Jim's Story

Jim came to Help Me Grow in March 2012. Jim’s Grandma, his primary caretaker, came with concerns about possible autism and other developmental issues and had not been able to find answers or support in the community. At 25 months, Jim was unable to get into hands and knees position, crawl, or tolerate any pressure on his feet. He would only eat stage 2 and 3 baby foods because he did not like to chew and would gag on solid foods. Jim did not show interest in other children or people other than Grandma. On outings, Grandma could not keep him out long because he would cry and scream in loud or busy places. In particular, Jim hated going to Giant Eagle, and would begin to cry even before entering the store. Jim did not communicate and would make a groaning noise all the time, whether he was happy or sad. Grandma also was concerned about repetitive behaviors like rocking, hair pulling, and hand biting.After qualifying for Help Me Grow services, the Service Coordinator was able to connect Grandma with Franklin County Board of Developmental Disabilities Home Base services. Jim’s team of specialists determined that they would make weekly visits to the home based on Jim’s needs. The Early Intervention Specialist and Occupational Therapist began work right away on sensory needs. After a month, Grandma was already beginning to wean Jim from his bottle to a sippy cup and encouraging Jim to bite a chew toy instead of his hands. By September, Jim could tolerate getting into a hands and knees position and play in a kneeling position. Therapists also began to encourage messy play with food, playing with a spoon, and more functional play with toys. Now, Grandma says that Jim crawls around and is stronger every day. Grandma says that he is trying to talk more and babbles with “b” sounds.Before beginning with Help Me Grow, Grandma had previously gone to Children’s Hospital for an autism evaluation but had not been able to reconnect with them to complete the evaluation. The Service Coordinator was able to reconnect the family with Children’s for the evaluation. Jim’s team of specialists and Service Coordinator tried to attend the evaluation and follow up appointments with Grandma to support her. Jim did receive a provisional diagnosis of Pervasive Developmental Disorder Not Otherwise Specified, but the evaluation team wanted to do some further medical tests before making a formal diagnosis. Jim’s Service Coordinator also helped Grandma apply for SSI benefits for Jim and Respite.Jim is currently transitioning to the school district as his third birthday is quickly approaching. Grandma is hopeful that Jim will continue to improve. She is amazed at all the little changes in her daily routine. She laughed as she recounted that she is now able to cut Jim’s toe nails without a fight, something that was not possible six months ago.