Make a Microloan for 8-yr old Brandon's Health!

This loan has been forgiven

First Posted On: January 31, 2009

Name: Brandon

Age: 8 years old

Diagnosis: Autism

Loan Sought: $500

Loan Needed For: Initial visit to DAN! [Defeat Autism Now!] doctor. The family will be seeing Dr. Kenneth Bock at the Rhinebeck Center in the early spring.

Repayment Terms: 18 months (~ $27.78/month) [4/4/09: Revised to one lump sum in 18 months]

Other Notes: Brandon's mom, Sherri, writes, "Brandon is a beautiful 8 year old boy who is a loving child that with biomedical treatment would be able to open up and come out of his own world. He was diagnosed about 4 years ago with Autism. He was developing normally until his dad left for Iraq. A month after Dad left he stopped talking. I was approached by some school officials and was set up with a full evaluation. The outcome was, as you know, Autism. I had to tell my husband while he was deployed, in Iraq, and it was the hardest thing to do. Not only was I dealing with a 5 year old daughter, who missed her daddy, and the fact that my husband was in a War zone, I also had to deal with Brandon's diagnosis by myself. All our family were 1,000's of miles away. It has been a long, tough road but Brandon has made some progress. He is now in an Autism support classroom, with wonderful teachers, but we want to take a different direction. We would like to take him to a DAN! doctor. That's when I was emailed this site by my dad. I am hoping that with the kind generosity of others that we will be able to travel this new direction and see even more progress out of Brandon. He is definitely the light of our life. Even though he cannot talk he expresses to us through actions and affection that he is in there.

Reference Provided By: Jessica W. and Gina B.

Brandon's Community of Lenders:

Jan: $285
Steven S.: $20
Karen: $20
Andy: $175

UPDATES - UPDATES - UPDATES

February 4, 2009: Brandon's loan has been fulfilled! :)

February 20, 2009: (I had been unable to make contact with Sherri but finally found her through one of her references. She had changed her phone number.) Promissory note sent to Sherri for signature.

March 3, 2009: Sherri wrote to ask if her repayments could begin in April 2009.

April 1, 2009: I sent a note to Sherri letting her know that her first repayment was due in two weeks but she still has not yet received the loan, so I asked her how she would like to proceed.

April 1, 2009: Signed promissory note received.

April 2, 2009: Sherri requested beginning payments in May 2009 since the first loan repayment was due in two weeks but she hadn't yet received the loan, and because of some difficult times currently in her personal life. I suggested that, instead of 18 monthly payments, we revise her loan repayment to one lump sum in 18 months, so that she could get some things straightened out in her personal life without worrying about a monthly payment. She agreed. (Note: I will let her lenders know of this and will ask them to let me know if they have any concerns about this change.)

April 4, 2009: Loan disbursed ($500) via check in the mail.

July 23, 2011: This loan has been forgiven. No repayment installments were made, so Brandon's lenders will receive no funds back. We wish Brandon well!

Make a Microloan for 5-year old Joseph's Health!

This loan has been repaid in full!

First Posted On: January 19, 2009

Name: Joseph

Age: 5 years old

Diagnosis: Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)

Loan Sought: $1,500

Loan Needed For: Partial payment of 40 "dives" in a Hyperbaric Oxygen Treatment (HBOT) chamber, overseen by Joseph's DAN! [Defeat Autism Now!] doctor, Koren Barrett, N.D.. The treatments will take place at the California Integrative Hyperbaric Center, where Dr. Barrett is on staff. (Note: The full amount the family needs is $3,000, but Joseph's family is only pursuing half of the amount via Lend4Health.)

Repayment Terms: 18 months (~ $83.33/month)

Other Notes: Joseph's mom, Renee, writes, "Our son Joseph is 5 years old. He was diagnosed [with autism] at four years old, as his pediatrician dismissed our concerns as being premature as most boys speak late. We always felt our son might be autistic but with the diagnosis we knew there was no more time to waste and it was full speed ahead. He has been receiving treatment from a DAN [Defeat Autism Now] doctor and has already made great improvement in his development. We believe and hope that if we continue on this path, we can make our son's life one where he will be able to compete with other children that don't have this condition and be able to take advantage of any opportunities that may come his way. We plan to move forward with HBOT which is obviously very expensive. Our family needs any and all assistance possible in this endeavor. We appreciate your help in making a difference in our son's life."

