Operation Pathways: Book of Stories

LATISHA’S STORY: ADVOCACY AND AUTISM

Three years ago, Latisha had trouble raising her son Jamal, who is autistic and prone to aggressive behavior and angry outbursts. Pam, the resident services coordinator at Ships’ Cove in Fall River, Massachusetts, was able to arrange a meeting with a child psychiatrist. Pam also made an appointment at the local parent advocacy center for autism, which provided further assistance for Latisha. Jamal completed a hospital stay and upon his return, despite occasional challenges, he was no longer having meltdowns. Jamal continues to receive psychiatric services at UMass Medical in Worcester and the family is seeing wonderful results, with social and academic skills improving greatly. An in-home therapy service, Can Do Agency, has also helped the entire family learn better strategies to support Jamal.

Where you live matters.

RES I DENT VO I CES

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