In reference to the letter from Jessica about a baby with sensory problems. I
can relate to this Mom's difficulties, and yours in dealing with this babe. I
nursed my autistic son 23 years ago. Unfortunately, he was not diagnosed
until he was 21 years old. I was left to my own devices learning to care for and
feed this child who resisted physical contact. I was told that there was no
such thing as a "high functioning" autistic child. My son was diagnosed with
Asperger Syndrome and he is quite high functioning. I feel that he is as able to
function as well as he does, because I persevered in holding him and
breastfeeding him, even though it was frequently a wrestling match and he only nursed
for 10 minutes a time (one breast) for the entire year that he was nursed.
Despite this, he gained weight and thrived. He also learned to make eye contact and
sometimes even relax in my arms. I'm sure our early communication helped him.
Just wanted to encourage you in assisting this Mom and encourage her as well.
Breastfeeding is the one of best ways to assist these children in learning to
connect with the world. Tell her not to give up, it's so worth it.

Jena E. Sallenger RN MSN
Florence, SC

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