Reference Provided By: Julie L. of the California Integrative Hyperbaric Center

Joseph's Community of Lenders:

Petra: $10 ["In honor of Inauguration Day"]
Michelle: $20
Karen: $5
Jeanne: $10
Anonymous: $50 [For Jake]
Kristy: $20
Christine: $10
Tommie Lee: $1,200
Ian: $25
Petra (again): $10
Cathleen: $40
Patti: $5
Stacy: $95

UPDATES - UPDATES - UPDATES

January 30, 2009: Joseph's loan has been fully funded! :) Yippie! :)

January 31, 2009: Note from Joseph's mom, Renee: "I am completely overwhelmed with absolute joy that the loan was met in 11 days!! You are awesome!! Those that contributed are remarkable people and I would like to extend my gratitude to all of them for their joined efforts which paid off for my family!!"

February 1, 2009: Promissory note sent to Renee for signature.

February 5, 2009: Signed promissory note received.

February 5, 2009: At the request of Renee, I have written a check paid to the order of California Integrative Hyperbaric Center and will be sending it to Renee tomorrow.

February 10, 2009: Update from Renee: "I got the check today!! I want to thank all my lenders for helping our son Joseph receive his HBOT treatments. It's been a blessing to have strangers be a great part of my son's recovery. It's one day at a time and we must remember that it is not a race but a marathon. I will keep my lenders posted on Joe's status as we go through the treatments. So until then, lets keep the generosity going for our children!!"

March 8, 2009: Update from Renee: "We will see our DAN doctor on April 20th, at which point we will have results from new urine panel. He is currently receiving B12 shots and will be ongoing until our next visit. He also is still taking Nystatin for Candida, and Oregano oil for a bacteria twice a day. Joe will start the HBOT following our next appointment. As you know the loan has already pre-paid for 20 dives. (yea!!) We are excited to see how well he responds to the B12 shots, so far we immediately see an increase in hyperactivity! This is considered a tolerant side effect which means it's working. Needless to say we are very pleased with Joe's progress and once the HBOT starts I will be communicating his status!! Take Care and keep up the Great work!!!"

March 13, 2009: First repayment installment of $83.33 received (2 days early).

April 9, 2009: Second repayment installment of $83.33 received (6 days early).

April 30, 2009: Update from Renee: "Hello to all my lenders! Joseph has been currently receiving B12 shots with folinic acid for two months and has made very big strides forward! He is transitioning with little or no problems. He is allowing mommy to leave the house and have some me time without crying. Joe is answering some questions and paying attention to direction at first or second request. It used to be where he looked at us either confused or just simply did not understand, but now he is responding with the understanding. He tells mommy, daddy, and grandparents that he loves us! Its been amazing....The downside is we have not seen a change in the hyperactivity, still sleeping very late in the night and some sensory issues, ie: licking of his hands or pulling on his ears. (not too concerned with sensory, much more in the hyperactivity.) We have our next consultation with Dr. Barrett on the 8th so we can discuss our concerns, and move forward with are next treatment. (HBOT) Thank you all for your generosity and for blessing our family!! We will keep you all posted!!"

May 9, 2009: Third repayment installment of $83.33 received (6 days early).

June 13, 2009: Fourth repayment installment of $83.33 received (2 days early).

June 26, 2009: Update from Renee:

To My All Lenders,

It's been some time since I have written on Joe's progress, my apologies! Joe has just finished his 29th [hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT)] dive and what a ride thus far. Joe's first day was better then expected, but his initial reaction was fear, as far as he could tell this was not going to be fun! Nonetheless he went into the chamber without the helmet, but it was only his second dive where he then allowed us to put his helmet over his head. He now refers to HBOT as 'the rocket ship' as he anxiously awaits for us to take him.

It appeared after his first few treatments that he had become a bit emotional, and sensitive but very much a temporary side effect. Joe enjoys watching the CARS video and Teach to Talk while in the chamber for one hour. We did not see anything different in Joe up until the 23rd dive. The positive changes are as follows; asking, "where" questions, 3 or 4 word sentences, improved gross motor skills, a huge increase in pretend play and often engaging us in play. On June 13 he asked, "Where is Daddy?" You can imagine my excitement as he never had said this before HBOT. On June 14 he was needling Sangria (our dog) and after asking him to stop numerous times, I finally said "Joe what did I just ask you to do?" He immediately said, "Stop and leave the dog alone." Once my heart stopped beating at a rate that was not normal, I knew this was another breakthrough!

