Kiri and Jim Rubin were confused and overwhelmed that their young son, Dean, was non-responsive to his name and surroundings, and would occasionally cause harm to himself. He would refuse to eat at times and was terrified of water.
Out of desperation Kiri would stand behind him and would exclaim his name, ‘Dean, Dean, Dean’ and he wouldn’t respond.
“I sort of grew cold with fear that something was off,” says Kiri.
It was then that they continued to push for answers and shortly after, received an autism diagnosis. Dean came to Southwest Autism Research & Resource Center at 2½ years old.
SARRC's team shaped an individualized treatment plan to improve Dean’s skills and behaviors while enrolled in SARRC’s Community School. Over the next four years, Dean progressed rapidly — he was able to communicate his needs and desires, became more independent, conquered his fear of water and confidently walked down the aisle during the Community School’s graduation ceremony.
Outcomes like Dean's are made possible through the generosity of our community of supporters. A gift to SARRC this holiday season will directly support the vital programs, services and research for individuals with autism and their families: Give a gift to SARRC today.