Page in progress
 List of Presenters/Presentations
  
Presenter Presentation
James Adams, PhD Biomedical Treatments for Autism (Thursday 7-8 pm)
James Adams, PhD Nutritional Treatment Studies for Autism (Thursday 8-9 pm)
James Adams, PhD; Dan Burns, PhD; Barbara Fischkin; PhD; Sonja Hintz, RN; Vicki Martin, RN; Vicki Obee-Hilty; Stephen Shore, EdD; Polly Tommey Adult Service and Residential Think Tank (Saturday 2-6 pm)
Timothy Adams, Esq., Lynne Arnold, MA & Mitch Perlman, PhD Special Education Law Day
Mary Lou Ballweg; Dr. Ved Chauhan; Mark Corrales, MPP; David Hahn-Baker; Betty Mekdeci; Alice Shabecoff Environmental Issues & Chronic Diseases Symposium - We Are Not Alone
Mary Lynch Barbera, RN, MSN, BCBA The Verbal Behavior Approach: Incorporating ABA Strategies to Teach Children with Autism
Daniel Barth, PhD Immune responses to brain injury, cortical excitability, brain function, and seizures
Jeffrey Becker, OD How Vision And Sight Affect the Autistic Individual
Michael Biamonte, CCN The Truth About Candida Elimination
Mark Blaxill, MBA, Dan Olmsted & Kim Stagliano Age of Autism Editors and Andrew Wakefield
Ken Bock, MD; David Humphrey, Esq.; Martha Herbert, MD, PhD & Doreen Granpeesheh, PhD, BCBA-D Prediction and Prevention of ASD: Signs to watch out for and treatments that will help you avoid the diagnosis of autism
Tom Bohager Enzyme Therapy and Autism
Denis Bouboulis, MD & Lynn Johnson The immunological role of PANDAS
Jeff Bradstreet, MD The Current State of the Science
Kerry Brooks, MS, NC Autism 2 Awesome: A Father's Love
Gregory Brown, MD & Vicki Martin A Parent's Survival Guide to Biomedical Therapy in Autism Spectrum Disorders: Part 2 Recognizing Medical Disease in Your Child
Dan Burns, PhD Exercise and Autism
Jeffrey S. Cantor, DDS, Patricia Liston-Gannon, DDS, Pamela Johnson, DDS & Michelle Lancaster, DDS Dentistry And Autism - A Troubled Marriage
Megan Carrick, MOTR/L Sensory Integration: Theory and Implications
Manuel Casanova & Emily L. Williams The Neurobiology of Autism: The Role of Ultrasound
Manuel Casanova, MD The role of the cortex in the genesis of seizures in autism
Charles Chapple, DC Reaching Sensory Processing Disorders: Working to Benefit ADD/ADHD to Autism through Structure and Function - a biomechanical approach
Abha Chauhan, PhD Increased oxidative stress and inflammatory markers in the blood and brain of autistic individuals
Ved Chauhan, PhD Oxidative stress and mitochondrial abnormalities in the lymphoblasts from autistic individuals: effect of environmental agents
Lillian Chen-Byerly What is So Important about Addressing Primitive Reflexes in Therapy? AKA Using a Neurokinesiology Framework for Therapy
Rob Coben, PhD EEG biofeedback as a treatment for autistic disorders and seizure activity
Britt Collins, MS, OTR/L & Jackie Olson The Importance of Occupational Therapy in the Treatment of Autism
Judy Converse, MPH, RD, LD Better Biomedical: How Existing Standards in Child Nutrition Improve Outcomes and Insurance Access For Kids Using Special Diets and Biomedical Treatments
Mark Corrales, MPP The Search for Environmental Risk Factors in Autism
Mary Coyle, DI Hom Relating Post-Vaccination Toxicity to the Principles of Homotoxicology
Madeleine Cunningham, PhD & Susan Swedo, MD Autoimmunity and Behavior: Sydenham Chorea, PANDAS and Related Disorders
Dorinne Davis, MA, CCC-A, FAAA Three Case Studies Demonstrating Positive Change with Sound-based Therapies
Georgia Davis, MD The Cautious Use and Weaning of Psychotropic Drugs
Dennis Debbaudt First Responders Training
Vicky Debold What Parents Need to Know About Vaccine Adjuvants
Elaine DeLack, RN A deficiency in the mitochondrial enzyme, MAO-A, may be a possible etiology of autism
Richard Deth, PhD Viewing the Brain from a Redox Perspective: Growth factors, GF/CF and Beyond
Marshall Dickholtz, Sr., DC Major Cause of Autism (the brain has lost optimal communication): A Chiropractor's Perspective
Mayer Eisenstein, MD, JD So You Have Decided Not to Vaccinate - How Do You Qualify for a Valid Legal Vaccine Waiver?
Michael Elice, MD and Barbara Fischkin Biomedical Interventions with Older Children: How to Begin - and Persevere
Sydney Finegold, MD Abnormal Intestinal Bacterial Flora in Autism
Wendy Fournier & Lori McIlwain Restrain and Seclusion: What you can do to keep your child and your students safe
Richard E. Frye, MD, PhD The Efficacy of Traditional and Non-traditional Treatments on Seizures in Individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder
Mark Geier, MD, PhD & David A. Geier New Important Insights into the Treatment of Patients Diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorders: Understanding Genetic Testing, Heavy Metals, Mitochondrial Dysfunction, & Hormonal Imbalances
Kristin Selby Gonzalez Sensory Savvy 101
Sargent Goodchild Nothing Happens Until Something Moves: How Movement Shapes Our Neurological Development
Jay Gordon, MD What You Should Expect from Your Pediatrician
Cindy L. Griffin, DSH-P, DIHom, BME & Lindyl Lanham, DSH-P, BS Spec Ed An alternative approach for vaccine injury (Wednesday morning lecture)
Cindy L. Griffin, DSH-P, DIHom, BME & Lindyl Lanham, DSH-P, BS Spec Ed The Houston Homeopathy Method of Sequential Homeopathy: A Drug-Free Alternative to Biomedical Treatment for Children with Autism (Friday morning lecture)
Louise Kuo Habakus, Larry Palevsky and Lynne Arnold Advocacy Training (Saturday, 1:45-2:45 & 3-6 pm)
Boyd Haley, PhD The Effects of Synergistic Toxicities and Genetic Susceptibilities on the Toxic Effects of Inorganic and Organic Mercury Compounds: The Relationship to Autism and Related Disorders
Paul Hardy, MD Epilepsy in Autism: An Overview
Laura Hewitson, PhD Primate Models for Testing Vaccine Safety
Betsy Hicks Picky Eating Solutions
Sonja Hintz, RN What the Code 299.00 Doesn't Answer: Autism is Medical
Mary Holland, Esq, Jennifer Keefe, and Robert Krakow Legal & Advocacy Training
Mary Holland, Esq. & Louise Habakus Take Back Our Rights!
David Holmes, EdD The Needs and Wants of Adults on the Autism Spectrum; Lessons learned from the Autism One Radio Show
Devin Houston, PhD Enzymes, Peptides and Autism: New Meaning to "GFCF"?
Darin Ingels, ND The Role of Allergy Desensitization in Autism
Laurette Janak What the IOM Coulda, Woulda and Shoulda known about subpopulations of vaccine sensitive individuals: Lessons from Down syndrome and autism
Jennifer Johnson, ND Lymphatic Therapy - the Missing Piece
Harumi Jyonouchi, MD IgE or non-IgE mediated allergy in ASD children (Friday lecture)
Harumi Jyonouchi, MD Inflammation and immune abnormalities in ASD children (Saturday lecture)
Jerry Kartzinel, MD Healing of Autism
Brian King, LCSW My Sensory World: A social worker with Asperger's describes his sensory experience
Brian King, LCSW How Do I Ask For Help?: Self Advocacy 101
Brian King, LCSW Win-Win Parenting For the Autism Spectrum Child: How To Turn Your Relationship From A Competition Into A Collaboration
David Kirby Metals, Myelin, Mitochondria and Mouse Virus? - Possible Paths to ASD
Leah Kmetz, MT-BC Autism: Finding the Groove
Steve Kossor Funding treatment with Medicaid - a terrific (but concealed) resource
Constantine Kotsanis, MD Hot Tips: Autism Spectrum Disorder - Navigating From Diagnosis Through Treatment
Susan Vaughan Kratz, OTR, CST Craniosacral Therapy - Are We Helping the Brain Heal?
Arthur Krigsman, MD Pharmaceutical Agents of Interest In the Development of Clinical Treatment Trials of Autism Associated Enterocolitis
Mary Jo Lang, PhD Autism, the Brain, Thinking, & Behavior
M. Elizabeth Latimer, MD & Laura Matheos PANDAS - A Clinical View and Treatment Options
Roy Leonardi, EdD Targets of Violence: The Physical Restraint of Children with Autism
Jeffrey Lewine, PhD Epileptiform Activity in the Autistic Brain: Cause, Consequence, or Co-Morbidity
Jeffrey Lewine, PhD and Sally Brockett Auditory Integration Training
Lisa Lundy How to use a Rotation Diet and Food Families to Reduce Food Allergies and Sensitivities
Daniel and Jenni Lupinski Shamanic Healing and Autism
Derrick MacFabe, MD Common Infections, Chronic Antibiotics, Clostridia, Carnitine and Convulsions: Gut bacterial metabolites as possible triggers of autism associated epilepsy and movement disorder (Sunday, May 30, 8-9 am)
Derrick MacFabe, MD The propionic acid rodent model of autism: Are short chain fatty acid fermentation products from opportunistic clostridial infections possible environmental triggers in autism? (Sunday, May 30, 1:30-2:30 pm)
Valerie Maclean HANDLE®: Helping Extraordinary People Do Ordinary Things
Cynthia Macluskie How to Get the Most Out of Your Insurance in Pursuit of Recovery
Beth Alison Maloney Saving Sammy - Curing My Son's OCD and Tourette's with Long-term Antibiotic Treatment for PANDAS
Areva Martin, Esq. The 7 principles of Advocacy Every Parent Should Know
Julie Matthews, Chef Wendell Fowler, Deepa Deshmukh, Anna Sobasky and Sueson Vess The Art of Cooking Special Diets
Julie Matthews, CNC Diet & Nutrition for Autism: Taking Charge & Customizing Your Approach
Jenny McCarthy Keynote
Woody McGinnis, MD Brainstem Hypothesis: Autism by Poisoning
Michael McManmon, EdD Sensory Integration at College and Work
Mary Megson, MD Merging Science with Clinical Care
Betty Mekdici The connection between birth defects and autism
Judy Mikovits, PhD XMRV
Neil Miller The Current Vaccination Schedule: Are New Waves of Autism and Other Preventable Disorders Inevitable?
David Morrison, EdD, ABSNP Autism and Sexuality: A Conversation with Parents
Nancy Mullan, MD An Overview and Clarification of the Dr. Amy Yasko Protocol
Nancy Mullan, MD Workshop: Interpreting Your Yasko Test Results (Sunday 8:00-10:00 am)
Phyllis Musumeci & Maria M. Cammarata, Esquire Preventing Harmful Restraint and Seclusion
Shannon Nash, Esq., CPA Nonprofits 101
James Neubrander, MD Pre- and Post-QEEG Studies Documenting the Effectiveness of Four Primary Treatments Used In Our Clinic: Injectable Methylcobalamin, Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy, Chelation, and QEEG-directed Neurofeedback
Larry Newman Nutritional Supplements: Facts and Fiction
Tom O'Bryan, DC, CCN, DACBN Barrier Integrity: Is "Leaky Gut" the Gateway to Autoimmune Reactions in the Brain?
Julie Obradovic The 14 Studies
Lorna Ortiz, PhD, Kerri Rivera & Harry Schneider, MD In Spanish: Autism 101 - Today's Biomedical Treatments
Larry Palevsky, MD Let Children Be Sick, And Watch Them Get Well
Narasimham Parinandi, PhD Leaky-Blood Vessel and Leaky-Gut: Novel Sulfur-Containing Antioxidant-Chelator Therapeutics for Treatment of Autistic Spectrum Disorders
William Parker, PhD The gut-brain connection, the normal human gut, and the effects of post-industrial culture on the gut
James Partington, PhD What Every Parent and Educator Needs to Know: Practical and Effective Methods for Developing Critical Language Skills in Children with Autism
Sym Rankin, RN, CRNA & Suruchi Chandra, MD The Impact of Psychotropic and Anesthetic Agents on Underlying Biomedical Conditions in Patients with Autism Spectrum Disorders
Mary Romaniec Letting Go! The Journey back to Grace and Dignity
Dan Rossignol, MD How to assess and prioritize treatments: Using evidence-based medicine to choose effective treatments for autism and ADHD
Alexander Rotenberg, MD, PhD Prospects for Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation in Autism
Lisa Rupe & Angela Warner Autism and Immunization in the Military
A J Russo, PhD Decreased Serum Hepatocyte Growth Factor (HGF) in Autistic Children with GI Disease
Sarah Clifford Scheflen, MS, CCC-SLP Using Video Modeling to Teach Play (and Language and Social Skills) to Children with Autism
Harry Schneider, MD Publication of our research investigation: new findings in brain areas and their connections that explain the lack of speech in children; The ongoing results of using neuromodulation to treat these children Publication of our research investigation: new
Stephen Shore, EdD The Apple Falls Not Far from the Tree: Get in touch with your own autistic characteristics for better mutual understanding of your child on the spectrum
Robert, Debra, & Michael Sidell Our Big Hug!!!
Terrie Silverman, MS Neural plasticity in the auditory cortex following Berard Auditory Integration Training: the affect on the overall sensory system in children with autism
Barry Smeltzer MPAS, PA-C Sleep disturbances and metabolic dysfunction
Kendal Stewart, MD & Lisa Hunter Ryden, MT (ASCP), MBA Preventative and Management Strategies for the Neuroimmune Disorders
Carrie Sypherd, O.D. Vision and Autism: Beyond 20/20
Catherine Tamaro Vitamin K, fat-soluble vitamins, and metabolism
Theoharis Theoharides, MD, PhD "Allergic-like" symptoms, brain inflammation and autism: beneficial effect of a luteolin formulation (NeuroProtek®)
Pam Tindall, BS Qigong Sensory Training
Rosario Trifiletti, MD, PhD PANDAS and Related Illnesses: No Longer Black and White
John Turner, DC, CCSP, DIBCN, Kathryne Pirtle & Sueson Vess Healthy Minds/Healthy Bodies: Harnessing the Power of Traditional, Nutrient-Dense Foods-the Keys to Maximizing Treatment Success for Autism
Lauren Underwood, PhD Biomedical Treatments for Autism 101: An Introduction to Scientifically Based Medical Treatment Options
Anju Usman, MD & Barry Smeltzer, PA The Importance of Antioxidants and Good Fats in Improving Brain Health
Anju Usman, MD; Suruchi Chandra, MD; Sonja Hintz, RN; Sym Rankin, RN, CRNA; Barry Smeltzer, MPAS, PA-C True Health Symposium: Raising a Healthy Child in a Toxic World
Kyle Van Dyke, MD The Use of Mild Hyperbaric Therapy for Autism
Aristo Vojdani, PhD Gut: A Gateway to Inflammation, Autoimmunity and Neuroimmune Disorders
Andrew Wakefield, MB, BS, FRCS, FRCPath Autism and the vagrant in the brainstem
William Walsh, PhD The Collision of Undermethylation, Epigenetics, and Oxidative Stress in Autism Spectrum Disorders
Sarah Weiler, MS, CCC-SLP/L & Michele Ricamato, MA, CCC-SLP/L Language as a Natural and Integrated Process within the DIR® Model
Rachel West, DO Adrenal fatigue and other hormones
Catherine Whitcher, M.Ed. You Can LEAD Special Education - IEP Development and Accountability for Success
Savely Yurkovsky, MD Presentation: Field Control Therapy® / Guided Digital Medicine™ as the answer to autism, ADHD and other brain epidemics

Presenter Presentation
James Adams, PhD

is a President's Professor at Arizona State University, where his research is focused on the causes of autism and how to treat it. He is also president of the Autism Society of Greater Phoenix, and is co-leader of the Autism Research Institute/Defeat Autism Now! Think Tank. His research includes toxic metals/chelation, nutrition (vitamin/minerals, essential fatty acids, amino acids), neurotransmitters, and GI issues. He is the proud father of a daughter with autism.
Biomedical Treatments for Autism (Thursday 7-8 pm)

This talk will summarize the major biomedical treatments for autism that are supported by research, including special diets, vitamins, minerals, essential fatty acids, amino acids, digestive enzymes, gut treatments, glutathione, sulfation, chelation, and immunological treatments. For each treatment, there will be a short discussion of the scientific rationale and data supporting the treatment, discuss how to test if the treatment should be considered, and discuss how to implement the treatment.

Presenter Presentation
James Adams, PhD

(see above)
Nutritional Treatment Studies for Autism (Thursday 8-9 pm)

This presentation will focus on new results of a major vitamin/mineral treatment study for children with autism. The study will include the effect of a specialized vitamin/mineral supplement on the symptoms of autism, and the effect of the supplement on nutritional status. This includes a comparison of the nutritional status of children with autism versus typical children, including vitamins, minerals, amino acids, neurotransmitters, oxidative stress, and toxic metals.

Presenter Presentation
James Adams, PhD; Dan Burns, PhD; Barbara Fischkin; PhD; Sonja Hintz, RN; Vicki Martin, RN; Vicki Obee-Hilty; Stephen Shore, EdD; Polly Tommey
Adult Service and Residential Think Tank (Saturday 2-6 pm)

Where will my adult child with autism live, learn, work, play, heal, and find friends after the school bus stops coming? Join the discussion with a high-powered panel of parents and professionals who are creating model homes, jobs, schools, and communities for a safe and productive future. Panelists and audience participants will ask and begin to answer the following questions: How can I know that my adult child will be safe after leaving home? What are the various models for group homes and residential communities? Which ones have been successful? Where will the funding come from? What about vocational options? What about special diets and medical care? Speech therapy? Vocational choices? What about romance and sexuality? Will my adult child experience acceptance and understanding? How can I best stay involved in my child's life? Where will I go for help with my post-traumatic stress disorder after my adult child leaves home? Who will advocate for my child after I am gone?

Presenter Presentation
Timothy Adams, Esq., Lynne Arnold, MA & Mitch Perlman, PhD

Timothy A. Adams, Esq.
received his Bachelor's degree from the University of California, Irvine and his Juris Doctorate degree from Pepperdine University School of Law. He has served as an adjunct professor and Associate Director of the Special Education Advocacy Clinic, Pepperdine University School of Law. He is actively involved in educating parents through presentations to disability rights organizations and parent support groups including speaker at Autism One (2005-2008), the National Autism Association (2005 and 2007-2008) and the National Epilepsy Foundation Annual Conference (2001). He has been interviewed and quoted in publications including the Daily Journal (2001), the Orange County Register and the nationally published magazine Parenting (March 2003); He is Roberts & Adams' Chief Executive Officer.

Lynne Arnold
is the chapter director for Talk About Curing Autism (TACA) of Visalia, CA and an Autism One parent mentor. Through conference presentations and mentoring, she helps parents to understand their child's rights to appropriate interventions and education. Lynne is the editor of Autism: Asserting Your Child's Rights to a Special Education by David A. Sherman. She has presented at Autism One (2005-2008), National Autism Association Conference (2005 and 2007-2008), Families for Effective Autism Treatment (FEAT), Autism Society of America and for other autism groups.

Mitchel D. Perlman, Ph.D
focuses on the assessment and treatment of children and adolescents who have specialized needs and/or who are involved in chaotic-intense-traumatic-critical situations. Known for the comprehensiveness of his investigatory assessments (psychodiagnostic, psychoeducational, neurocognitive), Dr. Perlman is often called on to be the impartial independent examiner in juvenile, family, civil and special education proceedings. He lends his expertise and keen insights to children/teens who have stepped away from the mainstream and/or who have gotten themselves in over their heads - emotionally, legally or in relation to others. He is involved in assessing some of the most fascinating individuals, and he has a knack for detecting and/or explaining things that have often gone unnoticed or that have been misunderstood. For example, in many children who had been diagnosed with autism and mental retardation, Dr. Perlman has found near-gifted to gifted intelligence and has been instrumental in guiding parents to the resources to unlock it.
Special Education Law Day

Advocating for your child is often a complex and sometimes counter-intuitive process. At Law Day (Thursday, May 27), parents will learn the basic concepts of special education law, the importance of strategizing and how to use this knowledge to gain control of their child's education. The primary goal of Law Day: parents will become empowered IEP team members by gaining an understanding of special education law, which then can be directly applied to their child's specific needs and situation.

Presenter Presentation
Mary Lou Ballweg; Dr. Ved Chauhan; Mark Corrales, MPP; David Hahn-Baker; Betty Mekdeci; Alice Shabecoff

Mary Lou Ballweg
is president and executive director of the Endometriosis Association, an organization she co-founded in 1980 after being bedridden with endometriosis and related illnesses.  The non-profit organization provides support and information for families affected by endometriosis, educates the public and medical community about the disease, and promotes and conducts research.

The Endometriosis Association was the first organization in the world to address the support and education needs of women with endometriosis (endo) and to carry out ongoing research.  It maintains its international headquarters in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, U.S.A.  The Association has affiliates, members, Advisors, and funded scientific projects worldwide.

Ms. Ballweg sits on the evaluation panel of the NIH Specialized Cooperative Centers Program in Reproduction Research, is an extramural advisor on development of the NIH Reproductive Sciences Branch strategic plan, is an ad hoc reviewer for Fertility & Sterility, and has won numerous awards for her work.

Ved Chauhan, PhD
is head of the cellular neurochemistry laboratory at the New York State Institute for Basic Research in Developmental Disabilities (IBR), Staten Island, New York. Dr. Chauhan received his PhD (Biochemistry) from the Postgraduate Institute for Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India. After working as a research associate for 2 years in the Department of Biochemistry at the University of Southern California, Los Angeles, he joined IBR as a research scientist.

Dr. Chauhan has received several research grants as PI and Co-PI from the NIH, Autism Speaks, the Autism Research Institute, the Autism Collaboration, and Cure Autism Now. He has published more than 70 research articles in peer-reviewed journals. His work includes but is not limited to phospholipid methylation, calcium traversal across bilayer, activators of protein kinase C, factors involved in the fibrillization of amyloid beta-protein, role of gelsolin in Alzheimer's disease, and membrane abnormalities and cellular signaling in autism.

Dr. Chauhan is the editor of the book Autism: Oxidative stress, Inflammation, and Immune Abnormalities and associate editor of the "Special Issue on Autism Spectrum Disorders" of the American Journal of Biochemistry and Biotechnology (2008). He is also a member of the editorial board of International Archives of Medicine and associate editor of the Journal of Alzheimer's Disease.

Mark Corrales, MPP
is an environmental policy analyst with over twenty years of experience assessing the health risks and economic impacts of air pollutants and regulations designed to limit air pollution. Mr. Corrales currently serves in the US Environmental Protection Agency's policy office, where he is the lead analyst reviewing major regulations focused on transportation-related emissions, as well as ambient air quality standards. Mr. Corrales also conducts research on emerging issues including the role of environmental factors in autism, risk analysis of sensitive subgroups, and environmental policy applications of bibliometrics, bioinformatics, and probabilistic uncertainty analysis. Prior to joining the EPA, Mr. Corrales managed a high-tech startup, following several years directing an environmental policy consulting practice in Washington, DC. His graduate degree is from Harvard's Kennedy School of Government and his undergraduate degree in biology is from Harvard College. His many publications and presentations include "Environmental Genomics of Autism," with Martha Herbert, chapter in Autism Research, Oxford University Press, 2009.

David Hahn-Baker
after graduating from Princeton in 1981 worked in Washington, D.C. for national environmental organizations including the National Clean Air Coalition as a field organizer, as senior lobbyist for the League of Women Voters and as political director of Friends of the Earth.

In 1989 he moved to Buffalo, NY and established his own environmental consulting firm focusing on environmental justice issues and the disproportionate impact of pollution on people of color and lower-income communities.  His clients have been environmental advocacy groups from the National Wildlife Federation to Greenpeace which, though taking a different general approach to environmental issues, need help working on the concerns of non-traditional environmentalists.  He has also worked extensively for the national foundation and grant-making community such as the James C. Penney Foundation and the Rockefeller Foundation.

Locally he is helping the Community Action Organization of Erie County, which administers the Head Start program, to organize its Environmental Justice project and the Community Foundation for Greater Buffalo to establish an environmental grantmaking program.

Betty Mekdeci
is the founder and director of Birth Defect Research for Children, a national birth defect information clearinghouse and research organization started in 1982. Betty currently serves on the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences'Public Interest Group and the coordinating committee for the national Collaboration on Health and the Environment. In 2001, the Orlando Business Journal selected Betty as one of Central Florida's most influential business leaders for her work on behalf of Vietnam and Gulf War veteran families. She also received the National Gulf War Resource Center's Outreach and Education Award for excellence in reaching and educating veterans, families, the public and the government about Gulf War Syndrome. The Physician's Committee for Responsible Medicine awarded her organization, its Research Innovation Award for creative and ethical research in the design and development of the National Birth Defect Registry. Betty is married to Dr. Michael Mekdeci, Assoc. VP of Stetson University and has two children, Kristy, a high school art teacher and David who is the Assistant Director for BDRC.

Alice Shabecoff
is co-author with her husband Philip of Poisoned for Profit, just released in paperback by Chelsea Green publishing company - published in paperback in 2008 as Poisoned Profits: The Toxic Assault on our Children. Alice now writes blog articles on children's environmental health for MomsRising.org, HealthSentinel.org, and the Environmental Working Group. She is a member of the board of directors of Birth Defects Research Center. She served in the 1970s as executive director of the National Consumers League, the country's oldest consumer organization, and in the 1980s as founder and executive director of the national nonprofit Community Information Exchange, an information service for the community development sector. As a freelance journalist focusing on family and consumer topics, her work has appeared in The New York Times, The Washington Post, The Christian Science Monitor, the International Herald Tribune, and many international publications.
Environmental Issues & Chronic Diseases Symposium - We Are Not Alone

This presentation will highlights what we share in common: how the different chronic childhood illnesses often result from exposure to the same toxins in our daily lives. It will highlights the most important new science to explain how this can be so and discuss the forces that keep both parents and decision-makers ignorant of the evidence. We'll begin a discussion of whether and how parents can begin to work together as a countervailing force to remove environmental toxins.

We Are Not Alone
With each generation since the mid-1940s, the rates of autism climb higher and higher. And so do the rates of other serious illnesses, from childhood cancer to life-threatening asthma and birth defects. By now, one out of every three American child suffers from a chronic illness. This terrible trend started with our nationﾒs unremitting, unexamined foray into ﾑBetter Living through Chemicalsﾒ and unregulated, intensely-polluting industrialization, including nuclear power.

Alice will provide an overview of the rates and growth of childhood illnesses over these decades, and an overview of the sources of increased pollution in our childrenﾒs daily lives that, science now shows, trigger these illnesses. She will focus on the threats that all the childhood disorders face in common.

Today we are in the midst of a scientific revolution equal to Pasteurﾒs discovery of germs: Alice offer a laymanﾒs understanding of the key discoveries of this new science. In particular, she will discuss endocrine disruption and its connection to autism as well as other neurodevelopmental disorders. She will discuss what science knows today about cause-and-effect, and why some children become ill while others do not.

Are there solutions to this devastating advance of disease and disability? Alice will examine the reasons that most American parents remain in the dark about the scale of this devastation and potential danger to their children. She will examine some of reasons that hold parents back from attacking this threat. She will call upon the parents and researchers in this conference to forge alliances with others who are fighting for the lives of their children no matter what the illness.

The Chemical Octopus
Many of us are involved in dealing with various disease entities--endometriosis, birth defects, autism, ADHD, various cancers, autoimmune diseases and others. Yet, our research over the last 30 years and other cutting edge science (which I have recently reviewed for a chapter on prevention for a new medical textbook on endometriosis) clearly show that each of these disease entities is one arm of an ﾓoctopusﾔ--at the heart of these problems, one can see a pattern of epigenetic chemical contamination. For instance, in families with endometriosis, we now understand that the exposure in-utero to dioxin and other chemicals has transgenerational effects (we're into the fifth generation), sometimes resulting in various birth defects (broadly defined, including autism), sometimes resulting in endometriosis, sometimes in autoimmune diseases or various cancers and for unlucky individuals, several diseases. However, the underlying mechanisms are very similar.

We will never solve these problems if we spend the next centuries studying each disease in isolation--we simply must reach for the synergy that is possible by looking at related mechanisms as well as in-utero exposures, which set up the gene transmission regulation for the life of that organism.

Pollution and Childhood Illness
David will talk about the incidences of childhood and adult illnesses in the communities in which he has worked as an organizer and advisor. He will describe the toxins particularly prevalent in low-income areas and in communities of color, which often face extreme pollution. Heﾒll describe how children from situations of stress are especially vulnerable, and the actions the parents took to oppose the pollution of their communities. From his work experiences, he will discuss the challenges facing activists on issues where there are disputes in the basic science.

The connection between birth defects and autism
Over the 30 years I have been working on birth defect research, the definition of a birth defect has expanded from structural (missing pieces and parts) to faulty development of the systems that run the body (immune, endocrine, neurological). In many children, structural and functional birth defects coexist and this suggests that the same etiological mechanisms may be at work. It is this paradigm that has taken our organization from its beginning of linking structural birth defects to the popular morning sickness drug to Bendectin to the development of the National Birth Defect Registry. The registry is a powerful tool that can identify linkages between structural and functional birth defects and common factors in the health, genetic and exposure histories of one or both parents.

In January, our organization, Birth Defect Research for Children, released a report on 137 cases of autistic spectrum disorders in the registry. In 60% of our cases, structural and functional birth defects coexisted in the same children. This could suggest several possibilities: 1) ASDs are part of a birth defect pattern and those cases without reports of associated birth defects should be evaluated for subtle physical anomalies; or 2) There are two types of ASDsﾅ.one that occurs as part of a birth defect sequence and the other that may have an origin that may be either pre or post-natal; or 3) ASDs without associated birth defects may be the result of an expanded definition of autism that includes children with severe ADHD, Sensory Integration Disorders and other neuro-developmental problems that were not previously classified as autism.

The Search for Environmental Risk Factors in Autism
The prevalence of diagnosed autism spectrum disorders (ASD) has continued to increase in recent years, along with dramatic growth in news coverage, books, and scientific articles about ASD. However, ASD still lags far behind cancer, for example, in terms of public awareness, research funding, and attention to the role of environmental factors, even relative to the prevalence and societal impacts of each disease. A small number of specific potential environmental risk factors have been examined in ASD, in hypothesis-driven studies. Discovery-based screening methods offer a complementary approach, in which hundreds or thousands of chemicals can be prioritized for closer examination, based on clues from genomics, toxicology, and the basic biology of ASD. Screening chemicals in this way suggests a modest number of pollutants that may deserve closer study, some of which have never been studied in the context of ASD.

Oxidative stress and mitochondrial abnormalities in the lymphoblasts from autistic individuals: effect of environmental agents
We studied the status of oxidative stress in the lymphoblasts from autistic and control subjects by analyzing lipid peroxidation, activities of enzymes involved in antioxidant defense, generation of free radicals (reactive oxygen species: ROS), and extent of membrane damage. While lipid peroxidation and ROS levels were increased, the activities of superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione peroxidase, and glutathione reductase were decreased in autistic lymphoblasts, which suggest increased oxidative damage coupled with impaired antioxidant defense mechanism in autism. Furthermore, membrane fluidity was decreased and lactate dehydrogenase leakage was increased in the autistic lymphoblasts compared with controls, suggesting that membrane integrity and function are affected in autism. In addition, the mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) was reduced in autistic lymphoblasts. Environmental agents such as bisphenol A, endosulfan, and thimerosal have been suggested to play a role in the etiology of autism. However, the mechanism of their action is not known. Therefore, we studied their effect on the membrane properties and MMP. Our results show that these environmental agents decrease both membrane fluidity and MMP. These results suggest that autism is associated with increased formation of free radicals coupled with decreased activities of antioxidant enzymes, which leads to increased oxidative damage, membrane damage, and mitochondrial abnormalities.

