John Kirton

Salt Lake City, UT

My wife, Robin, and I are the parents of six children with Autism. Finding out about their diagnoses was very traumatic. We went through a year of discovery and grieving.

With all that we went through we decided to do what we can to help other parents of Autistic children and also Autistic adults. The noticeable results so far have been: an article in People magazine, our story told on Good Morning America, Inside Edition and Larry King. Our family documentary, Autism x 6, debuted on the Discovery Health channel in October 2008. Another documentary, Unlocking Autism, we are part of-- will be shown sometime in April 2009.

My goal is to make a difference in the Autism community, locally and nationally. I want to meet President Obama so he will know the 'face' of Autism. Also I want to present a plan of change for Autism's acceptance, treatments and funding using his administrations help.

http://www.autismbites.com

John signed the petition | almost 3 years ago

Pass the Community Choice Act with Comprehensive Health Care Reform!
John commented on the article | almost 3 years ago

ABA and Neurodiversity: Not So Strange Bedfellows?

I'm not sure how much the leaders of our country have these posts on their radar, especially President Obama. I'd like you to re-address the 'Autism Czar' appointment the President promised us during the campaign last year. I for one was hoping for something REALLY big during Autism Awareness Month.
John commented on the article | almost 3 years ago

Top 10 Ways to Make a Difference

In the "take action" department, here is my recent effort:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zrg2rJMUASA

If you like what I'm trying to do please pass the link on to media, friends, advocates, etc. Thanks!
John signed the petition | almost 3 years ago

Tell Lindt Chocolates that Autism Speaks Doesn't Speak For Us
John commented on the article | almost 3 years ago

Easter Seals Living with Autism Survey

Nicole, glad to hear that Easter Seals are doing something in your area. I'll be mentioning that to my director and see what can be done to insure our area is getting our fair share of programs available.
John commented on the article | almost 3 years ago

Easter Seals Living with Autism Survey

I too, read with interest when the results of this survey came out a couple of months back. Yes, it's possible that parents perceptions are just that. But think about why they have those beliefs. I found that the results were right in line with what I feel the future holds for our Autistic children--IF, nothing is done on the state and national levels to bring about some serious changes.

And soon!

Awareness and 'research' have too long been the focus for Autism. It's time for those who advocate for results to get moving. These large, and increasing, numbers of children will soon be adults. If nothing of substance has been done, then where will we be?

Parents have reason to fear for their children. The survey also asked about the family finances. This is reality, not opinion. Autism is wreaking havoc with their family budget.

I'm glad the Easter Seals have brought this facts and concerns into the view of the NT world. However, when I contacted my local chapter to see what programs they actually had to help families. Well, let's just say it's still just a lot of fluff and no substance.

Hmmm, I guess talking about it is SOME progress. But, I for one am looking for a lot more and if we can get our voices heard as parents--that day will come a lot sooner.
John commented on the article | almost 3 years ago

Therapy Cost Rip-off?

It is more then just sad to hear of families being financially devastated by Autism--it's national shame. Many parents, us included, want to do something but cannot afford it. For us it would be easier to try something if we had just 1 or 2 children with Autism. With six which one do we choose to help?

Not to diminish the financial aid that other disorders receive, but with the higher incident of Autism it really should be getting a much larger piece of the pie. IMHO
John commented on the article | almost 3 years ago

Arne Duncan and Special Ed

Even though there was a lot wrong with this bill, additional funding for IDEA is right. I don't say that just because I have six special needs Autistic children either. It is pennies now or dollars later. Putting this money in the right places, however will be key.

Back off on a lot of the money spent for research. Sure it would be nice to know why, but taking care of now AND the future is needed much more. The IDEA program with it's IEP's are not doing enough. It should be more encompassing with what will improve the quality of life for person's with Autism.

The overall "appropriate" education should include nutrition and behaviour components as well. If you agree with some of my observations let's form a group, committee or whatever and get in front of the President to bring about change that will really make a difference for our children with Autism. ~ AutismBites.com