Today we were half-way done with our treatment and suddenly I heard him ask his toys what their favorite food was, and then him answering hot dogs and turkey!! I silently screamed with tears of joy suddenly rolling down my face. I was thanking God for letting me see his hand on my son. His mercy and grace have been my strength and my faith continues to lead me on this journey. I do believe in miracles and in Joe's recovery!!

We have been diving at a pressure of 1.5 and have just requested Joe's dives to be increased to 1.75 which will begin next week. My deep-felt gratitude to all of you who are the major reason we were able to get a jump-start on the HBO treatments. It has not been easy, but with caring people such as yourselves it has certainly lightened the load! I am praying for all of our children and hope one day my experience can help another stranger. This fight is worth fighting and we can never give up on this until we believe that autism is treatable and recovery is happening!

Take Care and God Bless!

Joseph's Family......

July 15, 2009: 5th repayment installment of $83.33 received (on-time).

August 14, 2009: 6th repayment installment of $83.33 received, early.

August 15, 2009: Update from Renee: "Joe is doing well. The yeast problem has reared its ugly head up, and we are currently treating Joe with Diflucan. We are waiting for some blood work and results of his heavy metal testing which was sent to France. We have a follow up appointment with his doctor on the 31st. One day at a time, but I remain hopeful for our Joey! Enjoy the new pictures....."




September 15, 2009: 7th repayment installment of $83.33 received, on-time.

October 15, 2009: 8th repayment installment of $83.33 received, on-time.

November 14, 2009: 9th repayment installment of $83.33 received, early.

December 15, 2009: 10th repayment installment of $83.33 received, on-time.

January 15, 2010: 11th repayment installment of $83.33 received, on-time.

February 13, 2010: 12th repayment installment of $83.33 received, early.

March 15, 2010: 13th repayment installment of $83.33 received, on-time.

April 15, 2010: 14th repayment installment of $83.33 received, on-time.

May 14, 2010: 15th repayment installment of $83.33 received, early.

June 25, 2010: 16th repayment installment of $83.33 received, late.

July 13, 2010: Note from Renee: "I will not be able to make our last two payments on the scheduled date. Unfortunately, we have had some financial set backs. I will definitely make the July & August payment on the 23rd. I apologize for this delay as it was not anticipated. Thank You, and my lenders for your understanding."

July 23, 2010: 17th repayment installment of $83.33 received, late.

August 31, 2010: 18th and final repayment installment of $83.39 received, late (due August 15).

August 31, 2010: This loan has been repaid in full!

September 5, 2010: Thank you note from Renee: "Hello to Our Extended Family! It's been a very long journey, and we continue to move forward with our son Joe. I still remember the day Tori called with the great news, "Joe's loan has been met." I still get emotional when I reflect on that day. You all are a major part of our son's life. You gave him the opportunity to receive HBOT when there was really no other viable alternative. I think the most touching part of this miracle was it came from complete strangers who felt compelled to extend their money to help our child. I write this now with tears because I could never find enough words to express how thankful we are to all of you. Joe still has a way to go, but we will never stop believing in his recovery. He is currently battling a yeast infection, and once he finishes a round of ketaconazole his DAN doctor will finally start addressing his heavy metals. We found out a few months ago how he is allergic to rice and broccoli, which were his two favorite things to eat. Needless to say we are much more limited in his diet, which makes it more difficult. I am homeschooling Joe, and he graduated from Kindergarten this summer. His dad and I are very proud of him! We just started first grade and his strong areas are reading and writing, but still needs to improve in his speech and overall focus. Joe continues to need direction with his language, but has made leaps and bounds from when we first started Kindergarten. We are hopeful with each new day that God will take care of what we can't do for him. It's our faith that strengthens us through the tough times. Once again we thank you all for your trust and help, as we will never forget!"

Make a Microloan for 7-yr old Dazmen's Health!

This loan has been fully repaid!

First Posted On: January 14, 2009

Name: Dazmen ("Daz")

Age: 7 years old

Diagnosis: Autism

Loan Sought: $494

Loan Needed For: Annual membership (+ one-time registration fee) for Autism Action Plan (www.autismactionplan.org). [Note: Autism Action Plan is a new website from DAN! doctor Kurt Woeller that provides access to information and tools, and to Dr. Woeller himself via video chat and parent forums. Austim Action Plan is a new Lend4Health partner and will be providing Dazmen's family (and any interested Lend4Health families) with a $169 rebate the month after they register. This essentially will count as their first 4 monthly loan repayments.]

