundation and addressing potential problems. For instance, a woman with 6 or more amalgam dental fillings should consult with a dentist well trained in removing amalgams and consider replacing her amalgams with less toxic fillings at least 3 months before becoming pregnant.

During pregnancy, it is important to continue the preconception lifestyle changes and address “the needs and physiological changes associated with pregnancy,” Dr. O’Hara said. These include increasing calories, protein, iron, folate, and other changes in diet. Daily intake of calcium and vitamin D are also very important for bone health, enzyme activity, and muscle contraction. A deficiency in the mother may transfer to the child, and Dr. O’Hara cited that an estimated 60-70% of autistic children have deficiency of vitamin D.

It is also crucial to weigh the risks vs. the benefits of using any medication during delivery. Then, post-delivery it is recommended to begin breastfeeding as soon as possible and to further continue the initial changes. Dr. O’Hara recommended breastfeeding for as long as possible and delaying the introduction of solid foods until at least 6 months of age. As an example for one of the best first foods, Dr. O’Hara recommended avocado for its high nutrition content and fatty acids. As the child grows, it is very important to maintain a healthy diet with fresh and varied foods, organic whenever possible.

Dr. O’Hara argued that, in addition to genetic susceptibility from the parents, during pregnancy the developing fetus is exposed to essentially everything the mother is exposed to, which may include maternal toxins, vaccinations, antibiotics, food antigens, and infections. Many of these and similar exposures continue in infancy and early childhood.

After the presentation, Dr. O’Hara answered many questions from the audience, which included parents of ASD children, young couples planning to have children, and medical professionals. For more information and guidance, visit Dr. O’Hara’s website.

NYC GF EVENT: BAGELS AND BOWLING THIS SUNDAY to Benefit NAA-NY Metro!

2011-03-16T09:44:00.001-04:00

Come to BOWL at The NAA NY METRO 2nd Annual Bowlathon this Sunday! RSVP HERE TO JOIN US AT THE BOWLATHON! The food is all gluten free! It is $20 per bowler! Udi's Gluten Free Bagels and Glow Gluten Free Cookies and Zico Coconut Water are donating food!!! GF bagels and bowling--and cookies!!! Pretty good deal for $20 per bowler or $100 for bowling team of 8!

Bowlmor Lanes • 110 University Place • NYC
Sunday, March 20 • 10:00 am - 12:30 pm

This year, the NAA NY Metro Chapter was able to give 11 families $500 Helping Hand Grants to help them with therapy expenses. In addition, we are holding a summer program during the last two weeks of August for 37 children. The total cost of these programs was approximately $20,500 and they would not have been possible without the money raised at last year’s Bowlathon. To continue them, we need to have a successful Bowlathon again this year. So far, we have raised about $29,000, but we have a long way to go to at least reach the $50,000 we raised last year.

Please RSVP HERE TO COME BOWL!.
Click here to donate to my team -->DONATE TO THE NAA-NY Metro Chapter!

NAA NY Metro Westchester March 8, 2011 Recap: Darin Ingels ND & Mary Coyle Di. Hom.

2011-03-13T13:20:00.000-04:00

On March 8, 2011, Mary Coyle, Di. Hom., and Darin Ingels, ND, presented to the NAA - NY Metro Westchester Sub-Chapter on “Reducing Toxins and Neutralizing Allergies Non-Invasively in ASD.” They discussed

the impact that toxins have on the body and importance of lowering your toxic load internally and externally. They also discussed was how neutralizing allergies can play a positive role in improving one’s health, which, in turn, can lead to improvements in behavior and cognition. The powerpoints from their informative presentation are below.

NAA Westchester Darin Ingels ND
NAA Westchester 3-8-11MaryCoyle

NAA - NY Metro Westchester February 16, 2011 Recap: Susan Varsames & Nancy Guberti

2011-03-13T12:30:00.000-04:00

On February 16, 2011, Susan Varsames, Special Educator, and Nancy Guberti, Certified Nutritionist, presented “Sensory Integration and Nutritional Intervention for Child with ASD” to the Westchester Sub-Chapter of the National Autism Association. They discussed practical techniques parents can implement with their children. They discussed removing foods that negatively impact the body can vastly improve focus, aptitude, behaviors and general well-being. Parents walked away with an understanding of how diet can impact the sensory system. Susan Varsames powerpoint is below.
Sensory Integration Handouts

Get Rolling with NAA NY Metro's SECOND ANNUAL BOWLATHON

2011-03-09T10:21:00.000-05:00

Sunday, March 20th at Bowlmor Lanes

110 University Place, NYC

JOIN US! Click here to come bowl, set up a team or make a donation NOW!

Thanks to the generosity of our fundraisers, in 2010 NAA NY Metro expanded its programming to include Helping Hand Grants (grants to families to assist with medical and therapy costs) and a Summer Program in the last two weeks of August for children affected by autism.

This year we hope to further expand both the Helping Hand Grant program and the Summer Program. A donation of $500 pays for one Helping Hand Grant. $325 means one more child may attend our Summer Program. $100 pays for a day of a soccer coach for the Summer Program. Please help us. Our Bowlathon web page is up and ready for registrants. To set up a team or make a donation, click here.

This effort would not be possible without the help of our 2011 sponsors and we are so thankful to them: Platinum Plus: Transperfect, Watch Me Grow; Platinum: Lindamood Bell; Gold: Special Needs Family Planning AXA, Elmy’s Special Services, S.N.A.C.K.; Silver: Glow Gluten Free, Hopewellrx, Houston Enzymes, Lee Silsby, Special Playdate, Udi's Gluten Free Foods, Zico Coconut Water. Visit our website for links to all of our sponsors!