Presenter Presentation
Mary Lynch Barbera, RN, MSN, BCBA

offers a unique perspective as both a parent of a child with autism as well as a professional. Mary's firstborn son, Lucas, was diagnosed with autism one day before his third birthday in 1999. Mary became a board certified behavior analyst in 2003 and has since been working as the lead behavior analyst for the Pennsylvania Verbal Behavior Project. Mary is an international speaker and has had the privilege of working with hundreds of children on the autism spectrum. She has assisted in providing training to thousands of professionals and parents. In 2007 she published The Verbal Behavior Approach: How to Teach Children with Autism and Related Disorders. Mary hosts a monthly radio show on Autism One Radio.
The Verbal Behavior Approach: Incorporating ABA Strategies to Teach Children with Autism

Drawing on her experience as both a parent of a son with autism as well as a board certified behavior analyst (BCBA), Mary Lynch Barbera will provide participants with information to help children with autism learn language and other important skills. Mary will highlight strategies from her book titled The Verbal Behavior Approach: How to Teach Children with Autism and Related Disorders, and she will provide guidance using the scientifically proven strategies of applied behavior analysis (ABA), specifically utilizing B.F. Skinner's Analysis of Verbal Behavior. Parents and professionals will be empowered with information regarding ABA/VB programming for children with autism and other developmental disorders.

Presenter Presentation
Daniel Barth, PhD

received his Doctorate in Psychology from UCLA. He served as assistant professor in the UCLA Department of Neurology, then moved to the University of Colorado, Boulder, where he is currently a professor of psychology and neuroscience. Barth's doctoral and postdoctoral work concerned development of a new imaging technique, magnetoencephalography (MEG), for the localization of epileptic brain regions in humans and in animal models. He has since conducted numerous electrophysiological studies of sensory and multisensory cortex in the rat, and of normal as well as pathological mechanisms modulating the excitability of cerebral cortex. Barth's most recent work has moved in two new directions. The first concerns inflammatory brain immune responses to traumatic brain injury and how these responses may contribute to post-traumatic epilepsy. The second concerns a newly discovered area of the cortex, the somatosensory insula, and how this region uniquely contributes to the perception of neuropathic pain.
Immune responses to brain injury, cortical excitability, brain function, and seizures

Brain infections, as well traumatic brain injury (TBI), activate "microglial" cells in the brain as part of the innate immune response. Activated microglial cells migrate to areas of damage and produce chemicals (cytokines) contributing to repair. However, evidence will be presented here that these cytokines can also pathologically increase the excitability of the brain, potentially leading to compromised brain function and to the development of acute and chronic seizures. Specifically, evidence for seizures induced by brain infection and microglia activation will be shown. Ongoing work concerned with TBI induced post-traumatic epilepsy and post-traumatic anxiety will be reviewed. Finally, the potential relevance of these findings to autism will be discussed.

Presenter Presentation
Jeffrey Becker, OD

is a neurodevelopmental optometrist, certified neurosensory specialist and Defeat Autism Now! practioner. He is the director of vision rehabilitation services at the NeuroSensory Center of Eastern Pennsylvania. This is the second Autism One Conference at which Dr. Becker has presented, and his article "Therapy Can Help Children with Spectrum Dysfunctions" appeared in the October 2009 issue of The Autism File. A graduate of Pennsylvania State University and the Illinois College of Optometry, Dr. Becker has been practicing for over 24 years, with a specialty practice in rehabilitative optometry, treating over 3,000 neurologically-impaired, head injury, and stroke patients ranging in ages from birth through senior citizens.
How Vision And Sight Affect the Autistic Individual

Eighty percent of what is learned is through visual processing. That being said, vision and sight are two different areas that are often overlooked in the evaluation and treatment of ASD patients. This lecture will discuss the differences between sight and vision and how they affect those with ASD. Items to be discussed are eye muscle coordination, eye focusing, eye contact, visual stimming, and vestibular and propreoceptive deficiencies and how they are related in the ASD individual. The participants will learn about specific theories in treatment through the review of individual case studies and active involvement in functional demonstrations. By the end of the lecture, participants will have greater knowledge of how vision and sight affect ASD patients, the importance of comprehensive functional vision evaluations, some of the most successful theories in treatment and recommendations and resources on vision rehabilitation therapy. This lecture is suitable for professionals who treat ASD individuals, such as physicians and occupational, physical, and speech therapists, as well as the families and caregivers of those on the spectrum.

Presenter Presentation
Michael Biamonte, CCN

holds a doctorate of nutripathy, and is a New York State certified clinical nutritionist. He is a professional member of the International and American Association of Clinical Nutritionists,The American College of Nutrition and is a member of the scientific advisory board for the Clinical Nutrition Certification Board. He is listed in "The Directory of Distinguished Americans" for his research in nutrition and physiology. Michael Biamonte has a long been known as a researcher and a writer as well as a practitioner. In the early 1980s, Michael Biamonte worked with researchers at Gruman Aerospace to design a computer program which could duplicate all the functions of the human body in order to better understand what type of diet and vitamins individuals would need. This system is now called BIOCYBERNETICS™. In the late 1980s, Michael Biamonte expanded the work of Scott Gregory, the author of A Holistic Protocol for the Immune System. With Dr.Gregory's personal help, Michael Biamonte's developed the most effective program ever to eliminate chronic fatigue syndrome, chronic yeast infections, parasites, viruses and many other chronic infectious problems.ﾠOver the last 20 years he ﾠhas developed one of the very protocols for Candida elimination that relies on precise testing and a sequential correction of all factors that contribute to the Candida syndrome.ﾠ www.health-truth.com
The Truth About Candida Elimination

Normalizing the intestinal flora in someone with Candida overgrowth is not an easy task to accomplishment or to understand. There are many pitfalls that occur. In this presentation, we will look at the most common problems that I have encountered in my 23 years in practice that prevent results.

Presenter Presentation
Mark Blaxill, MBA, Dan Olmsted & Kim Stagliano

Mark Blaxill
is the father of a daughter diagnosed with autism, editor at large for Age of Autism, a director of SafeMinds, and a frequent speaker at autism conferences. He writes often on autism, science, and public policy issues for Age of Autism and has published a number of articles, letters, and commentaries on autism in journals such as Public Health Reports, the International Journal of Toxicology, the Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders, Neurotoxicology and Medical Hypotheses. He has also been invited to peer review articles in journals such as the New England Journal of Medicine, the American Journal of Epidemiology, Pediatrics and the International Journal of Toxicology.

He received a bachelor's degree summa cum laude from the Woodrow Wilson School of Public and International Affairs at Princeton University and an MBA with distinction from Harvard Business School. In his professional career, he is managing partner for 3LP Advisors, an advisory firm focused on intellectual property transactions. He recently published a business book, The Invisible Edge: Taking Your Strategy to the Next Level Using Intellectual Property (Portfolio, March 2009), and is teaming with Dan Olmsted to write a book on the history of autism due out in September 2010.

Dan Olmsted
Award-winning journalist Dan Olmsted is the editor of Age of Autism, a former United Press International senior editor, and a former assistant national editor of USA Today. He is a graduate of Yale and has over 30 years of experience in the field of journalism. Mr. Olmsted has overseen investigations such as UPI's reporting on suicide-related problems with the drug Lariam; and he covered 9/11 and the anthrax attacks. Dan is teaming up with Mark Blaxill to write a book on the natural history of autism.

Kim Stagliano
is a writer, blogger and mother to three daughters with autism. She and her husband Mark reside in Fairfield County, CT. She is a cum laude graduate of Boston College and worked in advertising and sales promotions prior to staying home to care for her children's intense needs. Well known within the autism community, she has a sense of humor and easy going style that makes her presentation both informative and entertaining. In addition to running the day-to-day activities of Age of Autism, Kim writes for Huffington Post, Betty Confidential and other media.

(See Dr. Wakefield's bio below.)
Age of Autism Editors and Andrew Wakefield

This session will focus on how "The Daily Web Newspaper of the Autism Epidemic" is covering key stories and fighting to balance coverage that is regularly skewed by the mainstream media. No story has been more important -- or more skewed -- than Andrew Wakefield's General Medical Council Hearing, followed by the Lancet MMR study retraction. Editor Dan Olmsted, Managing Editor Kim Stagliano, and Editor at Large Mark Blaxill will discuss AOA's mission in the coming year and discuss with Andy how to continue to tell the truth about autism.

Presenter Presentation
Ken Bock, MD; David Humphrey, Esq.; Martha Herbert, MD, PhD & Doreen Granpeesheh, PhD, BCBA-D

Kenneth Bock, MD
received his MD with Honor from the University of Rochester School of Medicine. A pioneer and leader in the field of integrative medicine for over two decades, Dr. Bock's expertise lies in bringing a comprehensive integrative medicine approach to complex medical problems, including the 4-A disorders - autism, ADHD, asthma and allergies. His Healing Program for the 4-A disorders is detailed in his latest book, Healing the New Childhood Epidemics: Autism, ADHD, Asthma and Allergies, which has received international acclaim.

David Humphrey, Esq.
is the cofounder of the Autism Treatment Network (ATN), president of The Autism Forum, president of the Autism Coalition for Treatment (ACT!) and a board member of the Autism Research Institute (ARI), and the Northwest Autism Foundation (NWAF).

Martha Herbert, MD, PhD
is a pediatric neurologist at the Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston and Harvard Medical School, and an affiliate of the Harvard-MIT-MGH Martinos Center for Biomedical Imaging. She is director of the TRANSCEND Research Program (Treatment Research and Neuroscience Evaluation of Neurodevelopmental Disorders, www.transcendresearch.org), which takes a whole body approach to brain research to guide the development of sensitive methods for measuring brain changes from treatment so that we can have objective measures for treatment outcome studies. She is also pursuing multisystem prospective at-risk infant sibling research starting prenatally and at birth for the infant to monitor medical and physiological development in parallel with behavioral development so that we can identify measures of risk for autism that will allow targeted medical intervention as early as possible.

Doreen Granpeesheh, PhD
is the founder and executive director of the Center for Autism and Related Disorders (CARD) and the founder and president of the board of Autism Care and Treatment Today (ACT Today). Dr. Granpeesheh received her PhD in psychology from UCLA and is licensed by the Medical Board of California and the Texas and Arizona State Boards of Psychologists. Dr. Granpeesheh holds a Certificate of Professional Qualification in Psychology from the Association of State and Provincial Psychology Boards, is a board certified behavior analyst and has been providing behavioral therapy for children with autism since 1979. She is a member of the Defeat Autism Now! Executive Council, on the Scientific Advisory Board of the US Autism and Asperger's Association and first vice chair of the national board of directors of the Autism Society of America. Dr. Granpeesheh is a member of the Autism Human Rights and Discrimination Initiative steering committee and on the oversight committee of the Department of Developmental Disabilities for the State of Arizona.
Prediction and Prevention of ASD: Signs to watch out for and treatments that will help you avoid the diagnosis of autism

David Humphrey, Esq, Kenneth Bock, MD, Martha Herbert, MD, PhD, and Doreen Granpeesheh, PhD, BCBA-D, will take attendees through a 4-part series emphasizing the importance of early detection of the symptoms of ASD as helping practitioners alter the course of diagnosis. With early detection, practitioners can identify treatment strategies and interventions that, when provided intensively, can prevent children from developing the full symptom criteria of autism. These red flags and treatment options will be reviewed. The speakers will include data from young siblings of children with autism illustrating that children who receive treatment at a very early age do, in fact, avoid receiving an ASD diagnosis as their symptoms are effectively reversed. Here's just a sample:

Autism in Infancy: Predetermined or Produced by Active Treatable Processes? presented by Martha Herbert, MD, PhD
Is autism stamped into the brain by genes from conception? Or does it develop? If it develops, what influences that development? And how can we influence those influences? If the brain isn't indelibly stamped with autism, then what happens to it to transform it so that it starts producing autistic behaviors? At what range of prenatal or postnatal ages might this start? Is there any way of detecting those changes in living babies? If we can head off the emergence of the debilitating features of autism, how can we prove we did this if we can't be sure ahead of time whether this might be where a baby is headed? Does it matter whether our measures are specific for autism or not? How can we make medical screening and prevention measures the standard of care? What would we need to demonstrate to make this happen, and how would we do this most powerfully? What are the biggest obstacles we would need to overcome? What would population-wide health-promotion and health-protection measures look like? What would be the most efficient and effective ways to carry this out? How much is our success in this a function of how well we answer the above questions?

Ken Bock, MD, presents: Considerations for Prevention of Autism Spectrum Disorders
The prevalence of autism spectrum disorders has increased at least 1500% in the last 20 years. More so, in the last 2 years, we have seen a further increase from 1:150 children to 1:91 children. There is no known cause and no known cure. However, emerging scientific research, coupled with clinical experience has provided us with various suspected causative factors, coupled with genetic predisposition. These have helped us to formulate treatment strategies that have resulted in improvement of the majority of the children treated, as well as an increasing number of children treated recovering and losing their diagnosis.

Chemical and heavy metal toxicities appear to be significant contributing factors to the rising rates of autism in this country and around the world. These chemical exposures persist. Extensive toxicants have been noted in the umbilical cord blood of pregnant women, which should be the source of nourishment for the developing fetus. Yet neonates, infants and children continue to be exposed to these persistent environmental toxicants. Prevention becomes paramount in an overall approach to lessening the impact of this epidemic of autism spectrum disorders, and this lecture will explore possible avenues for this.

Presenter Presentation
Tom Bohager

has specialized in the enzyme field for more than 12 years. He was first introduced to alternative health care when his father was diagnosed with cancer in 1983. In 1998, Tom launched Enzymedica, Inc., which has expanded to become the number one supplemental enzyme brand in the nutritional supplement industry. Since that time he has authored the books Enzymes: What the Experts Know and Everything You Need to Know About Enzymes. He has counseled thousands on the benefits of enzymes and enzyme therapy and has made it his goal to educate as many people as possible on this topic. In his continuing outreach, Tom founded the Autism Hope Alliance in 2009, which is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization dedicated to the recovery of children and adults from autism. The mission of the Autism Hope Alliance is to ignite hope for families facing the diagnosis of autism through education and funding to promote progress in the present moment. Tom holds a degree in Holistic Nutrition from Clayton College.
Enzyme Therapy and Autism

Enzymes are instrumental in supporting all biochemical reactions in the body - everything from proper digestion to proper cellular function. Though some have overstated the benefits of these essential proteins, there is an abundance of evidence supporting their use as a way of overcoming some of the common issues and symptoms associated with autism. Learn about the role enzymes play in healthy digestion, immune support, and overall health. The role of "enzyme therapy" will be discussed as a promising choice when combined with other well-known diets and therapies.

Presenter Presentation
Denis Bouboulis, MD & Lynn Johnson

Denis Bouboulis, MD,
is a board certified physician licensed in Connecticut, New York, and Pennsylvania. Dr. Bouboulis has been chosen as top physician of the year for the past 3 years by "Connecticut's Top Physicians" and "Top Physician of the Year, 2007" by "America's Top Physicians." Dr. Bouboulis specializes in the treatment of allergies, asthma, and immunology in children and adults. He is also dedicated to providing the finest healthcare for children suffering from PANDAS. Please see www.advanced-allergy.com and www.pandasresourcenetwork.org.

Lynn Johnson

is the executive director of the PANDAS Resource Network. www.pandasresourcenetwork.org.
The immunological role of PANDAS

Dr. Denis Bouboulis will talk about the importance of diagnosing cryptic Strep, diagnosing Strep in the whole family, and erradicating Strep from the whole family. He will also discuss how the immune system is affected by PANDAS. Lynn Johnson will talk about the parent side of the journey, finding a doctor, and treating the whole family for maximum success.

Presenter Presentation
Jeff Bradstreet, MD

graduated from the University of South Florida College of Medicine and received his residency training from Wilford Hall USAF Medical Center. As a flight surgeon, he was involved in aerospace medicine research, and he has extensive experience and training in environmental medicine and toxicology. He is involved in autism-related outcome studies and environmental research with the University of Washington and UCLA and serves as a adjunct professor of child development and neuroscience at Southwest College of Naturopathic Medicine in Tempe, Arizona. Dr. Bradstreet is the founder and director of the International Child Development Resource Center (www.icdrc.org). His son, Matthew, is recovering from autism with the combined help of biomedical and behavioral interventions.
The Current State of the Science

Amidst the whirlwind of media controversies, the stories of recovery, and even the claims of possible "cures," there exists an emerging understanding of the complex biology of autism. Amongst progressive practitioners and traditional scientists, there is a new and exciting commonality - in at least some of our viewpoints. However, caution must be exercised when evaluating any intervention, and nothing is without risk - if only to your time and money. This discussion will evaluate the current state of the science and help parents and practitioners chart a rational course through these complicated issues.

Presenter Presentation
Kerry Brooks, MS, NC

is the founder and president of Autism 2 Awesome Inc. Mr. Brooks developed the program Autism 2 Awesome: A Father's Love after his personal journey of helping his son recover from autism. A Father's Love is an early intervention guide created to educate, empower, and inspire fathers who have children diagnosed with autism. Mr. Brooks has been conducting A Father's Love seminars, workshops and personal consultation over the last 2 years. Mr. Brooks has been employed with the Department of Justice for over 18 years. He also served as a United States Diplomat in Nicosia, Cyprus. www.autism2awesome.com
Autism 2 Awesome: A Father's Love

A Father's Love is an early intervention health and wellness guide created to educate, empower, inspire and support fathers and families who have children diagnosed with autism. This program was developed during Mr. Brooks personal journey of helping his son recovery from autism. The program encourages fathers to get involved with their children with emphasis on physical play. Mr. Brooks will discuss strategies and demonstrate techniques for families. Mr. Brooks has been conducting A Father's Love seminars, workshops and personal consultation over the last 3 years.

Presenter Presentation
Gregory Brown, MD & Vicki Martin

Gregory Brown, MD
is a board certified internist with 18 years experience in emergency medicine. He has received practitioner and advanced practitioner training from Defeat Autism Now! as well as ACAM instruction in chelation therapy and certification in hyperbaric medicine from UHMS. For the past four years he has served as medical director of the Autism Recovery and Comprehensive Health (ARCH) Medical Center and A & M Hyperbarics in Franklin, Wisconsin.

Vicki Martin RN
is on staff at the ARCH Medical Center. She is the parent of a 14-year-old daughter with autism. Vicki has used the Defeat Autism Now! approach for over 13 years and specializes in helping parents negotiate the maze of available options to choose the most effective treatments. She is also certified in multiple educational interventions for autism spectrum disorders and is a strong advocate for all individuals with autism, especially those more severely affected.
A Parent's Survival Guide to Biomedical Therapy in Autism Spectrum Disorders: Part 2 Recognizing Medical Disease in Your Child

Modern psychiatry would like us to believe that autism is a "behavioral" disease. As a follow up to last year's "Parent's Survival Guide" we would like to explore the recognition of "medical" disease in the spectrum child. The recognition of medical disease in our children is critical to understanding the role of biomedical therapies in their recovery. Topics will include gastrointestinal issues, immune dysfunction, seizures, neural inflammation, and the toxic child. The outline and slides for A Parent's Survival Guide-Part 1 are available on your conference CD but the only prerequisite for this year's discussion is an interest in the topic. After the presentation, the ARCH Medical Center staff will be available for extended Q & A on biomedical management.

Presenter Presentation
Dan Burns, PhD

graduated from Oklahoma State University with a PhD in English in 1979. In 1990 his third child, Benjamin, was diagnosed with autism. Dan and his wife, Susan, explored early biomedical and behavioral treatments. In 1992 the couple divorced and Dan became the primary advocate for his severely autistic son.  In 2006, Dan and his former wife joined forces to implement the new biomedical protocols coming out of the Defeat Autism Now! movement, including diet, antifungals, antivirals, anti-inflammatories, nutritional support, and detoxification.  In support of these therapies, Dr. Burns has maintained a rigorous aerobic exercise program for his son, including biking, running, and swimming.
Exercise and Autism

Research shows that aerobic exercise helps cleanse the body of heavy metals, toxins, and opioids. It supplies more oxygen to the brain and develops new nerve cells in the hippocampus. Benefits include reduction of stereotypic behaviors, hyperactivity, aggression, and self-injury. Exercise increases attention span. It provides a bonding experience for parent and child and serves as a vehicle for communication. Running, swimming, and bicycling have been daily activities for Ben and me since he was on training wheels. In this presentation I give a brief overview of the medical literature on exercise and autism and I share my aerobic experience with Ben as he has grown from toddlerhood to adulthood. I also invite the audience to share their experiences with this inexpensive, highly effective therapy that is good for children and parents alike.

Presenter Presentation
Jeffrey S. Cantor, DDS, Patricia Liston-Gannon, DDS, Pamela Johnson, DDS & Michelle Lancaster, DDS

Jeffrey S. Cantor, DDS
has 36 years experience as a pediatric dentist and has been involved in the dental care of patients with developmental disabilities since 1977. He went to dental school at Columbia University in New York and received his training in pediatric dentistry from the University of Rochester's Eastman Dental Center. Dr. Cantor has been involved with dentistry for patients with developmental disabilities both as a private practitioner and through Easter Seals Metropolitan Chicago's Dental Program. At present, Dr. Cantor is director of the Easter Seals Dental Program, is dental consultant to Autism One; and practices part-time in the private pediatric dental practice of Dr. Patricia Liston-Gannon located in Orland Park, Illinois. Dr. Cantor has contributed to the Autism File Magazine.

Patricia Liston-Gannon, DDS

Pamela Johnson, DDS

Michelle Lancaster, DDS
Dentistry And Autism - A Troubled Marriage

Proper diagnosis and treatment of the dental patient presenting with autism spectrum disorder presents many challenges to the knowledgeable dental practitioner. The initial examination may be very difficult to perform, and the medical history may present a variety of issues that can impact on the materials that can be used to restore decayed teeth. The assessment of the patient's diet may also present a complex trade-off between adequate nutrition, medical complications, and prevention of tooth decay. The fact that controversy exists in some critical areas further muddies the waters. Pediatric dentists, Drs. Jeffrey Cantor and Patricia Liston- Gannon along with orthodontist, Dr. Pamela Johnson, and general dentist, Dr. Michelle Lancaster will address the major issues patients and their caregivers face in obtaining dental care today from both the perspective of the patient and the professional. Please bring questions to the presentation since what the audience is interested in learning helps guide the discussion.

Presenter Presentation
Megan Carrick, MOTR/L

is a pediatric occupational therapist and clinical director of Kids In Sync in Chicago's north suburbs. Megan specializes in sensory integration and the use of the DIR® Model, and has been extensively trained in these models. Megan has been SIPT certified through Western Psychological Services, she received her DIR certification in early 2009 through the Interdisciplinary Council on Developmental and Learning Disorders, (ICDL). Megan received her master's degree in Occupational Therapy from Midwestern University and is currently working on her PhD in Infant and Early Childhood Mental Health and Developmental Disorders through the ICDL graduate school in California.
Sensory Integration: Theory and Implications

Each child is unique in how they process sensation. This session will help you understand how the different sensory systems interact and what the implications are for your child in daily life. Understanding your child's sensory profile will help support development of motor planning, social emotional and fine and gross motor development.

Presenter Presentation
Manuel Casanova & Emily L. Williams

Manuel Casanova, MD
made his residency training in neurology and his fellowship in neuropathology at The Johns Hopkins Hospital. During his stay at the Johns Hopkins Hospital, Dr. Casanova was in charge of pediatric neuropathology, which kindled his interest in developmental disorders of the brain. His clinical experience was enhanced by appointments as either a consultant or staff neuropathologist at Sinai Hospital (Maryland), the North Charles Hospital and the D.C. General Hospital. He spent several years as Deputy Medical Examiner for Washington, D.C., where he gained valuable experience in the post-mortem examination of sudden infant death syndrome and child abuse. His expertise in the field was recognized by honorary appointments as a scientific expert for the Armed Forces Institute of Pathology and as a professorial lecturer for the Department of Forensic Science at George Washington University. Dr. Casanova was a member of the initial scientific advisory board for the National Alliance for Autism Research, a founding member of the Autism Tissue Program, and served as the chairperson of the Developmental Brain Disorders Study Section of the Center for Scientific Review (NIH).

Emily L. Williams
is a PhD candidate in the Department of Anatomy Science & Neurobiology at the University of Louisville's Medical School. She has received training in an extended practicum at the Mallinckrodt Institute at Washington University's Medical School, where she worked as a statistician on an autism-related MR study. Her areas of professional interest include autism spectrum conditions, corticogenesis and related growth factors, CNS/endocrine/immune interactions, and encephalization. She also has a considerable personal interest in autism and the online autistic community; she has been a presence on related Internet groups since 2004 and owns Gestalt, an autism forum, where people with autism spectrum conditions and families/friends can come, interact socially, and receive support and guidance.
The Neurobiology of Autism: The Role of Ultrasound

The phenotypic expression of autism, according to the Triple Hit Hypothesis, is determined by three factors: a developmental time window of vulnerability, genetic susceptibility, and environmental stressors. In utero exposure to thalidomide, valproic acid, and maternal infections are examples of some of the teratogenic agents that increase the risk of developing autism and define a time window of vulnerability. An additional stressor for genetically susceptible individuals during this time window of vulnerability is prenatal ultrasound. Ultrasound enhances the genesis and differentiation of progenitor cells by activating the nitric oxide (NO) pathway and its related neurotrophins. The effects of this pathway activation, however, are determined by the stage of development of the target cells, absolute local concentrations of NO, and the location of nuclei (basal versus apical), causing consequent proliferation at some stages while driving differentiation and migration at others. Ill-timed activation or overactivation of this pathway by ultrasound may extend proliferation, increasing total cell number, or trigger precipitous migration, causing maldistribution of neurons amongst lamina, nuclei, white matter, and germinal zones. The rising rates of autism coincident with the increased use of ultrasound in obstetrics and its deregulation since the 1990s demand more research on the subject.

Presenter Presentation
Manuel Casanova, MD

(see above)
The role of the cortex in the genesis of seizures in autism

The view that specific mental processes are correlated with discrete regions of the brain has been the object of countless empirical studies. These studies suggest that many of the faculties that define human behavior, providing variations among individuals and species, are located within the outer covering of the brain. This structure, also called neocortex, is formed early on during development by the supernumerary aggregation of modules. The smallest module capable of processing information is called a minicolumn. These modules or minicolumns are composed of both cells (neurons) and their projections. Together, minicolumns provide for standardized circuits repeated some 600 million times throughout the whole extent of the neocortex.

Recent studies suggest that minicolumns are smaller and more numerous in autism. Computer modeling has shown that smaller minicolumns may confer a given individual with a different way of thinking (processing information) one that emphasizes particulars. By themselves these findings do not necessarily represent an abnormality. However, minicolumns are insulated from adjacent units by an inhibitory surround. In some autistic patients this inhibitory surround is defective and thus may provide for a "leakage" of signal/stimuli to adjacent modules. The end result is an amplification of signals which has a deleterious effect on sensory integration and cortical excitability. In some cases this amplification of signals provides for seizures.

Presenter Presentation
Charles Chapple, DC

earned his Doctorate Degree in Chiropractic from National College of Chiropractic. Dr. Chapple holds many post-graduate certifications in areas such as chiropractic pediatrics (Fellowship in International Chiropractic Pediatric Association), acupuncture, applied kinesiology and spinal rehabilitation. Dr. Chapple's studies have also encompassed treating neurological challenges involving children with developmental and learning delays, such as autism, sensory integration dysfunction, and ADHD. A portion of his Roselle, Illinios, practice focuses on the non-invasive benefits of chiropractic and craniosacral therapy to address retained primitive reflexes and sensory processing disorders
Reaching Sensory Processing Disorders: Working to Benefit ADD/ADHD to Autism through Structure and Function - a biomechanical approach

So frequently sensory processing disorders, ADHD to Autism, are addressed through a variety of behavioral and biochemical approaches that the significance of the biomechanical aspects of these conditions can be underestimated. Experts state that if a cluster of irregular nervous system reflexes remain unaddressed they will prevent "sustained long term improvement." This presentation discusses the utilizatilization of the non-invasive techniques of chiropractic and craniosacral therapy in order to address retained primitive reflexes and hemispheric imbalances to benefit the biomechanical and nervous system demands of individuals with special needs

Presenter Presentation
Abha Chauhan, PhD

is head of the Developmental Neuroscience Laboratory at the NYS Institute for Basic Research in Developmental Disabilities (IBR), Staten Island, New York. She is also adjunct professor of the Neuroscience PhD Subprogram at the Graduate Center of the City University of New York.

Dr. Chauhan received her PhD from the Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India. She worked as a research associate at the Mount Sinai School of Medicine, New York. Dr. Chauhan then joined the Department of Neurochemistry at IBR, where she has over 60 publications in the fields of membrane biochemistry, signal transduction, Alzheimer's disease, and autism.

Dr. Chauhan is the principal investigator of research grants on autism from the Department of Defense, Autism Speaks, and the Autism Research Institute. Currently, her major interest is to investigate the biochemical and immunological changes associated with autism in blood samples, lymphoblast cell cultures, and postmortem brain samples, particularly as they relate to markers of oxidative stress, inflammatory response, and the function of immune system.

Dr. Chauhan is the editor of the book Autism: Oxidative stress, Inflammation, and Immune Abnormalities. She also served as the guest editor of the "Special Issue on Autism Spectrum Disorders" of the American Journal of Biochemistry and Biotechnology.
Increased oxidative stress and inflammatory markers in the blood and brain of autistic individuals

Accumulating evidence suggests that oxidative stress and immunological factors may play role in the pathophysiology of autism. We have reported increased lipid peroxidation and reduced levels of antioxidant proteins, namely, ceruloplasmin and transferrin in the plasma from children with autism. Further studies suggest an imbalance of serum immunoglobulin levels in autism. The levels of IgG and its sub-classes (IgG2, IgG4) were increased, while those of IgM were decreased in the autistic children. In addition, serum complement C3 and C4 that facilitate immunological and inflammatory responses were higher in autism. Brain tissue is highly heterogeneous with different functions localized in specific areas, and it is highly vulnerable to oxidative stress. We compared lipid peroxidation, protein oxidation, and cytokines profile in postmortem brain samples from autistic and age-matched normal subjects. While protein oxidation was increased in autism in frontal cortex, temporal cortex, and cerebellum, its levels in parietal and occipital cortex were similar between autism and control groups. In addition, lipid peroxidation was increased in the cerebellum and temporal cortex in autism. These results suggest that oxidative stress differentially affects selective regions of the brain in autism. Our studies also showed that pro-inflammatory cytokines in the brain were increased in autism.

Presenter Presentation
Ved Chauhan, PhD

is head of the cellular neurochemistry laboratory at the New York State Institute for Basic Research in Developmental Disabilities (IBR), Staten Island, New York. Dr. Chauhan received his PhD (Biochemistry) from the Postgraduate Institute for Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India. After working as a research associate for 2 years in the Department of Biochemistry at the University of Southern California, Los Angeles, he joined IBR as a research scientist.

Dr. Chauhan has received several research grants as PI and Co-PI from the NIH, Autism Speaks, the Autism Research Institute, the Autism Collaboration, and Cure Autism Now. He has published more than 70 research articles in peer-reviewed journals. His work includes but is not limited to phospholipid methylation, calcium traversal across bilayer, activators of protein kinase C, factors involved in the fibrillization of amyloid beta-protein, role of gelsolin in Alzheimer's disease, and membrane abnormalities and cellular signaling in autism.

Dr. Chauhan is the editor of the book Autism: Oxidative stress, Inflammation, and Immune Abnormalities and associate editor of the "Special Issue on Autism Spectrum Disorders" of the American Journal of Biochemistry and Biotechnology (2008). He is also a member of the editorial board of International Archives of Medicine and associate editor of the Journal of Alzheimer's Disease.
Oxidative stress and mitochondrial abnormalities in the lymphoblasts from autistic individuals: effect of environmental agents

We studied the status of oxidative stress in the lymphoblasts from autistic and control subjects by analyzing lipid peroxidation, activities of enzymes involved in antioxidant defense, generation of free radicals (reactive oxygen species: ROS), and extent of membrane damage. While lipid peroxidation and ROS levels were increased, the activities of superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione peroxidase, and glutathione reductase were decreased in autistic lymphoblasts, which suggest increased oxidative damage coupled with impaired antioxidant defense mechanism in autism. Furthermore, membrane fluidity was decreased and lactate dehydrogenase leakage was increased in the autistic lymphoblasts compared with controls, suggesting that membrane integrity and function are affected in autism. In addition, the mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) was reduced in autistic lymphoblasts. Environmental agents such as bisphenol A, endosulfan, and thimerosal have been suggested to play a role in the etiology of autism. However, the mechanism of their action is not known. Therefore, we studied their effect on the membrane properties and MMP. Our results show that these environmental agents decrease both membrane fluidity and MMP. These results suggest that autism is associated with increased formation of free radicals coupled with decreased activities of antioxidant enzymes, which leads to increased oxidative damage, membrane damage, and mitochondrial abnormalities.