Repayment Terms: 12 months (~ $41.17/month)

Other Notes: Dazmen's mom, Elizabeth, writes: "My son is a beautiful seven year old who has severe Autism. He does not read or write and his language skills are very low. His inability to communicate clearly causes him high levels of frustration. A recent hair analysis showed toxicity of aluminum and mercury in his system. Last year we started Dazmen on a gluten-free casein-free (GFCF) diet because he would break out in welts and neither his pediatrician nor the hospitals could tell me why. I know a DAN! doctor could help him. I just do not have the income to take him and his insurance will not cover it. He has been in therapy since he was 2 and it is clear that our babies need more than therapy. They are physically ill and DAN! doctors know what to do. Help me help my son. With a hopeful heart I beg you and thank you." Elizabeth learned about Lend4Health from Nikki, co-founder of the PEACE autism support network in Florida.

Reference Provided By: Alicia S. and Diascono G.

Dazmen's Community of Lenders [not updated real-time]:

Romina: $25
Petra: $10
Michelle: $20
Karen: $5
Jeanne: $10
Chrissy: $5 [From sale of Lend4Health t-shirt!]
Anonymous: $50 [For Jake]
Christine: $10
Tommie Lee: $350
Rolf: $9

UPDATES - UPDATES - UPDATES

January 27, 2009: Dazmen's loan has been fully funded! Yay! :)

January 27, 2009: Thank you from Dazmen's mom, Liz:

I'm so thankful...
Who knew today was the day?
Impatiently I've waited for a turning point to arrive;
the day when the answers would became attainable.
Who knew that my prayers would be answered by people
I don't even know. Thank you for your help and for giving us hope.
My son will begin his healing Thanks to all of you that have reached out so quickly through Lend4Health. Kindest Regards, Liz, Dazmen and family.

January 28, 2009: Promissory note sent to Liz for signature.

February 7, 2009: Signed promissory note received from Liz.

February 8, 2009: Loan of $494 sent to Liz via PayPal.

February 18, 2009: Update from Liz: "I will take Dazmen to see his new primary care Doc. tomorrow. Thanks to you and my membership with AAP [Autism Action Plan.org] and Dr. Woeller I am now better equipped to present a plan to Dazmen's new doctor. I hope he is open to suggestions. Pray for us."

February 25, 2009: Update from Liz: "It [the appointment with Dazmen's new primary care doctor] was real good. I presented the new doctor with Dr. Woeller's plan. He was very open and willing to try anything that would possibly help Dazmen. I was very relieved. Dazmen will have the first set of labs done in four weeks. I can't wait."

March 20, 2009: 1st repayment installment of $41.17 received (5 days late).

March 20, 2009: 2nd repayment installment of $41.17 received (early).

March 20, 2009: 3rd repayment installment of $41.17 received (early).

March 20, 2009: 4th repayment installment of $41.17 received (early).

March 20, 2009: 5th repayment installment of $41.17 received (early).

March 20, 2009: 6th repayment installment of $41.17 received (early).

March 20, 2009: 7th repayment installment of $41.17 received (early).

March 20, 2009: Partial ($36.81) repayment of 8th installment received. Amount due remaining on this installment is $4.36.

March 22, 2009: Remaining amount of 8th installment received.

March 22, 2009: 9th repayment installment of $41.17 received (early).

March 22, 2009: 10th repayment installment of $41.17 received (early).

March 22, 2009: 11th repayment installment of $41.17 received (early).

March 22, 2009: 12th repayment installment of $41.13 received (early).

March 23, 2009: This loan has been repaid in full. This family is in good standing on Lend4Health and, therefore, is eligible to request another loan in the future, if they would like.

March 23, 2009: The original loan amounts have been sent back to the lenders via PayPal.

March 23, 2009: Note from Liz: "Thanks Tori, you have made such a positive difference in our life. I don't have the words to explain how much relief I feel to finally be past that hurdle. We are definitely moving forward. Thanks to you and all the lenders. I'll keep you posted on Dazzy's progress. Kindest regards, Lizzie"

Make a Microloan for 4-yr old Kosta's Health!

This loan has been partially repaid and partially forgiven.

First Posted On: December 30, 2008

Name: Kostantinos ("Kosta")

Age: 4 years old

Diagnosis: Autism

Loan Sought: $500

Loan Needed For: Organic Acid Test ("OAT") and stool testing [using Great Plains Laboratory], as well as first dose of glutathione.

