Help Oliver Thrive with Autism Therapy

Hello, I am grandma to a very special little boy named Oliver.

Oliver has autism and is currently enrolled in an experimental therapy program to help him with over and under stimulation situations. He is also non-verbal. This program is designed to help him learn to control his stimulation and open communication.

Oliver is an energetic 3 year old who has been diagnosed with non-verbal autism. But his story begins back before the Spencer flood of 2024.

Oliver, younger brother Jasper, his mom, Maggie lived together in Spencer. At the time, their father was the caregiver for the boys while Maggie worked full-time. Over time she noticed Oliver withdawing more and more and his younger brother showing signs of distress when ever voices were raised.

Maggie had already been in touch with various services to help with Oliver's development-ways to help with communication, care, and his physical needs due to his autism. She expressed concern to them about his seeming to move backwards instead of seeing some improvements. Since he was so young, there were really no answers at the time.

Then came the flood of 2024 and having to move into a shelter where many things came to light. She realized that the boys' father was verbally abusive to them in addition to the issues they had in their relationship.

She took the boys and moved in with her family....that is where she it to this day. Unable to secure employment because of childcare issues, she and the boys have a home where they are safe and the difference in them is already noticeable.

In February, Maggie received a $3000 grant for Oliver to be enrolled in a therapy program called Move U in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. After the initial consultation, it was determined that Oliver was a good fit for their program. They recommended he attend therapy sessions 2-3 times a week to get a good start.

With the logistics of driving to Sioux Falls and finding childcare for Jasper, that was not feasible...so they opted for once a week. The grant would allow for Oliver to receive 19-20 sessions....it was great news.

In this program, he does occupational and sensory therapy. Working on emotional regulation through sensory regulation. He has started saying words and using hand signals. He has also become more aware of those around him. So much so that he is beginning to interact with others. He has fewer melt downs, more varied play, and improved communication.

At this time, through the State of Minnesota and Jackson County, Oliver is receiving Speech, Behavioral and Occupational therapy in addition to his sessions at Move U. He will start Head Start in the fall.

The cost of sessions at Move U are $180 per session....the money for this program, which we feel is so vital to Oliver's progress, is running out quickly and since it is considered "experimental" it isn't covered by insurance. Ideally we would like to raise enough funding to allow Oliver to continue these sessions, twice a week at a minimum, until he starts preschool and to also help offset the cost of gas, wear and tear on Maggie's car and care for Jasper.

Please know that any amount that you are able to give will be greatly appreciated. Appreciated more than you can imagine.

We are Thankful and Grateful to all of you.