by Amy Sharp

Local mom, advocate, and founder of the Autism Playgroup of Fort Bend, Susan Garczynski says, “If you see something quirky about your child––toe walking, a lack of friends, or an overly obsessive hobby––don’t let anyone dismiss your fears. At 15mos, my son Conner’s speech regressed and his play became quirky. Our Pediatrician told me ‘boys are just late talkers.’ My mom instinct didn’t wait for a label to start helping him.”

“The same early intervention services that were a godsend to us turned away a friend…whose son did have high-functioning autism. There is no roadmap when it comes to autism, every kid is different. The only undisputed fact is that early intervention is vital! I’ve seen parents jump through financial and logistical hoops to find services for their child. One family had both parents working Houston-area jobs when a highly-sought out therapy became available. One of them commuted back to Sugar Land every single day during lunch to get their son to therapy.”

Hope For Three founder Darla Farmer was a volunteer at Child Advocates of Fort Bend when she became friends with Hope Montgomery. Darla says, “Hope gave birth to a set of triplets on the anniversary of my own mother’s death and I immediately felt a special connection to them. When the “triple divas” Londyn, Lakin, and Lauren Montgomery were diagnosed with autism at the age of 2 ½, I investigated ways to help Hope’s family and families like hers. Quickly I realized how unobtainable even basic services are. We brainstormed, did research and created this non-profit to bridge the gap between families and service providers. We are unique in focusing solely on autism…no other disability”.

Blessed Be Hope for Three, Inc is a 501(c)3 non-profit. Through programs and events, Hope for Three raises funds and awareness about autism. One of their new programs is first responder education and training…an area Susan knows too well. “I put Conner in time-out one day,” says Susan, “and he called 911. He learned at school to call 911 for help…so he called 911 for “help” to get out of time out. But help is subjective. I had to educate the officers on children with autism, and also educate Conner on the gray area between wanting help and having an emergency. I think training first responders to identify kids on the spectrum is a wonderful idea and I’m excited to see it happening right here in Fort Bend!”

In addition to community awareness, Hope For Three also offers financial support to help families get autism-related services. Darla says, “We have a rigorous screening process and pay funds directly to service providers. Autism shouldn’t bankrupt families!”

Susan says, “If you’re worried about your child, do not be afraid to inquire. Early intervention can help! There are services available to help your child be the very best he or she can be!”

Call Out Box:

Are you ready to “Strike Out Autism?” Hope for Three partnered with the Sugar Land Skeeters, the Honorable Judge Hebert and all 18 Fort Bend City Mayors to host the 2nd Annual Strike Out Autism. Join us Opening Weekend, April 27, 2014, at Constellation Field as we honor families and “Awesome Kids” with a Family Fun Day. Our hope is to not only raise awareness about autism, but unite the community and give our families challenged with the stresses of autism a fun-filled afternoon for everyone to enjoy. Volunteer and sponsorship opportunities available. Support local families and purchase tickets on line: www.HopeforThree.org/strike-out-autism