Want to join our efforts?
Just click to DONATE NOW!

Tax Issues For Special Needs Families

2011-03-08T23:05:00.000-05:00

On March 2, 2011, Mark L. Berger, CPA and Kim Mack Rosenberg once again presented on tax issues for special needs families. More information will follow on this blog but we wanted to be sure to provide to attendees and others the presentation materials:

03 02 11 PNEM Presentation

"Vaccine Epidemic" Book Launch A Resounding Success

2011-02-21T15:17:00.000-05:00

Annemarie Colbin, Kim Mack Rosenberg, and Michael Belkin

Families, advocates, educators, healthcare providers, and friends all gathered in the Tisch Auditorium at NYU School of Law to commemorate the launch of Vaccine Epidemic: How Corporate Greed, Biased Science and Coercive Government Threaten Our Human Rights, Our Health, and Our Children. A seamless program of three panel discussions on advocacy, ethics, and law enraptured the audience. Seldom at one event is one introduced in person to such an array of distinguished authors - eleven authors to be exact. The discussion was emotional, uplifting, there were teary-eyed moments, moments of anguish, but when all was said and done, the message was that of hope.

Mary Holland, Kim Mack Rosenberg, and Louise Habakus moderated the panels in sucession. Panelists included Dr. Andrew Wakefield, Robert Krakow, Gay Tate, Lisa Marks Smith, Michael Belkin, Sherri Tenpenny, Vera Hassner Sharav, and Annemarie Colbin.

We are proud of our own Kim Mack Rosenberg, contributing editor and a chapter author.

The book was released just a week ago, and already it is in its second printing. Listening to the authors, its no surprise.

Sabeeha Rehman

Emerging Consensus Regarding Gastro-Intestinal Issues in Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders

2011-02-21T14:55:00.000-05:00

When children with Autism Spectrum Disorder have a stomachache, they can’t simply say, “My tummy hurts!” explains Arthur Krigsman, MD a pediatrician and board-certified pediatric gastroenterologist. They express their internal discomfort and pain in other ways that may be confused with sensory behavior issues.
Dr. Krigsman spoke on Thursday, February 17, 2011, at the Rebecca School in Manhattan as part of NAA-NY Metro Chapter’s "Cutting Edge" series of speakers of the contributing authors to the book "Cutting-Edge therapies for Autism."

Dr. Krigsman provided a broad overview of the gastrointestinal system (GI), common diseases, and how these affect children and adults both with and without ASD. He emphasized that GI disease can be distracting to interventional therapy because the child may be in pain and discomfort.

Whereas a child with no ASD is able to localize the pain, point to an area of the abdomen, express pain when swallowing, or after eating, or have stool urgency – A child with ASD would pinch the throat, poke the stomach, and show signs of irritability, tantrums, head banging, food aversion, and an inability to toilet-train. Another common way for ASD children to show discomfort is by pressing the abdomen against a chair or table.

If the child has self-injurious behavior, if interventional therapies (ABA, Greenspan, Speech, OT) are not showing progress, or if the child becomes unpredictably aggressive, “you have to wonder what else is going on,” Dr. Krigsman said, and added that often times “the behavior goes away when the GI problem is treated.”

He also included in his presentation drawings by children with ASD, which showed explicit identification of the abdomen as the problem area. For instance, before undergoing surgery unrelated to GI, a child named Joseph understood the doctor was going to ‘fix him’ and drew himself with an ‘X’ on his abdomen, which was the source of his discomfort and pain.

Dr. Krigsman emphasized that while the communication may be different, it is important to treat a child with ASD no different than anyone else, with proper testing and diagnosis, dietary avoidance and medication. If your doctor doesn’t take your GI concerns seriously, seek someone else’s advice. It is always a bad idea to treat empirically by trying this or that, without knowing what we’re treating, he said.

At the end of the presentation, Dr. Krigsman answered the audience’s questions and signed copies of the book. We also held a free-raffle, and one participant won a copy of a DVD on vaccines.

Over the past several years, Dr. Krigsman has studied 143 children with ASD, but more research is necessary in order to better understand GI disease and its effects on behavior and cognition. You can read Dr. Krigsman’s proposal for Autism and GI pilot studies here.

By: Yaniv Gafner

Oxytocin and Autism: New Research

2011-02-16T19:12:00.000-05:00

The Feb. 16, 2011 issue of the Journal of American Medical Association (JAMA) has a news article about Oxytocin and Autism reported by Bridget M. Kuehn.

