Managing Editor's Note: Last week I had a chance to email a terrific Dad named Cody Jordan whom I've met at Autism One. His response was so encouraging I asked him if I could share his wonderful news about his son's progress. He agreed and so, for our "dreams" category, we bring you Cody Jordan and his son Harrison. I dare you not to grin from ear to ear. Improvement, recovery is possible - don't let anyone tell you otherwise. KS

Kim,

His name is Harrison Jordan, and he's doing great.  For the past year, his g.i care has been under Dr. Krigsman, and I'm soooooo glad we took him down to Texas (the few times we have) to have him seen by Dr. Krigsman.  I don't think I've ever met a more compassionate doctor anywhere else (except for maybe Dr. Usman, who I also take my son to).  His chronic diarrhea and abdominal pain (shown through posturing and verbal complaints of pain) are gone, and he's starting to put on weight at a normalized rate.  This was one of the last big hurdles (it's actually felt more like a steeplechase).  We just had the viral crud pass through our house, and he was the only one who didn't get it.  His immune system is that much stronger.

He's talking almost like any other kid his age, and the last few times we've taken him somewhere that there are many kids his age, he's actually tried to make friends.  Yes, he actually went up to another boy his age and asked, "Will you be my friend?" and then asked, "Will you go down the slide with me?"  I just about broke down in tears.  Well, maybe I did shed a few tears, but who the hell cares about "man points" when it has to do with my son's recovery?!?!?

He's also aced most of his spelling tests in first grade, and he's being pulled out less and less for the resource room.  People still say (after finding out he has autism) things like, "I'm so sorry.  It must be so hard."  It's getting easier and easier, and I'd say that my family has a pretty normal life.  It's taken extraordinary amounts of time and money.  I mean, sure I could have nicer cars and a bigger house, but it wouldn't mean jack squat to me if my son still sat in the corner of the room, alone and spinning the wheel on a toy truck.  Oh, I have since thrown that truck away.

So, to sum it up, he's doing great.  His recovery is going great, and he's even starting to extort money from his three-year old little brother.  He will actually go up to him, snatch a toy out of his hands, and demand money (usually from ten to twenty-five cents) to give the toy back.  So if my three-year old comes up to me asking for loose change, I know something's up!!!  Things are great; they just keep getting better, and I wouldn't trade any of it for the world.

Sorry about getting so wordy in this reply.  When it comes to my son's recovery, I just love to brag!!!

Thanks,

Cody Jordan