Review: A Child's Journey Out of Autism by Leeann Whiffen

Book info:

A Child's Journey out of Autism: One Family's Story of Living in Hope and Finding a Cure by Leann Whiffen
Paperback: 336 pages
Publisher: Sourcebooks Trade (March 1, 2009)

Genre: Non-fiction

Rating: 4.5/5

When Clay Whiffen was diagnosed on the autism spectrum, his parents didn't know where to turn. They refused to believe that he could not be cured, and began to try every therapy they could afford - and many they couldn't.

Frantically they worked, knowing that Clay slipped further away every day. When intensive medical testing revealed that Clay no longer fit the criteria for any condition on the autism spectrum, the Whiffens' wildest dreams were realized. Clay had conquered autism.

Written by Clay's mother, with a foreword by autism specialist Dr. Bryan Jepson, A Child's Journey out of Autism spells out what treatments worked, where the family found help, and how they made it through this crushing crisis. In a time of despair and confusion - when another child is diagnosed with autism every 20 minutes - this is a profound, proven message of hope for anyone whose life is touched by the disorder.

A Child's Journey Out of Autism is a very powerful story. Leeann Whiffen holds nothing back in telling of her son's struggle with autism. She describes with brutal honestly her son's behavior prior to treatment, and her heartbreak at his diagnosis of autism. Her patience with her son amazed me, and her love for him was evident in each and every page.

Once they have a diagnosis and begin treatment, Whiffen's persistence in pursuing every treatment that could benefit her son is a testament to a mother's love at its finest. She spends countless hours researching the possible causes and treatments, and becomes an advocate for autism education. She also includes an extensive list of resources in the book, with contact information.

I have no firsthand knowledge in treating autism, and I know that the same treatments don't work for every child, but A Child's Journey out of Autism is a story filled with hope. Autism is the fastest-growing developmental disability, and the Whiffen's story highlights what is possible with early diagnosis and consistent treatment.

I would recommend this book if you have anyone in your life that is affected by autism. Whiffen's story is very well written and doesn't get bogged down in medical terminology. 4.5 stars

Order A Child's Journey out of Autism: One Family's Story of Living in Hope and Finding a Cure