The reporter interviewed Sue Carter PhD (University of Chicago) and Lowell Getz PhD (University of Illinois). These two scientists are working on prairie voles (a kind of mice) that are monogamous and live lifelong as pairs. These animals have complex family structure and express strong mother to offspring’s and mother to father bonds. Carter's group was able to demonstrate that giving oxytocin to a female vole promoted bonding with her mate, and that blocking the oxytocin receptors in females prevented them from forming bonds with their mates (Carter CS et al. Prog Brain Res. 2008;170:331-336). Ms, Kuehn goes on to say that oxytocin has long been known as a key factor in bonding between a mother and infant. It also has important physiological effects on pregnant women during and after delivery. A synthetic version of oxytocin is widely used to induce or augment labor. Intranasal oxytocin has also been used to promote the release of breast milk. Now, basic research on an unusual animal model has allowed scientists to understand the wider physiological effects of oxytocin. In the past several years, scientists have learned that oxytocin plays an important reinforcing role in social interactions that goes far beyond the previously documented effects of the hormone in female reproduction. Still, a host of questions remain about the hormone's wider physiological effects on humans, which range from aiding lactation to potentially promoting healing, noted Dr. Sue Carter, PhD, professor of psychiatry and co-director of the Brain-Body Center at the University of Illinois, in Chicago. According to Larry J. Young, PhD, director of the Center for Translational Social Neuroscience at Emory University, in Atlanta, humans exposed to intranasal oxytocin make more eye contact (which is essential to reading social cues), feel increased trust in social interactions, and are better able to infer emotions from other people's facial expressions.
We realized that oxytocin isn't just a bonding hormone,” he said. “Oxytocin tunes the brain in to social cues.” Oxytocin's role in enhancing social interaction led researchers to wonder whether it might be a useful therapy for individuals with disorders that involve social deficits. For example, patients with autism spectrum disorders often fail to pick up on social cues, Dr.Young noted.
The data on the safety and effects of chronic use of oxytocin are limited because many human studies have involved only a single intranasal dose or several weeks of administration. “Oxytocin research is exciting and promising, but how the information should be applied is not clear,” Dr. Carter said in her interview. “What we have now are fragments of knowledge, and we can't yet see the full picture.”

Posted by Khalid Rehman.

Super Soccer Stars

2011-02-14T19:13:00.000-05:00

In cooperation with Watch Me Grow and Super Soccer Stars Special Needs, NAA NY Metro Chapter held its second soccer event on Saturday, February 12, 2011. Over forty registered children and their families made this event a true success.

Dara Berger, Chair of the Parent Mentoring Committee greeted the families together with Sabeeha Rehman, the Chapter’s President. There was lots of love and fun even before the game began, with many children running around and playing in the large sensory gym.

The coaches presented the 8-steps that a typical soccer class includes, and then divided the children into two groups with those aged up to 6.5 playing first. The children engaged in singing at the start of the game, with the parents joining and clapping their hands.

Several playful drills followed, including flipping plastic cones, touching the soccer nets, chasing, jumping, and even collecting cones and placing them on one of the coaches’ feet. The Big Game at the end of the drills, gave the children an opportunity to kick numerous balls into the nets. The coaches also gave every child stickers in recognition of their participation and achievements.
The indoor setting was perfect for a winter weekend activity. Thank you for everyone who organized and took part in making this event a success!

By: Yaniv Gafner

View photos on our Facebook photo album
Watch video on Youtube

New Warning About the ""Healthy" Habit That Can Damage Your Brain" on Mercola

2011-02-11T08:27:00.001-05:00

Visit Mercola.com's article on "New Warning About the "Healthy" Habit That Can Damage Your Brain" for information on why fluoride in water is not so great for anyone's health...

According to Mercola:

"But a bigger battle is still looming in New York City, where the anti-fluoridation movement has a great champion in New York City, councilor Peter Vallone, Jr. A victory there could signal the beginning of the end of fluoridation in the U.S.

Please contact Carol Kopf at nyscof@aol.com if you want to be part of the NYC effort and possible fluoride rally. It's important to write letters to Mayor Bloomberg, the City Council Speaker Christine Quinn, and your own City Council Member. Their contact information is here: http://council.nyc.gov/html/members/members.shtml"

For more information on this read the Scientific American Article on Second Thoughts on Fluoride.

posted by KB

Dr. Oz Town Hall Meeting on The Causes of Autism airing February 17,2011

2011-02-08T22:10:00.000-05:00

Today I got to attend a taping of Dr. Oz's town hall meeting on the causes of autism which will air on February 17th at 3 pm. The Dr. Oz staff encouraged parents to speak up and say something if they felt moved to speak and I, with another NAA parent, were able to make comments. Although the program was about possible causes of autism and included discussions about vaccines, the environment and parental age, the main focus of the show became vaccines--even though several medical doctors and scientists said that the link between vaccines and autism has been disproven there were some doctors who spoke about a slower vaccine schedule.

My comment was "Where is the study comparing unvaccinated children with autism to vaccinated children with autism? Until this study is done we can't say that the science has been done."

Another NAA parent commented: "I come from a family of allopathic doctors. My father is a pediatrician, but my son did not start getting better until we started using alternative treatments like diet, supplements, yoga, and cranial sacral therapy."

Although the show did not bring anything new to light about the causes of autism--at least Dr. Oz allowed a dialogue to happen on his show which included Dr. Sears, who advocates for a slowed down vaccine schedule. Interestingly, Dr. Oz also spoke about how he did a slower vaccine schedule for his own children.

If the science so overwhelmingly says that there is no link between autism and vaccines, why would Dr. Oz slow down the vaccine schedule for his own children?

Until they actually find the cause of autism, vaccines will remain a cause for the many parents who have seen their children spiral downward after routine vaccinations and the many doctors who treat children and see evidence of harm.

Books to read for more information:

posted by KB

NAA NY Metro Westchester branch-Kick-Off Meeting With Scott Smith, PA “Been There, Done That, Now What?