Repayment Terms: 12 months (~ $41.67/month)

Other Notes: Kosta's mom, Danielle, writes: "Kosta is a fun-loving 4 year old boy with autism. He loves to read and loves planets and trains. He was diagnosed with Autism at 3 years old, and we have been doing bio-medical since March of 2008 with great improvement. I know my son is trying to come out of this darkness that he has been in." Kosta's DAN! [Defeat Autism Now!] doctor is Dr. David Berger. Tori's note: Both of the people who provided reference for Danielle and Kosta raved about what a great mom Danielle is. One said she is "the nicest person you'll ever meet," and both were so enthusiastic about being able to help her get this loan to help Kosta.

Reference Provided By: Natalie V. and Gelly D.

Kosta's Community of Lenders [not updated real-time]:

Patti: $5
Daren: $10
Steven J.: $20
Sheri: $40
Summit to Sea: $25
Shawn: $50
Amy: $25
Michaela: $25
Jeanne: $25 [Cinco de Linco Day loan!]
Karen: $20 [Cinco de Linco Day loan!]
Tori: $5 [Cinco de Linco Day loan!]
Cathleen: $50 [Cinco de Linco Day loan!]
G: $5 [Cinco de Linco Day loan!]
Melissa: $20
Diane: $25
Petra: $10
Michelle: $20
Karen: $5
Jeanne (again): $10
Heather (Brock's mom): $10
Jan: $95

UPDATES - UPDATES - UPDATES

January 24, 2009: Kosta's loan has been fully funded! Woo hoo!

January 25, 2009: Promissory note sent to Kosta's mom, Danielle, for signature.

January 30, 2009: Signed promissory note received from Danielle.

January 30, 2009: Loan for $500 sent to Danielle via PayPal.

January 30, 2009: Note from Danielle: "First of all I would like to thank Tori for setting this up for all of us Parents and for being such a nice and funny person. And for doing this in her spare time, I am truly grateful. And second I would like to thank all of the lenders that helped to fund my son Kostas' loan. To know that complete strangers to us wanted to help us out and Care that much about a family that they never even met really warms my heart. I forever will look at strangers differently. We go for our appt on Wednesday February 3rd so we were funded right in time. I will keep everyone posted. Thank all of you again, and God bless."

February 5, 2009: Update from Danielle: "So we went to the Dr on Tuesday and Kosta did great, he actually sat there for the glutathione injection, like he knew it was going to help him, I really have not seen much difference YET I'm sure that it takes a little while. We also got the OAT and the stool test. Starting tomorrow I am removing apples, pears, etc to take the test (they have to be removed for 3 days for the test to be accurate). We also got some melatonin, I talked to you Tori about this, and that is definitely working!!! Kosta has been passed out since 9:45, it has been years since he has gone to sleep so early I am trying to figure out what parents do at night. lol. I just wanted to thank you and everyone again for caring about our lives I will never forget this... Danielle"

February 6, 2009: Update from Danielle: "Today when I got Kosta off the bus he said to me (it sounded like one big word) "how was you day" . . . I froze for a second and I said, "Great, how was your day?" Kosta responded by saying "special day." I was amazed, he has never asked me a question ever, and it was just so sweet."

March 1, 2009: First loan repayment installment of $41.66 received, 2 weeks early.

April 2, 2009: Second loan repayment installment of $41.66 received, 13 days early.

April 2, 2009: Update from Danielle: "Hello everyone. Kosta is doing great!!!! We have been doing the glutathione now every two weeks with great improvement!! He is going pee pee on the potty too!!! Something I really did not think was ever going to happen. Also his O.A.T [organic acid test] came back with only two things low, and nothing high, (when we started with our DAN last year all of his tests were very high) and his yeast went from a +5 to a +1. We are really getting somewhere. Thank you to everyone. GOD BLESS"

May 11, 2009: Third loan repayment installment of $41.66 received, 4 days early.

June 3, 2009: Fourth loan repayment installment of $41.66 received, 12 days early.

June 29, 2009: Update from Danielle: "Kosta is doing great. We are getting 4 and 5 word sentences and he is doing great on the potty. We are still doing glutathione every two weeks and supplements and of course the gfcfsf [gluten-free, casein-free, soy-free] diet. Everyday I see some thing amazing from him. We still have a long road ahead of us but he is a fighter."

July 11, 2009: 5th loan repayment installment of $41.66 received, 4 days early.

August 14, 2009: 6th loan repayment installment of $41.66 received, 1 day early.

September 4, 2009: 7th loan repayment installment of $41.66 received, 11 days early.

October 16, 2009 8th loan repayment installment of $41.66 received, on-time.

