Autism places Joshua Bontrager in harm’s way.
On March 4, 2005, we were overjoyed to welcome our second beautiful son, Joshua, into our family. Around the time of Joshua’s first birthday, however, we started to notice elements of his development which caused us some concern. He was not speaking, and was not responding to us when we spoke to him. His behavior seemed different than other children his age. Over the next few years, we walked through the long, difficult journey of seeking answers to the questions looming in our minds. What was afflicting our son? And what could we do to help him?
After many medical tests, consultations with a Neuropsychologist, and evaluations with First Steps and a program through the local school system, Joshua Bontrager was finally diagnosed with Autism in January of this year. It is news that no parent wants to receive, but we are thankful to finally have an official diagnosis, which puts to rest some of the questions we’ve carried, and also provides us with opportunities to further explore treatment options and other ways to maintain a safe and happy life for Joshua.
Joshua is an affectionate little boy who likes to hug and snuggle. He loves letters and numbers and enjoys coloring, climbing, and running. He also has many struggles which affect his life and the life of our family on a daily basis. Autism makes it difficult for Joshua to focus, communicate, and process information.
At five years old, his speech level is that of a two-and-a-half year old, and he cannot comprehend the consequences of many of his actions; including ones that could be potentially dangerous. We have had to install locks on the doors, windows, and cabinets throughout our home, as Joshua is undeterred by most child-proofing equipment and has an incredible ability, and frequent desire, to escape.
As Joshua’s parents, our goal is to fight this disease alongside him by providing all the help we possibly can. Speech and occupational therapy sessions at Joshua’s special preschool and our local hospital have made some improvements in his ability to communicate with us.
Our major concern at this point is his safety, as his physical abilities combined with his delays in comprehension can often place him in harm’s way. We were encouraged to recently learn about 4 Paws for Ability, an organization which trains assistance dogs and provides them as companions for people with disabilities. In the case of a child like Joshua, for instance, an assistance dog would provide security and a calming presence, all the while helping to keep the child out of danger.
Our family has been approved to receive an assistance dog for Joshua, and we are hopeful about the difference this opportunity could make in our lives.
Our lives have been profoundly impacted by the harsh realities of Autism. Despite the difficulties, however, we are thankful for what we have learned about love and patience, and the increased understanding and awareness we now have about other people who are living with disabilities. We are thankful for our family and friends, and our faith in God, all of which have been great sources of strength for us in the hard times. And we are thankful that organizations like 4 Paws for Ability exist to help improve the quality of life for people with Autism, and give peace of mind to their families.
Thank you for taking the time to read our story. Please consider making a donation to 4 Paws for Ability in honor of Joshua Bontrager, as your contribution will undoubtedly make a difference in the life of a child like Joshua. All donations are tax deductable and can be made online at www.4pawsforability.org or sent to:
4 Paws for Ability
253 Dayton Ave.
Xenia, Ohio 45385
Jeremy & Shivy Bontrager
4 Paws for Ability as a source for extremely well-trained service dogs. The organization is sound and its goals exceptional. Judy Vorfeld.