What is autism?
Autism is one of the autism spectrum disorders, a group of conditions that vary in their severity and the age at which a child first may show symptoms. Autism spectrum disorders fall under a broader category known as pervasive developmental disorders (PDDs). PDDs cause delays in many areas of childhood development, such as the development of skills to communicate and interact socially. Autism typically is diagnosed during a child’s second year and is lifelong, although symptoms may lessen over time. There is no cure for autism, but appropriate treatments can help a child develop life skills to function more independently. More

This is why I see a lot of hope. The science and success stories of service and therapy dogs had intrigued me for some time. Over the past year, that interest turned into a passion of finding ways to facilitate the successes in both schools and communities. When Garrett Gann first got his service dog Noah, I attended training with Garrett and his mother Jessica at the Wilderwood Service Dog Center. Wilderwood specializes in training dogs for individuals with disabilities. To qualify for a service dog, a prescription that a service dog was medically necessary for Garrett was required from a Neurologist . Over the course of the past year, Noah had been trained for his service dog job and the last several months specifically trained for Garrett’s needs. Information and videos from Jessica and school were provided to give insight to the center’s director that was used to design Noah’s training. Our training focused on Jessica and me becoming licensed handlers for Noah. More

P.A.D.D. Inc. is a group of parents, friends, and teachers of individuals with developmental disabilities coming together to lend support, help educate themselves, and the community, and advocate for their loved ones. P.A.D.D, Inc meetings are held the 3rd Tuesday of every month at 6:30 PM at the St Francois Co. Board for the Developmentally Disabled, 2068 N Washington, Farmington, MO 63640. You can learn more about the support and work of PADD, Inc by logging on to www.paddgroup.com. Be sure to check out the links to other sites. More

Throughout ancient times to present day we have shared our lives with companion animals, however the human-animal bond can be a healing force mentally and physically. On a personal level, I experience the “good medicine” that my furry friends bring to me mentally and physically daily. Whether it is walking the trails with my lab-retriever mix Golden, or grooming and riding my paint horse Chero, it is not hard to recognize all the physical benefits I receive. As far as the mental aspect goes, there is nothing greater than coming home to my dog’s smiling face and the horses running with the mini ponies whinnying! How could I be sad or stressed with that kind of welcome? Here I had thought I was taking care of them, but could it be the other way around?  More

This is the full transcript of an interview with Amy Dugal about her son, Isaiah who has Autism and Aspergers. More

Many times after a good night’s sleep, we use the saying “Last night I slept like a baby.” While this analogy rings true most of the time, we tend to think of sleep disorders as an adults only problem. Pediatric sleep disorders can and do occur in infants, toddlers, preschoolers, school age and adolescents. According to the National Institute of Health, pediatric sleep disorders are responsible for a host of problems ranging from pulmonary, neurological, family problems, as well as psychological and psychiatric problems. By learning to recognize the signs of these pediatric sleep disorders throughout a child’s life stages, we can ward off potential problems in the future. More

Remember a time when you were physically active and felt great. Physical activity doesn’t always have to be “no pain, no gain.” It can actually be enjoyable and rewarding. Like a 15-minute walk on a sunny day. Or kicking a soccer ball around with your kids. Physical activity makes more energy than it takes. Taking just one of the following steps may help you get started again. More

For over twenty years, I have built a relationship with you, the communities I serve and the health care entities where I perform my services. I have prided myself in always keeping you foremost in mind when managing your health and wellness.  Now I have the opportunity to expand on these relationships and encompass the true definition of Continuity of Care both professionally and personally. More