Case Histories

Sacha's Story

Sacha has a diagnosis of Autism and Dyspraxia. He has global learning difficulties and sensory difficulties, he is also non-verbal. Sacha was home educated and now can attend school part-time.

We came to Advance to help Sacha with the following issues: over-breathing, cramps, digestive problems, reflux, movement difficulties and speech and generally to help Sacha to get stronger and calmer in his body.

I have listed some of the improvements we have observed over this period (October 2004 – June 2006).

• Sacha is straighter, stronger and more “in” his body
• Overall improvement in limb co-ordination
• Less sensitivity to being touched, allows more physical contact
• More upright and stronger when walking and sitting
• Fully toilet trained
• More independent communication – pointing and typing clearer
• Attention, concentration and alertness increased considerably. Will sit at table for longer periods
• More settled emotionally
• Less need to put non-edible material in his mouth
• Abdomen stronger
• Can climb better
• Swims independently
• Can do needlework and mosaic
• Less picking of his skin or biting his hand
• Less flapping or rocking
• Hand eye co-ordination very improved – can use scissors with little support
• More head control
• More fluid in his movements – less clumsy
• Can balance for longer, even with his eyes closed. Lifts are not so challenging
• Digestion considerably improved – less refluxing
• Requires less facilitation in many areas – dressing and undressing and other self-help skills vastly improved
• Respiration and breathing improved
• Using both hands together better
• Bowel function improved considerably
• Hardly any cramps
• Almost able to sit cross-legged
• More vocalisation
• More words – clearer speech
• Walking better for longer periods
• Less “stuck”
• Far more independent and happy in all areas of his life

We have noticed wonderful changes and improvements in Sacha’s overall development and behaviour. Sacha is stronger overall and continues to improve daily. We are very blessed to have met Linda and her staff and would encourage other families to try the Advance approach.