Presenter Presentation
Lillian Chen-Byerly

a private practitioner in the North Shore suburbs of Chicago, IL, provides pediatric services from birth through the IL Early Intervention Program as well as direct and group therapy and school consultations for children with neurological based issues. Adults with sensory processing issues have also benefitted from her intervention. Lillian is multi-certified in the administration and treatment of the Sensory Integration Praxis Tests, Pediatric Neurodevelopmental Treatment (NDT), Child and Adolescent Mental Health, provider for The Listening Program (TLP), sole certified Tomatis Center and Provider in the Midwest, Interactive Metronome (IM), IM Gait-Mate (IMCGM) and Early Childhood Intervention provider. Lillian is also an invited guest lecturer for various university programs, a graduate mentor, fieldwork supervisor, and international lecturer. Lillian is the proud parent of three children of which one is on the autism spectrum and now attending university. See also www.senseablekids.com
What is So Important about Addressing Primitive Reflexes in Therapy? AKA Using a Neurokinesiology Framework for Therapy

It is important to understand the value of normal development and the ontogenesis of normal reflex development to allow the parent, therapist and physician to better guide and design a treatment program that will remediate the resultant cluster of deficits noted in poor sensory perception, gross and fine motor incoordination often seen as dyspraxia (inability to control one's body resulting from poor balance, posture, and movement), immature patterns of behavior and inefficient processing of expression as noted in possible cognition or learning deficits.

Presenter Presentation
Rob Coben, PhD

received his PhD in 1991 and has been a licensed psychologist in the state of New York since 1994. He is the Director and Chief Neuropsychologist of a private clinic in NY, which is also an affiliated research site with NYU's Brain Research Lab. His post-doctoral training in clinical and rehabilitation neuropsychology was done at the UCLA Medical Center and Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in California. Dr. Coben is board-certified in EEG biofeedback (BCIA Associate Fellow) and a Diplomat of the QEEG Certification Board. He is a member in good standing of the American Psychological Association, International Neuropsychological Society, International Society for Neurofeedback and Research, and the American Association of Psychophysiology and Biofeedback. He was recently bestowed the honor of Fellowship status from the International Society for Neurofeedback and Research, for which he is also on the Board of Directors, Committee Chair and Consulting Editor for the Journal of Neurotherapy. Dr. Coben recently received grant funding from both the International Society for Neurofeedback and Research and the American Association of Psychophysiology and Biofeedback to perform research into the efficacy of EEG operant conditioning for autistic disorders.
EEG biofeedback as a treatment for autistic disorders and seizure activity

Autistic disorders are associated with developmental brain disturbances that impact functioning in regions associated with language development, social skills, obsessive or repetitive behaviors and other symptoms that can interfere with everyday functioning. Recent analyses have also shown that the prevalence of seizure disorders in autistic series at anywhere from 20 to 46%. The electroencephalogram has been shown to be useful in detecting seizures and can measure brain functioning at a physiological level and point to regions of the brain that are poorly synchronized (e.g., working together). This presentation will focus on a form of treatment, called EEG biofeedback (neurofeedback), that can train these parts of the brain to function better and reduce autistic symptoms and seizures. Recent research from our clinic has demonstrated how connectivity-guided EEG biofeedback can be used to significantly reduce autistic symptoms. We will present results from a series of studies showing how this treatment reduces autistic symptoms and seizure activity, enhances neuropsychological functioning and improves brain activity.

Presenter Presentation
Britt Collins, MS, OTR/L & Jackie Olson

Britt Collins, MS, OTR/L
Growing up with a sister with special needs, Britt felt a special connection with children early on in life. Britt graduated from CSU with a Master's Degree in Occupational Therapy. Britt has practiced in a variety of settings including sensory integration clinics, schools, homes, rehabilitation, and skilled nursing facilities. She has also taken courses in neurodevelopmental treatment, sensory integration for children, and behavioral modification, and she is certified in applied behavioral analysis. Britt created an occupational therapy DVD series with Jackie Olson so parents, caregivers, and educators could visually learn the basics of occupational therapy and implement it into their child's daily lives. In 2009 Britt co-founded Special Needs United with Jackie with goals of bringing occupational therapy to families of children with special needs. She currently works at Salem Hospital Regional Rehab Center, a part of Salem Health, in the Outpatient Neuromuscular Department. Please visit www.TRPwellness.com.

Jackie Olson
As a mother of a son with autism, Jackie Olson has become an active participant in the special needs community. Having seen significant improvements in her son while receiving occupational therapy, Jackie became a supporter and proponent of OT for children with special needs. Using resources she garnered from her career as a film producer, Jackie created instructional occupational therapy videos with Britt Collins, MS, OTR/L, so parents, caregivers, and educators could visually learn the basics of occupational therapy and how they could implement it into their child's daily lives. Jackie founded Special Needs United in 2009 with aspirations to provide occupational therapy for children with special needs who's families don't have access to it either because of financial reasons, geographical location, or simply lack of guidance. Please visit www.TRPwellness.com.
The Importance of Occupational Therapy in the Treatment of Autism

This presentation will take you through the components of occupational therapy and sensory integration therapy and how it benefits children with autism. You will learn about the seven senses, how to read your child's sensory signs, and how to implement OT techniques into your child's daily life. Knowing how to differentiate between a behavior and a sensory need can be difficult. During this presentation you will learn tips and tools on how to approach your child's daily needs with new and innovative ideas.

You'll learn how to work with your occupational therapist to carry out lessons in your home throughout the day and how to implement these strategies across the board with your other specialists on your team. This occupational therapist and mom team suggest ways to work together to get the most effective results for your child. Real life examples will be given as well as visual demonstrations.

Presenter Presentation
Judy Converse, MPH, RD, LD

is a licensed registered dietitian. She has a master's degree in public health nutrition and a bachelor of science degree in human nutrition and foods. Her private practice, Nutrition Care For Children, incorporates biomedical treatment strategies and has served kids with autism and other special needs since 1999. She has authored two books on autism, nutrition, and special needs. Her third book, due late 2010 from Penguin/Perigee, is about minimizing medications and maximizing nutrition focused tools to improve kids' health and well being. She has testified before state and federal legislators on vaccine safety, and written several articles on nutrition and autism. A New England native, she lives in Colorado with her husband and son.
Better Biomedical: How Existing Standards in Child Nutrition Improve Outcomes and Insurance Access For Kids Using Special Diets and Biomedical Treatments

About half of kids with autism try special diets or biomedical treatments. Existing data on child nutrition assessment, monitoring, growth, development, and learning already tell us that these tools can work well for children with autism, a population at nutritional risk. If families can afford it, this is a promising tool. Those who can't afford it often attempt these tools without professional monitoring. This presentation describes how in-network care with nutrition assessment and monitoring works for children with autism using biomedical and special diets, to trigger better results for the child, and insurance reimbursement as well. Judy Converse MPH RD LD will discuss data on nutrition, autism, diets, and morbidity/mortality; and will include case presentations from her decade in private practice to highlight simple, reimbursible nutrition strategies that succeed for children with autism, where complex, out-of-pocket biomedical tools may have failed. The critical path for successfully sequencing special diets and nutrition tools with biomedical care is outlined, so families and clinicians alike can improve developmental outcomes even more.

Presenter Presentation
Mark Corrales, MPP

is an environmental policy analyst with over twenty years of experience assessing the health risks and economic impacts of air pollutants and regulations designed to limit air pollution. Mr. Corrales currently serves in the US Environmental Protection Agency's policy office, where he is the lead analyst reviewing major regulations focused on transportation-related emissions, as well as ambient air quality standards. Mr. Corrales also conducts research on emerging issues including the role of environmental factors in autism, risk analysis of sensitive subgroups, and environmental policy applications of bibliometrics, bioinformatics, and probabilistic uncertainty analysis. Prior to joining the EPA, Mr. Corrales managed a high-tech startup, following several years directing an environmental policy consulting practice in Washington, DC. His graduate degree is from Harvard's Kennedy School of Government and his undergraduate degree in biology is from Harvard College. His many publications and presentations include "Environmental Genomics of Autism," with Martha Herbert, chapter in Autism Research, Oxford University Press, 2009.
The Search for Environmental Risk Factors in Autism

The prevalence of diagnosed autism spectrum disorders (ASD) has continued to increase in recent years, along with dramatic growth in news coverage, books, and scientific articles about ASD. However, ASD still lags far behind cancer, for example, in terms of public awareness, research funding, and attention to the role of environmental factors, even relative to the prevalence and societal impacts of each disease. A small number of specific potential environmental risk factors have been examined in ASD, in hypothesis-driven studies. Discovery-based screening methods offer a complementary approach, in which hundreds or thousands of chemicals can be prioritized for closer examination, based on clues from genomics, toxicology, and the basic biology of ASD. Screening chemicals in this way suggests a modest number of pollutants that may deserve closer study, some of which have never been studied in the context of ASD.

Presenter Presentation
Mary Coyle, DI Hom

Both a homeopath and the director of the Real Child Center in New York City, Mary offers consultation services to parents of children with ASD wishing to utilize homotoxicology and German Biological Medicine. Mary's own child, now 18 and a senior in high school, was one of the first to successfully implement the program back in 1996. Driven by parent demand, Mary and Sandra Stewart from Life-Thyme Solutions created a certification course focusing on the ASD child and homotoxicology. Some of their graduates are now collaborating with other practitioners, including two Defeat Autism Now! doctors. The Real Child Center current employs three freelance practitoners who have either recovered or greatly improved their own ASD child's health using this methodology. The Center works in conjunction with a host of other healthcare practitioners and facilities, and functions collectively in order to gain the best results for each child.
Relating Post-Vaccination Toxicity to the Principles of Homotoxicology

This presentation will include discussion of the benefits of addressing post-vaccination toxicity through homotoxicology. Operating on both an extra- and intracellular level, homotoxicology assists the body in removing these residual stressors that can create roadblocks in the ASD child's healing process. A number of studies have shown that a great number of ASD children suffer from hyper-reactive immune systems when confronted with certain foods and food compounds, in addition to environmental allergens. Could vaccines be one of the culprits behind all of these responses? A vicious cycle of chronic biological stress, keeping a child in a continual state of "wired but tired," makes it nearly impossible to attend in class or even sit still. The mechanics of homotoxicology is geared towards gently eliminating these stressors. As the child's body receives the correct signals to remove their own toxic body burden, the organs and systems begin to relax and, finally, to heal. This presentation will also include some of the latest research on the use of homeopathic nosodes to lessen the shock of vaccines and remove their potentially negative residual effect.

Presenter Presentation
Madeleine Cunningham, PhD & Susan Swedo, MD

Madeleine Cunningham, PhD
is a George Lynn Cross Research Professor, Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Oklahoma College of Medicine. Her research has focused on molecular mimicry, autoimmunity and infection. A focus of her laboratory includes the study of autoimmunity and behavior which is manifest in diseases such as Sydenham's chorea following group A streptococcal infection. Study identified antibody mediated neuronal cell signaling as the basis for the choreic movement disorder. Other related movement and psychiatric disorders such as obsessive compulsive disorder, Tourette's Syndrome and Tics are under investigation for subsets that may be related to streptococcal infection and/or to autoantibodies which signal in the brain. Dr. Cunningham's teaching focuses include microbial pathogenesis and immunology, host-parasite interactions, and bacterial pathogenesis, and medical and dental microbiology.

Susan Swedo, MD
is a researcher in the field of pediatrics and neuropsychiatry, and since 1998 has been Chief of the Pediatrics & Developmental Neuroscience Branch at the US National Institute of Mental Health. In 1994, Swedo was lead author on a paper describing Pediatric Autoimmune Neuropsychiatric Disorders Associated with Streptococcal infections (PANDAS), proposing a link between Group A streptococcal infection in children and some rapid-onset cases of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) or tic disorders such as Tourette syndrome.
Autoimmunity and Behavior: Sydenham Chorea, PANDAS and Related Disorders

Sydenham chorea is the major neurologic sequelae of group A streptococcal-induced acute rheumatic fever (ARF) and is most likely due to autoimmunity and molecular mimicry between host and pathogen. Pediatric Autoimmune Neuropsychiatric Disorders Associated with Streptococcal Infection (PANDAS) has also been suggested to be a sequelae of streptococcal infections. Human anti-streptococcal monoclonal antibodies(mAb) derived from Sydenham chorea targeted caudate putamen tissue as well as brain antigens lysoganglioside and tubulin. The chorea derived mAbs, acute Sydenham chorea sera and cerebrospinal fluid targeted human neuronal cells and signaled calcium-calmodulin dependent protein (CaM) kinase II activity and dopamine release in a neuronal cell line as well as in primary neuronal cells. New preliminary data suggest that dopamine D1 and D2 receptors may be targeted by the crossreactive anti-brain mAbs and sera. Serum antibodies from related disorders such as PANDAS with obsessive compulsive behaviors, vocal tics or tic-like movements demonstrated that the level of the CaM kinase II activity was increased along with antibodies against lysoganglioside and a number of neuronal antigens. Comparison of matched acute and convalescent PANDAS sera taken before and during the exacerbation demonstrated an elevation in CaM kinase II activity associated with disease. Study of an animal model of Sydenham chorea revealed that immunization with group A streptococcal antigen led to behavioral changes which correlated with antibody deposition in the striatum as well as reactivity of serum IgG with dopamine receptors and the induction of CaM kinase II activity. These data are consistent with the current hypothesis that central dopamine pathways may be involved in Sydenham chorea which is treated with haloperidol, a D2 receptor antagonist.

Presenter Presentation
Dorinne Davis, MA, CCC-A, FAAA

is the president/founder of The Davis Center of Succasunna, New Jersey, and has developed The Davis Model of Sound Intervention. She is the author of four books including Sound Bodies through Sound Therapy®, hailed as the primer for all sound therapies. She has demonstrated the scientific principles behind the voice-ear-brain connection in The Davis Addendum® to The Tomatis Effect and established The Tree of Sound Enhancement Therapy® from which her Diagnostic Evaluation for Therapy Protocol (DETP®) provides the correct administration of any sound-based therapy. The Davis Center is considered the world's premier sound therapy center, and Ms. Davis is recognized as the world's leading sound-based therapist. She has a radio show on Autism One Radio titled Sound Effects with Dorinne Davis, which discusses how sound affects the person with autism. Web sites discussing her work are www.DorinneDavis.com and www.thedaviscenter.com.
Three Case Studies Demonstrating Positive Change with Sound-based Therapies

The Davis Model of Sound Intervention introduces sound-based therapies appropriately when a diagnostic evaluation determines the need. Each autistic person may need a different program of therapies, which may include AIT, Tomatis®, BioAcoustics, Fast ForWord®, or Interactive Metronome®. This presentation will review three separate case studies demonstrating the need for the evaluation and the correct progression of therapies to make maximum change. Positive and negative changes will be discussed as each person's program progresses through the suggested therapies.

Presenter Presentation
Georgia Davis, MD

received her medical degree from Southern Illinois University School of Medicine. She completed an internship in pediatrics and a residency in psychiatry at St. John's Hospital and Memorial Hospital in Springfield, Illinois. After completion of her internship, she joined the faculty of the Southern Illinois University School of Medicine as an assistant clinical professor in the Department of Psychiatry. She has completed post-graduate training as a Defeat Autism Now! physician and is currently being mentored by Dr. Jacqueline McCandless, MD, DAN! physician and author of Children with Starving Brains. Dr. Davis is currently an adjunct faculty member of the University of Illinois Medical School at Chicago where she received her certification in the use of nuclear brain imaging. She is in private practice in Springfield as a psychiatric intensivist, specializing in anxiety and mood disorders, autism and attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).
The Cautious Use and Weaning of Psychotropic Drugs

What pathways are involved when children don't properly manufacture their own neurotransmitters? What is the involvement of the methylation and sulfation pathways? What is the relationship of the gut, liver, and immune system to metabolism and clearing of drugs? How can underlying issues be remedied, and then how can psychotropic drugs be safely weaned?

Presenter Presentation
Dennis Debbaudt

is father to Brad, a young man who has autism. Since 1993, Dennis has authored over 25 autism safety and risk-based articles and books including Autism, Advocates and Law Enforcement Professionals: Recognizing and Reducing Risk Situations for People with Autism Spectrum Disorders. Dennis's training video is in use by the Department of Homeland Security and law enforcement agencies throughout the country. Dennis consulted and contributed to the Chicago Police Department's autism training block; he is a cited Subject Autism & Emergency Preparedness Subject Matter Resource at the Department of Homeland Security website and Lessons Learned Information Sharing. Dennis consulted to ABC News 20/20 for a segment on autism and false confession, and is a consultant for the Autism Society of America's Safe and Sound initiative.
First Responders Training

This special day of training is suitable for law enforcement, fire rescue, public safety, emergency medical response teams, hospital ERs, 911 dispatchers, social services, and criminal justice agency personnel. The general public is also welcome. (Law enforcement credits are available.)

Presenter Presentation
Vicky Debold

has worked in the health care field for more than 30 years as an ICU nurse, health care administrator, and health policy analyst focusing primarily on pediatrics and patient safety. Currently, she is an affiliate faculty member at George Mason University, Health Administration and Policy Department. She previously worked as a health policy analyst for the US Congress at the Physician Payment Review Commission, the Michigan Health and Safety Coalition, and the Michigan State Commission on Patient Safety. Additionally, she has served as an assistant professor at the University of Michigan and as an associate professor and director of the Health Systems Management Program at the University of Detroit, Mercy. Her doctoral degree is from the University of Michigan (1999) - from both the School of Public Health (Health Services Organization and Policy) and the School of Nursing (Health Systems Administration). She was a University of Michigan Regent's Fellow and completed a post-doctoral fellowship in health services research at the Michigan Peer Review Organization. Dr. Debold's son, her only child, experienced serious, long-term health problems following receipt of seven live virus and killed bacterial vaccines at his 15-month well-baby appointment. That event sparked her interest in vaccine safety and chronic childhood illness. In addition to serving as a director and committee member for autism non-profit organizations and as the volunteer director of patient safety and a board member of the National Vaccine Information Center, she is the appointed consumer representative to the Food and Drug Administration's Vaccine and Related Biological Products Advisory Committee (VRBPAC). She has served as a consultant to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Board of Scientific Counselors on the topic of vaccine acceptance and is currently participating in the National Vaccine Program Office, National Vaccine Advisory Committee, Vaccine Safety Working Group public engagement process for the review of CDC's Immunization Safety Office Draft Scientific Agenda.
What Parents Need to Know About Vaccine Adjuvants

Adjuvants are added to inactivated vaccines to induce a strong inflammatory response that produces more and longer lasting antibody responses. Modern vaccine manufacturing methods have shifted from using lab-altered viral and bacterial antigens that generally produce a strong antibody response to using genetically engineered proteins and microorganisms that generally produce a weak antibody response and require adjuvant support. In addition to producing antibodies, vaccine adjuvants can stimulate the immune system to produce abnormal responses in some individuals leading to autoimmunity and chronic diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis and lupus. Examples of commonly used adjuvants are aluminum salts and aluminum gels. In other countries, squalene-containing MF-59 and AS03 adjuvants are commonly used and were considered for use in the U.S. H1N1 pandemic vaccines. Examples of experimental adjuvants include TLR4 (toll-like receptor) agonists and ISCOM (immune stimulating complex). Public health officials consider gaps in consumer knowledge and resistance to unfamiliar adjuvants as critical barriers to the success of mass-vaccination programs. This presentation will identify new types of adjuvants, unanswered scientific questions about how adjuvants work and current safety concerns associated with the immune and neurological systems.

Presenter Presentation
Elaine DeLack, RN

Elaine DeLack, RN
is a board certified registered nurse whose work focuses on  research and treatment options in multiple sclerosis, depression, autism and Alzheimer’s.   Her scientific publications have appeared in the journals Multiple Sclerosis Clinical and Laboratory Research and Alternative Medicine Review.  She is also the author of the book They Said It Didn’t Make ‘Cents’ – MS the Prokarin Story, in which she tells her life story and the struggles she has encountered in trying to bring Prokarin into mainstream medicine as a treatment option for MS.  Formerly she worked in the care of the elderly and those with chronic disease in transitional care facilities.  In the past 17 years she has been active in the advancement of new treatments for multiple sclerosis and related disease states.  She has developed and patented treatments for MS, depression and bipolar depressive disorder, and ASD.  She has lectured throughout the US and Canada to patients, doctors and pharmacists on issues of medical research and study application.  She is the CEO and founder of two medical research companies.
A deficiency in the mitochondrial enzyme, MAO-A, may be a possible etiology of autism

This presentation will explain how the metabolic imbalances, gastric problems, and core symptoms of autism may be the result of a malfunction of the mitochondrial enzyme, MAO-A. The presentation will discuss how stress, genetics, epidurals with Pitocin (oxytocin) augmentation during childbirth, toxins such as mercury, aluminum, high copper and cadmium are possible risk factors contributing to the overall symptoms resulting from the MAO-A deficiency. This science provides the rationale unifying the benefits seen from various therapies such as the gluten-free and casein-free diet, hyperbaric oxygen, methylcobalamin and Respen-A.

Presenter Presentation
Richard Deth, PhD

is a professor of pharmacology in the Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences at Northeastern University in Boston. His laboratory was first to discover a novel signaling activity of D4 dopamine receptors, involving dopamine-stimulated phospholipid methylation. This signaling mechanism is involved in synchronization of neural networks and is highly sensitive to neurodevelopmental toxins and to agents that cause oxidative stress. Currently his lab is focused on elucidating the intersecting roles of redox regulation and methylation in neurodevelopmental, neuropsychiatric, and neurodegenerative disorders.
Viewing the Brain from a Redox Perspective: Growth factors, GF/CF and Beyond

The brain develops and functions in a unique redox environment, with only limited availability of the sulfur amino acid cysteine to support synthesis of the antioxidant glutathione (GSH). As a consequence, changes in cysteine uptake exert exceptionally powerful control over neuronal function. Our recent studies show that neurotrophic growth factors increase cysteine uptake and increase GSH levels, while opiates (morphine and gluten/casein-derived peptides), decrease uptake and lower GSH levels. The latter observation helps explain the beneficial effect of a GF/CF diet in autism. The folate and B12-dependent enzyme methionine synthase is highly responsive to redox status in neuronal cells, which allows growth factors to regulate gene expression via epigenetic mechanisms. The level of methionine synthase mRNA in human cortex decreases several hundred-fold across the lifespan, and is significantly reduced in autistic subjects compared to age-matched control subjects, especially at a younger age. Proinflammatory cytokines, such as TNF-alpha, inhibit cysteine uptake, inhibit methylation and lower the level of methionine synthase mRNA. Together these findings illustrate the central role that redox plays in guiding brain development as well as supporting its ongoing function. Agents which disrupt normal redox status can cause developmental disorders via their effects on methylation and gene expression.

Presenter Presentation
Marshall Dickholtz, Sr., DC

of Chicago, Illinois, has been a practicing chiropractor for more than 50 years. He was honored as the International Chiropractors Association's chiropractor of the year for 2008. He is the founding director of the National Upper Cervical Chiropractic Association (NUCCA) and is widely published on a host of clinical subjects ranging from x-ray clarity, alignment, safety and upper cervical applications to clinical outcomes of specific adjusting protocols. Dr. Dickholtz recently achieved national acclaim for his groundbreaking research on blood pressure control and atlas adjusting. He is one of 20 NUCCA certified chiropractors in the world today.
Major Cause of Autism (the brain has lost optimal communication): A Chiropractor's Perspective

I've spent fifty three years researching the brain stem area. This can be looked at as a fuse box that connects the brain, the biggest computer in the world, to all functions of the body.

In my eleven research cases of autism, practically all had forceps or traumatic birth deliveries that misaligned the neck to the head. These misalignments upset the proprioceptores (sensors) in this area and concurrently twist the spine and affect the patient mentally and physically. I have several research projects that prove my previous statement.

Presenter Presentation
Mayer Eisenstein, MD, JD

is a graduate of the University of Illinois Medical School, the Medical College of Wisconsin School of Public Health, and the John Marshall Law School. Since 1973, he and his practice Homefirst® Health Services, have had three offices in the Chicagoland area. The practice has delivered more than 15,000 babies at home. They have also cared for more than 35,000 unvaccinated children, none of whom have autism. Dr. Eisenstein is board certified by the American Board of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, and the American Board of Quality Assurance and Utilization Review Physicians. He is a member of the Illinois Bar.

Dr. Eisenstein is the author of Give Birth at Home with The Home Birth Advantage; Safer Medicine, Don't Vaccinate Before You Educate, 2nd Edition; Unavoidably Dangerous - Medical Hazards of HRT; and Unlocking Nature's Pharmacy. Some of his many guest appearances include The Oprah Winfrey Show and Hannity and Colmes. His weekly radio show, The Dr. Mayer Eisenstein Show, airs on the Progressive Radio Network. Homefirst® also hosts a complimentary weekly vaccine webinar series that can be accessed at www.homefirst.com.
So You Have Decided Not to Vaccinate - How Do You Qualify for a Valid Legal Vaccine Waiver?

Since vaccine mandates are state determined, vaccine laws may vary from state to state. Before submitting any medical, philosophical or religious exemption documentation, I recommend reviewing your state law to determine which of the waivers are applicable in your state. All 50 states in the U.S. allow for medical exemption to childhood vaccines. With the exception of West Virginia and Mississippi, all states also allow for a religious exemption to childhood vaccines. Currently, 17 states have philosophical exemptions to vaccines.

I will address the following questions: Can I give some of the vaccines and not others? Are there medical contraindications to vaccines? Can the state review and deny your physician's letter objecting to vaccines? Are the chicken pox and rubella vaccines grown on the cells of aborted fetuses? Is mercury still in vaccines? How do I find a sympathetic doctor?

Presenter Presentation
Michael Elice, MD and Barbara Fischkin

Michael Elice, MD
is a board certified pediatrician who has been in practice for 30 years, most recently with Dr. Marvin Boris, the renowned, pioneering Long Island pediatrician, allergist/immunologist. Together at Autism Associates of New York in Woodbury doctors Boris and Elice minister to several thousand patients with autism and/or allergies and estimate recovery rates of 65%. According to Dr. Elice, "biomedical treatment of autism and ASD is based on the idea that autism is actually a complex neurodevelopmental disorder with genetic, epigenetic, metabolic and autoimmune origins." Dr. Elice is a graduate of Syracuse University and the Chicago Medical School. He completed his pediatric residency at the North Shore University Hospital in Manhasset, New York, and has academic teaching and staff positions at North Shore University Hospital and Schneider Children's Hospital. He is an associate professor of pediatrics at the New York University Medical School and the Albert Einstein School of Medicine. Additionally, he is on the medical advisory board of the New York Families for Autistic Children (NYFAC) and is a member of the National Autism Association New York Metro Chapter. He has lectured at Defeat Autism Now! Conferences around the country. www.autismny.com/index.htm.


Barbara Fischkin
is known to autism parents as the host of "Maverick Mama," the Autism One Radio Internet program -- and as the author of numerous autism-related blogs, essays and articles, including a recent piece published by the Chancellor's Office of the City University of New York in its magazine Salute to Scholars;  She is the author of three books published by Random House and Simon and Schuster imprints including, Confidential Sources, based on her family's exploits and the bittersweet experience of autism. Signed, personalized copies of Confidential Sources are available to conference attendees at a discounted rate. For details please email barbarafischkin@aol.com or visit http://barbarafischkin.com.  Fischkin is currently seeking a publisher for her next two books-in-progress - a work of narrative nonfiction about adult autism and an autism-related historical novel. She is an award winning journalist who has published in major national and international publications for more than three decades, reporting from Latin America, Asia, Europe, and Long Island. Her first book Muddy Cup: A Dominican Family Comes of Age in A New America (Scribner 1997) has been hailed as a landmark work on immigration. She currently teaches a course in literary journalism at Hofstra University.
Biomedical Interventions with Older Children: How to Begin - and Persevere

In a rare physician-parent presentation, Dr. Michael Elice, a prominent Long Island Defeat Autism Now pediatrician and Barbara Fischkin, an author, journalist, Autism Mom and advocate will report on the biomedical interventions which Fischkin's severely autistic son, Daniel Mulvaney began in January 2008 at the age of 20. These interventions targeted Daniel's autoimmune system and acquired environmental toxicity and are based on medical findings that revealed, metaphorically speaking, a body that functioned as a "garbage truck that was not dumping." Ms. Fischkin and her husband Jim Mulvaney are -- as patients of Dr. Elice, themselves -- also on biomedical interventions and their case histories will be included along with a video of Dan as a contributing and calm resident of the model group home where he moved in January. Dan's major behavioral improvements - despite coming off the anti-psychotic Haloperidol -- as well as his vastly improved expertise with daily living skills will be discussed. Dr. Elice will also speak in detail, more generally, about the benefits and challenges of beginning bio-medical treatments with older children. young adults and adults -- and will discuss systematic methods for modifying the most disturbing of autistic symptoms, as children with autism grow up and prepare to lives distinguished by as much independence as possible.

Presenter Presentation
Sydney Finegold, MD

is a staff physician, Infectious Diseases Section, VA Medical Center West Los Angeles; emeritus professor of medicine, UCLA School of Medicine; and emeritus professor of microbiology, immunology, and molecular genetics, UCLA School of Medicine. His affiliations and honors include serving as past president of the Infectious Diseases Society of America (recipient of the Bristol Award), former editor of Clinical Infectious Diseases, and receiving the Middleton Award for Research, Veterans Administration.
Abnormal Intestinal Bacterial Flora in Autism

In collaboration with Drs. Scot Dowd, John Green, Doreen Granpeesheh and others, we have studied the fecal flora of 33 children with autism and gastrointestinal symptoms, 7 sibling controls without symptoms of autism, and 8 non-sibling controls, using pyrosequencing with titanium enhancement. This powerful molecular tool showed significant differences in the microflora of these groups. The principal difference was in the two most prevalent phyla of intestinal bacteria, Bacteroidetes and Firmicutes. Bacteroidetes was found at high levels in the autistic group whereas Firmicutes was particularly high in the control group.

Presenter Presentation
Wendy Fournier & Lori McIlwain

Wendy Fournier
is the president and a founding board member of the National Autism Association.

After several years in the promotional products industry, Wendy founded a home-based web development company that allowed her to have a career in web design and be a full-time Mom. When her youngest daughter was diagnosed with autism, doctors gave her little hope. She began to research treatment options via the internet, where she discovered that there is indeed a great deal of hope - autism is treatable.

Wendy is committed to changing the perspective of autism from what was once considered a mysterious mental illness to a biologically definable and treatable medical disorder. She attends and speaks at conferences throughout the US. She works closely with non-profit organizations on a state and national level and runs a support group for parents of children on the spectrum. Wendy currently serves on the RI State Commission to study the education of children with autism, as a consumer reviewer for the Congressionally Directed Medical Research Program for Autism Research through the U.S. Department of Defense, and is a founding board member of the Gottschall Autism Center. Wendy and her husband Paul live in Rhode Island with their three children.

Lori McIlwain
is the co-founder and chairperson of the board of the National Autism Association. Lori began her career in radio and television and has focused primarily on conceptual development, commercial copywriting, and media strategies on the agency side. She has an extensive and diverse background in advertising, marketing, public relations, and consumer behavior working with national, regional and local accounts. Her fight for a cure began right after her only son, Connor, was diagnosed with autism. Her husband Christian is also very pro-active in the autism fight and is committed to finding a cure.
Restrain and Seclusion: What you can do to keep your child and your students safe

This presentation will define and differentiate the various types of restraint as well as cover the deadly and abusive side to restraint and seclusion. We'll learn what is most dangerous and why, and we'll provide essential tips to keep your child and students safe. Three case studies will be shared as well as Crisis Prevention Institute illustrations demonstrating restraint methods that pose the highest risks to individuals. The emotional debate, along with the National Autism Association's position on restraint and seclusion and current Federal legislation, will also be covered.

