A recent story seemed all too familiar. Kursten Rankin, a mother of three in McCall, Idaho, has spent years waiting for resources to help diagnose her kids. With long waitlists to see specialists, who can properly evaluate autism spectrum disorder, Rankin has had to wait over 18 months just to get an appointment. This delay in diagnosis and care has been traumatic, as her children have been judged and misunderstood by others who don't realize the behaviors are out of their control. Rankin's oldest child finally received the care he needed after a 3-year process, which positively impacted their whole family. As “autism prevalence” has risen across the US, the demand for specialized services has also increased, lengthening wait times for diagnoses. Rankin hopes more can be done to expand resources so families like hers can get the critical help they need in a timely manner. Though the process has been long, she is grateful for the "incredible people" and "amazing therapists and doctors" who have made a difference for her kids.
Glad she got help. So many more need it and can’t get it 💔