New Definition of Autism

Today's article in the NYTimes: New Definition of Autism Will Exclude Many, study suggests.

Exactly what I have been worried about as Belac ages and we plan for the future. We are lucky he is high-functioning, but it is a double-edged sword in a way. It means that the burden is going to be more and more on my husband and me to make sure he gets what he needs and especially that he is provided for - both financially and emotionally - in the event that he doesn't "make" it later in life.  The way this country is headed, and even if he makes only little progress from now on, I don't believe Belac will qualify for disability and the like. There just won't be enough money and with no objective test for autism, the definition will simply continue to narrow and change in the best interest of our country's fiscal needs.

The diagnosis of Autism is vague and subjective, and it is way over-diagnosed. I agree that the DSM, currently a mess on this condition, must be updated. But the fact is, my son would not be where he is today were it not for that diagnosis and the services he subsequently received. He has come a long way! But his challenges have been - and continue to be - very real and impairing. And even in this very rich school district of Sunny Patch we are so lucky to be in, we are faced with the struggle of meeting his needs.

Yes, you need passion and love the most. People who care, think outside of the box, and don't give up. But let's face it. You also need money. This is why my husband and I sweat so much about how we spend money and every purchase we make, taking aggressive measures to live below our means and sock away everything extra. This is why my family needs my husband's job so much. It gives us more confidence as we face the inevitable future. Ultimately, Belac, Jake, my husband and I... we will end up on this path by ourselves. I am sure of it.