Presenter Presentation
Richard E. Frye, MD, PhD

received his MD and PhD from Georgetown University. He completed his pediatric residency training at University of Miami and child neurology residency training at Children's Hospital Boston. Following residency Dr. Frye completed a fellowship in behavioral neurology and learning disabilities at Children's Hospital Boston. Dr. Frye is also funded by the National Institutes of Health to study brain function in individuals with dyslexia and is the medical director of the University of Texas medically-based autism clinic.
The Efficacy of Traditional and Non-traditional Treatments on Seizures in Individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder

To better understand the characteristics of seizures in individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), we developed a 737-question online Web-based survey. The survey was designed to better understand the age of onset, gender ratio, associated medical conditions and types of seizures characteristic of seizures in individuals with ASD. In addition, we aimed to understand the relationship between seizures and developmental regression and the effect of traditional and non-traditional antiepileptic treatments on seizures, behavior and development in children with ASD and seizures. Each treatment was rated for effect on seizures, sleep, expressive and receptive language, verbal and nonverbal communication, stereotypic and repetitive behavior, rigidity, flexibility and adaptability, hyperactivity, attention and mood. In addition, the frequency of side effects was also queried. Over 500 individuals completed the survey advertised on the Autism Research Institute website. Overall, the gender ratio, associated medical conditions and proportion of children demonstrating regression was similar in the surveyed population as compared to general ASD population. The effect of traditional and non-traditional treatment could be divided into six categories: treatments used too infrequently; treatments with no effect on seizures, behavior or development (Gabapentin, Ethosuximide, L-Carnitine, Acetyl-L-carnitine); treatments with a negative effect on behavior and/or development (Phenytoin, Phenobarbital, Levetiracetam, Felbamate, Topiramate, Carbamazepine); treatments with a positive effect on seizures but no effect on behavior and/or development (Valproic Acid, Oxcarbazepine, Zonisamide, steroids); treatments with a positive effect on seizures, behavior and development (Clonazepam, Lamotrigine, ketogenic diet, vagus nerve stimulator, pyridoxine, P-5-P, coenzyme Q10, ubiquinone, ubiquinol, vitamin B-12/cyanocobalamin, magnesium, gluten-free/casein-free diet, Specific Carbohydrate Diet, hyperbaric oxygen therapy, glutathione, taurine, GABA); and, treatments with no effect on seizures, but a positive effect on behavior and development (5-HTP, carnosine, chelation, DMG). Further data is being collected using an expanded version of the survey which includes questions regarding sensitivity to sensory stimuli. In addition, a survey is also being developed to collect data from a control group of individuals with ASD but without seizures. Further data will help better define the efficacy of traditional and non-traditional treatments for seizures in individuals with ASD.

Presenter Presentation
Mark Geier, MD, PhD & David A. Geier

Mark R. Geier, MD, PhD
has an MD and a PhD in genetics. He is board certified in genetics by the American Board of Medical Genetics and is a Fellow of the American College of Epidemiology. Dr. Geier is a founder and medical director of ASD Centers, LLC (www.asdcenters.com), and has been in clinical practice for more than 29 years during which time he has been involved in the evaluation and treatment of more than 600 patients diagnosed with autism spectrum disorders. Dr. Geier was a researcher at the National Institutes of Health for 10 years. He was also a professor at the Johns Hopkins University and at the Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences. Dr. Geier has published more than 100 peer-reviewed medical articles, including co-authoring more than 20 peer-reviewed studies on the relationship of genetic, biochemical and hormonal changes in autism, which has resulted in new insights as to the cause and treatment of autism. He has also helped to co-author a new book, "Sacred Spark" (www.sacredsparkbook.com) on autism. Dr. Geier has served as a scientific reviewer for autism grants for the U.S. Government. He has a patent pending for the treatment of patients diagnosed with autism. Dr. Geier has also been involved in vaccine/biologic litigation.

David A. Geier
is vice-president of the non-profit 501(c)3 Institute of Chronic Illnesses, Inc (www.iciautism.com) and the non-profit 501(c)3 CoMeD, Inc (www.mercury-freedrugs.org). David is also the executive director of ASD Centers, LLC (www.asdcenters.com). He graduated with honors from UMBC with a BA in Biology and a minor in History. He has been a researcher scientist at the National Institutes of Health. David has co-authored more than 50 peer-reviewed medical studies, and helped to co-author a new compelling new book, "Sacred Spark" (www.sacredsparkbook.com) on autism. Over the last few years David, as a member of the Institute of Chronic Illnesses, Inc. and CoMeD, Inc., has studied and co-authored more than 20 peer-reviewed studies on the relationship of genetic, biochemical and hormonal changes in autism, which has resulted in new insights as to the cause and treatment of autism. David has a patent pending for the treatment of patients diagnosed with autism. He has also been involved in vaccine/biologic litigation.
New Important Insights into the Treatment of Patients Diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorders: Understanding Genetic Testing, Heavy Metals, Mitochondrial Dysfunction, & Hormonal Imbalances

This presentation will provide a clear and concise overview to attendees on new research from the field of medical genetics on the importance of targeted evaluations and treatments to improve clinical outcomes among patients diagnosed with autism. An overview of current genetic testing will be provided. Clinical data will be shown on how to evaluate body-burden of heavy metals, particularly mercury. In addition, new data from placebo-controlled clinical trials and tissue culture experiments will be presented on mitochondrial dysfunction. Finally, special emphasis will be placed on examination of hyperactivity/impulsivity, stereotypy, aggression, self- injury, abnormal sexual behaviors, and/or irritability behaviors that frequently occur in those with an autism diagnosis. The association between high testosterone (and other androgens) and many of clinical symptoms observed in many children diagnosed with autism will be explored. Finally, clinical trial data on over 200 children receiving interventions designed to lower or significantly reduce the functionality of testosterone (and other androgens) with improved significant clinical outcomes will be presented. Overall, the new information presented may provide important alternate treatment avenues to psychiatric medications.

Presenter Presentation
Kristin Selby Gonzalez

is the Director of Autism Education for Enzymedica. She has been using The Son-Rise Program® with her son, Jaxson, age 7, diagnosed with autism, for over 5 years. She is certified in the Wilbarger Protocol® (a form of sensory integration), has knowledge in the Alert Program® (another form of sensory integration), The Handle Program® (another form of sensory integration), and is a provider in the Listening Program™(an auditory integration therapy). Kristin is certified in the Body Ecology Diet, and is familiar with the Gut and Psychology Diet, the Specific Carbohydrate Diet, and the gluten- and casein-Free diet.
Sensory Savvy 101

How do you know which sensory integration method to choose? How do you know if your child has sensory issues? Kristin will provide tools and the basic understanding of sensory integration methods in language you can understand. She will help you recognize when your child is in fight or flight mode. She will provide tips and starting places on how to help them today. She will talk about how to implement a sensory diet in the home with a positive approach. Kristin believes parents are their child's best resource with the strongest connection to them and explains why this is so important. Kristin presents in a fun, upbeat way, and she leaves parents feeling inspired and motivated.

Presenter Presentation
Sargent Goodchild

is the founder and executive director of Active Healing, Inc. in Gloucester, Massachusetts. Sargent began life as a brain-injured child and by age 4 had developed severe epilepsy. Refusing the doctors' dire prognosis for her son's future, his mother implemented a neurological program and recovered him from seizures in nine months. Our nervous system is largely structured around the milestones we achieve in the first year of life. Sargent will discuss how to reconstruct the developmental process using functional movement and reflex integration. Sargent is a graduate of Syracuse University.
Nothing Happens Until Something Moves: How Movement Shapes Our Neurological Development

The goal of this workshop is to provide the participants with an initial understanding of how early childhood movements affect neurological organization. The focus will be the functional movements of crawling and creeping and their significance in creating the healthy structures of the pons and midbrain. The influence between these movements and the corresponding structures of the brain will be discussed as they relate to autism spectrum disorders. At the conclusion of this workshop the participant will have the ability to perform a basic developmental screening at home to determine their child's level of proficiency.

Presenter Presentation
Jay Gordon, MD

has held a senior fellowship in pediatric nutrition at Sloan-Kettering Institute in New York City. After his residency at Children's Hospital of Los Angeles, Dr. Gordon joined the teaching attending faculty at UCLA Medical Center and Cedars-Sinai Medical Center. Intensely interested in infant nutrition and breastfeeding, Dr. Gordon is the first male physician to sit for and pass the International Board of Lactation Certification Exam. He has served on the Professional Advisory Board of La Leche League for 20 years. Dr. Gordon treats patients at Santa Monica, California. In addition, he trains medical students and residents, lectures all over the world, writes books, and contributes to AOL with the "Ask The Pediatrician" weekly chat. He writes a monthly column for Fit Pregnancy magazine. Dr. Gordon's first book, Good Food Today, Great Kids Tomorrow, offers a life-changing plan for families who want to make dramatic changes in health and fitness through nutrition. Brighter Baby examines the positive effect that attachment parenting combined with infant massage has on children's health and intelligence. Other recent releases are Good Night! The Parents' Guide to the Family Bed and Hug Your Baby, a gentle guide through the first year, which were released in the summer of 2002. His latest book is Listening To Your Baby: A New Approach to Parenting Your Newborn.
What You Should Expect from Your Pediatrician

No one knows your child better than you do. Your pediatrician is a developmental specialist who knows what to look for and just when. You are the parents who know what seems just right, or not so right. Together you are a team that promotes the best in healthcare for your child. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends "early" autism screening at 18 and 24 months. Parents' instincts tell them to do it sooner--so do mine. Expect your pediatrician to give you his best insights. Expect her to offer her best expertise in current research and years of experience. But also accept nothing less than a pediatrician who honors your knowledge and instincts as parents. Together a great team of qualified experts will ensure what is best for your child.

Presenter Presentation
Cindy L. Griffin, DSH-P, DIHom, BME & Lindyl Lanham, DSH-P, BS Spec Ed

Cindy L. Griffin, DSH-P, DIHom, BME
is co-owner of Homeopathy Center of Houston. She specializes in autism spectrum disorders but has also seen success with chronic fatigue, fibromyalgia, digestive and nervous system disorders, Lyme disease, cancer and many other chronic illnesses. Cindy continues to practice, write and teach about the Houston Homeopathy method, a drug-free successful alternative to biomedical treatment of autism. The Center has documented 60+ children completely recover from autism, PDD-NOS, as well as others who have recovered from Asperger's, dyspraxia, apraxia and other developmental delays with dozens more on the way to recovery. Homeopathy Center of Houston's consistent success and staying power in the field of autism has resulted in regular speaking engagements for the past several years at Autism One, Lyme in Autism, the National Autism Conference, as well as autism conferences in Canada and Australia. Cindy is the mother of 3 adult children, including a son who has fully recovered from Asperger's syndrome. She is the founder and curriculum author for Houston School of Homeopathy and one of five professional homeopaths at Homeopathy Center of Houston.

Lindyl Lanham, DSH-P, BS-Spec.Ed.
vice president/co-founder of Homeopathy Center of Houston, and primary creator of the Houston Homeopathy Method of Sequential Homeopathy for Autism and ASDs. Their method is the original and only sequential homeopathic method worldwide to be designed around the vaccine injury/biomedical/gut-brain model of autism. The Houston Homeopathy Method has recently been featured in the new book Cutting Edge Therapies in Autism, 2010-2011, and Lindyl has co-authored a number of articles that have appeared in several autism magazines including The Autism File and The Autism Perspective, and has been interviewed numerous times for Voice America and Autism One Radio, among others. She is a regular speaker at Autism One, has spoken at the National Autism Conference, as well as the MINDD conference in Australia and the NUPATH conference on homeopathy and autism in Canada. Lindyl worked with autistic children as early as 1972 and continues to focus on autism as her primary specialty. She has seen many children with autism fully recover using the Houston Homeopathy Method under her direction and direct consultation. She is board certified in integrative medicine and is the mother of a son recovered from Tourette syndrome with the Houston Homeopathy Method and natural medicine.
An alternative approach for vaccine injury (Wednesday morning lecture)

Beginning with information concerning issues that can be caused by vaccines, two homeopaths from the Homeopathy Center of Houston will explain how the Houston Homeopathy Method for ASDs can reverse vaccine injury and provide a gentle, complete alternative solution to biomedical treatments and pharmaceuticals. The unique, comprehensive approach employs Sequential Homeopathy to reverse vaccine and environmental damage in the course of reducing toxins, heavy metals, viral and bacterial accumulations from the entire body, including brain tissue. They will also discuss how the method has brought about reduction of strep and its resultant OCD and PANDAS behaviors. As evidence, they will present cases with documented behavioral and cognitive improvements in children with autism. They will additionally include some dietary tips that every parent can implement immediately to improve brain inflammation from dietary factors, through elimination of excitotoxins in the diet.

Presenter Presentation
Cindy L. Griffin, DSH-P, DIHom, BME & Lindyl Lanham, DSH-P, BS Spec Ed

(see above)
The Houston Homeopathy Method of Sequential Homeopathy: A Drug-Free Alternative to Biomedical Treatment for Children with Autism (Friday morning lecture)

Houston Homeopathy Autism Specialists Cindy Griffin and Lindyl Lanham will present compelling information about the benefits of the Houston Homeopathy Method of Sequential Homeopathy for children with autism. The Houston Method is the only homeopathic method in the world to be based upon the vaccine-injury/biomedical/gut-brain model of autism. Recovered and recovering cases from their files using this multi-approach homeopathic method will demonstrate benefits seen by children with autism. Learn about the basics of homeopathy, how vaccine injuries can be reversed with sequential homeopathy, how detoxification pathways can be opened and improved, and how OCD and PANDAS can be reduced and eliminated, and how children with autism and their families can all benefit from use of homeopathy for overall health improvement and as an alternative for acute illness and illness prevention.

Presenter Presentation
Louise Kuo Habakus, Larry Palevsky and Lynne Arnold

Louise Habakus, HHP, AADP
is a board-certified health practitioner specializing in integrative nutrition and homotoxicology. Louise was a corporate marketing executive for one of the world's largest global investment management firms before leaving the corporate world to raise her children. She received her master's and bachelor's degrees from Stanford University. Louise deferred to prevailing mainstream pediatric medicine and vaccinated her babies according to the CDC schedule. After learning that both of her children were vaccine-injured, Louise and her husband, Ron, embarked on a journey of recovery and advocacy. Louise lectures widely on the subject of parent vaccine choices and informed consent. She invites parents, grandparents, homeschoolers, soldiers, legislators, teachers, scientists, doctors and the press to listen, challenge, open their minds, and do their own research. Louise is a member of the New Jersey Coalition for Vaccination Choice and played a lead role in organizing the freedom of choice rally in Trenton last October, an event that attracted over seven hundred participants and received national press. Louise and Ron invited the world to their front lawn rally last fall to send a strong message to then-Senator Obama and Governor Corzine as they drove past her house en route to a fundraising event.

Larry Palevsky
is a board certified pediatrician who utilizes a holistic approach to children's wellness and illness. Dr. Palevsky received his medical degree from the NYU School of Medicine, completed his pediatric residency at The Mount Sinai Hospital, and served as a pediatric fellow in the ambulatory care out-patient department at Bellevue Hospital, NYC. His clinical experience includes working in pediatric emergency and intensive care medicine, in-patient and out-patient pediatric medicine, neonatal intensive care medicine, newborn and delivery room medicine, and conventional, holistic and integrative pediatric private practice at the Center for Health & Healing-an integrative and complementary care medical facility affiliated with the Beth Israel Medical Center in NYC. Dr. Palevsky is a Fellow of the American Academy of Pediatrics, co-founder and president of the Holistic Pediatric Association (www.hpakids.org) and past-president of the American Holistic Medical Association (www.holisticmedicine.org). Dr. Palevsky offers consultations and educational programs to families and practitioners in the areas of preventive and holistic health; childhood development; lifestyle changes; nutrition for adults, infants and children; safe, alternative treatments for common and difficult to treat acute and chronic pediatric and adult conditions; vaccination controversies; mindful parenting; and rethinking the medical paradigm. www.drpalevsky.com

Lynne Arnold
is the chapter director for Talk About Curing Autism (TACA) of Visalia, CA and an Autism One parent mentor. Through conference presentations and mentoring, she helps parents to understand their child's rights to appropriate interventions and education. Lynne is the editor of Autism: Asserting Your Child's Rights to a Special Education by David A. Sherman. She has presented at Autism One (2005-2008), National Autism Association Conference (2005 and 2007-2008), Families for Effective Autism Treatment (FEAT), Autism Society of America and for other autism groups.
Advocacy Training (Saturday, 1:45-2:45 & 3-6 pm)

Join Louise Kuo Habakus, Dr. Larry Palevsky, Mary Holland, Esq., Becky Estepp, Christina Blakey, and more for a lively presentation on effective grassroots advocacy. You will be provided with tools, like "Meeting-in-a-Box," and opportunities to start your own initiatives to improve conditions in your home state.

Presenter Presentation
Boyd Haley, PhD

served as a medic in the U.S. Army and obtained his PhD in chemistry/biochemistry at Washington State University. He was an NIH Postdoctoral Scholar in the Department of Physiology, Yale University Medical School. His first academic appointment was at the University of Wyoming in 1974 where he was promoted to full professor in 1983. In 1985 he was hired by the University of Kentucky Markey Cancer Center with academic appointments as professor in the College of Pharmacy in the Division of Medicinal Chemistry and in the Department of Biochemistry. He was appointed to be chair and professor of chemistry/biochemistry in the Department of Chemistry from 1996 to 2005. He retired from the University of Kentucky in July 2008. He has lectured throughout the world and testified before congressional committees and the Institute of Medicine regarding various aspects of mercury toxicity and neurological diseases.

Present talks include mercury depletion of molybdenum which leads to the inhibition of sulfite conversion to sulfate which leads to lower mylenization of the central nervous system in autism and other neurological illnesses; oxidative stress as a common occurrence in autism including aspects concerning causation and dietary treatment; and low glutathione levels in people of all ages as a major risk factor for many viral infections including influenza.
The Effects of Synergistic Toxicities and Genetic Susceptibilities on the Toxic Effects of Inorganic and Organic Mercury Compounds: The Relationship to Autism and Related Disorders

Data now exists that strongly indicates that there is a genetic subset of the human population that is unable to effectively excrete mercury from low level exposures. This leads to a retention toxicity in this subset at levels of Hg exposure that is easily excreted by the bulk of the healthy population. Autistic children seem to fit into this subset. The observed low levels of mercury in the blood, urine and hair of autistics, when compared to the higher levels retained in their other body tissues, indicates that retention toxicity occurs. This susceptible subset of the population, due to the low frequency, is very likely to be overlooked or not be apparent in most epidemiological studies that consider general populations. However, individuals with the inability to excrete mercury would be expected to develop neurological problems such as autism, AD, etc. Sorting out these individuals and comparing their toxicity status to the general, healthy population produces results strongly indicating that mercury exposures may be the cause of their neurological problems. Recent data also implicate mercury and mercury containing compounds as the likely cause of autism by an environmental toxin based on the fact that about 4 of 5 autistics are male and mercury is well known in the scientific literature to be lethal to male test animals more than females. Data is presented showing the effect is likely due to effects of estrogen versus testosterone on mercury retention.

An evaluation of the relative toxic effects of mercury and thimerosal show that the younger the infant the more toxic and lethal the effects can be. Mercury is primarily excreted in the feces of healthy subjects via the billary transport system of the liver, which is not developed in the youngest infants. An evaluation of the considerations of synergistic toxicities, genetic susceptibility, gender and infant age will be presented along with the basic biochemical and cellular level research that strongly supports the thimerosal causation of autism hypothesis. It is now well known that mercury in the fetal cord blood is much higher than in the mother's blood indicating that the fetus is being exposed to larger amounts of mercury per unit body weight than is the mother.

The retention and toxicity of mercury and mercury compounds is known to be enhanced by the presence of other synergistic factors that may or may not have toxicity by themselves. Such non-toxic compounds include antibiotics, a milk diet and male hormone. Toxic compounds such as other heavy metals (lead, aluminum) are well known to dramatically increase the toxicity of low levels of mercury exposures. Therefore, unless a total knowledge of the exposure to synergistic toxins are know it is impossible to define a safe level of mercury exposure for humans in the environment.

Presenter Presentation
Paul Hardy, MD

is a board certified neurologist with subspecialty training in behavioral neurology/neuropsychiatry. He has held teaching appointments at Harvard Medical School and Tufts University School of Medicine. For the past 30 years he has specialized in working with developmentally disabled individuals throughout their life cycle, particularly those with autism. Since 1997 he has been a Defeat Autism Now! physician, combining his academic background in neurology and psychiatry with the new concepts and treatments developed by Defeat Autism Now! A particular interest for him has been the recognition, evaluation, and treatment of developmentally disabled individuals with occult subclinical seizures. Often these seizures are not properly diagnosed and they can contribute to cognitive, linguistic, and behavioral disturbances.
Epilepsy in Autism: An Overview

The presentation "Epilepsy in Autism: An Overview" will discuss Dr. Hardy's extensive experience in evaluating and treating the unique issues of epilepsy in persons with autism. The general classification of epilepsy will be presented with a discussion of specific syndromes associated with autism, followed by the unique epidemiologic and treatment issues. The challenges of diagnosis will be reviewed, especially in children and in people who are nonverbal. Finally, the various treatments for epilepsy will be discussed beginning with dietary and nutriceutical treatments that should serve as the foundation for more standard pharmaceutical treatments. The role of the "therapeutic trial" will also be a focus of discussion.

Presenter Presentation
Laura Hewitson, PhD

earned her PhD in biological sciences at the University of York, UK. She has held the position of associate professor at the University of Pittsburgh for the last 7 years. Her research has focused on developing animal models to understand the genetic and environmental interactions that lead to infertility, adverse pregnancy outcomes, and abnormal neonatal developmental. In 2002, Dr. Hewitson spearheaded a new research program to develop a non-human primate model for studying the cumulative effects of thimerosal-containing vaccines on infant development. In 2008 she joined the staff at Thoughtful House in Austin, Texas, as a staff scientist in order to further pursue these studies full-time. She has published over 60 peer-reviewed scientific papers, invited reviews, and book chapters during her 15-year career as a researcher.
Primate Models for Testing Vaccine Safety

With the number of pediatric vaccines being recommended for infants increasing dramatically over the last decade, there remain concerns over cumulative and/or synergistic adverse effects. This presentation will describe the development of a non-human primate model to assess CNS, gastrointestinal, and immunologic consequences of the pediatric vaccine regimen. Vaccines containing a standardized, weight-adjusted dose of thimerosal, a mercury-based preservative, were administered to infant male macaques following the recommended pediatric vaccine regimen in place in the 1990s but adjusted for the faster development of macaques; unvaccinated animals received a saline placebo or no injections. Non-human primate infants underwent daily testing for the acquisition of neonatal reflexes, and subsequent behavioral and developmental assessments, including non-invasive imaging by PET and MRI. Neurodevelopmental outcomes in infant rhesus macaques receiving thimerosal (Th)-containing pediatric vaccines will be presented. The study findings will be discussed in relation to other animal and clinical studies of vaccine safety.

Presenter Presentation
Betsy Hicks

is the CEO of Elementals Living, a holistic health and wellness center in Delavan, Wisconsin, as well as a nationally known radio host, video anchor, and speaker on health and wellness topics. As the mother of a child with autism, Betsy is a passionate and gifted public speaker on holistic interventions for children with disabilities. A leading authority, diet counselor, and author on diet and nutrition, Betsy also specializes in "picky eating," helping parents find creative and practical techniques to overcome the picky eating habits of their children. Her new book, Picky Eating Solutions: Bringing the Joy of Real Food Back to the Table, although aimed primarily at parents, teaches everyone how to eat well for a lifetime of health and wellness.
Picky Eating Solutions

Join Betsy Hicks, author of Picky Eating Solutions: Bringing the Joy of Real Food Back to the Table, as she presents step-by-step methods for introducing vegetables and meats into your picky eater's diet. As a diet counselor for the past 12 years, wife of a pediatrician, and mother of child with autism, Betsy's techniques will turn meal time into a more pleasant experience filled with cooperation and nutrition. Whether your goal is to wean your child away from simple carbs or introduce greater variety in your child's diet, this lecture will help bring healthy harmony to your family table.

Presenter Presentation
Sonja Hintz, RN

graduated from Marquette University nursing school in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. At the age of 16 she worked at a group home for developmentally disabled adults. Professionally she worked as a public health nurse, psychiatric nurse, and neonatal intensive care nurse. After the birth of her second child, Sonja was compelled to reevaluate the traditional medical paradigms she had espoused in order to meet the needs of her son who was identified as being on the autism spectrum at 3 years old. Through the use of integrative therapies such as therapeutic diet, homeopathy, herbs, vitamins, essential oils, and chelation, in addition to traditional therapies (e.g., speech and language, occupational therapy, etc.), Sonja's son has recovered from autism. For the past 30 years, she has applied what she has learned to help other children improve the quality of their lives. Currently, Sonja is in practice at True Health Medical Center with Dr. Anju Usman.
What the Code 299.00 Doesn't Answer: Autism is Medical

Medical practitioners perceive autism as a behavioral disorder and often overlook how sick the children really are. They need your help to understand that a child's autistic symptoms result from underlying physical conditions that need medical treatment. Learn how to help your physician understand the metabolic, neuroimmune problems in your child. Doctors and practitioners need to be effective members of your team. The goals of this session will include reviews of current lab tests and correlations between the behaviors demonstrated by autistic children and the underlying pathology.

Presenter Presentation
Mary Holland, Esq, Jennifer Keefe, and Robert Krakow

Mary Holland, Esq.
is director of the Graduate Legal Skills Program at New York University School of Law. Educated at Harvard and Columbia Universities, Mary Holland has worked in international public and private law. Prior to joining NYU, Mary worked for six years at major U.S. law firms, with three years based in Moscow, Russia. She also worked at a major U.S. human rights advocacy organization, Human Rights First (then Lawyers Committee for Human Rights), as director of its European Program. After graduating law school, she clerked for a federal district court judge. She has taught international law courses at Columbia Law School and has served as a consultant to the Aspen Institute Justice and Society Program. Additionally, Mary researches and writes on legal issues related to autism and vaccines.

Jennifer Keefe
is a trial lawyer for a major national law firm who has been nominated by her peers four years in a row as one of Texas' Rising Stars in Texas Monthly Magazine (2006, 2007, 2008 & 2009). She assists clients in a wide range of business litigation, including patent infringement-related suits, financial institution disputes, and traditional oil and gas problems. Ms. Keefe has received several awards for her pro bono activities which have ranged from defending asylum cases before the U.S. Immigration courts for Human Rights Initiative of North Texas to advising on the steering committee for both BRAINS for Autism at the University of Texas Southwestern and the Elizabeth Birt Center for Autism Law and Advocacy. She received her undergraduate degree from Vanderbilt University and law degree from Southern Methodist University Dedman School of Law.

Robert Krakow
is an attorney in private practice in New York. Bob started his legal career with the New York Public Interest Research Group, a consumer advocacy organization. For nine years in the 1980s Bob was a prosecutor with the New York County (Manhattan) District Attorney's office, serving as Bureau Chief of the special narcotics prosecution division. He founded his law firm in 1989, focusing on the trial of civil and criminal cases, and specializing in the representation of individuals injured by exposure to vaccines. Bob represents families of children with autism in a variety of venues, including insurance coverage disputes, vaccine exemption issues, IDEA education disputes with school districts, and claims of educational and medical neglect.
Legal & Advocacy Training

Legal & Advocacy Training Presenters

Presenter Presentation
Mary Holland, Esq. & Louise Habakus

Mary Holland, Esq
(see above)

Louise Habakus, HHP, AADP
is a board-certified health practitioner specializing in integrative nutrition and homotoxicology. Louise was a corporate marketing executive for one of the world's largest global investment management firms before leaving the corporate world to raise her children. She received her master's and bachelor's degrees from Stanford University. Louise deferred to prevailing mainstream pediatric medicine and vaccinated her babies according to the CDC schedule. After learning that both of her children were vaccine-injured, Louise and her husband, Ron, embarked on a journey of recovery and advocacy. Louise lectures widely on the subject of parent vaccine choices and informed consent. She invites parents, grandparents, homeschoolers, soldiers, legislators, teachers, scientists, doctors and the press to listen, challenge, open their minds, and do their own research. Louise is a member of the New Jersey Coalition for Vaccination Choice and played a lead role in organizing the freedom of choice rally in Trenton last October, an event that attracted over seven hundred participants and received national press. Louise and Ron invited the world to their front lawn rally last fall to send a strong message to then-Senator Obama and Governor Corzine as they drove past her house en route to a fundraising event.
Take Back Our Rights!

Come learn how to turn the fight for our kids' recovery into a mainstream American movement for justice and freedom. We will talk about the tools to get the truth out and to fight for real choice for vaccines for ourselves and our children. Join Louise Kuo Habakus, Age of Autism's Person of the Year, and Mary Holland, Esq., to learn how to become the advocates for change that we so desperately need. Louise has spearheaded many rallies for vaccination choice, including one on the steps of the New Jersey legislature that garnered national news headlines and led the way to the incumbent governor's defeat. Mary has represented the autism and vaccination choice communities in friend-of-the-court briefs in the two of the most important vaccine and autism cases ever - one before the Supreme Court and one in an appeal from the Omnibus Autism Proceeding - giving legal voice to the indignation of our communities. Check out www.americanpersonalrights.org - and come organize!

Presenter Presentation
David Holmes, EdD

is board certified in forensic science, behavioral science and psychology. He is a certified/licensed chief school administrator/supervisor/principal and teacher. Dr. Holmes is currently the chairman and CEO of Lifespan Services, LLC; a full service consulting company established to help families and individuals with autism and related disabilities get what they need and what they are entitled to have. Lifespan Services has offices in Princeton, NJ and serves people nationally and internationally. He is immediate past president and founder of The Eden Family of Services and the longest standing chairman of the Panel of Professional Advisors of the Autism Society of America. He has served on the faculties of numerous universities and most recently [28 years] on the psychology faculty at Princeton University. He has been a featured guest on many TV and radio shows, including National Public Radio's Talk of the Nation, CNN's House Call, the Discovery Channel and CBS News Weekend Journal. Dr. Holmes is a national award-winning author of numerous books, book chapters and articles, most notably, Autism through the Lifespan-The Eden Model. Dr. Holmes was nominated [2007] and served as a fellow, to the 32nd Federal Institute on Rehabilitation Issues (IRI) in Washington, D.C. Dr. Holmes is the host of the international radio show Adults with Autism - TODAY! at www.autismone.org
The Needs and Wants of Adults on the Autism Spectrum; Lessons learned from the Autism One Radio Show

Serving as Host to Autism One Radio's Adults on the Autism Spectrum: Today!, I have obtained numerous views as to what adults with autism want and need. These perspectives have come from family members, service providers, advocates and from adults with autism themselves. This presentation will address some of the pressing issues of the day when it comes to what it is that Adults with Autism want and need and how to access supports that will give them a quality of life that they truly deserve.

Presenter Presentation
Devin Houston, PhD

obtained his doctorate in biochemistry from the University of South Alabama College of Medicine. His graduate work focused on enzyme discovery, and subsequent research at University of Virginia and Saint Louis University focused on enzymatic mechanisms involved in cellular communication. Dr. Houston followed his academic career with several years of research and development in enzyme manufacturing. This lead to his discovery of DPP-IV in certain enzyme blends and the eventual invention of the first proteolytic enzyme product targeted for those with autism. Dr. Houston then formed his own companies, Houston Nutraceuticals, Inc. and Houston Enzymes, in order to continue further development of novel enzyme products. Dr. Houston spends much of his time educating the public about enzymes and speaks at no cost at autism conferences and support groups.
Enzymes, Peptides and Autism: New Meaning to "GFCF"?

The primary goal of digestion is to reduce bulk foods to the simplest elements: amino acids, sugars, and fatty acids. When digestion is impaired the breakdown of foods may be incomplete. Incomplete digestion of proteins leads to production of bioactive peptides. Some of these peptides may be problematic in certain populations, especially those with immune system problems or food allergies. Those with autism are also prone to these same problems. The use of acid-stable digestive enzyme products provides a mechanism whereby proteins may be safely and completely digested prior to the point of absorption from the gut. For those with "food intolerances," today's enzyme products may provide relief. In the very near future, specific protease enzymes may potentially be approved treatments for diseases such as celiac.

Presenter Presentation
Darin Ingels, ND

is a respected leader in natural medicine with numerous publications, international lectures, and more than 19 years experience in the healthcare field. He received his bachelor's degree in medical technology from Purdue University and his Doctorate of Naturopathic Medicine from Bastyr University in Seattle, Washington. Dr. Ingels completed a residency program at the Bastyr Center for Natural Health. He is a licensed naturopathic physician in Connecticut and California, where he maintains practices in both states. Dr. Ingels is a member of the American Association of Naturopathic Physicians, the Connecticut Naturopathic Physicians Association, the New York Association of Naturopathic Physicians, the American Academy of Environmental Medicine, and the Holistic Pediatric Association. For the past ten years, he has served on the Board of Directors for the Naturopathic Physicians Licensing Exam (NPLEX) as the chair of Microbiology and Immunology. Dr. Ingels' practice focuses on autistic spectrum disorders with special emphasis on chronic immune dysfunction, including allergies, asthma, recurrent or persistent infections, and other genetic or acquired immune problems. He uses diet, nutrients, herbs, homeopathy, and immunotherapy to help his children achieve better health.
The Role of Allergy Desensitization in Autism

Studies show that allergies affect more than 50 million people in the United States and that this number rises each year. Exposure to inhalants, pollens, chemicals and foods can all be triggers for allergic reactions, leading to chronic runny or stuffy nose, asthma, eczema, bowel problems, behavior problems, or mood disorders to name a few. Allergies have been shown to affect any organ system and have been associated with long-term immune deficiency. Evidence suggests children with autism are highly sensitive and therefore more susceptible to the effects of these allergens. We will explore how to identify various allergies/sensitivities and how sublingual immunotherapy (SLIT) can effectively desensitize the immune system against the offending allergens. We will also briefly discuss the role of classical homeopathy in the treatment of autism.

