Bridging the Autism Gap for RJ's Brighter Future

The day February 5, 2018, I remember like it was yesterday.

My son RJ (Richard Jr. was born.

His face seemed to light up each time we come together, and my heart would skip a beat. He skipped the crawling stage he just starting walking. Due to me and his mother's differences me and my son were separated for about 6 months. I learned he started banging his head and yelling without notice. I pursued joint custody and began to seek assistance for my son immediately.

His pediatrician, who said he was delayed in mental development and further examination led to a diagnosis of autism.

The Pandemic was in full shutdown, but doctors did refer me to Little You Inc, where he received 1hour outpatient therapy. These services would end at age 3 and he was 2yrs old.

Wanting the best for RJ, but not knowing where or who would help my child, I prayed.

Blue Bird Therapeutic Day School was found.

I was told by (Little You Inc) this was an excellent placement, a bit pricey (2,500).

Again, I prayed!

Blue Bird Day instructed me get Blue Cross Blue Shield Insurance, they’d pay 80% of tuition.

Communicating the cost with his mother, initially she agreed to pay 50% of his out-of-pocket BcbS Insurance and his monthly fee. Mom agreed to cover monthly fees.

School now alerts me that this monthly fee has not been paid.

$8000 must be paid by April 30 or my son is expelled.

CPS is not an option because their Special Needs Department places all children with special needs (autism, behavioral disorders, mentally disabled to name a few) in the same classroom (4-9 students) with 1teacher 1aid. There’s no room for individual attention instruction.

RJ has come a long way, no more head banging biting or screaming, due to being nonverbal.

He’s a loving happy child learning to communicate and follow directions.