Adam is 5 years old, from Jerusalem. He was seen by a paediatrician, psychologist, family doctor and referred for hearing test. Then at the age of 25 months was referred by an audiologist to the PHCC for further investigation and proper diagnosis. He presented with complaints, hyperactivity, bizarre activity, not obeying orders, not responding to his name, shows temper tantrums & loud screaming, especially at night.

Parents were embarrassed by his behaviour and were desperate to find out what is his problem?!

At the PHCC Adam was diagnosed of having Autism Spectrum Disorder “ASD,” a tailor made program was designed especially for Adam. His parents were educated on the condition and were informed about the intervention schedule which PHCC uses in such cases. His parents were very understanding and cooperative, but for them to come to Ramallah for the treatment four times weekly was a real problem, since the mom has never left home alone! First time when the family approached the PHCC, they all came, Adam, his older brother, his dad and his mom. For the mom it was her first time in Ramallah, she never went out of her house alone, always with her husband, parents or another member of the family!

When they were given appointments to continue with Adam, the father agreed to come for few appointments but because he works two jobs, he could not make it, so the PHCC team suggested that the mother come with the two kids for Adam to get the treatment. So she started to come all the way from Al Eizarieh “Jerusalem” to Ramallah, but with the two kids and her father-in-law, in a taxi. The taxi would wait until they finish with the treatment. Although the PHCC offers all kind of interventions for all needy children free, especially children with autism, yet, it was expensive for the family, the transportation and time consuming for the in–law. Adam’s mom was convinced by the PHCC team to come alone with the kids. After few times she started coming alone in a taxi. Then she was accompanied with one member of the PHCC to the main bus station, who showed her to use the bus, in order to save money! After two years of intervention she came with Adam to tell her story. She was so happy to become independent and to be able to travel between cities and cross check points on her own with two children! She could save some money and she was empowered.

PHCC’s team impression that this mother was empowered and became totally different person, she was so shy and not exposed, which helped her take good care of her child through his tough journey!

Adam was non- verbal till the age of 3 and used to scream and shout after midnight and whenever he was put to bed! That was so embarrassing especially with the neighbours!

Now Adam goes to a regular KG and is doing well.

He still needs behavioural therapy but his academic performance is very good. And his parents are so happy with his improvement and achievements.