Programs, people help families with autistic children

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Jarrod Grammel
  • 23rd Wing Public Affairs
MOODY AIR FORCE BASE, Ga. --  Raising a family while in the military is no easy task. The constant moving and deployments are some of the many challenges military families deal with. Military life is even more challenging when a family has an autistic child.

"Autism is a developmental disorder that affects one out of 110 children," said Windy Scott, 23rd Force Support Squadron Exceptional Family Member Program coordinator. "It is a spectrum disorder meaning every child has a different severity and set of symptoms."

After a child is diagnosed, the first step for the family is often talking to Capt. Natasha W. Bullock, 23rd Medical Operations Squadron Family Advocacy officer and special needs coordinator.

"Once a family is recognized as having a child with special needs, we initiate the Q-code, also known as an assignment limitation code," said Captain Bullock. "This ensures the gaining base can support the family's needs. When the family enrolls, we make sure they get to Mrs. Scott."

When the family talks to Mrs. Scott, she gives them all the information they need.

"I help locate support groups and other programs, and connect them with other families," said Mrs. Scott.

Jennah Mullins, spouse of currently deployed Maj. Michael Mullins, 347th Rescue Group navigator, knows firsthand the challenges of raising an autistic child in the military.

"Our son Shane was diagnosed when he was 2 years old, and he is 5 now," said Mrs. Mullins. "We noticed when his language stopped progressing. He often repeats the same word over and over again. He will also flap his hands and spin constantly."

There are many challenges involved in raising an autistic child whether the family is civilian or military.

"Communication is our biggest challenge," said Mrs. Mullins. "It's hard to understand what Shane is thinking. Another challenge is getting him to focus."

Even though there are many challenges common to civilian and military families, military families have a unique set of challenges.

"Raising any special needs child is difficult in the military," said Mrs. Scott. "The biggest challenge is the moving. Every time a family moves they have to reestablish support systems. This includes schools, support groups, friends and doctors."

Captain Bullock has a vital role in helping families transition during a permanent change of station, both when they depart Moody and when they arrive here.

"Before a family moves, we make sure to forward any issues to the gaining base," said Captain Bullock. "Once the family is at that base, the Family Advocacy office there gives them the resources to get help.

"After a family arrives here and enrolls in EFMP, we give them Mrs. Scott's information," she added. "We work hand-in-hand with Mrs. Scott to take care of the family."

In addition to the more traditional programs, Mrs. Mullins gets her son involved in other methods of treatment.

"I try to get Shane to play with other kids," said Mrs. Mullins. "There is also a program based out of Florida called Surfers for Autism. This group takes people with autism out surfing. Another program in the area is Jacob's Ladder, which offers therapeutic horseback riding."

As difficult as it is for military families with an autistic child, people like Captain Bullock and Mrs. Scott are helpful resources for the family.

"I would be totally lost without Mrs. Scott and the Exceptional Family Members Program," said Mrs. Mullins. "Without her and the EFMP, I wouldn't know about any helpful programs. I have also met a lot of people through her and the program."

Even though the military presents its challenges, military life also has its own benefits.

"I am grateful we are in the military," said Mrs. Mullins. "Without the Air Force we wouldn't be able to get all the treatment for needed for Shane. It helps having friends that are also military wives, because they help me through the hard times."

The Air Force always strives to improve the living conditions of its Airmen and families. While parents like Mrs. Mullins strive to provide their children with the best help, the Air Force offers the resources for them.

Editor's note: The mention of Surfers for Autism and Jacob's Ladder does not constitute endorsement by Moody Air Force Base or the U.S. Air Force.