About us
Thank you for visiting our site. My name is George Fortin, and I'd like to share a little about my family.
My wife, Jen, and I reside in Southern New Hampshire with our four sons, Georgie, Joey, Jack, and James. Our third son, Jack, was diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder just shy of his second birthday. Like many kids, Jack's first year and a half were quite typical. He seemed to be hitting all the same milestones as his two older brothers.
Around the 18 month mark, Jack began to regress and the few words he had managed to that point were now gone. He began to avoid eye contact, would stim (jumping, spinning, rocking, flapping) almost incessantly and almost never responded when we would try and talk to him. We started to think he had a hearing deficiency.
After passing numerous hearing tests, it was recommended by our Pediatrician that we seek out an evaluation from a neurologist. Upon conclusion of the evaluation, the Doctor diagnosed Jack as having Autism Spectrum Disorder.
Not having any prior experience or contact with anyone on the Autism Spectrum, the early part of the Jack's journey was trial by error. With no understanding of what services or programs might be available to Jack, countless hours of internet research and phone calls began.
Though navigating the system proved to be challenging, the appropriate early intervention services were located. Jack was able to receive Speech, OT, and some behavioral therapy at no cost. All these therapies were made possible by a number or organizations whose primary mission is to help kiddos like Jack.
It is our hope that our experiences will help you and your family throughout your journey. In addition to providing a support system, we have countless resources that will help you create your own road map for success!
WHY THE DRAGONFLY?
The Dragonfly has a very special meaning to our family. After my father passed away, the dragonfly became symbolic of his presence. Everytime we would see a dragonfly we would think he was watching over us. A few years later, after doing some research on dragonflies and their symbolism, I couldn't believe my eyes as I read the below paragraph. I felt it captured the spirit of our children, specifically my son Jack and the journey he was facing with Autism.
The dragonfly, in almost every part of the world, symbolizes change in the perspective of self realization. The metamorphic act of emergence from nymph to dragonfly strips away our beliefs of containment, our limitations, and our self doubt.
The spirit of the dragonfly reminds us that everything is possible! We can achieve our dreams and our goals. We can learn to understand about ourselves, and our self belief.
The dragonfly spirit is the keeper of our dreams, seeking out true potential and ability, giving us the capability to fulfill our dreams.