When Cameron, a bright and curious 10-year-old, was recently diagnosed with high-functioning autism, his mother found herself at a critical crossroads. Years of unanswered questions and countless visits to psychiatrists since he was just three years old had left her feeling overwhelmed and without a clear direction. “My son has seen so many psychiatrists over the years… and nobody could ever seem to offer the help he needed or give us a proper diagnosis,” she recalls. “I am eternally grateful.”
The turning point came through a personal connection; her mother-in-law mentioned a former coworker, Michelle Davis, who might be able to help. “At the time I reached out to Michelle, I didn’t know that she worked for Parent Network,” she says. What began as a hopeful outreach quickly turned into a lifeline.
Having just received Cameron’s autism/Asperger’s diagnosis from a neuropsychic evaluation; she was advised to pursue eligibility through the New York State Office for People with Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD). It was through Parent Network, who stepped in with unwavering support. “They guided me through that process,” she explains. “Parent Network acted as my liaison, explaining the step-by-step process, which was immensely helpful.”
Before this connection, she admits she had only heard of Parent Network in passing. “I didn’t realize the scope of help they provided to the special needs community, nor did I realize what services OPWDD could offer my son.” The experience was eye-opening. “Through working with Michelle, I’ve learned more about my son’s diagnosis and how many resources are available to him—not only now, but well into his future.”
The emotional impact of this newfound knowledge was profound. “I learned that just because my son is capable of doing a lot of things doesn’t equate to him always being able to do those things,” she reflects. “There is a big difference, and that has helped us navigate hard times at home and in a school setting.”
Now, as an empowered advocate, she’s become a voice for other parents. “Anytime I see a parent struggling… I now immediately refer them to The Parent Network,” she says. “They offer such a large scope of help to all parents.”
From a path filled with questions to one filled with hope, The Parent Network made all the difference—for Cameron and for his family.
