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Like all Autism parents, I’ve built up a collection of books and reading materials. And in our spare time, we watch biomedical videos downloaded from the Web or in DVD. Many of my reading material and research center around biomedical treatments, however I have read several biographies as well as therapy-based books. Here’s a list of books that has had the biggest impact on me and my thoughts on them;
1. Healing the New Childhood Epidemics by Dr Kenneth Bock 2007 – the writer is a member of Defeat Autism Now!. His interest lies in the 4-A Disorders – Autism, ADHD, Asthma and Allergies. He writes about the very real connections between these 4 childhood disorders. Very persuasive research on environmental toxins, nutritional deficiencies, genetic vulnerabilities and immune systems and how they trigger the 4-As. Incredible biomedical reading for anyone who’s affected by Autism, Asthma and Allergies.
2. Changing the Course of Autism by Dr Bryan Jepson 2007 – the writer is another member of DAN! and a frequent speaker at conferences. His son is also affected by Autism. He writes about the scientific approach in treating Autism. He shows evidence of Autism as a medical disease rather than a psychological disorder. He explains in details how Autism affects other body organ systems besides just the brain.
3. Children With Starving Brains by Jaquelyn McCandless 2007 edition – Step by step biomedical treatment guide for parents and doctors. A bit of heavy reading, in depth and great as a referral tool. Not to be read from start to finish, I find it easier to search the Chapters page and read according to your current research interest.
4. Autism: Effective Biomedical Treatments by Jon Pangborn and Sidney Baker 2005 Edition + 2007 Supplement – Another medical reference textbook however it’s very well written. Written for both parents & doctors, it’s very detailed and has a great section on testing as well as recommended labs. This is my main reference guide for any treatment Maya is doing. This was published in collaboration with the Autism Research Institute, I just wish there’s a more up to date publication.
5. Recovering Autistic Children by Stephen Edelson and Bernard Rimland 2006 Edition – again I wish there was a 2009 edition, however Dr Rimland has since passed away. Introduction on Dr Rimland’s autistic son and his pioneering work in biomedical treatments. There are 31 compelling stories written by parents whose children recovered or at least benefitted greatly from the DAN! approach. These are simple, touching stories on the struggles of these brave parents and their amazing children and the treatments that helped them. And followed by overview of DAN! protocols and biomedical treatments. Unfortunately, most of the personal stories are based 5-10 years ago, and some of the treatment modalities are a bit outdated. However, it’s a good read.
6. Louder Than Words by Jenny McCarthy – a personal story of how Jenny recovered her son Evan from Autism. Heartbreaking accounts of Evan’s seizures and many trips to the emergency ward. The many doctors and professionals she saw and the difficulties she faced with a husband who was not supportive. And lots of references to biomedical treatments and diets that helped to recover her son. I read this book before I knew anything about Autism, neither did I have a clue that Maya had it. But I instantly saw similarities in Evan and Maya, that’s when I first knew Maya has Autism.
7. Mother Warriors by Jenny McCarthy – written after Louder Than Words was published, it’s a collection of Jenny’s personal efforts towards raising Autism awareness. And many stories of parents who implemented biomedical intervention for their children and the successes and failures they encountered. Very easy to read and so compelling that I finished it in one day.
8. Healing and Preventing Autism by Jenny McCarthy and Dr Jerry Kartzinel – this is Jenny’s 3rd book on Autism, written in collaboration with her son’s DAN doctor. Dr Jerry Kartzinel is a very well respected doctor who has recovered many children from Autism. A very easy to read overview of biomedical intervention from a parent’s perspective and from a doctor’s perspective. Topics include diets, supplements, immune system, allergies, candida, seizures, gut issues and recommended products and supplements. It’s not meant to be a comprehensive in-depth guide, however it does a good job of explaining why biomedical treatments are important for your child and what you can do about it.
9. What Your Doctor May Not Tell You About Children’s Vaccination by Stephanie Cave 2007 – everything you need to know about vaccinations and immunizations. In depth look at every mandatory childhood vaccination, what it contains, side effects and how relevant it is. The controversy involving mercury and combined vaccinations are discussed in detail. And some reports of vaccine-caused injury and illnesses.
10. Ten Things Every Child With Autism Wishes You Knew by Ellen Notbohm 2005 – the book describes some of the challenges a person with Autism faces. A person with Autism perceives the world differently and their sensory perception are skewered amongst other things. Gives us a brief overview on why they behave in certain ways and most importantly it gives you the opportunity to `view’ the world as they live it. Some helpful hints on communicating more effectively with them and how simple things like lowering the volume of your voice makes it easier for them to understand us. Hopefully we can absorb the lessons and treat our children with the patience and respect they deserve.
There are other books I have not listed here, some are inspirational, some are heartwarming and some are not so interesting reads. I try to reread the books from time to time, usually I would discover something that I’ve overlooked and I always learn something new every time. Most of these books I purchase online from Amazon.com. Unfortunately, the cost of delivery is usually more expensive than the actual books itself.
Spectrum Mum in Malaysia 