2011-01-26T23:33:00.000-05:00

On a freezing cold Friday evening, January 21, 2011, fifty people filled the Washington Engine Fire Company in Tarrytown, New York to listen and dialogue with Scott Smith, PA. It was the NAA New York Metro Chapter, Westchester Branch’s first meeting since it’s creation in November.
Scott came to the fire company to present “Been There, Done That, Now What?” a question and answer session for parents and caregivers of children with autism spectrum disorders. With compassion and intelligence, Scott answered over 60 questions that were asked of him.
Questions such as “My child has many visual stimulatory behaviors, is there anything that I can do?” and “My child goes to bed fine, but then wakes continuously during the night, how do I change that?” were asked of Scott. He spent nearly four hours offering solutions and strategies to every person with a question.
“I came with my question to ask; but learned so much more from the questions that others had asked” said Cornelia Quinn, a mother of an eight year old with autism. “Scott gave every person individual attention and we all benefitted from it.” stated Cheryl Viserto, who drove almost two hours from Long Island to hear Scott speak.
Scott Smith began treating children with autism spectrum disorders, after his son received the diagnosis in 2003. He has co-authored several articles relating to autism and biomedical interventions and has presented at the National Autism Association annual conference. He currently practices at Full Potential Wellness Center in Edison, NJ and serves on the Scientific Advisory Board for the PANDAS Resource Network. His website is http://www.fullpotentialwellnesscenter.com/ for more information.

Scott will be presenting again on Wednesday March 23 at 6:30 pm at the Rebecca School, 40 East 30 Street, and 5th Floor.
This is one talk that you should not miss!
-Tricia Zarro

Article in The Wall Street Journal Today on B12...

2011-01-18T21:47:00.000-05:00

by Kirstin Boncher

My son started speaking when we began B12 supplementation after low levels of this vitamin were discovered on a blood test and I myself had a slew of health problems from low B12 so vitamin B12 is an interest of mine. When I saw the article Sluggish? Confused? Vitamin B12 May Be Low in the Wall Street Journal today I thought it was worth bringing to everyone's attention. It's not an answer for everyone, nor is it a magic cure, but it's important to ask your doctor about getting a B12 level for anyone with neurological problems to make sure that low levels of this critical nutrient aren't the cause of some of ongoing problems.

Some parent's do report that children with autism spectrum disorder benefit from treatment with methyl B12 (see Parent Ratings of Behavioral Effects of Biomedical Intervention) and there are even B12 lollipops called revitaPOP's to address this issue. People with digestive disorders, like celiac disease and Crohn's are at risk for being low in this vitamin as well as people who are avoiding dairy or vegetarian. Because many children on a gluten free casein free diet do not eat processed food, they are also not consuming food that is fortified with B12. The Wall Street Journal has an article today called Sluggish? Confused? Vitamin B12 May Be Low which gives food sources of B12 and gives an overview of why some people are low in B12. TACA has a good overview of Methyl-B12: A Treatment for ASD with Methylation Issues--it's an article from 2005 Autism One Conference but it's still worth reading. In a more recent study from 2010 on Vitamin B12 Optic Neuropathy in Autism in Pediatrics, it was found that in a few cases

"food selectivity, a known complicationof autism, can result in vitamin deficiency that can cause visualloss and optic atrophy."1

A Pilot Study of the effect of methyl B12 treatment published in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine investigating the effect of methyl B12 treatment found that

"Comparison of the overall means between groups suggests that methyl B12 is ineffective in treating behavioral symptoms of autism. However, detailed data analysis suggests that methyl B12 may alleviate symptoms of autism in a subgroup of children, possibly by reducing oxidative stress. An increase in glutathione redox status (GSH/GSSG) may provide a biomarker for treatment response to methyl B12. Additional research is needed to delineate a subgroup of potential responders and ascertain a biomarker for response to methyl B12." 2

Again, while it isn't the answer for everyone, it's important to be aware that B12 can be an issue for some children with ASD--especially picky eaters and children who are vegetarians.

_________________________________________________________________

1. Published online September 20, 2010 PEDIATRICS Vol. 126 No. 4 October 2010, pp. e967-e970 (doi:10.1542/peds.2009-2975) http://pediatrics.aappublications.org/cgi/content/abstract/126/4/e967

2. J Altern Complement Med. 2010 May;16(5):555-60. Pilot study of the effect of methyl B12 treatment on behavioral and biomarker measures in children with autism. Bertoglio K, Jill James S, Deprey L, Brule N, Hendren RL. Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of California, Davis Medical Center, Sacramento, CA, USA. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20804367

Candle-lighting for Arizona Family

2011-01-10T23:53:00.000-05:00

NAA NY Metro Chapter's 2010 Holiday Party-Tis' the Season

2010-12-17T10:29:00.000-05:00

This year’s NAA NY Metro Chapter’s Holiday party was celebrated on December 7, 2010 in NYC. The food was absolutely delightful and was prepared by Kirstin Boncher of http://www.whattofeedyourkids.com/. We held a moment of silence for the family in Arizona where all 5 children with autism have been separated from their parents unjustly. We honored previous speakers, sponsors and volunteers for all their contributions to our chapter. We did a year in review of all the programs and accomplishments of the chapter and shared plans for 2011. It was a wonderful evening where old friends reunited and new friendships were made. Thanks to an amazingly hard working board and the chapter members for making 2010 a successful year and we are looking forward to a great 2011. To all our readers we wish you a happy and healthy holiday season. Best wishes, NAA NY Metro Chapter.