Presenter Presentation
Laurette Janak

is a parent-researcher and mother of a child on the autism spectrum who also has Down syndrome and leukemia. She has presented at the Autism One national conferences since 2007 on children who have a dual diagnosis of Down syndrome and autism. In 2009 Laurette presented on the newly published biochemical data found in the parents of children with autism including a discussion of the health consequences of these findings. Additionally, she did a live online tutorial to instruct parents on how they can research medical literature to find published scientific studies relating to their children's health concerns. Her most recent work includes appearing in a December 2009 episode of the Discovery Green TV show Toxic Files.
What the IOM Coulda, Woulda and Shoulda known about subpopulations of vaccine sensitive individuals: Lessons from Down syndrome and autism

About 10% of children with Down syndrome have a dual diagnosis of autism. Had the biochemistry of this high-risk group been properly investigated, the IOM Could have known, Would have known, and Should have known that there are subpopulations of children who have enhanced susceptibility to injury from vaccines. During this presentation, Laurette will go through the science that was published and available to the Institutes of Medicine prior to their 2004 vaccine/autism declaration. Topics to be included are mercury sensitivity, aluminum toxicity, dysfunctional mitochondria, and immune overload. While specific to children with Down syndrome, the insights gained from this talk can be applied to the general population of children with autism.

Presenter Presentation
Jennifer Johnson, ND

has a 10-year background in the medical field as a nurse in internal medicine, cardiology, and family practice. Jennifer holds a doctorate of naturopathic, accredited by the American Naturopathic Medical and Accreditation Board, Inc. She specializes in lymphatic decongestive therapy, low level laser detox therapy, and ozone infrared sauna therapy. Jennifer has integrated cutting-edge energy medicine technologies into her practice with great success and has an enthusiasm for it that is truly contagious. Her special affinity for this emerging technology, coupled with her innate ability to relate to both medical and holistic health professionals, make her especially qualified for using energy medicine in the area of autism recovery. Finally, she is the co-founder and president of the Foundation for the Advancement of Energy Medicine Technology (FAEMT), an organization dedicated to research and support of this emerging field.
Lymphatic Therapy - the Missing Piece

Jennifer Johnson, ND, will speak on lymphatic therapy and how it is the missing link for autism recovery. She will include how lymphatic decongestive therapy prepares the body to be at its optimum level of detoxification prior to laser energetic detox. Also she will include how lymphatic decongestive therapy works in conjunction with the Zyto as well as how it complements IVIG treatment and chelation. This will be done with a slide-show presentation. This will be followed by a demonstration of the electro-lymphatic drainage machine and there will be time for questions and answers.

Presenter Presentation
Harumi Jyonouchi, MD

is an associate professor of pediatrics at the University of Medicine and Dentistry, New Jersey Medical School (UMDNJ-NJMS). She is a board-certified pediatrician and allergist/immunologist. Her previous and current research has been focused on addressing immune abnormalities and allergic problems in children with autism spectrum disorders (ASD). In the previous studies, ASD children were evaluated in the Pediatric Allergy/Immunology Clinic at her institution and underwent a comprehensive allergy/immunology workup.

The results of her previous studies indicated high prevalence of non-IgE mediated food allergy or food protein induced enterocolitis syndrome (FPIES) in young ASD children, with milk and soy being the major causative food proteins. Non-IgE mediated, delayed type reaction to food proteins may partly account for gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms frequently observed in young ASD children and favorable responses to a milk-free, soy-free diet in ASD children. Her studies also indicated that a subset of ASD children have distinguished abnormalities of innate immunity in association with their susceptibility to common childhood microbial infection. Such a condition also likely triggers chronic or recurrent inflammation which may lead to subsequent worsening behavioral symptoms and even recurrent loss of cognitive activities in this subset of ASD children.
IgE or non-IgE mediated allergy in ASD children (Friday lecture)

IgE mediated allergic diseases (allergic rhinoconjunctivitis, atopic asthma, and food allergy) are prevalent (up to 30%) in the general population and are increasing in developed countries. In infants and young children, non-IgE mediated food allergy (NFA) or food protein induced enterocolitis syndrome (FPIES) is also prevalent. In addition to easily recognized organ specific symptoms, allergic diseases can cause neuropsychiatric symptoms, such as irritability and hyperactivity in otherwise healthy individuals. This is likely to occur in children with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) as well. Moreover, the discomfort and pain associated with allergic diseases could aggravate behavioral symptoms in ASD children due to limited expressive language. Allergic conditions, including FPIES, are easily treatable and have good prognosis. However, ASD children tend to be under-diagnosed and/or under-treated, in part due to impaired communication skills. Practicing physicians need to be aware of the potential impact of allergic diseases on behavioral symptoms and cognitive activity in ASD children. However, they also need to be aware that certain symptoms that are often attributed to "allergy" may not be immune-mediated.

Presenter Presentation
Harumi Jyonouchi, MD

(see above)
Inflammation and immune abnormalities in ASD children (Saturday lecture)

ASDs are complex developmental disorders encompassing markedly heterogeneous patient populations. Various comorbidities, such as gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms, are frequently observed in ASD children. ASD children are also known to be at a higher risk of developing epilepsy. Risk factors for developing epilepsy may include the severity of cognitive impairment, language/social regression, and age. In our previous studies, we found evidence of aberrant immune responses in a subset of ASD children. Their clinical features were characterized by frequent infection with community-acquired microbes, prolonged courses of illness, and markedly fluctuating behavioral symptoms with infection. Loss of once acquired cognitive/social skills was also observed. In this subset of ASD children, ongoing or recurrent systemic and brain inflammation is suspected given evidence of dysregulated inflammatory responses of immune cells. An increased incidence of seizure disorders in this subset of ASD children has also been observed. Moreover, these children seem to exhibit treatment-resistant seizure disorders. Inflammation is well known for its triggering or exacerbating effects on neurological disorders. The involvement of inflammation in the pathogenesis of epilepsy and/or seizure-induced brain damage has been recognized. Therefore, inflammatory components may need to be considered when treating ASD children with seizure disorders.

Presenter Presentation
Jerry Kartzinel, MD

is board certified pediatrician and a Fellow in the American Academy of Pediatrics. He specializes in the recovery of neurodevelopmental and chronic inflammatory diseases in children. After receiving his medical degree at St. Louis University School of Medicine, he completed his residency in pediatric medicine in the Air Force. Following Desert Storm, Dr. Kartzinel practiced general pediatrics in private practice for 10 years until his fourth boy was diagnosed with autism. A nationally recognized speaker on children's health issues, Dr. Kartzinel has presented medical interventions that work to improve the lives of children who suffer from many types of medical conditions that include: autism, allergies, inflammatory bowel disease, chronic constipation, chronic diarrhea, and sleep cycle disruptions. He regularly teaches Continuing Medical Education courses on Children's Health issues to physicians and other health professionals. His clinical approach is to treat the whole child by carefully obtaining a full and complete history and based on this history, obtaining very detailed laboratory evaluations. Based on these results, individualized plans are implemented integrating the very latest medical interventions that include both traditional and complementary medicine approaches.
Healing of Autism

In this presentation, Dr. Kartzinel will explain some of the known broken biochemistry involved with autism - because if we know and understand what's broken, then we can specifically target interventions that may greatly impact restoration of health. In addition, there will be a discussion on toxicity and its impact on oxidative stress and inflammation and how this contributes to chronic illness. Finally, Dr. Kartzinel will present therapeutic interventions that you can implement today!

Learning objectives:
1. To discuss the probable roles of toxicity in autism
2. To discuss the possible biological pathways that that cause a susceptibility in autism
3. To discuss the effects of diet and supplementation in children with autism
4. To discuss the biological effects of targeted nutritional interventions
5. To discuss the effects of restoration of bowel health

Presenter Presentation
Brian King, LCSW

is a licensed clinical social worker in private practice in Naperville, Illinois, where he brings a unique three-fold perspective to the world of Asperger's. Brian is not only a father of three sons on the autism spectrum and has a practice focusing exclusively on working with Asperger's clients and their families, but Brian is also blessed with Asperger's himself.

Through his books, website, and interactive presentations, Brian has become known worldwide for his positive approach to living the Asperger's experience. He is dedicating his time to serving as an ambassador between the Asperger's and neurotypical communities. His goal is to help both communities learn to better communicate, appreciate and cooperate with each other in a spirit of mutual respect.
My Sensory World: A social worker with Asperger's describes his sensory experience

This popular presentation is back. In his unique interactive style, Brian R. King, LCSW, explains his sensory integration issues in great detail as well as how he manages them. He describes how they impact his everyday, personal, professional, and family life. Brian will also take the time to help you understand the sensory world of the Spectrumites in your life.

Presenter Presentation
Brian King, LCSW

(see above)
How Do I Ask For Help?: Self Advocacy 101

In this interactive presentation, Brian will discuss the barriers to asking for help in the mind of someone with Asperger's. He will also describe how to address those barriers and establish the skills necessary for effective self-advocacy.

Presenter Presentation
Brian King, LCSW

(see above)
Win-Win Parenting For the Autism Spectrum Child: How To Turn Your Relationship From A Competition Into A Collaboration

In this FREE interactive day long training, Brian R. King, LCSW, will walk you through the key concepts and skills that are the foundation of his 6-month "Win-Win Parenting for Success" program.

Brian will instruct attendees on the Rules of Win-Win Relationships, the four most important relationships in a Spectrum child's life, how to teach your Spectrum child to buy into being disciplined and more. . . This training is bound to be full, so show up early and bring your questions for what is sure to be a rich and powerful dialogue.

Presenter Presentation
David Kirby

is author of the new book Animal Factory - The Looming Threat of Industrial Pig, Dairy and Poultry Farms to Humans and the Environment, published by St. Martin's Press. He also wrote the award-winning New York Times bestseller, Evidence of Harm, Mercury in Vaccines and the Autism Epidemic - A Medical Controversy. He has appeared on Meet the Press, Larry King Live, the Today Show, Imus in the Morning, ABC's The View, CNN, CNBC, MSNBC, Montel Williams, NPR, Air America, and more than 100 local radio and television stations. Kirby was also an original contributor to the Huffington Post, where he blogs about health, environmental, and farming issues. He has been a professional journalist for over 15 years, including extensive contributions to The New York Times. Kirby was a foreign correspondent in Mexico and Central America from 1986-1990, and he also worked in politics, medical research and public relations in New York City.
Metals, Myelin, Mitochondria and Mouse Virus? - Possible Paths to ASD

David Kirby will discuss recent scientific and legal developments over the past year or so that support the idea of a major role for environmental factors in many cases of autism spectrum disorders - especially regressive autism. His talk will show how toxins and triggers found in the natural environment, as well as ingredients in certain vaccines, might combine with certain genetic susceptibilities to create the symptoms we know of as ASD. Specifically, Kirby will discuss how toxic metals, demyelinating disorders, mitochondrial dysfunction, and possibly XMRV virus - whether associated with vaccines or not - might contribute to the rising number of autism cases over the past decade or two. Along those lines, he will discuss new government estimates of an ASD prevalence of 1-in-100 children, 1-in-60 boys. Kirby will also discuss the potential implications of the XMRV retrovirus reportedly found in some children with ASD.

Presenter Presentation
Leah Kmetz, MT-BC

has been a music therapist for Fairfax County Public Schools in Northern Virginia for six years. She has a master's degrees from Shenandoah Conservatory where she focused in working with technology in music therapy practice. After school hours, she works privately with autistic children.
Autism: Finding the Groove

This presentation will provide information on music therapy practice and how a board certified music therapist can help people with autism, in addition to identifying new ways to help reach the potential hidden amongst silence.

Presenter Presentation
Steve Kossor

is a licensed psychologist and certified school psychologist with more than 30 years of clinical experience. He founded the Institute for Behavior Change in 1996. He has been recognized by the U.S. Congress, both houses of the Pennsylvania legislature, and by the President's New Freedom Commission on Mental Health for his visionary leadership in the creation of a successful in-home and in-school treatment model for children with serious behavioral difficulties. Independent researchers at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill examined 301 treatment records and found a statistically significant association between delivery of treatment using Mr. Kossor's model and reductions in physical aggression, noncompliance with adult prompts, socialization deficits, and communication deficits in children between the ages of 2 and 17 with autism, ADHD, and other disabling conditions. Mr. Kossor teaches parents and professionals how to create excellent behavioral treatment plans, how Medicaid can be used to fund them (regardless of family income), and how to get and keep treatment funding, despite Managed Care and other obstacles.
Funding treatment with Medicaid - a terrific (but concealed) resource

The program describes the tug-of-war that exists between state government agents (striving to minimize costs and assure funding for their favorite projects) and the Medicaid Act (which guarantees funding for the treatment of children who are afflicted with disabilities). Participants will understand Medicaid benefits (hint: they're not just for "poor" people) and how to access them to fund treatment for children with disabilities, including all autism spectrum disorders (ASD), throughout the US. The presenter is a licensed psychologist and certified school psychologist who has been using Medicaid to fund successful behavioral treatment for children with ASD since 1992, at no cost to parents whatsoever.

Presenter Presentation
Constantine Kotsanis, MD

is board certified in otolaryngology (ear, nose, and throat) by the American Board of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery. He has practiced in the Dallas-Ft. Worth area of Texas for 27 years and for most of his career has been treating autism, learning and behavior disorders and lecturing internationally on this and other topics. The basic biomedical treatments for autism spectrum individuals evolved out of the original research "A Multidisciplinary Approach to Autism Treatment." This work was a collaborative effort with dietician/nutritionist Lyn Dart, while she was a masters candidate at Texas Women's University (She is now a professor in nutrition sciences at Texas Christian University), and Christopher Harjes, MS/CCC, a master-prepared audiologist when they worked together in the early and mid-90s. The work that was foundational to Dr. Kotsanis' efforts was done years before by pioneers such as Theron Randolph, MD, William Rea, MD, Doris Rapp, MD, William H. Philpott, MD and numerous other thought leaders in orthomolecular and environmental medicine and allergy and immunology. Many years ago Dr. Kotsanis realized that all chronic conditions share common ground. Thus he has incorporated nutritional treatments into his practice that address the neuro-endocrine-immune system pathways. Over the years that he has practiced metabolic medicine he has brought treatments to his patients from all over the world. He has also earned the designation of Certified Clinical Nutritionist (CCN) by examination. In addition to his surgery, allergy and nutrition credentials, Dr. Kotsanis has training in homeopathy, acupuncture, neural therapy, and other forms of energy medicine. His treatments now incorporate nutrition, homeopathy, oxidative and botanical medicine in addition to other methods.
Hot Tips: Autism Spectrum Disorder - Navigating From Diagnosis Through Treatment

This presentation will address the main points that are helpful for an effective patient history and physical exam. This includes the parents naming the top 10 specific areas of concern. The more unique these concerns are to their child the more on target treatments will be. Dr. Kotsanis will also talk about what he looks for in the physical exam that gives him clues for further testing and treatment options. This will be followed by a discussion of supplementation with vitamins, herbs, homeopathics and minerals as well as clean alkaline water, clean air and minimizing environmental toxins. He will conclude with the prenatal health of the parents, genetics, epigenetics and nutrition aspects as well as political and financial issues and actions that can be taken proactively to position the child and the family safely for the future.

Presenter Presentation
Susan Vaughan Kratz, OTR, CST

has over 25 years clinical experience as an occupational therapist in the fields of pediatrics and adult neurodevelopmental and neurorehabilitation. She holds specialized training and certifications in Neurodevelopmental Therapy (NDT), sensory integration, and advanced craniosacral therapy. She is a frequent invited lecturer on these subjects and has published several case reviews on the clinical outcomes of craniosacral therapy. She currently is the owner and clinical director of Special Therapies, Inc. in Waukesha, Wisconsin, a specialized therapy clinic.
Craniosacral Therapy - Are We Helping the Brain Heal?

Typical behavioral and functional impairments seen in autism spectrum disorders may be, in part, due to the effects of inner chaos created by the abnormal grasp, squeeze, and irritation of inflamed membranes on the brain. Craniosacral therapy has been clinically demonstrated to help some individuals with autistic features reduce pain behaviors, promote a calm and relaxed state, reduce sensory hypersensitivities, and even increase vocalizations. Ms. Kratz will review the history of craniosacral therapy, discuss the differences between basic intervention to advanced levels, and present case subjects from her clinical practice as an occupational therapist after 10 years utilizing this treatment.

Presenter Presentation
Arthur Krigsman, MD

is a pediatrician and board-certified pediatric gastroenterologist, and an assistant professor of pediatrics at New York University School of Medicine in New York. He has extensive experience in the evaluation and treatment of gastrointestinal disease in children with autism spectrum disorder and participates in the growing field of research designed to better understand GI disease in this group of children. He has presented his findings in peer-reviewed journals and has shared his experience at scientific and lay meetings, and at a congressional hearing dealing with autism and its possible causes.
Pharmaceutical Agents of Interest In the Development of Clinical Treatment Trials of Autism Associated Enterocolitis

Autism associated enterocolitis has been shown to be a unique variant of inflammatory bowel disease, separate and distinct from other known IBDs. However, striking similarities to Crohn's disease exist in the clinical presentation, anatomic distribution, histologic findings, cytokine profiles, and observed responses to pharmaceutical agents. These similarities will be discussed and pharmaceutical agents that are best candidates for clinical treatment trials will be presented.

Presenter Presentation
Mary Jo Lang, PhD

Dr. Mary Jo Lang founded Beacon Day School, Orange, California, in June 2004 to open up the world of possibilities for students with Austism Spectrum Disorders. She has been involved with the care of children for more than 25 years, first as a Nurse Practitioner and educator, then as an educational psychologist. In 1988, Dr. Lang graduated from the University of Southern California with her PhD in Educational Psychology. A Diplomat of the American Board of Neuropsychology, Dr. Lang has been a practicing, licensed psychologist in the area of neuropsychology since 1991. A member of several professional organizations, including the National Academy of Neuropsychology and the International Neuropsychology Society, Dr. Lang is also an Assistant Clinical Professor in the Department of Pediatrics at the University of California, Irvine.
Autism, the Brain, Thinking, & Behavior

The purpose of this talk is to discuss an integrative educational care that is able to facilitate academic, behavioral, and emotional progress for children with autism. An educational philosophy that allows for the enhancement of a child's/adolescent's strengths and minimizes challenges is critical to his/her success. A model was developed to provide an organization of critical issues that will enhance the understanding of successfully parenting and educating children with autism. This model for child development looks at the context and each area of development (communication, social skills, motor skills, and academic accomplishments). By understanding these aspects, along with communication and socialization, the biological, psychological, social, and academic skills will be enhanced.

Specifically, this talk will assist the learner in understanding areas of child development that impact children/adolescents with autism spectrum disorder. This includes cognition, adaptive behavior, social skills and roles, health, and medical issues. These will all be discussed in the context of the family and school setting.

Parents will be able to understand ways of assessing these areas and related interventions for home and school. A case study will be presented in order to apply this information.

Presenter Presentation
M. Elizabeth Latimer, MD & Laura Matheos

M. Elizabeth Latimer, MD
received her medical degree at Tufts University School of Medicine in Boston. Her residencies were in pediatrics and neurology with special certification in child neurology at Walter Reed Army Medical Center. She was chief of the Child Neurology Division at Georgetown University Hospital for five years and then worked at Fairfax Hospital before opening her own private practice of neurology in Bethesda. Dr. Latimer specializes in caring for cerebral palsy patients who require spasticity management, in addition to her general neurology and headache practice. She has been cited in the Washingtonian Magazine as an outstanding neurologist.

Laura Matheos
has a BA in Communications from Wake Forest University and an MBA from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. She and her husband are raising two young children and advocate for families struggling to find medical support for the treatment of PANDAS.
PANDAS - A Clinical View and Treatment Options

Dr. Latimer will speak about her clinical experiences in treating PANDAS patients. She will discuss the factors she considers in making a diagnosis, the common presentations of the disease, and which treatments have proven effective for her patients. Co-presenter Laura Matheos will speak about her family's experiences in finding a PANDAS diagnosis for their son, the family's frustrations in fighting a skeptical medical community, and her son's treatment progress. She will also speak about current resources available to families.

Presenter Presentation
Roy Leonardi, EdD

is assistant professor of special education, Central Connecticut State University, School of Education & Professional Studies, Department of Special Education in New Britain, Connecticut. Dr. Leonardi teaches graduate and undergraduate courses in special education. He developed and teaches a program for teachers who work with people with autism. He has assisted in the development of an Autism Certification Program. Dr. Leonardi teaches a class on autism spectrum disorders & ABA in the summer session. He is the faculty advisor for Best Buddies and was selected as faculty advisor of the year for the 2007-2008 academic year.
Targets of Violence: The Physical Restraint of Children with Autism

In 2009 the U.S. House of Representatives conducted hearings on the seclusion and restraint of children with disabilities in public and private settings. Highlights of this investigation have been published by the Government Accountability Office. Included in this report, and in other reports, is documentation of the restraint and seclusion of children with autism. The restraint of children with autism has become a national concern, especially for their families. Children have been seriously injured and killed while being restrained by teachers and other staff. In spite of a federal law, the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), the use of restraints and seclusion frequently are not a part of the child's Individualized Education Plan (IEP). As a result, the school's actions are not part of a child's planned program, which is a violation of the spirit and the intent of IDEA. This presentation will examine incidences of children being placed in harm's way by school staff. In most, if not all instances, school staff was not adequately trained to intervene with a child in crisis. Finally, this presentation will explore methods of intervention that are safe when an adult works with a child in crisis.

Presenter Presentation
Jeffrey Lewine, PhD

was recently appointed as a professor of translational neuroscience at the MIND Research Network in Albuquerque, New Mexico. He is also the chief executive and scientific officer of the Center for Innovative Neuroscientific Technologies and Therapies, Inc., a not-for-profit organization devoted to the scientific evaluation of novel diagnostic and treatment approaches to neurological, psychiatric, and developmental disabilities. Prior to accepting these positions, he was the executive director of the Alexian Brothers Center for Brain Research and the Illinois Magnetoencephalography Center in Chicago. Dr. Lewine received his doctorate in neuroscience in 1988 from the University of Rochester. Following completion of his graduate training, he was named a Director's Fellow at Los Alamos National Laboratory where he worked on the development of advanced brain imaging technologies. Dr. Lewine has previously directed functional brain imaging programs in New Mexico, Utah, Kansas, and Illinois. He is a member of the College of Scientific Reviewers for the National Institutes of Health and a member of the executive boards for the American Clinical Magnetoencephalography Society and the International Society for the Advancement of Clinical MEG. Dr. Lewine is the coauthor of a textbook on functional brain imaging and he has authored more than 100 articles and book chapters. He has done research on a wide range of clinical conditions including autism, ADHD, depression, dyslexia, epilepsy, schizophrenia, post-traumatic stress disorder and traumatic brain injury. His research on the relationship between epileptiform activity and autism has been funded, in part, by NARSAD, Cure Autism Now, the March of Dimes, the National Science Foundation, and the National Institutes of Health.
Epileptiform Activity in the Autistic Brain: Cause, Consequence, or Co-Morbidity

The observation that almost 30% of children with autism develop clinical seizures by the time that they reach adolescence is one of the fundamental observations in support of the biological basis of autism. Yet, the relationships between clinical seizures, "sub-clinical" epileptiform activity, and autism are poorly understood. At present it is uncertain if epileptiform activity is simply co-morbid with autism, a consequence of the underlying neurobiological abnormalities of autism, or a possible cause of at least some specific features of autism. In this presentation I will explore the hypothesis that, in many cases, the autistic brain is hyper-excitable and prone to epileptiform discharges because of malfunctions in inhibitory GABA systems and/or excitatory glutamine systems. Through normal mechanisms of cortical plasticity and learning, these discharges become self-reinforcing and lead to epileptogenic neural circuits that are no longer able to support normal function and which, through axonal connections, disrupt normal processing in other networks. In some cases, the critically disruptive epileptiform activity may be triggered by other factors including abnormal signaling pathways, abnormal immunological responses, or environmental toxins. The presence of epileptiform activity is a common thread linking almost all of the genetic conditions associated with autism [e.g., tuberous sclerosis complex, Fragile-X, etc.] and also a common finding in conditions of environmental toxicity [e.g., mercury poisoning]. Using functional brain imaging data from magnetoencephalography [a noninvasive method for recording the magnetic signals generated by the brain's electrical activity], I will provide evidence that auditory and language cortices are especially prone to the development of epileptogenic circuits in autism, and that this is specifically related to language dysfunction. Finally, I will explore how suppression of epileptiform activity in the autistic brain via pharmacological intervention can lead to improvements in language skills and a reduction of autistic features.

Presenter Presentation
Jeffrey Lewine, PhD and Sally Brockett

(see above)

Sally Brockett
Auditory Integration Training

This presentation will provide an overview of the use of Berard Auditory Integration Training, a music-based intervention for the treatment of sound hypersensitivities and other behavioral, speech, and language issues in children with autism spectrum disorders. Ms. Brockett will present a brief history of AIT, a discussion of how it is done, and how it compares with other music interventions. Sally will also summarize the results of some of her clinical evaluations of the benefits of AIT. Dr. Lewine will talk about the biology of sound sensitivities and provide some objective scientific data on the efficacy for some children. He will then discuss how he is using advanced brain imaging methods to examine how AIT works and to define biological profiles for those children most likely to respond to AIT.

Presenter Presentation
Lisa Lundy

is the author of The Super Allergy Girl™ Allergy & Celiac Cookbook, a gluten-free, casein-free, and other allergen-free cookbook. She is the mother of three food allergy and celiac children. She and her husband have spent over $100,000 in out-of-pocket medical expenses to save the life of their youngest child, who has an immune dysfunction resulting in the inability to absorb vitamins and minerals (malnutrition and malabsorption). Lisa is a credentialed public speaker who lectures on health and wellness, food allergies, celiac disease, the gluten-free and GF/CF diets, and other business topics. She is the host of an Autism One Radio program and writes for a variety of magazines and online websites. Lisa is also the volunteer executive coordinator of several national integrative medicine physician organizations.
How to use a Rotation Diet and Food Families to Reduce Food Allergies and Sensitivities

Food allergies have risen 24% among children under the age of 5 and 19% among children ages 5-17 in the last decade according to the National Center for Health Statistics. Historically, physicians throughout the world have used a rotation or rotary diet to reduce and/or prevent the development of new food allergies and sensitivities. During this presentation, Lisa will go through the history of food allergies, rotation and rotary diets, food families, and how to set up and use a rotation diet to improve health outcomes. The benefits from this talk, while valuable for the general population, are specifically targeted to those individuals and families with multiple food allergies and sensitivities or intolerances.

Presenter Presentation
Daniel and Jenni Lupinski

Daniel Lupinski, with an extensive professional background in biomedical engineering, has been exploring and performing shamanic healing work for the past 30 years. He has studied extensively with anthropologist Michael Harner, PhD, author of The Way of The Shaman, as well as completing a 3-year advanced program at the Foundation for Shamanic Studies. While a student, Dr. Harner likened Daniel's work to what he had seen with Mongolian shamans in the field. Working as a husband and wife shaman team, Daniel and his wife, Jenni, (who have a child recovering from autism) have together performed hundreds of traditional shamanic healing ceremonies and have taught extensively around country for the past 15 years.
Shamanic Healing and Autism

What is shamanic healing, how is the state achieved, what is seen, and how healing can be accomplished will be discussed and experienced. We will use the drum to journey into this waking "dreamtime" state of consciousness to view the virtual spirit reality that all primal/tribal people know well and that is the foundation and home of all shamanic experiences. Soul loss, illness intrusions, and familial/spirit possession and their observable effects as well as "seeing" a clear treatment direction from a shamanic perspective will be central to our discussion and experience. As a follow-up, the film Horse Boy will be shown on Thursday evening. Parents are encouraged to bring their children to the second half of this 2-hour workshop. Please bring a small blanket to sit on!

Presenter Presentation
Derrick MacFabe, MD

is assistant professor and director of the Kilee Patchell-Evans Autism Research Group, Depts. of Psychology (Neuroscience) & Psychiatry (Division of Developmental Disabilities) at the Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada. As the principal investigator of the Kilee Patchell-Evans Autism Research Group, he is examining the role of genetics, biochemistry and environment on the identification and possible treatments of autism spectrum disorders. Dr. MacFabe's research concerning potential gastrointestinal links in autism has recently been listed among the "Top 50 Scientific Discoveries in Canada" by the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada.
Common Infections, Chronic Antibiotics, Clostridia, Carnitine and Convulsions: Gut bacterial metabolites as possible triggers of autism associated epilepsy and movement disorder (Sunday, May 30, 8-9 am)

Clinical observations suggest that gut and dietary factors transiently worsen, and in some cases appear to improve, symptoms in autism spectrum disorders (ASDs). Recent clinical evidence suggests there is a high association of seizure disorder and abnormal electroencephalographic changes in this difficult to examine population. Furthermore, tics and repetitive behaviors, core features of persons with ASDs, resemble behaviors found in movement disorders. Can a common factor link these disparate findings in autism? This lecture outlines basic science and clinical evidence that short chain fatty acids, present in diet and produced by opportunistic gut bacterial infections following antibiotic exposure, may be key triggers in ASD associated seizure and movement disorder. It discusses that these compounds have widespread effects on behavior, brain electrical activity, immune system and metabolism which may have major implications in ASD diagnosis, cause and treatment.

Presenter Presentation
Derrick MacFabe, MD

(see above)
The propionic acid rodent model of autism: Are short chain fatty acid fermentation products from opportunistic clostridial infections possible environmental triggers in autism? (Sunday, May 30, 1:30-2:30 pm)

The lecture examines the possible role of infectious agents in the causes and symptoms of autism spectrum disorders (ASDs). It discusses the effects of a series of infective and dietary agents of increasing incidence that are capable of inducing brain changes and complex behaviors (i.e., aggression, biting, food craving, perseveration, social impairment, hyperactivity, obsessive compulsive activity, sensory sensitivity) in humans and experimental animals. Dr. MacFabe presents his current research examining the ability of a panel of gut bacterial metabolic products (i.e., short chain fatty acids) associated with antibiotic induced clostridial infections, and their ability to produce brain neuroinflammatory, metabolic, epigenetic and behavioural changes closely resembling those found in ASDs. It discusses the hypothesis that ASDs are produced by pre or post-natal antibiotic resistant clostridial infections in sensitive subpopulations.

Presenter Presentation
Valerie Maclean

neurodevelopmental educational therapist, is a Certified HANDLE® Practitioner and Instructor. The Phoenix Alternative Learning Centre, which is located in Peterborough, Ontario, is a therapeutic center within an educational environment where students participate in academic, cognitive, and neurodevelopmental programs. The Phoenix Centre for Neurodevelopment is a clinical setting. Clients from across Canada and the U.S.A. participate in the Neurodevelopmental Evaluation and Gentle Enhancement Therapeutic Program. Additionally, Phoenix continues to provide HANDLE® courses across Canada. Valerie has given many presentations at national and international conferences. She is Canada's first Certified HANDLE® Practitioner and Canada's only instructor.
HANDLE®: Helping Extraordinary People Do Ordinary Things

This presentation will cover the international award-winning HANDLE® (Holistic Approach to NeuroDevelopment and Learning Efficiency) approach. This presentation explores the work of Judith Bluestone, the originator of the HANDLE® (Holistic Approach to NeuroDevelopment and Learning Efficiency) approach. In her book The Fabric of Autism, Weaving the Threads into a Cogent Theory, Bluestone combines her personal autistic experience with academic research and more than 40 years of clinical practice to craft a unique and compelling view of the phenomenon called autism. This will be a presentation that will forever change your strategies in approaching sensory, learning, social and behavioral challenges often associated with autism spectrum disorders.

