This week I interviewed the Moreno family for the third text module of my multimedia project. I went to the Moreno’s home and spoke with Sam and Denise and to their son Mason who was diangosed with autism at the age of 4. Mason has a remarkable story of healing. At 12 years-old, Mason no longer shows any of the symptoms of autism. He does all the things a normal boy his age does and he will never have to tell anyone that ever had autism in the first place. It was great to hear from the family how things turned for the better and how their son can live independently as an adult rather than as an adult with autism who needs special supervision. This case is obviously rare and cannot be explained easily by doctors. But one thing seems apparent: anything is possible and families have to keep faith.

Mason is certainly lucky in that he was able to overcome the disorder. But he was always lucky because of his family’s financial situation. Occupational and speech therapy are quite expensive. Insurance issues persist throughout America when it comes to autism-care coverage. The article the “Long Fight Over Autism Care Could End” details the movement towards increased coverage in Wisconsin where, according to the article, insurance does not cover most autism treatments. Maryland, in fact, is one of only six states that has specific laws regarding autism coverage.

I find this problematic. I can’t imagine the numbers of family’s who simply cannot afford or do not qualify to receive the help they need for treatment. It’s clear the therapies can make a world of difference. The coverage must become more accessible for all Americans and the topic even entered the presidential debates between Barack Obama and John McCain.