LETTER: Need a leader on autism

By: | Inside NoVA
Published: October 17, 2009

Raising a child in today’s world is tough; however, when a child has autism it becomes that much more difficult. I was absolutely appalled to learn Jackson Miller (during the legislative session) voted with
insurance lobbyists to deny additional benefits to children suffering from autism.

Last year Jackson told families of autistic children that he would stand up for us and make it easier to gain access to health insurance for our kids who have been diagnosed with this tragic disease. I was
pleased when Jackson signed on to Del. Bob Marshall’s bill doing exactly what he promised. But when nobody was looking Jackson Miller turned his back on my son.

Why did he do this? Jackson Miller didn’t just vote no on this bill, he made it impossible for it to even be brought to the floor. I can understand that no one leader may have all the answers; however, when
confronted with making access to health care easier for children with a debilitating disease, we need a leader who sticks to his word.

Please understand, autistic ridden families face real problems, especially here in Virginia. Locally, 15,000 children suffer everyday just like my son. Recently a study estimated that 1 in 100 children have
autism and that nationwide 673,000 children have this disease.

I really need a delegate that will work for my family, not against it. If Mr. Miller won’t, it’s about time I find someone who will.

CHRIS BAYLISS

Manassas