Presenter Presentation
Cynthia Macluskie

has been an active member of the autism community for eight years. Her son, through biomedical and therapeutic means, lost his diagnosis of autism. Cynthia founded and runs the parent support group ROK (Recovering Our Kids) in conjunction with the Autism Society of Greater Phoenix. Cynthia was one of the seven moms who lobbied successfully for Steven's Law, which requires insurance companies to cover autism in Arizona. Cynthia received the Autism Service Award for her work on Steven's Law. She is a board member of ACT! Today and the Autism Society of Greater Phoenix. Cynthia and her co-chair started Co-Morbid Medical Education Project to educate parents and physicians about co-occurring medical conditions of autism. In 2009, the Arizona American Academy of Pediatrics published and distributed a letter to every pediatrician in the state of Arizona on comorbid conditions of autism written by Cynthia Macluskie. Cynthia and her co-chair just completed a documentary in partnership with ASU documentary film students titled Autism: Children Suffering In Silence. Cynthia is a parent mentor for Autism Society of Greater Phoenix. She has partnered with the other six moms to run legislation on restraint and seclusion. She is also working with Phoenix Children's Hospital and will soon be appointed to the Autism Family Counsel at PCH.
How to Get the Most Out of Your Insurance in Pursuit of Recovery

Come learn about the Phoenix Autism Project and how two passionate moms found and educated doctors to provide care for our kid's medical conditions. Learn how to use insurance to access coverage to cover 24-hour EEGs, scopes, IVIG and M-B12 shots and how we passed Steven's Law and are now accessing insurance for applied behavior analysis (ABA). It is our belief that if insurance covers the medical costs and ABA, our families will be left with more money in their pocket to pursue alternative treatments. Recovery is not possible without treating the whole child. A sick child cannot learn or recover. Come learn how to do it in your town and take home a DVD of our documentary Autism: Suffering In Silence - the co morbid conditions of autism.

Presenter Presentation
Beth Alison Maloney

is the author of SAVING SAMMY: Curing the Boy Who Caught OCD. SAVING SAMMY is the first book ever published about Pediatric Autoimmune Neuropsychiatric Disorders Associated with Streptococcal Infections (PANDAS). The book propelled the disorder to national attention beginning with an appearance by Ms. Maloney with her son Sammy on the Today Show in September 2009. She then founded and is the CEO of the PANDAS Foundation. Ms. Maloney, an attorney, resides in Maine. In addition to representing writers and producers, her law practice has focused on representing the best interests of children as their court-appointed guardian ad litem, primarily in cases of neglect and abuse. Ms. Maloney is the mother of three sons, and Sammy is her middle child. He has been fully recovered and symptom-free for more than 5 years. www.savingsammy.net
Saving Sammy - Curing My Son's OCD and Tourette's with Long-term Antibiotic Treatment for PANDAS

Ms. Maloney will offer an overview of PANDAS (Pediatric Autoimmune Neuropsychiatric Disorders Associated with Streptococcal Infections) with an explanation of how it causes mental disorders. She will review how and why strep has been overlooked throughout the years. Ms. Maloney will review her son Sammy's history. She will cover what it took to get the correct diagnosis of PANDAS, how the diagnosis was made, the false starts on treatment, and what worked for Sammy. Ms. Maloney will discuss her son's subsequent full and complete recovery from OCD and Tourette's. She will also discuss the impact that the book has had on PANDAS and bring the audience up to date on the work of the PANDAS Foundation.

Presenter Presentation
Areva Martin, Esq.

Nationally recognized autism advocate and author of The Everyday Advocate: Standing Up for Your Child With Autism, Areva Martin, Esq. is a University of Chicago and Harvard Law School honor graduate and the founding and managing partner of Martin & Martin, LLP.  Areva is known for her ongoing regular appearances on Dr. Phil as their on-air legal and special needs expert and she has appeared on Good Morning America, CBS Early Show, FOX News and others.  The mother of an autistic child, she has also counseled hundred of parents of autistic children and is the president and co-founder of Special Needs Network, Inc., a non-profit launched specifically to support families with special needs children.
The 7 principles of Advocacy Every Parent Should Know

As a Harvard-educated attorney with a son on the autism spectrum, Areva Martin, Esq., quickly learned that she would need to employ every ounce of her training as a legal advocate to secure vital rights and services for her son. With her book, THE EVERYDAY ADVOCATE: STANDING UP FOR YOUR CHILD WITH AUTISM, she shares these practical skills to help parents tackle the sometimes complicated challenges of meeting their children's special needs. In this workshop, Areva explains how the 7 Principles of Advocacy can make the task easier for every parent of a child with autism.

Presenter Presentation
Julie Matthews, Chef Wendell Fowler, Deepa Deshmukh, Anna Sobasky and Sueson Vess

Julie Matthews
is a Certified Nutrition Consultant specializing in autism spectrum disorders. She is the author of the award-winning book Nourishing Hope for Autism and the creator of “Cooking To Heal: Autism Nutrition and Cooking Class.” Julie has been a Defeat Autism Now! practitioner for 7 years and presents at the leading biomedical autism conferences. Her work is based in extensive clinical experience and scientific research of the biochemistry of ASDs and the role of nutrition to restore health. Julie has a private nutrition practice and radio show in San Francisco, California, and support families from around the world.

Wendell Fowler
In 1988, between bites of Kentucky Fried Chicken, 300 pound Chef Wendell was told he was dying: "Get prepared." After a healing miracle, Chef devoted his podium to nutritional literacy and revealing the shocking truth about reckless Big Food's toxic food-processing methods and their ethically-malnourished CEOs. "Goodbye" dead food, booze, cigarettes and sloth; "hello" to an active lifestyle and the Universal Apothecary. The Vegetarian/Vegan Whole Foods evangelist hosts CBS TV's Eat Right Now with Chef Wendell on WISH TV Indianapolis, authors cookbooks, and has garnered multiple NAMPA awards for his powerful, humorous newspaper column. The motivational speaker's Hippocratic message is to eat pure, eat fresh, eat local. Let nature nurture your health destiny - not a greedy corporate Fat Cat.

Deepa Deshmukh, MPH, RD, BC-ADM, CDE
has a unique background that includes training in food science and nutrition. Her clinical expertise as a dietitian and a diabetes educator will help you deal with the clinical aspect of diabetes, weight management, multiple food allergies, Celiac disease, IBS, infertility, metabolic syndrome, and PCOS. She also provides insulin pump training and Diabetes Self Management Education for those coping with diabetes. She will not only tell you "why" you need to change your eating habits but "how" to change them. Her recommendations are based on the principles of the ancient "Ayurvedic System of Medicine" where the focus is on healing and nourishing the body and mind by eating natural and wholesome foods. Her passion for wholesome food is evident by her ability to create recipes using in-season, natural ethnic ingredients that fit into one's daily plan. She uniquely blends eastern and western principles of nutrition to achieve optimal health.

Anna Sobasky
creator of Breads From Annaﾮ, travels all over the country helping people enjoy a gluten-free lifestyle by teaching gluten-free cooking classes and workshops. She speaks at conferences, support groups and a number of health food stores frequently. As the creator and president of Breads From Annaﾮ, she developed the line in 2004 with only one product, the Original Gluten, Soy, Nut and Rice Free Bread Mix. Now five years later, there are ten products total, sold in hundreds of stores all over the world. She has an undergraduate degree from the University of Iowa, a Master of Fine Arts Degree from the Maryland Institute College of Art and completed the Chefs Training Program in New York City at The Natural Gourmet Cookery School Institute for Food and Health.

Sueson Vess
is a chef and diet counselor/educator helping people eat more healthfully, especially families with kids on the autism spectrum, those with celiac disease, food intolerances or allergies, and others with chronic illnesses who want improved health and delicious food.

Author/food writer, cookbook: Special Eats: Simple Delicious Solutions for Gluten & Dairy Free Cooking, now in its 5th printing and contributing writer for Living Without and The Autism File magazines.

Affiliations: Executive chef for Autism One and board member for the University of Chicago Celiac Disease Center See www.specialeats.com
The Art of Cooking Special Diets

The Art of Cooking Special Diets Presenters

Presenter Presentation
Julie Matthews, CNC

(see above)
Diet & Nutrition for Autism: Taking Charge & Customizing Your Approach

Children who follow an autism diet see improvement in their health, overall well-being, and behavior. Are you asking…?
  • Which diet should my child follow?
  • Why I am not seeing results?
  • Is there something I’m missing?
  • Is diet necessary/where’s the science?
  • How do I do this with a picky eater?
Every child requires adequate nutrition – especially children with autism. Nourishing the body and its biochemistry through food and essential nutrients is an important first step to healing autism. Julie Matthews will present: the foundations of a healthy diet and making changes that work for the whole family. She will provide details on various ASD diet options (not just one diet fits all)– including GFCF, SCD, Body Ecology, Feingold, low oxalate, and more.

Julie will discuss:
  • The why and how of autism diets (scientific rationale)
  • Benefits: physical, cognitive, behavioral
  • Determining which diet is best for your child.
  • How and when to combine dietary principles
  • Steps for getting started, boosting nutrition, and tips for picky eaters.

Presenter Presentation
Jenny McCarthy
Keynote

Presenter Presentation
Woody McGinnis, MD

is director of research and education at the Autism House in Auckland, New Zealand. His son's response to nutritional intervention some 15 years ago lead to a consuming interest in the biological basis of autism. McGinnis transitioned from clinical practice to full-time research 10 years ago. His numerous publications established McGinnis as a leading authority on oxidative stress in autism. The oxidative stress findings stimulated his current primary interest in the role of toxins in autism. His North American research team has a strong background in Parkinson's and Alzheimer's disease and ongoing support by the Autism Research Institute.
Brainstem Hypothesis: Autism by Poisoning

We propose a model for autistic regression due to passage of specific toxicants into regions of brain which remain permanently devoid of protective blood-brain barrier (BBB), normally mature elsewhere by 12 months of age. These portals surround the primitive brainstem, a mostly overlooked but highly abnormal brain region in autism. Toxicant-induced impairment of one such portal, the dorsal vagal complex (DVC) of the medulla, would seem to account for the primary neurophysiological changes of autistic regression: loss of vocalization, loss of social function, gastrointestinal abnormality. Toxicant effects on other unprotected sites may explain associated abnormalities in autism, including altered melatonin and oxytocin production. Cadmium, mercury, monosodium glutamate (MSG), paraquat, fluoride, and endotoxin (LPS) from bacterial die-off exemplify a broad class of neurotoxicants with preferential uptake in the vulnerable areas of brain. These compounds share similar oxidative and inflammatory modes of injury, and increasing human exposure to them parallels the historical course of autism. Their convergence on like areas of brain presents the possibility of combined or sequential toxicity in autistic regression. As in the established stages of Parkinson's disease (PD), primary injury in autistic regression may occur in brainstem, followed by ramification to higher areas of brain.

Presenter Presentation
Michael McManmon, EdD

is the founder of the College Internship Program, a national, postsecondary college and career program for students with learning differences. During his 35 years of experience with this population, Dr. McManmon has worked on curriculum development, staff training, program evaluation and administering community-based programming. Dr. McManmon has a unique inside perspective as he is diagnosed with Asperger's syndrome.
Sensory Integration at College and Work

Objectives:
  1. Participants will be able to understand the elements of sensory integration for young adults within the setting of work and university life.
  2. Participants will know the stages of Sensory Integration and the difficulties for the young adult student as it pertains to living in a university and work setting.
  3. Participants will know how to use a sensory profile for assessment and how to construct a sensory diet for the young adult student within the context of university life and a work setting.
The methods used for the four case studies will be shared such as the stages of sensory integration and sensory integration difficulties, as well as how to use a sensory profile for assessment and how to construct a sensory diet. Results of the impact and success of a sensory integration strategy and sensory diet within the context of university and workplace for four case studies will be shared.

Presenter Presentation
Mary Megson, MD

is a board certified pediatrician, fellowship trained in child development. She has a large practice of children with developmental disabilities and has specialized in autism since 1999. She combines her understanding of child development with biomedical treatments to get the best outcome for each child.
Merging Science with Clinical Care

A generation of children with autism is growing up. What are the medical and developmental needs over time? Dr. Megson will discuss how to smooth transitions in social life and academics, and how to keep your child - adolescent through adult - with autism healthy.

Presenter Presentation
Betty Mekdici
The connection between birth defects and autism

Over the 30 years I have been working on birth defect research, the definition of a birth defect has expanded from structural (missing pieces and parts) to faulty development of the systems that run the body (immune, endocrine, neurological). In many children, structural and functional birth defects coexist and this suggests that the same etiological mechanisms may be at work. It is this paradigm that has taken our organization from its beginning of linking structural birth defects to the popular morning sickness drug to Bendectin to the development of the National Birth Defect Registry. The registry is a powerful tool that can identify linkages between structural and functional birth defects and common factors in the health, genetic and exposure histories of one or both parents.

In January, our organization, Birth Defect Research for Children, released a report on 137 cases of autistic spectrum disorders in the registry. In 60% of our cases, structural and functional birth defects coexisted in the same children. This could suggest several possibilities: 1) ASDs are part of a birth defect pattern and those cases without reports of associated birth defects should be evaluated for subtle physical anomalies; or 2) There are two types of ASDs&.one that occurs as part of a birth defect sequence and the other that may have an origin that may be either pre or post-natal; or 3) ASDs without associated birth defects may be the result of an expanded definition of autism that includes children with severe ADHD, Sensory Integration Disorders and other neuro-developmental problems that were not previously classified as autism.

Presenter Presentation
Judy Mikovits, PhD

Dr. Mikovits holds a PhD from George Washington University, with her thesis in HIV Latency in Monocytes: Mechanism(s) of Immune Activation. The goal of her 3-decade research career has been to understand how human retroviruses dysregulate the delicate balance of the immune response leading to the development of chronic disease. Her research has focused on translational research in government, biotechnology and academic settings. She joined Whittemore Peterson Institute for Neuroimmune Disease (WPI) in November of 2006 as the WPI's first research director charged with establishing a translational research program aimed at identifying biomarkers and underlying causes of chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) and other debilitating neuroimmune diseases with overlapping symptoms such as fibromyalgia (FM), atypical multiple sclerosis and autism spectrum disorder (ASD). She sought to examine these complex and poorly understood diseases using a systems biology approach. Following the establishment of a blood sample repository containing more than 1000 samples from 200 patients and 200 controls taken at different time points over a 3-year period using standardized sample collection/processing methods critical for obtaining comparable data sets from different sample types/methods, Dr. Mikovits established a collaborative network of world-renowned experts in retrovirology, human genetics, immune cell biology, flow cytometry, bioinformatics and drug development. This collaborative research network is using state of the art multiplex strategies such as a viral microarray, proteomic profiling a, gene expression and HLA/KIR analysis to decipher the pathophysiology of CFS. This approach resulted in the detection of a new infectious human retrovirus XMRV, in the majority of CFS patients tested. XMRV presents a testable hypothesis as a new human pathogen associated with neruoimmune disease and cancer.
XMRV

Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) and autism spectrum disorder (ASD) share common clinical features including immune dysregulation, increased oxidative stress, increased expression of proinflammatory cytokines and chemokines, mitochondrial dysfunction and chronic active microbial infections suggesting an underlying immune deficiency may be involved in subgroups of CFS and ASD. We recently demonstrated the first direct isolation of an infectious gammaretrovirus, XMRV, from the blood of CFS patients. We have developed quantitative assays to detect XMRV replication and infection in cell culture. Moreover, we found evidence of XMRV infection in >85% of more than 200 CFS patients tested to date. These data implicate a role for XMRV infection in the pathogenesis of CFS. Because of the clinical similarities of CFS and ASD, we hypothesized that XMRV infection may also be detected in subgroups of ASD. This presentation will update the status of XMRV research, show evidence of XMRV infection in ASD and discuss the implications of XMRV infection in the pathogenesis of neuroimmune disease including ASD.

Presenter Presentation
Neil Miller

is a medical research journalist and the director of the Thinktwice Global Vaccine Institute. He has devoted the last 25 years to educating parents and health practitioners about vaccines, encouraging informed consent and non-mandatory laws. He is the author of several books on vaccines, including Vaccine Safety Manual for Concerned Families and Health Practitioners; Vaccines, Autism and Childhood Disorders; and Vaccines: Are They Really Safe and Effective' He has written for Mothering magazine, gives vaccine talks both locally and nationally, and is a frequent guest on radio and TV talk shows, including PBS, Phil Donahue, and Montel Williams. Mr. Miller has a degree in psychology and is a member of Mensa. His children, who are now young adults, were born at home and not vaccinated.
The Current Vaccination Schedule: Are New Waves of Autism and Other Preventable Disorders Inevitable?

The current schedule of recommended vaccines is so crowded that doctors give babies several shots during a single office visit-up to eight or nine vaccines all at one time. Parents, and doctors, often forget that vaccines are drugs. How often do we, as adults, take that many drugs at the same time? Would we be more surprised if we did or did not have an adverse reaction? Vaccines contain antigens, preservatives, adjuvants, stabilizers, antibiotics, buffers, diluents, emulsifiers, excipients, residuals, solvents, and inactivating chemicals. They also contain residue from animal and human growth mediums. Why are these substances put into vaccines? What effect do they have on the developing child? Several vaccines contain aluminum. Aluminum is neurotoxic, even in small quantities, and has a long history of well-documented hazards. The FDA, CDC, and World Health Organization (WHO) are aware that aluminum is dangerous, so why do they recommend that babies receive multiple doses of these aluminum-containing shots? What effect does aluminum have on the neurological development of young children? This lecture will include a Q&A session, time permitting.

Presenter Presentation
David Morrison, EdD, ABSNP

is a licensed educational psychologist who has over 25 years of experience working with children who have behavioral and clinical challenges. He is the department chair and associate professor for school psychology at Azusa Pacific University in California. He has a doctorate in educational psychology with a post doctorate specialization in clinical neuropsychology. He has been actively involved in educational research for the past 25 years. Dr. Morrison has extensive expertise with behavioral interventions and has provided services for over 30 school districts. He is actively involved in neuropsychological assessment and holds a faculty position with the Pediatric Neurodevelopment Institute. In addition, he is the director of Beacon Autistic Spectrum Independence Center in Claremont, CA.
Autism and Sexuality: A Conversation with Parents

Although generally difficult to talk about in an open and honest manner, sex and sexuality are central to our understanding of ourselves as individuals, and integral to our individual determination of quality of life. Information on issues surrounding sexuality of individuals with autism is often lacking. Personal characteristics, circumscribed interests, sensory sensitivity and world view along with interpersonal difficulties can be problematic and challenging. This presentation will discuss these challenges.

Presenter Presentation
Nancy Mullan, MD

received her undergraduate degree from the University of Pennsylvania and an MD from Tufts University. She completed an internship and residency in psychiatry and a fellowship in child psychiatry at the University of Chicago Hospitals and Clinics. While there she studied at the Chicago Institute for Psychoanalysis and taught at the Psychosomatic and Psychiatric Institute for Research and Training at Michael Reese Hospital. In Los Angeles, Dr. Mullan joined the medical staff at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center and taught at both UCLA and USC Schools of Medicine. She earned psychoanalytic certification from the Psychoanalytic Center of California. Currently, Dr. Mullan is practicing nutritional medicine and psychiatry in Burbank, California, treating children on the autism spectrum and adults with neurologic, immunologic, metabolic and/or gastroenterologic dysfunction that might otherwise be thought of as psychiatric illness.
An Overview and Clarification of the Dr. Amy Yasko Protocol

This presentation highlights some of the important interventions in the treatment of autism spectrum disorder and other chronic immunologic, neurologic, metabolic, or gastrointestinal dysfunctions that can be made with the help of genetic and biochemical testing. It is not intended to be a comprehensive review of Dr. Yasko's method. Instead, it highlights those areas that are critical for the success of her method and defines points of similarity to and divergence from other ASD treatments. It demonstrates the competence of Yasko's method for promoting the development of function and language, and for inducing the excretion of toxic materials without problematic pharmaceuticals, frequent blood draws, or other even more invasive and stressful treatments.

Presenter Presentation
Nancy Mullan, MD

(see above)
Workshop: Interpreting Your Yasko Test Results (Sunday 8:00-10:00 am)

A Clinical Tutorial on the Dr. Amy Yasko Protocol

This workshop is intended to help patients use Dr. Amy Yasko's protocol. It will provide details for "supporting" and "balancing" biochemical pathways in the body, thereby inducing them to function. Dr. Mullan will define these concepts, simplify and describe the important biochemical pathways, and help you understand the science behind the method to make it easier for you to implement.

If you have Nutrigenomics and have been wondering how to use them, or if you are stuck anywhere in your attempt to do the protocol, this workshop will be helpful. For maximal benefit, please bring your Nutrigenomic profile, your completed supplement list (either Dr. Mullan's or Dr. Amy's) if you have one, and any recent or sequential biochemical testing that you have done. Dr. Mullan intends to work from clinical examples provided by the workshop attendees, will review as many patients as time allows, provide information on what to do, and expand on concepts that will be helpful for everyone.

Presenter Presentation
Phyllis Musumeci & Maria M. Cammarata, Esquire

Phyllis Musumeci
is a national parent advocate committed to educating families, legislators and school districts about the dangers of restraint, seclusion and aversive treatments used on children with autism spectrum disorders and other disabilities, illuminating why things need to change. In 2005, Phyllis pulled her son, Christian, out of the 8th grade because he was having a breakdown. Christian has autism, and, although Christian could speak, he could not communicate his pain. Further, due to a lack of transparency in the school system, it took one year for Phyllis to learn that her son had been subjected to almost daily restraint and isolation for nearly two years in his school. After learning of these practices, she founded Families Against Restraint and Seclusion (FARS) in 2007. FARS is one of the only organizations families may contact to report such abuses and receive support. It has received several hundred reports of restraint and seclusion in schools from families across the country and has tracked countless news stories nationwide. FARS has formed alliances with different disability rights organizations to help pass federal and state legislation and is a member of the national organization APRAIS. Phyllis has been invited to several federal press conferences and hearings on the issue of restraint and seclusion in public schools. She co-wrote current Florida House Bill 81, "Use, Prevention, and Reduction of Seclusion and Restraint on Students with Disabilities in Public School."

Maria M. Cammarata, Esquire
is a mother of three children, the oldest of whom is on the autism spectrum. She is the president and director of Reveresco Learning Services in South Florida. This organization serves the unique role of providing applied behavior analysis services and social skills classes along with special education advocacy training for parents of children with autism and related disabilities. Throughout the year, Maria holds complimentary training workshops for families about a variety of special education topics under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and state laws. Her past experience includes serving as Corporate Counsel for an international franchise company and working as an advocate for a nonprofit organization that provides free special education advocacy services for disabled children. Maria also works with Families Against Restraint and Seclusion (FARS) to advocate for state and federal legislation and help promote proven behavior interventions in public schools. This work has been among her most rewarding and helped lead to the creation of Reveresco Learning Services. Maria received her JD from Ohio Northern University College of Law.
Preventing Harmful Restraint and Seclusion

This presentation will provide unique insight into the improper use of restraint and seclusion in the school system. A parent advocate will tell her passionate story of what happened to her son, his needless suffering, her lack of knowledge of the problem at the time and her decision to educate other parents, advocates, legislators and advocate for laws to protect children from restraint and seclusion in the public school system.

Learn about the myths and facts of restraint and seclusion.
  • Why did it take so long to raise awareness?
  • What you can do to help make changes?
  • Updates on the federal law (The Preventing Harmful Restraint and Seclusion in Schools Act).
Restraint and seclusion are seen as treatment failures and should only be used as a last resort when risk of harm is imminent. Maria Cammarata, Esq. will provide simple strategies to teach parents how to effectively apply law from the IDEIA that may help prevent restraint and seclusion in schools. Learn how and when to request school and independent evaluations and how to use this information to help meet your child's academic and behavioral needs in school. Prevention is key.

Presenter Presentation
Shannon Nash, Esq., CPA

is a CPA, attorney, author and entrepreneur.  She is the president of Nash Management Group, an entertainment, tax and business management firm.  Shannon is the author of the award-winning book For the Love of Money: The 411 to Taking Control of Your Taxes and Building Your Net Worth. She also wrote the Vault Guide to Tax Law Careers, Helping the Nonprofit Client, and The Tax Exempt Toolkit.  She's passionate about advocating for children with specail needs and is the former secretary of Cure Autism Now (now Autism Speaks).  Shannon received her BS in Accounting from the University of Virginia McIntire School of Commerce and her JD from the University of Virginia School of Law.  Her website is www.nashgroup-usa.com and you can find her on Facebook at and Twitter at http://twitter.com/shannonnash
Nonprofits 101

A quick search on Guidestar.org (the premier online charity database) on the word "Autism" yields over 2,000 autism related nonprofits. Many people are interested in setting up their own autism related nonprofits, but the thought of doing so can be a a daunting task at best. There are horror stories of the IRS approval process taking years. Couple this with an already busy schedule in raising a child with autism, and even the most committed do-gooder can be dissuaded. However, there is hope for those wanting to set up an autism related charity. This process can be boiled down to these 3 major steps. First, set up the charity as a legal entity. Second, file IRS Form 1023, Application for Tax Exempt Status. Third, file for various state tax exemptions and get a charitable solicitation license.

Presenter Presentation
James Neubrander, MD

received his MD degree from Loma Linda University, completed his residency in pathology at the University of South Florida, and is board certified in Environmental Medicine. Dr. Neubrander is the Medical Director of both the Comprehensive Neuroscience Center as well as his private practice that specializes in neurodevelopmental and autism spectrum disorders. In addition, he is the medical director of autism research for the International Brain Research Foundation. Dr. Neubrander serves on the scientific councils for the International Brain Research Foundation, the American Medical Autism Board, the U.S. Autism and Asperger Association, the Defeat Autism Now! European Division, India's UDAAN for the Disabled and Autism Project, and the International Hyperbaric Association. He has presented at several Defeat Autism Now! think tanks. He is the coauthor of several peer-reviewed articles, has been interviewed and filmed for many documentaries as well as for multiple for TV spots, has been referenced in many books written about autism, nutrition, and environmental medicine, and is frequently quoted by scientists, researchers, clinicians, and lay persons, most notably for methylcobalamin, hyperbaric oxygen, heavy metal detoxification, and neurofeedback.
Pre- and Post-QEEG Studies Documenting the Effectiveness of Four Primary Treatments Used In Our Clinic: Injectable Methylcobalamin, Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy, Chelation, and QEEG-directed Neurofeedback

Educational Objectives:
Participants will:
1) Review the primary diagnostic features of autism spectrum disorders (ASD).
2) Learn the basic concepts associated with methylation, transsulfuration, oxidative stress, hyperbaric medicine, chelation, and neurofeedback as they relate to effective treatments for ASD.
3) View pre- and post-QEEG head maps for methyl-B12, HBOT, chelation, and neurofeedback and correlate the positive electrical changes to the clinical improvements noted in the subjects.

Presenter Presentation
Larry Newman

over 40 years of product development and manufacturing experience in the pharmaceutical, nutraceutical, and cosmetic industry. Companies have included Kirkman, Hall Laboratories, Pharmavite Pharmaceutical, and Bergen Brunswig Laboratories. Responsibilities have included all regulatory compliance with government agencies. Educational institutions included University of Southern California School of Pharmacy and California State University Northridge.
Nutritional Supplements: Facts and Fiction

Consumers are bombarded with advertising and marketing information on nutritional supplements making it very difficult to make the right choices. Some of this promotional information is factual and scientific, while some is strictly marketing hype with little or no scientific value. This is also a lot of information on nutritional supplements on the Internet that is outdated or incorrect and some of which I classify as "old wives' tales." What forms of various supplements to use is another confusing topic to consumers. Should I select the gluconate, carbonate, citrate, chelate, oxide, acetate, picolinate or a different form of a mineral? Having been in the supplement industry my whole life, I will separate the nutritional facts from the fiction so that the right choices for select individuals can be made at the right price. More expensive does not necessarily mean better in dietary supplements. In fact, in many cases, more expensive means more costly marketing, even though the quality may be lacking.

Presenter Presentation
Tom O'Bryan, DC, CCN, DACBN

is a practicing graduate of the Institute For Functional Medicine's hallmark program Applying Functional Medicine in Clinical Practice. Using the tools of Applied Kinesiology, Laboratory and Functional Medicine, Dr. O'Bryan assists patients in reclaiming their health with an emphasis on diet and nutrition. This provides a motivating and successful game plan for patients who previously suffered from debilitating symptoms, high risk for disease and frustrating medical problems. Dr. Thomas O'Bryan is a graduate of the University of Michigan and the National College of Chiropractic. He is a Diplomate of the National Board of Chiropractic Examiners, a Diplomate of the Clinical Nutrition Board of the American Chiropractic Association, and a Certified Clinical Nutritionist with the International and American Association of Clinical Nutritionists. He is a Certified Applied Kinesiologist, a Certified Practitioner in Functional Biomechanics from the Motion Palpation Institute. He is an active member of the Institute of Functional Medicine, the International and American Association of Clinical Nutritionists, the American Chiropractic Association, the International Academy of Preventive Medicine and numerous other professional organizations.
Barrier Integrity: Is "Leaky Gut" the Gateway to Autoimmune Reactions in the Brain?

With better understanding of the connection between environmental exposures (nutritional, chemical, and toxic) with gene expression, we can potentially douse the flames of the autoimmune inflammatory mechanism in the brain. Current evidence has outlined the primary role that intestinal barrier function plays in the initiation, propagation and continuation of autoimmune diseases. This presentation will outline the mechanisms by which compromise of barrier integrity may occur, allowing environmental exposures to enter the system, and how the immune system reacts to these perceived threats. This presentation will give attendees an understanding and appreciation of intestinal permeability-its frequency, pathophysiology and ramifications in the world of autoimmunity. We also will address a case-management approach to treatment options.

The objective of this presentation is to:
  1. Walk attendees through the development of Intestinal permeability in an individual
  2. Recognize the diversity of autoimmune conditions patients may present with as a result of Intestinal permeability
  3. Become familiar with the effectiveness of treatment for intestinal permeability

Presenter Presentation
Julie Obradovic

is a contributing editor for the popular Age of Autism blog. She is the mother of 3 children, 1 of whom recovered from moderate autism, and she is married to her husband of 12 years. Julie is a member of NAA, a Rescue Angel for Generation Rescue, and was a co-coordinator of TACA-Chicago. She currently spends her time advocating by presenting the science featured on the "Fourteen Studies" website.  www.14studies.org
The 14 Studies

The media and many in the mainstream medical community often report the science exonerating vaccines with regard to the development autism is complete, and, furthermore, that it overwhelmingly rejects an association between the two. Some even suggest no further study of the possible relationship between the two is needed based on this science. The question is: are they right? Exactly what has been studied? By whom? When? What conflicts of interest, if any, existed? How was the study relevant to the question at hand? This presentation will examine those questions in detail and make the argument that the quality, quantity, relevance, and bias of this science is inadequate to make their claim.

Presenter Presentation
Lorna Ortiz, PhD, Kerri Rivera & Harry Schneider, MD

Kerri Rivera
founded Autism02, a Defeat Autism Now!-based non-profit autism clinic in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico. Under Kerri's full-time direction, the clinic specializes in treating children of low-income families at no charge. Kerri was responsible for having the DAN! protocol translated to Spanish so that it could be applied throughout Latin America. She is an active Generation Rescue Angel, a bilingual mentor for Talk About Curing Autism, Autism One's liaison to Mexico, and the Spanish Liasion for the Autism Research Institute's Autism Hotline. Kerri lectures internationally on healing autism through biomedical interventions. Her 9- year-old son, Patrick, is currently in recovery from autism.

