Autism Sunshine House, Inc.

My name is Katherine (Kitty), and I worked at Lockheed Martin Aeronautical Company for over 25 years. I accepted a voluntarily layoff in order to save another person job and to make a difference in the lives of those struggling with autism, better known as "Life on the Spectrum". I have three grandchildren, ages 6, 5, 2. In May of 2003 when the youngest was born, he entered into this world as our "Special Needs Grandson". He was born with Erb's Palsy (no use of his left arm). It took sometime to realize the complexity of his injury and he has been involved in numerous therapies his entire life. At 18 months, he had Mod Quad surgery and has since regained about 90% usage of his left arm. As he ages, consistent PT is required to avoid physical deformities to his arm and other surgeries may be required as his body continues to grow and develop. In May 2005, he turned 2 and we all thought he had overcome his disability, that is until we learned about Autism, at which time he was non-verbal and then diagnosed as severely autistic. Since the birth of our grandson, I have learned a whole new language; PT, OT, ASD, PDD, ABA, IEP, CVS, BTI, EEG, and so on. In August 2005, I had a serious MVA and suffered a Spinal Injury and severe Brain Trauma Injury (BTI). In January 2008, I had back surgery and was out of work for over five months. With all of this and more my priorities changed. Motivated now by a deep conviction within to make a difference during my lifetime, my grandsons life, and the lives of those in the community around me, it is my hearts passion to help others receive assistance and encourage them to live their life on earth to the fullest. The Autism Sunshine House, Inc. is now offering in-home daycare from birth to 4 years and respite care by appointment.