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Philanthropists Break Ground for New Autism Wing
Thanks to the generosity of Norma Lerner, Morton and Iris November and others, the Center for Autism at Cleveland Clinic Children's Hospital, Shaker Campus, can help more families affected by autism.
The need for increased capacity was answered with their support, celebrated Oct. 20 at the dedication of the Lerner School and the groundbreaking for the new Debra Ann November Autism Wing at the Children's Hospital, Shaker Campus.
"Many friends have helped make this day possible," said Delos M. Cosgrove, M.D., CEO and President of Cleveland Clinic. "We are excited to be able to open our doors to more families."
Facing a Growing Problem
Today, autism is the nation's fastest growing developmental disability, affecting one of every 166 live births.
"Despite all the progress that has been made, too many children are not getting the professional care, support and attention they deserve."
"Cleveland Clinic is stepping forward to help more children and families by building a new facility that will consolidate autism services and house our expanding school - all made possible through philanthropy," Dr. Cosgrove said.
Dedicated to a Worthy Cause
Mr. and Mrs. November named the new wing in loving dedication to Mr. November's daughter, Debra Ann, a devoted teacher.
"She loved children. This would have brought tears of joy to her eyes," he said.
Mrs. Lerner, who chose to support the Center for Autism after touring the current facility with her daughter said, "Ultimately I think we all strive to make this a better life for everyone."
Inspired Leader
Leslie Sinclair, Program Director for the Center for Autism, has been part of the program since its inception. She and her staff work tirelessly each day to help children with autism become more connected with the world around them.
She said it was her work with a boy named Alan, now age 19, that inspired her.
In a poem she read aloud, she described him at age 4, a young child who was "afraid of the ordinary." She recounted the concern of his mother who asked, "Can we reach him? Do you think he is there?" and "Where did he go?"
"He kept falling into autism," Ms. Sinclair said.
She described Alan today as someone gainfully employed in the community. Addressing him, she said, "You became my motivation, I wanted to get you back, and others too."
My Child Was 'Lost'
Trisha Buerge spoke of her son, Jaxon, 4, a student at the Center for Autism.
She said the best way she could describe him before he came to Cleveland Clinic was "lost."
"He could not communicate verbally. He couldn't play appropriately. He just cried all day long."
She said Jaxon has made steady progress, saying his first word a year ago and beginning enrollment at a typical preschool.
"He is coming out of his shell more every day. He is learning and exploring the world around him. Ultimately, he has been given a chance at life. As a parent, this is an indescribable feeling. It's just a miracle," she said.
The Debra Ann November Autism Wing is planned to open in January 2008. Currently, the school has 73 students and the new wing will expand the program's capacity to 100 students.
To support the Children's Hospital, call 216.444.1245 or give online at clevelandclinic.org/isupport.