Lorna Ortiz, PhD

received her PhD in chemical Engineering in 2005 from the University of South Carolina. Dr. Ortiz is the author of the upcoming book Desde el 6 de diciembre, where she relates the process her family has followed to treat their son's autism. She is the president and co-Founder of Curando El Autismo (CEA), a nonprofit organization dedicated to bring parents in Puerto Rico and other countries in Latin America information about available interventions for autism. This organization has been the first one in offering a conference free of charge in Puerto Rico with over 3500 participants including parents, teachers, therapists and medical professionals. This conference brought hope to parents and basic information to physicians/pediatricians about the special care and biomedical treatments for children with autism. This conference will also be held soon in other parts of Latin America including the Dominican Republic, Colombia, Venezuela and Mexico. www.curandoelautismo.org

Harry Schneider, MD
received his medical degree from Columbia University and completed his residency at Northwestern University. Dr. Schneider is an Associate Research Scientist in the Functional MRI Research Center of Columbia University. He is in private practice at the Center for Medical and Brain Sciences in Plainview, NY, and uses both conventional medicine and the Defeat Autism Now! approach in his approach to the medical care of children on the spectrum. Dr. Harry Schneider served on the medical staff of North Shore University's Franklin General Hospital and South Nassau Communities Hospital, as well as serving as an Adjunct Professor for Clinical Training in the Family Practice Training Program at SNCH. He has participated in Tropical Medicine Research in Guatemala and Brazil for the World Health Organization and received research support as a Medical/Linguistic Consultant for Transcendent International's bilingual medical software. Dr. Schneider's background is as a linguist, with advanced degrees in language and linguistics, and he speaks multiple languages. He is in the process of obtaining a doctoral degree in speech language pathology.
In Spanish: Autism 101 - Today's Biomedical Treatments

Healing Children Through Today's Biomedical Treatments

This presentation, given entirely in Spanish, seeks to prove that "autism is preventable, treatable, and curable" by sharing proven advice on a systemic approach to recovery known as the DAN! protocol. Scientific data, case histories, and stories of recovery will be used to explore the DAN! protocol in depth. Specific instruction will be given on the five main areas: diet, supplements, therapy, chelation, and hyperbarics. This unique presentation will bolster hope and confidence by helping parents understand their role in their child's path to recovery.

Sanando Autismo atravez de Tratamientos BioMedicos de Hoy
Esta presentacion, impartido en Espanol, compartira consejos sobre la aplicacion del Protocolo DAN! Y quiere comprobar que "Autismo es prevenible, tratable, y curable." Datos scientificos, casos reales, y historias de ninos recuperados serian compartidos para poder explorar en detalle el Protocolo DAN!. La presentacion daria instruccion en los 5 areas basicas: dieta, supplementacion, terapia, chelacion, y hiperbarica. Esta presentacion unica lograra dar esperanza y confianza a los Papas de ninos con autismo ayudandoles a entender su papel en la recuperacion de su hijo.

Since December 6
In this presentation, Lorna will talk in detail about the interventions used for her son and the impact that these interventions had in his progress. She will explain the pathway followed by Lorna and her husband combining ABA therapies and biomedical interventions to treat their son's autism. She will also talk about how they were successful in obtaining insurance coverage for ABA and biomedical treatment.

Desde el 6 de diciembre
En esta presentación, Lorna hablará en detalle acerca de las intervenciones usadas para su hijo y el impacto que tuvieron estas intervenciones en su progreso. Lorna explicará el camino seguido por ella y su esposo combinando terapias ABA e intervenciones biomédicas para tratar el autismo de su hijo. Además hablará sobre como pudieron lograr que el seguro médico cubriera los gastos de terapias ABA al igual que el tratamiento biomédico.

This lecture will focus on specific aspects of biomedical interventions that are geared to try to restore language function in low-functioning language ASD children. As an adjunct to our using neuromodulation of the brain (using transcranial direct current stimulation), we have found that certain medications and supplements will aid in this process.

La presentacion que pensamos ofrecerles se trata de aspectos especificos de las varias intervenciones biomedicas que se han probado ser beneficiales para restorar el language en ninos con habla minina. Complementando nuestra terapia super-cientifica - usando la estimulacion de las partes del cerebro del nino que no funncionan por el habla - hemos descubierto varias medicinas, suplemementos biomedicos, medicinas que aumentan el poder cognitivo del nino, y otras que directamente afectan la abilidad del habla.

Presenter Presentation
Larry Palevsky, MD

is a board certified pediatrician who utilizes a holistic approach to children's wellness and illness. Dr. Palevsky received his medical degree from the NYU School of Medicine, completed his pediatric residency at The Mount Sinai Hospital, and served as a pediatric fellow in the ambulatory care out-patient department at Bellevue Hospital, NYC. His clinical experience includes working in pediatric emergency and intensive care medicine, in-patient and out-patient pediatric medicine, neonatal intensive care medicine, newborn and delivery room medicine, and conventional, holistic and integrative pediatric private practice at the Center for Health & Healing-an integrative and complementary care medical facility affiliated with the Beth Israel Medical Center in NYC. Dr. Palevsky is a Fellow of the American Academy of Pediatrics, co-founder and president of the Holistic Pediatric Association (www.hpakids.org) and past-president of the American Holistic Medical Association (www.holisticmedicine.org). Dr. Palevsky offers consultations and educational programs to families and practitioners in the areas of preventive and holistic health; childhood development; lifestyle changes; nutrition for adults, infants and children; safe, alternative treatments for common and difficult to treat acute and chronic pediatric and adult conditions; vaccination controversies; mindful parenting; and rethinking the medical paradigm. www.drpalevsky.com
Let Children Be Sick, And Watch Them Get Well

In consideration of the philosophy of today's conventional medical practice, and of the beliefs of our current dominant cultural norms, we are taught to view symptoms of acute illnesses in children as something bad and dangerous. Parents are taught to believe that symptoms and childhood illnesses can and should be avoided, suppressed, and stopped at all costs, with the use of over-the-counter medicines, antibiotics, pharmaceutical drugs, and vaccines. Parents are also made to fear the worst-case scenario each time their children get sick or when they choose to not vaccinate their children. In this lecture, attendees will begin to understand why children must experience their symptoms and illnesses as a necessary rite of passage that allows their immune and nervous systems to grow, mature, and develop. Attendees will also learn that the expression of these symptoms is not necessarily caused by bacteria and viruses. Instead, these symptoms and illnesses occur as a sign our children are healthy; that their bodies are working to bring to the surface and cleanse any accumulation of wastes from deep inside, perhaps even with the aid of bacteria and viruses. You will come to understand that we are harming children with the constant use of over-the-counter medications, antibiotics, drugs and vaccines that treat and suppress common and necessary childhood symptoms and illnesses. You will also come to learn that it is the use of this dominant treatment approach that drives wastes deeper into our children's bodies, directly contributing to the development of chronic childhood illnesses. Attendees will hear about what contributes to the excess accumulation of wastes in our children, and what they can do to allow these wastes to be safely removed. In a nutshell, we need to facilitate the resolution of our children's symptoms without suppressing them, and we need to take another look at the value of childhood illnesses in our society. Children need to be sick in order for them to get well.

Presenter Presentation
Narasimham Parinandi, PhD

is an associate professor of internal medicine and pharmacology, College of Medicine, The Ohio State University, Dorothy M. Davis Heart & Lung Research Institute, Lipid Signaling, Lipidomics, and Vasculotoxicity Laboratory.
Leaky-Blood Vessel and Leaky-Gut: Novel Sulfur-Containing Antioxidant-Chelator Therapeutics for Treatment of Autistic Spectrum Disorders

Gastrointestinal (GI) dysfunction is commonly observed among children exhibiting autistic spectrum disorders (ASD). Several autistic children suffer from abdominal pain and bowel symptoms which suggest GI dysfunction. The GI dysfunction symptoms are noticed which parallel with the infant's development and this has led to the hypothesis that the GI dysfunction may be related or associated with the development of the autistic phenotype that manifests in some children. It is believed that "leaky gut" (a marker of the GI dysfunction) and increased blood-brain permeability states contribute to the ASD. Blood vessel inner lining cells (vascular endothelium) and intestinal epithelial cells offer a tightly-controlled barrier property to the blood vessels and intestine through well-regulated and structured cytoskeleton and tight junctions (cell-to-cell contacts) which operate selective transport of molecules without enhanced permeability of molecules causing leaky states. Studies suggest that enhanced oxidative stress (reactive oxygen and nitrogen species) is encountered in the autistic patients, which appears to contribute to the leaky gut and leaky blood vessel conditions. Such oxidative stress is also known to consume the intracellular thiol-redox antioxidants rendering the blood vessel endothelial and intestinal epithelial cells devoid of endogenous antioxidant defenses. So far, no effective therapeutic strategies or pharmacological treatments are available to combat the oxidative stress-induced leaky gut and leaky blood vessel conditions. In our model systems, we have characterized the efficacies of antioxidants, especially a novel thiol (sulfur)-containing antioxidant-chelator in protecting against the oxidant- and toxicant-induced intestinal epithelial and blood vessel endothelial leakiness (hyperpermeability). The novel thiol (sulfur)-containing antioxidant-chelator [N,N'-bis(2-mercaptoethyl)isophthalamide] is a promising and effective oxidative stress reliever in treating the leaky-blood vessel and leaky-gut pathological states associated with ASD.

Presenter Presentation
William Parker, PhD

earned his PhD in chemistry in 1992 while working on the biochemistry of proteins and has been on faculty in the Surgery Department at Duke University since 1995. He has published more than 70 peer-reviewed scientific articles covering a range of topics in the fields of medicine, immunology, and biochemistry. His laboratory pioneered the study of bacterial biofilms typically occurring in the normal human gut, and has uncovered mechanisms by which the immune system supports those biofilms. His work in this area includes a widely known model for the function of the human appendix, which is apparently important in "natural" environments that lack modern medical practices. Recent studies have also focused on the nature of changes in the immune system following loss of naturally occurring biological factors such as parasites. Ongoing work in Dr. Parker's lab indicates that the effects of losing these factors are wide and far- reaching, and provides a basis for understanding recent increases in a variety of immune-associated disorders, including allergies and autoimmune diseases.
The gut-brain connection, the normal human gut, and the effects of post-industrial culture on the gut

A connection between gastrointestinal disorders and autism has begun to emerge. Both the intestinal bacteria and the immune system are likely important in this connection. In the normal gut, the bacteria provide substantial benefits to the human host and receive support for their growth from the immune system. In particular, the immune system provides support for the growth of bacterial biofilms in the normal intestine. Such biofilms not only provide a safe haven for the beneficial bacteria, but also provide a barrier that prevents pathogens from infecting the human host on which the bacteria depend. Over-reactivity of the immune system can lead to a variety of problems in this normally well-balanced system, which in turn may exert effects in other parts of the body, including the brain. Increasing levels of such over-reactivity in developed countries is generally attributed to the absence of some of the organisms normally occurring in the gut (the biota of the gut) for which the immune system depends. Ongoing studies suggest that the changes in the immune system associated with biota deficiency are profound and pervasive, and provide a basis for understanding a variety of immune-associated disorders associated with post-industrial society.

Presenter Presentation
James Partington, PhD

is the director of Behavior Analysts, Inc. and provides services to children and their families at the STARS Clinic in Walnut Creek, California. He is internationally recognized for his work in teaching parents and professionals effective and practical methods for motivating and teaching skills to children with developmental delays. He is a licensed psychologist and a board certified behavior analyst (BCBA), and has 35 years of experience working with children with developmental disabilities. His expertise is in language-based intervention with children who are experiencing language delays as a result of autism and other related developmental disorders.
What Every Parent and Educator Needs to Know: Practical and Effective Methods for Developing Critical Language Skills in Children with Autism

Children with an autism spectrum disorder have significant delays in their communication and social interaction skills. When attempting to teach them new language and social skills, it is important to make the learning activities enjoyable such that while the child learns important language, he is motivated to interact with others, especially those who work with him. This presentation is designed to provide parents with an overview of the "verbal behavior" analysis of language. Methods for motivating the child to participate in learning activities that help develop a child's ability to ask for items and events, name common items, and talk about his activities will be provided. Videotape examples will be shown to review effective teaching methods typically used to teach those skills at both the beginning stages and at more advanced levels of language abilities. Participants will learn about issues related to assessing a child's language abilities and how to then implement appropriate and practical language intervention strategies. A major emphasis will be placed on identifying methods to enhance and utilize motivational variables to teach language in both structured teaching sessions and in daily activities.

Presenter Presentation
Sym Rankin, RN, CRNA & Suruchi Chandra, MD

Sym Rankin, RN, CRNA
is a graduate of the University of Southwestern Louisiana School of Nursing and the Charity Hospital School of Nurse Anesthesia (New Orleans). ﾠAs a practicing anesthetist for over 25 years, she has witnessed an alarming increase in chronic and autoimmune diseases. Those observations became less academic and more personal after her son was diagnosed with autism. ﾠHer son's journey of recovery has led to Sym's realization that mainstream medicine is far more interested in merely treating symptoms than in asking the difficult questions of why those symptoms exist. In addition to her work as a nurse anesthetist, Sym is also an advanced practice nurse at True Health Medical Center in Naperville, helping other families on the journey to recovery.

Suruchi Chandra, MD
has an undergraduate degree from Harvard and a medical degree from Yale University.ﾠ She completed a psychiatry residency at the Massachusetts General Hospital/McLean Hospital combined program at Harvard Medical School.ﾠ Believing that pharmaceutical agents can only help a subset of patients Dr. Chandra has also studied with W. Lee Cowden, MD, an international authority on integrative and energy medicine, learning about bioenergetic testing, homeopathy, detoxification strategies, herbology, laser and other photonic therapies, as well as biomedical interventions.ﾠ She has completed the Defeat Autism Now! clinician training and currently practices at True Health Medical Center in Naperville, Illinois.
The Impact of Psychotropic and Anesthetic Agents on Underlying Biomedical Conditions in Patients with Autism Spectrum Disorders

Many of the psychotropic and anesthetic pharmaceutical agents used in the pediatric population influence and may even aggravate the underlying biomedical conditions seen in autism spectrum disorders. An understanding of these interactions will allow parents and clinicians to make better decisions regarding the use of these drugs for children with ASD. In addition to reviewing the science and research supporting the use of psychotropic medications in ASD patients, this session will focus on the impact of SSRI and atypical antipsychotic medications on neurologic functions, metabolic systems, and liver detoxification. Also discussed will be special concerns related to anesthesia for the various surgical, radiological or dental procedures so many of our children are undergoing. Topics will include the various drugs typically used in anesthesia and how you can educate your anesthesiologist about the medical concerns of your child.

Presenter Presentation
Mary Romaniec

is a recognized authority and speaker on the subject of autism. Her own son's recovery from autism has inspired her to take on the role of mentor, writer, and speaker. When her own son, Daniel, was diagnosed with autism at the age of 18 months, she soon learned how little the medical community understood about this disorder. Mary began long nights of researching the Internet, speaking with other parents, and attending conferences that discussed ways to treat autism. Contrary to the widespread myth that children cannot be treated successfully for autism, Mary was able to unlock the door that led her son to be declared recovered by the age of 4. Along the way, Mary began reaching out to other parents who were just beginning the journey toward recovery for their children. As a mentor, she authored the 10-week GFCF diet calendar, which is in wide use in the autism community on various websites and quoted as a valuable tool in Jenny McCarthy's book, Louder than Words. She has also written other articles on the topics of IEP negotiation, marriage, and care for the caregiver. Her articles have appeared in Mothering Magazine, The Autism File, Autism/Asperger Digest, Autism Today and Journeys Magazine as well as other autism-related websites.
Letting Go! The Journey back to Grace and Dignity

Along the road toward recovery, a parent/caregiver finds their sense of grace and dignity has taken a back seat to the health and well-being of their child. The parents' health suffers as often does the marriage. Family dynamics are changed and challenged. This presentation will alert parents/caregivers to the odyssey toward their child's recovery; and the toll it can potentially take on the caregivers' health and marriage. The presentation will offer well-honed strategies to stay connected as a couple, stay connected to the other children in the family and provide a sense of relief over the everyday stresses that come with the autism diagnosis. This presentation is recommended for parents feeling the daily stress due to the demands associated with their child's autism and for couples who are seeking a different perspective on how to overcome the toll autism has placed on their marriage. Traditional marriage counselors are not equipped to address the unique issues that arise after a child has been diagnosed. The strategies discussed in this presentation will be sure to put a smile on the face of all who attend as they find the tools to "balance" after the diagnosis.

Presenter Presentation
Dan Rossignol, MD

received his Doctorate of Medicine at the Medical College of Virginia and completed his residency in family medicine at the University of Virginia. He is a physician at the International Child Development Resource Center (ICDRC) in Melbourne, FL. The father of two children with autism, ages 9 and 7, he has written several papers, including four on the use of hyperbaric treatment in autism, one on the use of urinary porphyrins data in autism, one on mitochondrial dysfunction in autism, and a review article on evidence-based treatments for autism.
How to assess and prioritize treatments: Using evidence-based medicine to choose effective treatments for autism and ADHD

As a parent of a child with autism or ADHD, the number of available treatments appears endless. Dr. Rossignol will discuss the concept of using evidence-based medicine to choose effective treatments for children with autism and ADHD. He will focus mainly on treatments that have proven effectiveness compared to a placebo and will review treatments for attention, concentration, hyperactivity, self-stimulatory behavior, irritability, aggression, self-injury, expressive and receptive language, sleep, social interaction, eye contact, toe-walking, coordination, and seizures. This lecture will help parents establish a plan to individualize treatments for their child using proven treatments, in conjunction with the child's physician.

Presenter Presentation
Alexander Rotenberg, MD, PhD

is an assistant professor of neurology at Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston. His clinical practice is focused on pediatric epilepsy. His research focuses on the therapeutic potential of noninvasive brain stimulation in patients with epilepsy and in animal models of neurologic disease. Dr. Rotenberg has been investigating the capacity of noninvasive brain stimulation to alter brain excitability. In disorders such as epilepsy, where among the physiologic abnormalities may be excess cortical excitability, Dr. Rotenberg's lab has focused on the mechanisms by which normal excitability can be restored by small electrical currents that are introduced into the brain with strong magnetic fields (by transcranial magnetic stimulation, TMS) or with scalp electrodes (by transcranial direct current stimulation, tDCS).
Prospects for Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation in Autism

Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) is a safe and painless method for noninvasive brain stimulation. In TMS, small electrical currents are generated in the brain by a strong magnetic field that is produced by a powerful electromagnet that is positioned next to a subject's scalp over the area that the investigator desires to stimulate. In recent years, TMS has emerged as a promising tool to either measure or alter cortical excitability. In autism, where the high prevalence of epilepsy suggests that abnormal cortical excitability may contribute to the overall clinical picture, TMS may be of use in two capacities: First, as a diagnostic tool to detect abnormal cortical excitability or abnormal cortical plasticity and aid in characterizing disease severity or response to treatment; second, as a therapeutic tool to restore normal cortical excitability and improve neurologic symptoms such as epilepsy in patients with autism.

Presenter Presentation
Lisa Rupe & Angela Warner

Lisa Rupe

is Assistant Director for Autism One, a TACA chapter coordinator in Wisconsin and a Navy wife. She and her husband Ryan currently reside in their hometown of Milwaukee with their two children. Lisa is a graduate of the University of Wisconsin-Madison. She enjoyed a fast-paced career in electronic and Internet publishing until 9/11 when her husband became an active duty chaplain and moved them to California. Their son was diagnosed when he was 2ﾽ years old and has been improving with biomedical interventions and traditional therapies for 6 years. When she isn't moving, she is helping families affected by autism find the right services and treatments through local meetings, conferences and listserves.

Angela Warner
serves on the board of directors of Heroes With Handicaps. She also serves on the government affairs committee of SafeMinds, is the military contributing editor for Age of Autism, and founded the Autism Salutes blog. Having mutual goals with Autism One and many of our national autism organizations, Angela works to facilitate awareness, understanding, and solutions to the unique challenges faced by military families who have a child or children with autism. Angela is an Air Force spouse and mom to four children, two of whom are recovering from autism.
Autism and Immunization in the Military

Angela Warner will discuss immunization policies in the military, explaining the situation of military members and dependents facing vaccination and often the absence of informed consent about related safety issues. Lisa Rupe will focus on insurance, informing attendees about TRICARE, which covers biomedical treatment of autism and many traditional therapies. Lisa will also talk about some strategies for military families to be better prepared for a move.

Presenter Presentation
A J Russo, PhD

is research director of Pfeiffer Treatment Center, with over 30 years of research experience. After graduate school, Dr. Russo did post docs as a staff fellow at the National Institutes of Health, the Department of Neurology at Johns Hopkins School of Medicine and the Department of Dermatology at the University of Maryland School of Medicine. He then became a professor and researcher at Mount Saint Mary's University in Maryland. His research over the past seven years has focused on studying autism.
Decreased Serum Hepatocyte Growth Factor (HGF) in Autistic Children with GI Disease

The MET gene variant exists in the genome of a significant number of autistic individuals. It facilitates the signaling of its ligand, HGF, and is involved in peripheral organ development and repair, immune function and gastrointestinal repair. We used ELISAs to determine the serum concentration of HGF in autistic children with GI disease and appropriate controls. To determine the potential relationship between HGF levels and oxidative stress, we measured serum levels of Cu/Zn SOD in the same groups, and to help establish the possible cause of abnormal HGF levels, we measured zinc and copper levels to assess a possible association between zinc and/or copper levels and HGF concentration. Preliminary results showed that autistic children with GI disease had lower serum levels of HGF compared to controls, and our preliminary data suggests a correlation between Cu/Zn SOD and HGF levels. We did not find a relationship between Zn or Cu levels and HGF concentration. These results suggest an association between HGF serum levels and the presence of GI disease in autistic children and explain a potential functional connection between the MET gene and autism. Correlation between HGF and Cu/Zn SOD levels suggest HGF levels may be associated with oxidative stress. The concentration of serum HGF may be a useful biomarker for autistic children, especially those with severe GI disease.

Presenter Presentation
Sarah Clifford Scheflen, MS, CCC-SLP

is a pediatric clinical speech-language pathologist on staff at a major public research university in Los Angeles, California, where she specializes in working with children who have autism spectrum disorders to improve their speech and language, social skills, play, and all aspects of their communication. Her particular research focus is on the effectiveness of video modeling as in instructional modality for children. She also has a private practice in Santa Monica, California, and is co-founder of Teach2Talk, LLC, a producer of educational resources for children on the autism spectrum.
Using Video Modeling to Teach Play (and Language and Social Skills) to Children with Autism

One of the hallmark deficits of children with autism is play. Although children with autism usually acquire play skills in the same order as typically developing children, their acquisition of play skills is often delayed when compared to, and their play is not as frequent, varied, abstract or imaginative as, their more typically developing peers. Because many parents aren't familiar with the developmental order in which children acquire play skills, they are unable to identify these deficits so they can be effectively addressed. Video modeling is often an effective methodology for teaching children with autism a variety of skills, including play. This talk will review the developmental sequence of play and the use of video modeling as an instructional technique, and then provide examples of utilizing video modeling techniques to teach play, language and social skills. Findings from a case study in which video modeling was used to effectively teach play skills to children with autism will be reviewed. Learning Objectives: Understand the importance of play to children's development; review the development sequence in which children acquire play; identify the ways in which the play skills of children on the autism spectrum are typically impacted; recognize what are, and are not, developmentally appropriate play actions; understand why video modeling is often an effective instructional methodology for children on the spectrum; see how video modeling can be used to teach play skills, as well as a speech and language and social skills; and identify ways parents can implement video modeling on their own to target specific skills or issues for their children on the spectrum.

Presenter Presentation
Harry Schneider, MD

received his medical degree from Columbia University and completed his residency at Northwestern University. Dr. Schneider is an Associate Research Scientist in the Functional MRI Research Center of Columbia University. He is in private practice at the Center for Medical and Brain Sciences in Plainview, NY, and uses both conventional medicine and the Defeat Autism Now! approach in his approach to the medical care of children on the spectrum. Dr. Harry Schneider served on the medical staff of North Shore University's Franklin General Hospital and South Nassau Communities Hospital, as well as serving as an Adjunct Professor for Clinical Training in the Family Practice Training Program at SNCH. He has participated in Tropical Medicine Research in Guatemala and Brazil for the World Health Organization and received research support as a Medical/Linguistic Consultant for Transcendent International's bilingual medical software. Dr. Schneider's background is as a linguist, with advanced degrees in language and linguistics, and he speaks multiple languages. He is in the process of obtaining a doctoral degree in Speech Language Pathology.
Publication of our research investigation: new findings in brain areas and their connections that explain the lack of speech in children; The ongoing results of using neuromodulation to treat these children Publication of our research investigation: new

This lecture will be a follow up to the work we have been doing at Columbia University on the areas and connections of the brain that have been shown to be dysfunctional - using functional MRI. Based on the findings of that investigational study - which is being submitted for publication - we have been stimulating select brain areas together with novel linguistic techniques, which have shown language restoration in more than 85% of the children in the program. Next year, the results of these therapeutic studies will also be submitted for publication.

Presenter Presentation
Stephen Shore, EdD

was diagnosed as a child with "atypical development with strong autistic tendencies," viewed as "too sick" to be treated on an outpatient basis and recommended for institutionalization. Nonverbal until four, and with much help from his parents, teachers, and others, Stephen completed his doctoral dissertation at Boston University focused on matching best practice to the needs of people on the autism spectrum. More recently, Dr. Shore accepted a professorship at Adelphi University teaching courses in special education and autism. Stephen is the author of the books Beyond the Wall: Personal Experiences with Autism and Asperger Syndrome; Ask and Tell: Self-advocacy and Disclosure for People on the Autism Spectrum; the critically acclaimed Understanding Autism for Dummies; and the newly released DVD, Living Along the Autism Spectrum: What it Means to have Autism or Asperger Syndrome'

Dr. Shore serves on the Interagency Autism Coordinating Committee and the board of directors for the Autism Society of America, Unlocking Autism, and other autism related organizations.
The Apple Falls Not Far from the Tree: Get in touch with your own autistic characteristics for better mutual understanding of your child on the spectrum

Join Dr. Stephen Shore, a person on the autism spectrum, for a light-hearted yet meaningful exploration of autistic characteristics as they run through families. By recognizing that traits of autism are shared by humankind in general, we'll take at look at what traits you may share with others in your family with autism - and how they may have contributed to your success. Everyone has autistic characteristics. It's just that some people have more than others. As participants of this workshop increase their knowledge of their own their autistic characteristics, greater understanding of loved ones on the autism spectrum, and perhaps even for greater success in life, shall result.

Presenter Presentation
Robert, Debra, & Michael Sidell

Robert J. Sidell
Michael's Dad - Born in Akron, Ohio on June 20th, 1952 and raised on the Eastern Shore of Maryland, Rob graduated from the University of Delaware with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Business Administration. His continuous studies have given him several business and professional designations including Securities Principal, Chartered Life Underwriter, Chartered Advisor for Senior Living and Registered Parliamentarian among others. Rob has a career as a personal financial advisor to a broad and diversified clientele primarily on the Eastern Seaboard. Rob is a student of the martial arts, and counts sailing, crabbing, philately, and art among his avocations.

Debra W. Sidell
Michael's Mom - Born and raised in Wilmington, Delaware, Deb graduated from Potomac State College with an Associate Degree in Administrative Assisting. Her life- long desire, however, was to be a nurse. In this endeavor, she completed her certification as an Ophthalmic Technician and enjoyed many years in the field. She worked with many well-renowned ophthalmologists at the University of Pennsylvania and at the Wills Eye Hospital in Philadelphia as well as many top doctors in Wilmington. Her hobbies include nutrition and fitness. Such knowledge was extremely helpful when Michael was diagnosed with autism.

Michael Otto Sidell
born in September 1998. Happy and healthy - reaching all milestones. Regressed into moderate to severe autism at the age of 2.5. Chronic diarrhea, hyperactive, lost all words and extremely perseverative with doors, wheels and trains. Michael is now 11 years old, plays the piano and saxophone - completely mainstreamed in 5th grade. He has earned his green belt in karate and just crossed over from two years of Cub scouts into Boy Scouts. He is also a member of our church choir and is planning to join the Chess Club after school when he starts Middle school in the fall. Just an amazing guy - Michael Sidell - smart, loving, gentle and funny. Our Big Hug!!!
Our Big Hug!!!

Walk with the Sidells on their son's road to recovery. From diagnosis to dietary changes, they'll review the various biomedical interventions that helped. And hear encouraging stories from Michael - in his OWN words!!!

Presenter Presentation
Terrie Silverman, MS

holds a master's degree from Rutgers University in speech pathology, with a minor in behavioral psychology. She has worked with individuals with autism and PDD since 1973. Ms. Silverman received her Berard Auditory Integration Training certification in 1992 and completed a second course of instruction in the Berard Method in 2001. She was member and on the board of directors of the Society for Auditory Intervention Techniques from its inception in 1993, and is on the board of the newly formed BAITIS (Berard Auditory Integration Training International Society). Ms. Silverman has provided Berard AIT to over 2500 adults and children in many communities throughout the U.S. Ms. Silverman brings Berard AIT to families in communities throughout the Chicago area, southeastern Wisconsin, and other localities where Berard AIT is not accessible.
Neural plasticity in the auditory cortex following Berard Auditory Integration Training: the affect on the overall sensory system in children with autism

This presentation will focus on the questions that often arise after a child completes the 10-day Berard AIT session: Why is my child sleeping better? Why will my child now taste new foods? How is it that an auditory training program affects changes in handwriting, gross motor and fine motor skills? My child became toilet trained during AIT, why is that? I can't believe it, he is riding his bike for the first time, no training wheels, no assistance! Our O.T. says that our daughter is more regulated and focused. The list goes on and on.

Items to be discussed: What pathways are involved? Is there a reorganization of the auditory cortex? Is it the reticular formation? The Moro reflex? What is the affect on other sensory processing areas of the brain? Are there accompanying cognitive and/or auditory processing changes in children with autism following Berard AIT?

We will discuss the published research, the anecdotal evidence/body of knowledge, and theories, which abound, as to why we consistently observe such a wide variety of changes after Berard AIT.

Presenter Presentation
Barry Smeltzer MPAS, PA-C

received his master's in physician assistant studies from Finch University in 2000. He went on to work in the areas of emergency medicine and orthopedics for over eight years. After one of his children was diagnosed with autism, Barry became focused on the medical issues affecting children with developmental delays. His passion for helping his son and others led him to become a Defeat Autism Now! Clinician and ultimately join the team at True Health Medical Center in Naperville, IL, led by Dr. Anju Usman. Barry is well-versed in utilizing patient history, exam, and complex labs to implement numerous biomedical interventions, including individualized methylation strategies, detoxification, biofilm and apraxia protocols, mitochondrial and antioxidant support.
Sleep disturbances and metabolic dysfunction

A good night's sleep is one of the most important functions of our body. It gives the body time to relax, heal, and rejuvenate. It acts as a reset button in the body to start each day fresh with renewed energy and focus. Unfortunately, the prevalence of sleep problems in children with ASD ranges from 44-83%. This leads to irritability, lack of attention and focus, increased behavioral problems, and a depleted immune system. Identifying the underlying causes of the sleep disturbances from both a biomedical and behavioral standpoint will help create more effective and lasting treatments. Addressing the causes, treating the underlying medical issues, and creating a schedule and environment conducive to sleep will help to improve the child's ability to get to sleep and stay asleep. This, in turn, will lead to brighter mornings that everyone will enjoy!

Presenter Presentation
Kendal Stewart, MD & Lisa Hunter Ryden, MT (ASCP), MBA

Kendal Stewart, MD
is board certified in otolaryngology with fellowship training in neurotology/skull base surgery. His experience includes advanced training in neurosurgical, neurological and immunological disorders. He has extensive experience with advanced neurological and audio-vestibular techniques and has authored two medically-related patents in this area. Dr. Stewart has had specific research interests in vestibular disorders, athletic injuries of the nervous system and processing/sensory integration disorders. Dr. Stewart has developed innovative and highly effective treatment protocols for neurological diseases including Meniere's disease, imbalance, vertigo, autism spectrum disorders, and "post-concussion" syndrome. He has authored papers and is extensively involved in lectures and instructional courses for physicians, therapists and other health care professionals. He has also held an associate professorship at the University of Texas Medical School at San Antonio.

Lisa Hunter Ryden, MT (ASCP), MBA
is a parent of two children with neuroimmune disorders. Her oldest son suffered neurological regression at 12 months old and was later diagnosed with autism, and her youngest son has allergies and asthma. Together with Dr. Stewart, she hosts a monthly radio show on Autism One Radio called, "The Parent and Professional Partnership for Healing our Children," which presents a unique team approach to the recovery journey and chronicles her children's progress using evidence-based biomedical interventions and therapies. Both of her children have similar diagnostic test results, which has led her to research the epigenetic origins of these disorders. Lisa has a BS degree in Medical Technology, an MBA degree in International Management, and graduate coursework in molecular genetics and immunology. She has spent the past 20 years working in the medical diagnostic industry. She is a frequent public speaker and writer for autism and disability organizations, and has met with media and elected officials to educate them about the diagnosis and treatment of the neuroimmune disorders.
Preventative and Management Strategies for the Neuroimmune Disorders

Dr. Kendal Stewart and Lisa Hunter Ryden will present key areas related to prediction, prevention, diagnosis, and management of neuroimmune disorders, particularly disorders associated with behavioral regression and neuroimmune symptoms such as allergies, asthma, ADD and autism. For preventative and predictive strategy, they will discuss the prenatal health status of the mother and how this impacts the newborn’s neuroimmune system, the use of newborn screening biomarkers to assess immune function, and the birth parents’ genetic and medical histories. For diagnosis of the neuroimmune disorders, Dr. Stewart will discuss Sensory View®, the diagnostic system he patented which provides an integrated and easy-to-read graphical illustration of the patient’s neurosensory and vestibular system function, and Lisa will discuss the prioritization and cost management of laboratory biomarker testing using genetic and protein biomarkers.  As hosts of the monthly show on Autism One Radio titled, “The Parent and Physician Partnership for Healing our Children,” Dr. Stewart and Lisa discuss their team approach to management of the neuroimmune disorders and the ongoing recovery of Lisa’s son from many medical symptoms related to his disorder of autism. In 2007, Lisa’s son presented clinically as nonverbal with a diagnosis of heavy metal toxicity, gastrointestinal dysfunction, multiple allergies, and pathogenic burden.  Today, he has recovered from many of those medical symptoms and is now speaking in sentences.

