If you notice the splash of color, we’re turning blue for World Autism Day – April 2, 2015.
And this is specially poignant as this year South Dakota became the 40th State to pass some form of Autism Insurance reform, as you’ll see from the ceremonial bill signing photo that took place on the last day of session (when everyone else was busy resigning…)
I’m reminded of the letter I sent to State Representatives last year as we were working hard to get a measure moved forward. Looking back, it remains an important reminder of how far we’ve come in South Dakota:
I’m writing you this morning not on a partisan matter, but on a personal one. I’m writing you today to encourage your strong support for the passage of House Bill 1257, an act to clarify certain autism spectrum disorders insurance coverage.
…
In committee, my wife Michelle spoke about our daughter, Delaney, and some of the challenges we’ve faced in our journey raising our daughter, and our plight in finding an effective treatment that allowed her to finally move forward, only to have our insurance carrier yank the rug out from under us and to inform us that they were ceasing coverage solely because South Dakota is one of only a handful of remaining states which do not require it.
I realize I cannot tell you my family’s whole story on a short email, but please know in the past seven months, these therapies have made all the difference for my daughter who suffers from violent outbursts and dangerous behaviors that will impact her entire life if she is not able to continue with her therapies until she has acquired the skills to cope with her world.
….
There aren’t any heroes or villains in this matter, just problems that require leadership to help families find hope and at least a temporary respite. Autism Spectrum Disorders are ailments that affect entire families, because every member of the family plays their part in caring for their child, sibling, niece, nephew, brother, sister or grandchild.
In the meantime, on behalf of my family, I thank you for your time today, and would welcome and greatly appreciate your support of House Bill 1257 this next week and beyond. Thank you for caring about the children in this state with autism and the families who love them.
Regards,
Pat Powers
What has happened since I sent this in 2014? Insurers came to the table in 2015 with a measure in hand, and eventually, it was amended to a point where both sides could call it progress.
People working together towards a common goal. Who would have thought?
The important point is that, it’s not a partisan thing. Autism does not choose among Republicans or Democrats. And as noted, Autism Spectrum Disorders are ailments that affect entire families, because every member of the family plays their part in caring for their child, sibling, niece, nephew, brother, sister or grandchild.
When you see that out of control child having an intense meltdown in WalMart, or wrestling with their mom as she tries to get through the check-out. Or the kid who is loud and acting out in a restaurant – think before you speak. There’s a good chance those kids may suffer from Autism Spectrum Disorder.
So, please, have a little patience. We’re all trying to do the best that we can for our families.