Safety Tips To Prevent Mercury Contamination From Compact Flourescent Lights (CFL)

2010-12-03T20:22:00.000-05:00

The following information is provided on the NY State website http://www.getenergysmart.org/ :

Mercury Content and Recycling
What is Mercury?
Mercury is an element found naturally in the environment. Human activities, such as burning coal for electricity and using mercury in manufacturing, increase the amount of mercury cycling through the air, water, and soil. According to the EPA, the main sources of mercury pollution are coal-burning power plants, about 40% of total emissions worldwide. American power plants pump 96,000 pounds of mercury into the air annually.

Where can mercury be found at home?
Mercury is used in products because of its excellent conductivity and high surface tension so it can be found almost anywhere!

Why is Mercury in Compact Fluorescent Light bulbs (CFLs)?
Mercury is an essential part of a CFL, allowing it to be an efficient light source. Inside the fluorescent tube there are electrodes at both ends, a gas containing argon and mercury vapor. A stream of electrons flows between the electrodes at both ends of the tube. The electrons interact with mercury vapor atoms floating inside the tube. The mercury atoms become excited, and when they return to an unexcited state, they release photons of light in the ultraviolet region of the spectrum. These ultraviolet photons collide with the phosphor coating the inside of the tube, and the phosphor glows, creating white light.

CFLs contain a very small amount of mercury (an average of 4 to 5 milligrams of mercury) sealed in the glass tubing, which is about enough to cover the tip of a ballpoint pen.

How can I tell how much Mercury is in a CFL before I purchase one?
As of September 2008, all ENERGY STAR qualified CFLs are required to list their mercury content on the packaging. Avoid purchasing non-ENERGY STAR CFLs because this information is not required on their packaging.

Does Mercury escape into the atmosphere when using a CFL?
No mercury is released when CFLs remain intact (not broken) or while they are in use. The only time mercury from a CFL is emitted into the environment is when a CFL breaks. In fact, CFLs are typically manufactured using recycled materials. If CFLs are recycled properly the mercury can continue to remain in safe hands and be repurposed for safe and useful purposes.

Can I throw my burned out CFL in the garbage?
New York State households can currently dispose of CFLs as normal household waste. Businesses must follow a different set of regulations regarding the disposal of CFLs. However, NYSERDA and the EPA are encouraging New Yorkers to use and recycle them safely. Careful recycling of CFLs prevents the release of mercury into the environment and allows for the reuse of glass, metals and other materials that make up CFLs. NYSERDA recommends that consumers take advantage of available local recycling options for CFLs, and is working with CFL manufacturers and major U.S. retailers to expand recycling and disposal options.

Why should I recycle my old burned out or broken CFLs?
CFLs have a small amount of mercury in them and they need to be managed properly at the end of their useful lives. Last year alone, American’s purchased 400 million CFLs! It is important to properly recycle CFLs today so there is not a problem in the future.

What happens when my CFL is recycled?
A CFL is like a small computer with all the electronics inside the ballast. When a CFL reaches a recycler, all the components are separated. The glass and mercury are separated and actually resold to manufacturers.

How do I recycle my CFL?
There are several ways to recycle your CFL:
Check out for a participating CFL Collection Center near you. The retail stores and civic organizations listed are trained to take in, store, and ship CFLs to professional recyclers who will manage them correctly.

Take advantage of local recycling options through your municipal landfill or transfer station.

Many towns or counties have household hazardous waste collection days where CFLs can be dropped off for recycling. Visit the Department of Environmental Conservation and www.earth911.org for more information.

Look for organizations that are creating products to recycle CFLs. The U.S. Post Office, Waste Management, IKEA, and other organizations are exploring or implementing CFL recycling programs.

What do I do if a CFL breaks in my house?
A broken CFL containing a small amount of mercury is not likely to present any excess risk to you or your family. However, proper clean-up methods should be followed. These simple clean-up instructions will ensure safe removal of broken CFLs:

Before clean-up, make sure you ventilate the room. Make sure that people and pets leave the room, and don't let anyone walk through the breakage area for 15 minutes. Be sure to open a window and shut off the central forced-air heating/air conditioning system, if you have one.

Clean-up on hard surfaces. Using stiff paper or cardboard, carefully scoop up glass fragments and powder and place them in a glass jar with a metal lid (such as a canning jar), or in a sealed plastic bag. Use sticky tape (such as duct tape) to pick up any remaining small glass fragments and powder. Wipe the area clean with damp paper towels or disposable wet wipes and place them in the glass jar or plastic bag. DO NOT use a vacuum or broom to clean up the broken bulb on hard surfaces. This will flick the particles all over the room.

Clean-up on carpets or rugs. Carefully pick up glass fragments and place them in a glass jar with a metal lid or in a sealed plastic bag. Use sticky tape (such as duct tape) to pick up any remaining small glass fragments and powder. If vacuuming is needed after all visible materials are removed, vacuum only the area where the bulb was broken. Remove the vacuum bag (or empty and wipe the canister), and put the bag or vacuum debris in a sealed plastic bag.

Disposal of clean-up materials. Immediately place all clean-up materials outside the building in a trash container or outdoor protected area for the next normal trash disposal day. Wash your hands after disposing of the jars or plastic bags containing clean-up materials.

More information is available on the NY State website.

Khalid Rehman

New Study on Mitochondrial Dysfunction in Autism

2010-12-01T12:29:00.000-05:00

A new study by Cecilia Giulivi and colleagues confirms that the mitochondria are dysfunctional in autism. This study once again shows that the defective mitochondria make it difficult for children with autism to handle the oxidative stress of day to day environmental challenges. The research paper was published in the recent issue of the Journal of American Medical Association Vol: 304, Number 21, Page: 2389. December 1, 2010.