Presenter Presentation
Carrie Sypherd, O.D.

graduated from Purdue University with a bachelor of arts in German and a bachelor of science in neurobiology. She is an honors graduate of the Illinois College of Optometry. She is an associate member of the College of Vision Development. Dr. Sypherd treats patients with developmental delays, ADD and ADHD, autism, sensory integration disorders, and acquired brain injuries. She has presented her model of vision to optometrists, physiatrists, medical doctors, therapists, and educators. Dr. Sypherd participates every year in a mission trip to provide vision care to patients who do not have access to eye doctors. She is a past president of the Bartlett Woman's Club as well as the Fox Valley Optometric Society, and is an active member of the Bartlett Lion's Club, Neighbors for Neighbors and the Chamber of Commerce.
Vision and Autism: Beyond 20/20

This presentation covers what vision is: it answers the questions what is it, where is it, where am I in relationship to it, and what do I do with it? If any of the answers to these four questions doesn't make sense, the vision system causes confusion that affects the other sensory systems as well as the motor system. Symptoms of a vision dysfunction will be listed as well as treatment options. Visual stims will be discussed and simulated.

Demonstrations will be given on what it feels like to see double, how it feels to move with a vision dysfunction and how visually overwhelming the world is with a processing deficit.

Presenter Presentation
Catherine Tamaro

is the mother of a 13-year-old son diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder when he was 3-½ and an 11-year-old son with colitis. She is a 10-year veteran of biomedical treatments for autism and along the way has picked up a decent working knowledge of human physiology and biology. She founded the Vitamin K list 3 years ago and developed the Vitamin K protocol based on parental feedback and her own research. Catherine received BA and BS degrees from Stanford University.
Vitamin K, fat-soluble vitamins, and metabolism

The Vitamin K list was started three years ago and quickly developed into a protocol that emphasizes the use of fat-soluble vitamins to address autism. The listserv has been a remarkable collaboration among parents, and their feedback on their children's responses has guided the evolution of the protocol. The Vitamin K protocol focuses on the use of the fat-soluble vitamins in stabilizing the children's metabolisms. Vitamin A, Vitamin D, and Vitamin K2 are all used, as all three vitamins work together in the body. The protocol has broadened but those three fat-soluble vitamins are its mainstay.

Presenter Presentation
Theoharis Theoharides, MD, PhD

is a professor of pharmacology, Internal Medicine and Biochemistry, and the director of the Laboratory of Molecular Immunopharmacology and Drug Discovery; Department of Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, Tufts University School of Medicine. He trained in allergy and clinical immunology at Yale and internal medicine at New England Medical Center. Dr. Theoharides was director of medical pharmacology at Tufts (1986-1993), and became full professor in 1995. He has 300 publications and 3 books, including a Textbook of Pharmacology. Dr. Theoharides was the first to show mast cells and acute stress promote inflammation in autism, cancer, interstitial cystitis, migraines and multiple sclerosis.
"Allergic-like" symptoms, brain inflammation and autism: beneficial effect of a luteolin formulation (NeuroProtek®)

Children with ASD often present with “allergic” symptoms, including food allergies and food intolerance, but often without positive skin or blood RAST tests, suggesting mast cell activation by non-allergic triggers. Moreover, children with mastocytosis, a spectrum of diseases (www.tsmforacure.org) that present with skin allergies, diarrhea, learning disabilities, hyperactivity and difficulty focusing, reminiscent of ASD have a 10-fold higher prevalence of ASD (1/10) than the children reported for the general population.  A number of papers have suggested that ASD may be associated with some immune dysfunction. However, only a few studies investigated biomarkers in ASD. We show that the peptide neurotensin (NT) is increased in the serum of children with autism. NT was originally isolated from the brain, but is present also in the gastrointestinal tract.  NT can induce intestinal inflammation, stimulate lymphocyte proliferation, activate T cells, is also a potent trigger of mast cells, and acts synergistically with corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH), secreted under stress, to induce mast cell-dependent disruption of the blood-brain barrier (BBB).  This is relevant because ASD patients are prone to stress, and have serum auto-antibodies against brain proteins suggesting BBB disruption.  We also show that, mercury induces mast cell secretion of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), an action augmented by NT, suggesting that a subgroup of patients with activated mast cells may be more vulnerable to mercury. Finally, we show that the natural flavonoid luteolin, with anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory actions, inhibits mast cell and T cell activation, as well as BBB permeability. Luteolin also inhibits IL-6 release from microglia cells, is neuroprotective for glia, can inhibit cytokine release from peripheral blood monocytes from multiple sclerosis patients, as well as autism-like behavior in mice. Finally, luteolin (5,7, 3’,4’-tetrahydroxyflavone) is closely related to 7,8-dixydroxyflavone recently shown to mimic brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), which is neuroprotective.

Presenter Presentation
Pam Tindall, BS

received her training in Qigong Sensory Training (QST) from Dr. Louisa M. Silva at the Qigong Sensory Training Institute in Salem, Oregon. She participated in two research studies of the effectiveness of QST with Dr. Silva, and has trained and coached parents in using QST with their own children. She maintains a private QST practice in Washington State. Ms. Tindall has provided training and technical assistance on a variety of health topics at local, state, regional and national levels for over 20 years.
Qigong Sensory Training

Research has shown that parents/caregivers who give their child daily qigong massages are able to reduce autistic behavior and sensory problems within four months. Children relax, open up and participate more in home and school life. The knowledge of Chinese medicine combined with the power of parent touch opens the way for parents to help children to be more comfortable in their own skin. The key to a successful outcome for the child is a parent who is able to get the massage into the child's daily routine and keep it there for four months. When this happens, the massage starts a healing and balancing process in the child that continues as long as the massage is given daily. The workshop is for parents and caregivers, and will teach the basic 12 steps of the massage, as well as some of the more common modifications necessary to tune the massage to the child's responses.

Presenter Presentation
Rosario Trifiletti, MD, PhD

received his degrees from the Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, with a PhD in neuropharmacology. After completing his training at Babies Hospital and the Neurological Institute of New York at Columbia-Presbyterian Medical Center, he was an assistant professor at Columbia and then Cornell Medical School. Subsequently, he was chief of child neurology at St. Vincent's (Manhattan) and UMNDJ-Newark. He is currently in private practice in Ramsey, NJ (www.neurokidsr.us).
PANDAS and Related Illnesses: No Longer Black and White

PANDAS refers to the acute onset of tics and/or obsessive-compulsive symptoms in temporal correlation with a group A strep infection. However, PANDAS is but one of a larger group of post-infectious neuropsychiatric disorders known by the acronym PITANDS.

Dr. Trifiletti will draw on his 15 years of experience treating almost 1000 cases of PITANDS to survey how complex things have become. He will discuss the range of possible infectious triggers that can produce PITANDS, which include not only GABHS but also Mycoplasma pneumoniae infection and Lyme-like illness, especially an anti-flagellin (p41) syndrome. He will also discuss why the range of clinical manifestations of PITANDS should be expanded to include symptoms beyond tics and OCD. This will be illustrated by four case histories: 1) a child with acute onset of tics following a streptococcal infection; 2) a child with acute onset of intractable sneezing following a Mycoplasma pneumoniae infection; 3) a child with an autistic spectrum disorder who undergoes sudden behavioral and language regression following a streptococcal infection (PDD-PANDAS); and 4) a hyperacute acute onset of ballistic tics, falsetto vocal change and episodic rage following severe streptococcal infection suggestive of demonic possession ("Exorcist syndrome"). All of these patients improved rapidly with the clinically appropriate antibiotics alone. PITANDS is thus seen to be a condition with a broad range of triggers and clinical manifestations that should be considered in the differential diagnosis of many acute and chronic neuropsychiatric conditions in children.

Presenter Presentation
John Turner, DC, CCSP, DIBCN, Kathryne Pirtle & Sueson Vess

Dr. John D. Turner, DC, CCSP, DIBCN
is a certified chiropractic sports physician and a board certified chiropractic neurologist who has run a successful private practice in Glendale Heights, Illinois, for more than 25 years. He has served on the medical staff at the World Gymnastics Championships and the United States and Big Ten Track and Field Championships, lectured at the National Athletic Trainers Association Annual Conference, and served as nutrition consultant for the Chicago Sting Professional Soccer Team. He currently serves as a Preceptor for the National University of Health Sciences, helping train graduating Doctors of Chiropractic in their clinical expertise in physical examinations, diagnosis and adjusting skills. Dr. Turner believes that health is not merely the absence of symptoms, but an optimal balance of our physical, biochemical, and energetic selves.

Kathryne Pirtle
is a world-class clarinetist whose career nearly ended because of performance difficulties caused by acid reflux, celiac disease, chronic inflammation, and other health problems. Performance without Pain, written with Dr. Turner and Sally Fallon, president of the Weston A. Price Foundation, tells the story of her recovery. As a health educator, she has given more than 45 workshops around the country with Dr. Turner and appeared on numerous radio and television shows. Pirtle is executive director of the Orion Ensemble, presents a live internationally broadcast series on Chicago's WFMT-FM Fine Arts Radio Network and tours throughout North America. She is also is principal clarinetist of the Lake Forest Symphony and frequently performs with the Chicago Lyric Opera Orchestra, the Grant Park Music Festival, The Ravinia Festival Orchestra, and the Chicago Symphony Orchestra.

Sueson Vess
is a chef, food writer, and food coach with 25 years experience. She is the author of Special Eats: Simple, Delicious Solutions for Gluten-Free and Dairy-Free Cooking and a contributing writer for Living Without magazine. She supports families adjusting to the demands of multiple food intolerances and children with special needs. Creatively adapting recipes to a suit varied dietary limitations while making GF/CF meals nutritious and delicious is her passion.
Healthy Minds/Healthy Bodies: Harnessing the Power of Traditional, Nutrient-Dense Foods-the Keys to Maximizing Treatment Success for Autism

Dr. John Turner, Kathryne Pirtle, and Sueson Vess discuss why the principles of optimal nutrition for human health of the work of Dr. Weston A. Price are an effective partner in approaching the treatment of autism. Discover why some common nutritional advice can perpetuate digestive problems, leaky gut and malnourishment, which can deter healing progress. Learn how focusing on a diet of nutrient-dense, enzyme-rich, traditional foods is a superior therapeutic initiative for autism as it can improve physical health and brain function as well as the body's ability to detoxify.

Presenter Presentation
Lauren Underwood, PhD

received her PhD in biology from Tulane University. Following graduation, she was awarded an NIH Post-Doctoral Training Grant Fellowship in vision research. She is the parent of a child recovering from autism and a health educator/biomedical consultant for families of autistic children. Dr. Underwood is a Senior Staff Scientist for SSAI, Inc. supporting NASA. She is a Center for Autism and Related Disorders (CARD) IRB board member and has appeared in many peer-reviewed journals.
Biomedical Treatments for Autism 101: An Introduction to Scientifically Based Medical Treatment Options

Fundamental basic medical sciences (what many can perceive to be pretty complex concepts) will be introduced and explained in way that anyone can understand. Anatomy and cell biology will be explained as they relate to proper function of the gastrointestinal system. Proper immune system function and basic body biochemistry will also be discussed. Then, descriptions of what can go wrong with these systems will be explained, and how these dysfunctions can affect general health and well-being. This educational foundation will help illustrate how and why biomedical treatments for autism, like special diets and/or detoxification as well as other alternative biomedical treatments can enhance "normal" behaviors and reduce negative behaviors simply by alleviating real clinical symptoms that may exist for many of these individuals. Special diets, food allergies, food sensitivities, immune system dysregulation, methylation, intestinal dysbiosis, and nutritional supplementation, as well as complementary and alternative therapies treatments like HBOT and chelation are just some of the topics that will be discussed.

Presenter Presentation
Anju Usman, MD & Barry Smeltzer, PA

Anju Usman, MD
is the medical director of True Health Medical Center and Pure Compounding Pharmacy in Naperville, Illinois. She specializes in the biomedical treatment of children with Autism/ADD and developmental delays. She has been involved in researching copper/zinc imbalances, metallothionein dysfunction, hyperbaric oxygen therapy, nucca adjustments and chronic infections in ASD patients. She is actively involved in the Defeat Autism Now! movement as a speaker and advisor. She is also co-founder of ACE (Autism Center for Enlightenment), a non-profit dedicated to education, research, and support for families. Dr. Usman received her medical degree from Indiana University. She completed a residency in Family Practice at Cook County Hospital, in Chicago, Illinois and is board certified in Family Practice.

Barry Smeltzer, PA
received his master's in physician assistant studies from Finch University in 2000. He went on to work in the areas of emergency medicine and orthopedics for over eight years. After one of his children was diagnosed with autism, Barry became focused on the medical issues affecting children with developmental delays. His passion for helping his son and others led him to become a Defeat Autism Now! Clinician and ultimately join the team at True Health Medical Center in Naperville, IL, led by Dr. Anju Usman. Barry is well-versed in utilizing patient history, exam, and complex labs to implement numerous biomedical interventions, including individualized methylation strategies, detoxification, biofilm and apraxia protocols, mitochondrial and antioxidant support.
The Importance of Antioxidants and Good Fats in Improving Brain Health

Numerous studies reveal oxidative stress is rampant in patients with ASD. Oxidation affects the body in numerous negative ways including impairing mitochondrial function and methylation. However, oxidation also targets fat or lipid membranes in our body and in particular the brain leading to inflammation and immune activation. Providing the body with fat soluble antioxidants and essential fats may improve brain health and functioning.

Presenter Presentation
Anju Usman, MD; Suruchi Chandra, MD; Sonja Hintz, RN; Sym Rankin, RN, CRNA; Barry Smeltzer, MPAS, PA-C

Suruchi Chandra, MD
has an undergraduate degree from Harvard and a medical degree from Yale University.' She completed a psychiatry residency at the Massachusetts General Hospital/McLean Hospital combined program at Harvard Medical School.? Believing that pharmaceutical agents can only help a subset of patients Dr. Chandra has also studied with W. Lee Cowden, MD, an international authority on integrative and energy medicine, learning about bioenergetic testing, homeopathy, detoxification strategies, herbology, laser and other photonic therapies, as well as biomedical interventions. She has completed the Defeat Autism Now! clinician training and currently practices at True Health Medical Center in Naperville, Illinois.

Sonja Hintz RN
graduated from Marquette University nursing school in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. At the age of 16 she worked at a group home for developmentally disabled adults. Professionally she worked as a public health nurse, psychiatric nurse, and neonatal intensive care nurse. After the birth of her second child, Sonja was compelled to reevaluate the traditional medical paradigms she had espoused in order to meet the needs of her son who was identified as being on the autism spectrum at 3 years old. Through the use of integrative therapies such as therapeutic diet, homeopathy, herbs, vitamins, essential oils, and chelation, in addition to traditional therapies (e.g., speech and language, occupational therapy, etc.), Sonja's son has recovered from autism. For the past 30 years, she has applied what she has learned to help other children improve the quality of their lives. Currently, Sonja is in practice at True Health Medical Center with Dr. Anju Usman.

Sym Rankin RN, CRNA
is a graduate of the University of Southwestern Louisiana School of Nursing and the Charity Hospital School of Nurse Anesthesia (New Orleans). ?As a practicing anesthetist for over 25 years, she has witnessed an alarming increase in chronic and autoimmune diseases. Those observations became less academic and more personal after her son was diagnosed with autism. ?Her son's journey of recovery has led to Sym's realization that mainstream medicine is far more interested in merely treating symptoms than in asking the difficult questions of why those symptoms exist. In addition to her work as a nurse anesthetist, Sym is also an advanced practice nurse at True Health Medical Center in Naperville, helping other families on the journey to recovery.

Barry Smeltzer MPAS, PA-C
(see above)

Anju Usman, MD
(see above)
True Health Symposium: Raising a Healthy Child in a Toxic World

Suruchi Chandra, MD: Simple Strategies for Lowering Your Family's Exposure to Chemical Toxins and Electromagnetic Fields.
There is increasing scientific evidence for the role of exposure to chemical toxins and elctro magnetic fields in the development and progression of many chronic illnesses. A brief review of the scientific literature on the role of toxins and EMFs on health will first be presented. Then, we will discuss simple ways of minimizing your family's exposure to toxins and EMFs (electro magnetic fields) and creating a healthy home. Topics to be discussed will include household cleaning supplies, toiletries, air quality, wireless technology, and creating a "sleeping sanctuary."

Sonja Hintz RN, & Sym Rankin RN, CRNA: Eating Healthy for the Whole Family
There is more than a little truth to the old saying, "you are what you eat." Our food choices have a direct impact on behavior and overall well-being. We will focus on the brain-gut connection and the positive influence proper nutrition can have on the brain. Our discussion will include getting chemicals and toxins out of the diet, making healthy food choices, and exploring the available resources.

Barry Smeltzer MPAS, PA-C: 3:45-4:15- Detoxification: Spring Cleaning from the Inside Out
Springtime is the perfect opportunity to clean-up. Clean-up your house, recycle what is no longer necessary and eliminate what is not needed. It is also a perfect opportunity to clean-up your body and eliminate what is not necessary. Eliminating things that are not helpful and cleaning up the toxins that may affect your health are simple ways to do "spring cleaning" for your health as well.

Anju Usman, MD: Natural Remedies for Common Childhood Ailments
We have been programmed to reach for a pharmaceutical agent whenever we are faced with medical issues. Nature has provided many simple remedies that are now easily available and are effective without the negative side effects. We will discuss simple approaches to helping allergies, colds, digestive problems, attention, and development.

Presenter Presentation
Kyle Van Dyke, MD

is board certified in family medicine. He studied engineering physics as an undergraduate before attending medical school at the University of Chicago. He became involved in autism after the diagnosis of his son Ryan. Dr. Van Dyke worked with Dr. Elizabeth Mumper at the RIMLAND Center for three years before starting his own practice in 2008 at the Wisconsin Integrative Hyperbaric Center in Madison, Wisconsin.
The Use of Mild Hyperbaric Therapy for Autism

In this lecture, Dr. Van Dyke will explain the use of hyperbaric therapy for autism. Dr Van Dyke will explain what hyperbaric therapy is and how it works. He will review the published studies on hyperbarics for autism and discuss case reports from his clinic. He will also discuss the reasons why this therapy is helpful in many affected children.

Presenter Presentation
Aristo Vojdani, PhD

obtained his PhD in the field of microbiology and clinical immunology with postdoctoral studies in tumor immunology at UCLA. Vojdani's ongoing research, spanning a 40-year career, focuses on the role of environmental factors, such as toxic chemicals, infections and dietary proteins and peptides in complex diseases. An owner of 15 U.S. patents for laboratory assessments, he has published 120 peer-reviewed articles in scientific journals. Vojdani is CEO and technical director of Immunosciences Lab., Inc. in Los Angeles, a member of the editorial board of four scientific journals, and a guest editor of six journals.
Gut: A Gateway to Inflammation, Autoimmunity and Neuroimmune Disorders

Recently, several observations have been made that gastrointestinal microflora and mucosal immune response to their endotoxins play an important role in neuroimmune disorders. Scientists have shown that intestinal mucosal dysfunction, induced by an increased translocation of lipopolysaccharide (LPS) from gram-negative bacteria, plays a role in chronic neuroinflammation, chronic fatigue syndrome, and in the pathophysiology of depression. Syptomatologies improved after normalization of the increased translocation of endotoxin from gram-negative bacteria. Based on these reports and our earlier findings about the role of environmental factors in neuroimmune disorders, we hypothesized that the gut-brain barrier dysfunction, induced by bacterial endotoxins (LPS), contributes to many immune abnormalities detected in patients with neuroimmune disorders. To test this hypothesis, we measured IgG, IgM and IgA antibodies against LPS, the tight junction protein occludin, and the blood-brain barrier (BBB) proteins simultaneously in patients with mixed connective tissue disease, patients with neuroimmune disorders and in controls. Analysis of data showed that levels of IgG, IgM and IgA antibodies were significantly greater in patients with autoimmune disease and in patients with neuroimmune disorders than in healthy controls. This presentation will highlight the role the gut plays in neuroimmune disorders.

Presenter Presentation
Andrew Wakefield, MB, BS, FRCS, FRCPath

is an academic gastroenterologist. He graduated in Medicine from St. Mary's Hospital (part of the University of London) in 1981, pursuing a career in gastrointestinal surgery with a particular interest in inflammatory bowel disease. He qualified as Fellow of the Royal College of Surgeons in 1985, and in 1996 was awarded a Wellcome Trust Traveling Fellowship to study small-intestine transplantation in Toronto, Canada. Discoveries made during his work in Canada led him on return to the UK to pursue the study of inflammatory bowel diseases such as Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis. In 1998, he and his colleagues at the Royal Free Hospital in London reported a novel inflammatory bowel disease in children with developmental disorders such as autism; the condition later became known as autistic enterocolitis. Dr. Wakefield resisted pressure to stop his research on the possible links between childhood immunizations, intestinal inflammation and autism, leaving the Royal Free School of Medicine in 2001. He is involved in many scientific research collaborations in the U.S and abroad, investigations centering on the immunologic, metabolic, and pathologic changes occurring in inflammatory bowel diseases such as autistic enterocolitis, links between intestinal disease and neurologic injury in children, and the possible relationship of these conditions to environmental causes, such as childhood vaccines. During the course of his work on childhood developmental disorders, Dr. Wakefield was increasingly convinced of the need for a research-oriented, integrated bio-medical and educational approach to these disorders, in order to translate clinical benefits for affected children into measurable developmental progress. Dr. Wakefield has published approximately 140 original scientific articles, book chapters, and invited scientific commentaries. He was awarded the Fellowship of the Royal College of Pathologists in 2001; he is medical advisor to the United Kingdom charity Visceral, and sits on the board of the U.S. charity Medical Interventions for Autism.
Autism and the vagrant in the brainstem

This talk examines the possibility that brainstem injury plays a central role in autism. In light of recent observations of brainstem injury in a primate model of vaccine-associated effects on early neurodevelopment, and an analysis of the scientific literature, it is proposed that, as an epicentric event, damage to the dorsal vagal complex (DVC) of the brainstem may be necessary and sufficient to initiate the central and systemic features of autism, including the many that fall outside the behavioral definition of this condition. Mechanisms by which primary systemic inflammation can cause brainstem damage are presented with reference to the published literature. The talk discusses the anatomical predeliction of the DVC for injury resulting form a variety of mechanisms including disruption to the blood supply in the developing brain, environmental toxicity and, via retrograde vagal pathways, intestinal inflammation. Ways of examining this theory are discussed.

Presenter Presentation
William Walsh, PhD

is the President of the Walsh Research Institute in Naperville, Illinois. Dr. Walsh received his PhD in chemical engineering and is an internationally recognized expert on biochemical imbalances. An early collaboration with Carl Pfeiffer, MD, PhD, led to advanced nutrient protocols for normalizing body chemistry and brain chemistry in the 1980s. This work led to establishment of the Health Research Institute and Pfeiffer Treatment Center in Illinois in the 1980s. Dr. Walsh is the director of an international program for training physicians in advanced nutrient therapy for behavior disorders, mental illness, and autism. In 1999, he was the first to discover that undermethylation is a distinctive feature of autism spectrum disorders. His recent autism research includes chemical analysis of autism brain tissues, abnormalities in hormone chemistry, studies focusing on oxidative damage and oxidative stress, and the role of epigenetics. He is the author of a new book titled Nutrient Power.
The Collision of Undermethylation, Epigenetics, and Oxidative Stress in Autism Spectrum Disorders

Recent research indicates that most autistics exhibit both (a) undermethylation and (b) weakness in coping with oxidative stress. Undermethylation can disrupt in-utero epigenetic bookmarking of gene expression that could cause a permanent vulnerability to toxic metals and other forms of oxidative stress. Early oxidative insults can cripple key protective proteins needed for development of brain cells, dendrites, receptors, and minicolumns, resulting in an altered brain. Transgenerational epigenetic inheritance (TEI) has become a leading suspect in the worldwide autism epidemic. By this mechanism, the harm of undermethylation, mercury exposures, etc., could be passed on to future generations, resulting in a geometric increase in autism-prone adults. Nearly all effective autism therapies result in either reduced inflammation or lessened oxidative stress in the brain. Therapies that lower brain inflammation can result in impressive and rapid lessening of behavioral symptoms, but may be overvalued. Significant progress in cognition, speech, and socialization require powerful antioxidant therapies that promote completion of brain maturation. New and advanced therapies for stimulating development of new dendrites, synapses, and minicolumns are badly needed.

Presenter Presentation
Sarah Weiler, MS, CCC-SLP/L & Michele Ricamato, MA, CCC-SLP/L

Sarah Anne Weiler, MS, CCC-Speech and Language Pathologist
Sarah received her master’s degree from Eastern Illinois University in Charleston, IL.  Her clinical experience comes from a variety of settings including public and private schools, in-home, clinic-based, rehabilitation and medical facilities. Since 2004, Sarah has enjoyed using the relationship-based approach of DIR ® to collaborate with families, teachers and therapists in order to treat children individually and holistically.  She is always furthering her clinical skills through multidisciplinary mentorship and participation in an advanced study group, which focuses on the science of typical language development.  Formal training has led her to practice as a DIR III level clinician, which has enriched her work with families in the Chicagoland area. As a private clinician, Sarah has co-directed a clinic-based preschool program, facilitated an augmentative communication support group for parents and has assisted in school programming within private and public school settings.  Additionally, she has represented an interdisciplinary autism support and training team for parents and professionals at events including the Autism One conference.

Michele Ricamato, MA, CCC-SLP
Michele is a licensed speech and language pathologist who works primarily with children diagnosed on the autism spectrum.  She has been in private practice since 1997 and worked in an early childhood school setting prior to that.  Michele has participated in the certification process for DIR ®.  She is certified as an SLP and trainer/tutor.  She is also faculty for the ICDL institute where she trains and supports those that are part of certification.  Michele has an interest in developmental speech and language therapeutic work and she uses the science and sequence of developmental language acquisition to guide her evaluation and intervention of children with disorders in relating and communicating.  Michele has consulted in many public school districts in Illinois and is one of three founders of a new private school (Soaring Eagle Academy) for children with special needs that will incorporate DIR ® into its academic programming. Soaring Eagle Academy will seek to provide integrated programming to meet each child’s unique needs.  Michele has a master’s degree in Speech and Language Pathology from Northwestern University in Evanston, Illinois.
Language as a Natural and Integrated Process within the DIR® Model

Join two integrated speech and language pathologists as they explore the key components of Developmental Individual/Difference Relationship-Based Therapy.  Combine DIR ® methods with the science that is language development and discover how to support your child’s ability to relate and communicate in the most natural and efficient way possible.

During this 2 hour presentation, you will: 

  • Learn about the 6 Functional and Emotional Developmental Levels of DIR and see video clips of children representing each level.
  • Discover the essential differences between Traditional/Behavioral Intervention Plans and a Developmental Model based on typical language acquisition
  • Learn about the core components of Language Development and how they interact with one another as they are illustrated by video clips.
  • Find out how DIR ® and Developmental Language Intervention work together to facilitate the growth and development of your child.

While there are many different approaches for treating children with autism spectrum disorder, there is also a need for a comprehensive program.  DIR ® offers a systematic assessment to create a comprehensive program that addresses relationships, specific behaviors, the creative use of ideas and the various processing areas.  Developmental Language Intervention sees language as a process that occurs as the “whole” child interacts with their world in a dynamic way.  Natural learning environments are encouraged and skills are not taught in isolation.  It allows children to follow a certain progression, which is most natural for that child.

Using a developmental language trajectory within the DIR ® model empowers the parent and is respectful to the potential each unique child has to become a relational human-being.  Learn how to tailor these interventions to the child and orchestrate them to build healthy foundations for relating, communicating and thinking.


Presenter Presentation
Rachel West, DO

graduated from the New York College of Osteopathic Medicine. Her post graduate education includes family practice internship at Tucson General Hospital, Tucson, AZ, and family practice residency at University of New Mexico in Santa Fe and Union Hospital in Union, New Jersey. She has continued her studies in Cranial Sacral Osteopathy and integrative medicine. She uses the Defeat Autism Now! protocol as well as Amy Yasko genetic testing to treat autism spectrum disorders. She is also certified by ACAM in chelation therapy.
Adrenal fatigue and other hormones

Dr. West will talk about the importance of balancing hormones - especially adrenals - in children. She will discuss signs, symptoms, and treatment, and how the adrenals relate to other hormones. What are the stages of adrenal malfunction? How does this relate to inflammation in the body and common symptoms of autism? Dr. West will talk about the importance of treating both children and parents.

Presenter Presentation
Catherine Whitcher, M.Ed.

founder of Precision Education, Inc, has been advocating for appropriate special education programs for over 15 years. As a past special education teacher, sibling to a brother with Down syndrome and an active community member, Ms. Whitcher brings insight from all angles to the IEP table. Her dynamic advocacy style keeps the focus on the student and preparation for further education, employment and independent living. Previously featured in The Autism Perspective, various ASA support groups and TACA, Ms. Whitcher understands the ever-changing needs of children on the autism spectrum and how to implement change within the education system.
You Can LEAD Special Education - IEP Development and Accountability for Success

At the end of this session, participants will be able to prioritize their child/student's IEP goals for maximum progress; integrate report findings into the IEP; gather effective data to monitor progress or regression; utilize a 22 point IEP checklist as an equal member of the team; and negotiate IEP issues with positive results.

Presenter Presentation
Savely Yurkovsky, MD

received his MD with a specialty in pediatrics in 1975 from the II Moscow State Medical Institute, USSR. He completed his residency in internal medicine and fellowship in cardiology at Coney Island Hospital, Brooklyn, New York, and is a Diplomat of the American Board of Internal Medicine. His main areas of research are bio-energetic regulation of man's physiology, toxicology, infectious diseases, quantum physics, decision science, and effective scientific models.

Dr. Yurkovsky authored the book Biological, Chemical and Nuclear Warfare - Protecting Yourself and Your Loved Ones: The Power of Digital Medicine and has written numerous articles including the subject of autism and other brain disorders. His book, Autism and ADHD - An Inescapable Epidemic. Whose Child is Next' True Roots and Solutions and a film presenting his approach with cured children from autism is due in 2010.

Dr. Yurkovsky has founded his own teaching institution, SYY Integrated Health Systems, Ltd., which is dedicated to training health practitioners in this bio-energetic medical system under the concept of FCT - Field Control Therapy® or Guided Digital Medicine™.
Presentation: Field Control Therapy® / Guided Digital Medicine™ as the answer to autism, ADHD and other brain epidemics

This presentation will focus on prevailing deficiencies in conventional and alternative medicine concerning autism and all brain disorders. These deficiencies fail to recognize a principal gap between formally correct scientific findings with their related treatments versus a truly effective medical system that is capable of successfully dismantling the state of illness. The latter commands a complete four-legged chair approach where each "leg" is as capable and mutually enhancing as possible. This is particularly necessary in a complex state such as autism that is sustained by multiple morbid factors with their countless secondary pathogenic effects. The "legs" are: #1# correct autism model inclusive of the most essential causative agents; #2# & #3# diagnostic and therapeutic means fully capable of identifying and remedying these agents; and #4# focused research looped to reliable diagnostic and therapeutic means. Lacking these four pillars seriously undermines consistent successes in cure and prevention of autism. The particulars of the four-legged medical system that has yielded unparalleled success in autism and all brain disorders will be illustrated. It includes bioresonance testing - a non-invasive diagnostic method allowing identification of morbid agents directly within the brain and other organs. Also presented is a novel homeopathic treatment addressing the pathogenicity of heavy metals, infectious agents and vaccines, as well as organ restoration
: : Back