Autism votes

New Jersey legislators are proposing a bill that would make it mandatory for insurance companies to cover treatments for individuals with autism. New York has already proposed reforms that would require private health insurance companies to pay for screening, diagnosis, testing and treatment, up to $36,000 a year. Connecticut has already passed legislation.

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Photo courtesy of jimbowen030 (flickr.com)

NPR just ran an interview with Karl Taro Greenfeld that discusses his new book, “Boy Alone: A Brother’s Memoir.” Of particular interest to me are the comments that are posted. Most are supportive; several are sharply critical of Greenfeld for what they see as his selfishness and lack of empathy. I can’t help thinking what Ned might say if he writes a memoir one day. Will he say with resentment that his childhood was absorbed by a family that revolved only around Alex?

I found out about the interview (and book) from an email sent by someone at AHRC, the agency that deals out many services to Alex. The woman who runs their sib shops, which Ned attends (and seems to really like going to). I can’t say definitely this will be enough for Ned, but it’s a start. I’m glad they exist; I’m glad they exist for Ned. I think Karl Greenfeld’s life must have been unimaginably difficult, and I think he has written a brave, unflinching memoir that will be difficult for me to read. But it is now on my list.