If You Can't Find What You Need, Start Something Yourself!
By Laura Lum Corby

All it took was a little nudge! A pinch of anger, a dash of frustration with an ill-equipped system, and a cup full of determination were already present. As a parent of two children with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD's), I was overwhelmed with well meaning parents and professionals, convinced they had the "only way" to treat ASD's. On the other hand, there seemed to be a large chasm between what I was hearing from parents and the medical community at large, who felt confident Autism was not treatable and a lifetime disability.

I had researched the treatment possibilities and my choice was made. In January of 2003, we set off for Baton Rouge, Louisiana to visit the top physician in this field. Armed with credit card in hand, and ready to make the forewarned $2,000 - $3,000 advance payment, we forged ahead!

Our visit was most certainly worth the trip, but what about those who don't have the funds, or a charge card balance available? I was somewhat disturbed, yet thrilled we had found some answers for my children. I was temporarily sidetracked with our own family's issues.

One the long, silent drive home, the anger began to build. Funny though, I wasn't really sure who should be the recipient. Nonetheless, I had much to think about and the ideas started flying! In February of 2003, I envisioned an Autism treatment facility that could address all of the issues at hand that I, along with many of the fellow ASD parents, found sorely lacking

Since that time, the vision has turned into a monster! The Autism Solution Center, Inc. (ASC) was incorporated in October of 2003 as a non-profit, 501(c)(3) organization. The original thoughts have developed into a multi-functional facility that addresses every Autism-related need. A St. Jude's Children's Research Hospital for Autism, if you will. Our goal is to be able to provide the necessary Autism-related services to anyone in need, regardless of their ability to pay.

The ASC will provide on staff physicians, trained in biomedical intervention, to assist in the diagnostic process, as well as develop and implement individual treatment programs. We also will be staffing related therapists in the areas of Occupational Therapy, Physical Therapy, Speech/Language Pathology, Music Therapy, Discrete Trial/Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), and more. Our goal is to also open a full biomedical laboratory, in order to participate in related research and conduct necessary clinical trials. This will also provide the means to handle in-house lab work for our medical testing.

Beyond the medical and therapeutic interventions, there remains a series of needs that continue to slip under the radar screen. Those of the family members affected by ASD's. Hearing the word Autism can be a devastating blow. Living with the affects of Autism can be life shattering, especially when adequate supports are not available.

The ASC will be providing Pastoral Counseling for both family and individual issues. The divorce rate within families facing Autism is astronomical. This need not be. Through participation in Sibling Supports, such as workshops and other peer activities, siblings often find the strength needed to work through the difficult issues of a family member with ASD. Through the provision of Advocacy Services, Multi-Topic Training Workshops, a Lending Library and Bookstore, and Family Education and Support Groups, our goal is to support, educate and empower families by providing the tools necessary to take charge of their own lives and treatment assistance programs.

I know personally what a difference education about disability issues can make. I graduated in 2003 from the Partner's In Policymaking Program, which was a life-changing event for me. The skills and information gained through this program became pivotal in my life, giving me the tools and confidence needed, knowing that I CAN make a difference in the lives of many. Without this incredible, educational experience, the ASC would not be in existence today.

The ASC, although still in very early stages, will be moving into our first facility within the next 4 weeks. Though we have much yet to accomplish, already the lives of many have been changed. As we continue to expand, I'm excited to think about the possibilities the future holds for families in the Autism community. Autism IS Treatable, and there is much hope for both the individual with ASD, as well as their loved ones!

For more information about the Autism Solution Center, Inc., visit their website at www.autismsolutioncenter.com, contact Laura Corby at 901-758-8288 or email laura@autismsolutioncenter.com.