The researchers from the University of California at Davis studied the mitochondrial function in children aged 2-5 years with established diagnosis of autism and compared them to age matched but genetically unrelated typically developing children. They used the data from the CHARGE (Childhood Autism Risk From Genes and Environment) study in California, which was a population based, case controlled investigation.

Mitochondria are small organelles that are responsible for the energy production needed for the cell’s function. It has been suggested that the mitochondrial dysfunction may influence the social and cognitive deficits and the altered energy metabolism may affect the processes highly dependent on energy such as neurodevelopment.

Unlike previous studies, where the mitochondria from muscle tissue were analyzed, the authors of this study studied the mitochondria from the blood samples of these children. They studied the oxidative activity of the mitochondrial enzyme NADH, hydrogen peroxide production, plasma pyruvate and lactate levels, deletions and over-replications of the mitochondrial DNA.

The results show that the oxidative activity in the mitochondria of children with autism was one third (4.4 vs 12) that of the typical children, and the mitochondrial dependent oxygen consumption was impaired. “The increased oxygen reactive species production observed in this study is consistent with the higher ratio of oxidized NADH to reduced glutathione in the cells and the mitochondria of the children with ASD, supporting the concept that these cells from children with autism present higher oxidative stress”, the authors note.

80% of the affected children had three times higher level of pyruvate in the plasma. This was considered to be due to the deficiency of PDHC (pyruvate dehydrogenase complex). PDHC deficiency could contribute to brain dysfunction. Since the gene encoding the PDHC is located on the X chromosome, mutation in the X-linked gene may explain the 4:1 ratio of autism between boys and girls.

The study also showed that the children with autism had twice the mitochondrial rates of hydrogen peroxide production. “ Thus the mitochondria in autism had a lower oxidative phosphorylation capacity but also contributed to the overall cellular oxidative stress”, the authors commented.

Of the children with autism, 20 % had deletions and 50 % had over-replication of the genes in the mitochondria. It is hypothesized that the over replication of the mitochondrial DNA may be an attempt by the cell to overcome the defective mitochondria in the cells.

The authors state that “whether the mitochondrial dysfunction in children with autism is primary (genetic and possibly causative factor) or secondary to as-yet unknown (environmental injury) event, remains the subject of future work”.

The funding for this study was provided by University of California, MIND Institute Gift Funds, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, and Autism Speaks. The study is published in JAMA, December 1, 2010, The abstract of the article can be accessed here: Abstract

Khalid Rehman, M.D.

Raun Kaufman Presents on the Son-Rise Program

2010-11-21T22:05:00.000-05:00

Sabeeha Rehman, Raun Kaufman and Mark Raisbeck at Rebecca School.

Raun Kaufman presented at Rebecca school about his own recovery from Autism Spectrum Disorder and the development of the Son-Rise program created by his parents. Raun Kaufman was diagnosed at 18 months as severely autistic and went from a mute, disconnected child with an IQ below 30 to an outgoing, social boy with a high IQ through the work his parents did with him. He described his transformation from a boy who was constantly spinning plates, rocking back and forth and flapping his hands to the outgoing social person he is now and how his parents relentless efforts healed his brain. After healing their son, Barrie and Samahria Kaufman, went on create the Autism Treatment Center of America, a teaching center for the Son-Rise Program, where parents can go to learn how to implement the Son-Rise Program at home.

A key part of the Son-Rise program is that instead of discouraging stimming, you join your child when they stim in order to create a connection and form a relationship. Through this joining, and the connection, you enter the world of the child in order to eventually draw them out. Unlike ABA, which rewards behavior with discreet trials and discourages stimming, the Son-Rise program seeks to use the motivation and interests of the child in order to get them to learn and connect. Raun Kaffman spoke about how when parents join their child stimming using the Son-Rise Program techniques, not only did they understand their children better and the reason for the children's repetitive behavior, but the stimming often dramatically decreases. He spoke of his own fascination with spinning plates as a child and said "Every time I would spin a plate, my parents would spin with me. The more they joined me, the more I would look at them." The program has a very specific way to implement learning into the joining.

To see how the Son-Rise program works, you can view the Son-Rise Program-Responding to Verbal Communication video on youtube on the Autism Treatment Center of America channel.

There are many Son-Rise program videos that you can watch on YouTube or you can look into attending the five day Son-Rise Program Startup to learn how you can implement this program.

Besides the practical advice about the things you can do to help heal your child, Raun also spoke about parents needing to "enjoy, delight and savor the kids we have now" and not be so fixated and so busy fixing them that we lose the connection. If you have a chance to hear Raun Kaufman speak, he really has an amazing, inspiring story to tell. You can also see him speak on Strategies for Autism Treatment on the Autism Treatment Center website.

Book Reading by Kim Stagliano: "All I Can Handle. I'm No Mother Teresa"

2010-11-19T15:50:00.000-05:00

Kim Stagliano with Sabeeha Rehman

On Nov. 10, Kim Stagliano gave her first book reading, of her first book - at NAA NY Metro. What a unique way of introducing one's book! She was packed with humor - and her story is not funny. Actually it is heart-wrenching, but Kim got through it with her sparkling sense of humor and sheer determination. For those of you who don't know, Kim has three girls with autism. Three girls! Three beatiful girls. Just think about it. And that is what this book is about. But it is more than that. It is a book about survival; its a book about beating the odds; and its a book about emerging through the trials and tribulations of unemployement, huge health issues, moving in and out of one home after another, financial collapse, and just about anything and everything that you don't want to deal with if you had a choice. And Kim emerges with a shine and a smile, mesmerizing her audience with her wit, loveliness, and charm. Kim's memoir is a superb book! She makes you laugh, makes you cry, makes you wince, makes you cringe, makes you angry, and gives you hope. Can a book on autism be funny? This one is. Read it. That is a direct directive.

