Expert: James Michael Roan - 12/1/2005

Question
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Followup To
Question -
I have a five year old son who has autism.  I would classify it in the moderate - severe category.

We are US citizens, but live in Ireland.  He is not getting any services here and I am considering relocating to the States.

What worries me is the flight over, the long waits, etc.  He has behavioral issues.  I don't envisage that he could fly for so many hours without medication.  I'm worried about the trauma, etc.

As I say, we have no services here.  I have been trying to contact a doctor for days to ask about medication and side-effects and if it's even worth it.  I can't get to anyone.  Just answering machines........

I need to know if I should pursue this line of thought.  I don't know if staying would yield anything but despair, but would flying be too much for my child?

Would you have any idea of other cases of an autistic child making a long plane trip?  I would have to travel with my child alone as my husband is ill and would have to remain behind.

If you can help, I would appreciate it very much.

Sincerely,
Susan O'Mullane
Answer -
Hello Susan;

I frequently consult in Ireland and am well aware of your situation. Where do you live in Ireland? There are services closer to Dublin and in Carlow. I know some folks there. I am also good friends with Deputy Kathy Sinnott who, as you know, is a champion of children with disabilities in Ireland. Please tell me more about your situation, such as where you live and what is specifically holding you back from accessing services.

Kind Regards,
James

Hello James,

Thank you for the quick reply.  We live in Waterford City.  No services here.  No (public) speech therapist for nearly two years now.

I am on the Board of Management of a new ABA school that was set to open a long time ago.  My son is on the waiting list from the age of 2 and he is nearly six.  I don't know when the school is going to open.

One of the women on the Board just had a court case re: same resolved and she just this minute phoned - believe it or not - and said the Dept. of Ed. has agreed to open the school.  So, perhaps, perhaps.

Let's hope a long trip home won't be necessary.

I know Kathy Sinnott from the beginning and she knows me.  I've got some good advice from her, but not a lot can be done.

However, maybe now.................

Anyway, getting back to my original question, would you run across many people having difficulty with autistic children and flying?

Thank you,
Susan

Answer
Hi Susan;

Yes I have heard of it and it can be a problem. Let me try and run down a parent from Dublin that decided to do what you are proposing. She made several trips to the airport and took a small flight for practice. It may take a few days for her to get back to me.

Kind Regards,
James