Therapy horses, bubbles and firefighters: Miller hospital brings families together for Autism Acceptance Day

One-in-31. That is the likelihood of a child having autism, which has increased by about 300% over the past 20 years. Autism is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects communication, social interaction and behavior. 

At Miller Children’s & Women’s Hospital on Thursday, it was a reason for celebration. 

“[Autism] is everywhere … some individuals with autism can get by in society but for the most part, it’s very difficult. Those that have severe conditions or with severe autism really struggle,” said Dr. Gary Feldman, the Medical Director for Miller’s Stramski Child Development Center.

Miller had its yearly Autism Acceptance Day event, where children were surprised with mini therapy horses, local firefighters and physical activities incorporating bubbles and small keyboards.

Dr. Feldman said it’s easy for individuals with autism to be marginalized because of their behaviors and social traits.

“We need to accept who they are and make them part of our society and include them,” Dr. Feldman said. 

Ten-year clinical psychologist for the Stramski Children’s Developmental Center, Dr. Ioana Pal, said the event helps parents feel less alone and reassures them that they have a community they can depend on. 

Marie Beausoleil, grandmother of Emmalee Beltran, who was recently diagnosed with autism at the Stramski Children’s Developmental Center, said it’s important to have events like this to publicize autism.

“We’re all very proud so the more publicity that Miller’s Children’s Hospital gets, the better for everybody because people that maybe don’t need their services but will later will understand that they’re very welcoming and willing to help whatever walk of life you are in,” Beausoleil said. 

Beltran agreed with Beausoleil that it felt good to have the community support them.

“I liked the horses,” Beltran said.

Valentina Blue, the newest member of Mini Therapy Horses, and the brown and white spotted Liberty Belle surprised the children by showing off tricks such as playing the piano with their muzzle and jumping up in the air on command. 

One-by-one, the children viewed the inside of the firetrucks with excitement, evident by the smiles on each of their faces. The children also had the chance to pet the therapy horses that were brought in.

Miller Children’s & Women’s Hospital staff and the children watched in awe cheerful expressions. 

The firefighters, bubbles and ponies also put a smile on Dr. Pal’s face. But for her, the event is more than just those experiences alone. She views the event as part of giving neurodivergent kids similar opportunities to every other kid.

“It’s not just about talking about autism, it’s about providing the same opportunities like the ponies, the fire truck, bubbles; every child enjoys those things and so a diagnosis shouldn’t stop that,” she said.

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