LAREDO, Tex. (KGNS) – Parents and doctors are calling on the city of Laredo to expand access to autism therapy services after a two-year waitlist at the city’s only two Applied Behavior Analysis centers left families feeling lost.
Dr. Fernando Sosa, a local pediatrician, said children are missing out on crucial services. Studies show ABA therapy helps children with autism gain independence before they start school.
Mika Ziesman, the mother of a child with autism, addressed council members on Monday, March 16, about the lack of resources she encountered after her child’s diagnosis.
“Even if only a small portion of these children require intensive therapy, hundreds of families in our community need access to services,” Ziesman said. “No parent should feel alone while trying to help their child. This is why I’m here today to ask, how can we, as a community, work together to improve access to autism services and support for families in Laredo?”
Congressman Henry Cuellar did not speak during Monday’s city council meeting but said he wants to help.
“I’m looking at working with the Gateway Community Clinic to put monies to do an autism center. I’ve heard from a lot of parents that they need help, so we want to get some specialized equipment there for the kids who have autism.” Cuellar said.
Dr. Richard Chamberlain with the city health department said a recent city survey found many parents do not know where to go for autism services. City officials asked Dr. Chamberlain to return with a formal plan for council approval.
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