Read all about Kim's Kimoir at: http://kimstagliano.blogspot.com/

Sabeeha Rehman

Autism/Asperger's Conference - "All Ages & Abilities"

2010-11-19T15:21:00.000-05:00

Temple Grandin with Sabeeha Rehman

On Oct. 23-24, we held our third annual conference in NYC in collaboration with Autism Conferences of America, the organizer of the conference. Attendees came from all over the city, the State, out-of-state, and from all over the country. Parents, educators, caregivers, doctors - all filled the conference space to capacity.

With Temple Grandin as the keynote speaker, followed by Eustacia Cutler, her amazing mother, there was standing room only. Temple brought the house down with her incredible journey and the audience hung on to every word she said. To say that Eustacia Cutler was inspirational, is an understatment. There was not a dry eye in the room when she closed. Stephen Shore, also diagnosed with Aspergers, gave us key tools on how to integrate the social needs of children with ASD into a regular teaching experience. Ginny Hodge presented practical tips on how to enable children to adapt into a community setting, like using public transportation, grocery shopping, etc. Our Day 2 keynote speaker, Diane Twachtman-Cullen provided a comprehensive instruction on addressing an impaired executive function through the educational system, and how to develop social skills for all levels of functioning. Ken Bock gave a very concise, complete, and detailed overview on biomedical approaches to treatment. Dr. Marvin Boris outlined some of the current and groundbreaking approaches to treating immune dysfunction, generating a lot of spirited discussion.

There was fun time, with coffee breaks, raffles, and door prizes. The exhibits generated tremendous interest and a tremendous opportunity to network.

Many thanks to Jim Adams and Jerry Lundy at Autism Conferences for bringing this conference to us every year, to our exhibitors for bringing their wares to us, and to our attendees for being part of this learning experience. Thank you to our wonderful team at NAA NY Metro for volunteering their time - Kim, Peggy, Stuart, Amy, Kirstin, and Kathleen.

Sabeeha Rehman

New Research and Treatments to Restore Language in Children with ASD

2010-11-10T14:16:00.000-05:00

Debra Schneider and Mary Coyle with Dr. Harry Schneider

On Oct. 26, 2010, we held the second in a series of lectures by the chapter authors in the new book, “Cutting Edge Therapies for Autism”. Harry Schneider, PhD, MD gave a fascinating presentation on new research and treatments to restore language in children with ASD. Dr. Schneider outlined the reasons why children with classical autism cannot speak the way neurotypical children do. In his soon to be published study on functional neuro-images of the brain, he showed what parts of the brain do not work for language, and the incomplete neural connections in these children. He presented the results of more than four years of treating these children with transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS). Many of his patients are now talking – there are those who can finally state their needs and respond to commands, and those who are ready to return to mainstream education.

When a grandmother of a child with ASD stood up and spoke about how her grandson has recovered his speech, thanks to Dr. Schneider’s treatment, everyone in the audience was touched.

Dr. Schneider is an associate research scientist in the Functional MRI Research Center of Columbia University, having received a fellowship in neuroscience and functional neuroimaging at their Program for Imaging and Cognitive Sciences (PICS). He is in private practice at the Center for Medical and Brain Sciences in Plainview, NY, and uses both conventional and alternative medicine in his approach to the medical care of children on the spectrum. Check the website at: www.harryschneidermd.com

Sabeeha Rehman

How to be Your Child's Best Advocate

2010-11-10T11:15:00.000-05:00

Mary Somoza holds up her daughter's photo with Bill Clinton

At the Parent Network Exchange Meeting held on Oct. 14, 2010, Mary Somoza gave one of the most inspirational talks that I have heard. This is one speaker that I would want to listen to over and over again. We walked out feeling empowered, motivated, inspired, and ready to hit the gound running – a wet one, because it was still raining hard when we left.

Mary Somoza is the mother of two children with special needs, one being paraplegic. She succeeded in getting the most and the best of what her children needed, against all odds, and now her children are in college. Her amazing story was not missed by the President of the United States, who is seen in this photo with her daughter. Mary now teaches parents how to be the best advocate for your child. Whether you are asking for your child's school to adhere to a special diet or need a particular service that they have already denied you, Mary gave us her years of experience raising two children with special needs and navigating through some very difficult school systems.

Mary believes that every child has more abilities then disabilities. Some of those abilities yet to be discovered. Children cannot afford to lose time, not with initial services, or with their education. Getting your child on the right track can be the difference between academic success, and falling behind.

We would like to invite Mary to come back again. Look out for the notice. Meanwhile, Mary can be reached at: mary@marysomoza.com

Sabeeha Rehman

How Food Influences Behavior in Children and How to Keep Your Child's Immune System Strong

2010-11-10T10:41:00.000-05:00

Stacey Purow, Geri Brewster, and Kirstin Boncher

A collaborative event with Beth Israel Medical Center was held on Sept. 30, 2010 at the Medical Center. Geri Brewster, RD MPH CDN, and Kirstin Boncher presented and held an interactive dialogue on this topic. Many thanks to Dr. Asma Sadiq and Stacey Purow for hosting the event.

