|
 On
Wednesday, January the 28th a group of 125 professionals
and parents met to discuss the unique challenges involved
in helping individuals who have a dual diagnosis of Down
syndrome and autism/complex behaviors. The planning
committee was thrilled with the response to this call to action!
In attendance were parents/caregivers, health care providers
(physicians, therapists, psychologists, etc.), and teachers/service
providers (special educators, social workers, care coordinators,
behavior specialists, clergy, etc.).
Providing
a format for people to come together to gather and share information
certainly struck a cord. Many people were in agreement that "something
important happened" at this gathering.
Dr.
Susan Hepburn brought us a fascinating lecture on the combination
of these two conditions. The wealth of both scientific and "hands on" information
she shared with the diverse audience was incredible. Not surprisingly, we have received glowing responses from the participants - raving about her ability to explain the science, and the applications for everyday techniques, in a compassionate, understandable way.
In
addition to Dr. Hepburn's keynote address, attendees participated
in animated discussions about what is needed
in order for all of us to better understand our students, patients,
clients and loved ones with DS-ASD. Parents expressed that their
loved ones' behaviors and needs are so different from others
with Down syndrome alone – or autism alone – that they have
never felt like they really fit in with other families in either "camp." For
the first time they felt like there was a community gathering
around them that truly understands.
MHDSA would
like to thank our collaborative partners (the Autism
Society of Colorado and the Denver Adult Down
Syndrome Clinic), the Planning Committee, and our
amazing volunteers who made this conference possible. We also
wish to thank Developmental Disabilities Resource Center
(DDRC), Denver
Options and Developmental Pathways for
their generous financial contributions which enabled us to offer
this special event. |