Kirstin talked about her story as a mom of two children with Celiac disease, and how she helped them recover through dietary intervention. She enthralled the audience with her success story, her trials and tribulations, and her ‘days-in-the-life’ of a mom facing challenges. She walked the audience through the scientific research to support her conclusions, and wove her anecdotes into the narrative. A lively discussion ensued as every mom in the audience, completely able to relate to her, wanted to know what to do in their ‘what-if’ scenarios. Kirstin, who is a graduate of the French Culinary Institute, has written extensively on the importance of healthy fats for brain development, and publishes the widely read blog What To Feed Your Kids at http://whattofeedyourkids.blogspot.com/ .

Geri talked about how a specific diet may be able improve your child's health and reduce behavioral symptoms such as stimming, night waking, and tantrums while improving eye contact and language development as well as influence immunity. Geri focused on gut issues and their genesis. Her illustrative handout on what foods to avoid, is the perfect refrigerator pin-up. Geri, who has specialized in pediatric and young-adult developmental disabilities for nearly 30 years, is a Defeat Autism Now! Practitioner, hosts a monthly radio show on AutismOne.com, and has developed comprehensive lifestyle, nutritional and supplement programs. Vist her website at: http://www.geribrewster.com/

Sabeeha Rehman

What is it like to raise THREE(!) girls with autism?! Come hear Kim Stagliano speak 11/10. Win a copy of her book!

2010-10-28T09:41:00.000-04:00

Come hear from Kim Stagliano, a mother who has been through it all ... raising three girls with autism! Somehow Kim is able to get through it and still maintain an incredible sense of humor about life. Her "Kimoir" as she calls it, will be coming out November 1st. Kim will be speaking in NYC on Wednesday, November 10th at 6:00p at the Rebecca School, 40 East 30th Street.

Kim is a nationally recognized autism advocate and speaker as well as the managing editor of www.ageofautism.com, the nation's first daily web newspaper about the autism epidemic. She writes for the Huffington Post, is on the editorial staff of The Autism File Magazine, and is a feature writer for Spectrum Magazine. Check out Kim's website for more information.

Win a copy of "All I Can Handle: I'm No Mother Teresa" by Kim Stagliano. Visit us here or on our Facebook page the weeks of November 1st and 8th! On Facebook, "Like" us and post a comment. Here, just post a comment between November 1st and November 5th and/or November 8th and November 12th.

Comments the week of November 1st should be about your favorite autism resource, special diet recipe or other tip for parents of ASD kids. Comments the week of November 8th should be about Kim Stagliano's book or talk or about why she is awesome. Remember that on Facebook, to be entered you must "Like" us and post. To be included in both drawings, you must enter twice. Winners will be notified on Monday, November 8th and Monday, November 15th.

Homemade Peanut Butter Cup Recipe

2010-10-22T22:41:00.000-04:00

from WhatToFeedYourKids.com

These homemade peanut butter cups are gluten and dairy free making them a good substitute for Reese's peanut butter cups for anyone who can't have dairy. With a little protein in them, they are a super sweet, but satisfying treat. Some kids are sensitive to peanuts because they can promote yeast overgrowth, so if your child does not do well with peanuts, you can use an alternate nut butter.

1 cup organic peanut butter
3/4 cup confectioners sugar
1/4 cup brown sugar
2 tablespoons Spectrum shortening or Earth Balance soy free spread
1 teaspoon gluten free vanilla
2 cups of Enjoy Life chocolate chips
1/4 cup Spectrum shortening or Earth Balance soy free spread

In a small bowl, combine peanut butter, confectioners sugar, light brown sugar and 2 tablespoons shortening (or Earth Balance) and mix well until combined.

In a double boiler over water or in the microwave, melt chocolate with the 1/4 cup shortening. Stir with a whisk or a spoon until combined.

Line a muffin tray or sheet tray with 2 inch foil muffin cups.

Drop a rounded teaspoon of peanut butter filling in each muffin cup. Then top each with 2 teaspoons melted chocolate.

Refrigerate overnight or freeze until hard.

Sprinkle almonds or crunchy nuts on top for a little crunch.

Chocolate Peanut Brittle Bark Recipe

Combine 1 bag of marshmallows, recipe for peanut butter filling and 1/4 cup earth balance in a pan over low heat. Stir until melted. Remove from heat. Add 3 cups of gluten free rice cereal. Pour into sheet tray which is lined with greased aluminum foil or parchment. Press down into flat 3/4 inch bar which almost fills tray. Cover with melted chocolate and shortening from above. Sprinkle with almonds. Use a serated knife to cut brittle into candy size pieces. Serve in muffin cups.

NEWS: New York Governor David Paterson vetoed Senate Bill S7000b yesterday.

2010-10-21T10:53:00.000-04:00

Senate Bill S7000b would have repealed existing anti-discrimination language hard won in 2006, and required that any treatment for autism meet a standard far higher than that required for any other health condition under New York law, or in any other state.

“This standard if passed was so onerously high that we could identify no treatments that we were certain would be covered,” said Marcia Roth, a Budget and Policy Analyst with the Autism Action Network, “And it would have created a dangerous precedent that could serve as a model for other states.”

"Costs currently paid by insurers would have been shifted to county and school district taxpayers," said Tom Abinanti, a Westchester County Legislator and Democratic candidate for Assembly in the 69th district (Greenburgh, Pleasantville and parts of Yonkers).

Read more about the bill on Age of Autism, which has a story on False Promises Autism Insurance Bill Fails in NY Following Grassroots Opposition.