October 16, 2009: 9th loan repayment installment of $41.66 received, one month early. Note: There also was an overpayment of $16.68, which will be applied to the 10th loan repayment, due on December 15, 2009. The amount now due on December 15 is $24.98.

December 16, 2009: Note from Danielle: "I'm sorry my payment is late, since the accident I have just been in hard times. I did not forget and I am going to pay, just it's gonna be a little late. Please let everyone know that I am sorry, and I am good for it. Thanks and Happy holidays. Danielle"

December 17, 2009: The 10th loan repayment of $24.98 (due Dec. 15) has been marked "past-due."

February 28, 2010: The 11th loan repayment of $41.67 (due Jan. 15) has been marked "past due."

February 28, 2010: The 12th and final loan repayment of $41.63 (due Feb. 15) has been marked "past due."

August 5, 2010: One of Kosta's lenders has made an anonymous gift of $50 to this family, to help them repay their loan. The 10th loan repayment (due Dec. 15) has now been marked "late" instead of "past-due." The remaining amount due on the 11th repayment is now $16.65.

September 24, 2010: A letter has been sent to Kosta's mom, Danielle, regarding the remaining balance due on this loan. The letter asks if she would like to reschedule her remaining repayments, or if she intends to default.

December 7, 2010: The remainder of this loan has been forgiven. A total of $441.60 was repaid, and $58.40 was forgiven. Lenders were repaid based on the percentage of the original loan amount that they funded.

Make a Microloan for 5-yr old Julian's Health!

This loan has been fully repaid!

First Posted On: January 9, 2009

Name: Julian S.

Age: 5 years old

Diagnosis: Autism, Speech Delay

Loan Sought: $471

Loan Needed For: Initial consult ($380) + follow-up consult ($91) with DAN! doctor at The Autism Clinic in the UK.

Repayment Terms: 18 months (~ $26.17/month)

Other Notes: Julian's mom, Rachel, writes: "Julian is a very happy boy. He loves music! Right now he seems to be really interested in his new train set he got for Christmas. He is also a great big brother to our other son who is 1 ½. From the age of 8 months, we noticed he seemed to have a rash on his cheeks that wouldn’t go away. Well, it ended up getting worse -- so severe there were large red circles on each cheek that would ooze clear fluid. We were told he had severe eczema. We were referred to a specialist who also tested for food allergies. Julian has lots of food allergies and we must carry an Epi-Pen Jr. at all times with us in case of an anaphalactic attack. Julian, other than the eczema seemed to progress, however there were little signs that became apparent to us. He was speaking and would say numbers, make the sounds of animals, etc. Around 18 months of age we had already noticed his unusual spinning of toys, no more speech, and had to keep switching the ceiling fans on/off. Our concerns were voiced to our pediatrician who explained to us to be patient -- that he was still trying to put language together at that time and to wait a few more months. More time went by, and still no progress if anything he seemed to be consumed by spinning cars upside down and wouldn’t look our way when calling his name anymore. Slowly, our once seemingly healthy boy (other than his eczema) was slipping away. I remember being in the Dr.’s office at yet another well visit and explaining all that he had lost, etc. And when the word “autistic” was said I didn’t want to believe this was it. I mean here is my Julian, I thought maybe he’s just a genius and is just interested in finding out how things work? Maybe he just doesn’t like being around lots of people or kids he’d just rather play alone. I mean don’t kids play alone sometimes? Well, from that point on we started speech therapy and we did lots of research mainly online. He started an Early Childhood Program at the Elementary school right after his 3rd birthday. At that point, Julian was non-verbal and only would make sounds. He had limited/no eye contact. He started a full day at school and even started riding a bus to school. (Thankfully, his speech teacher was also the bus driver -- Small town in Texas.) From then on he’s been going to school from 8am-2:50pm daily, and afterward would have speech therapy 2-3 times a week. I started Julian on the GFCF [gluten-free casein-free] diet October of 2007, and he’s been on it to date. He did have bouts of vomiting/loose stools and would wake up lots during the nite at that point. He also had echolalia that was constant. I then started him on vitamins from Kirkman and extra Calcium Vitamins A & D. All of that slowly stopped. With the diet we’ve noticed a great amount of eye contact, language has come in, and more things continue. Shortly after the diet we researched a DAN! [Defeat Autism Now!] doctor; however we couldn’t afford it financially. They weren’t covered by our insurance.

Julian was “officially” diagnosed in April of 2008 with Autism/speech delay. We had already known this before he was 2 yrs. of age. Some gains have been gradual and if you were someone on the outside not knowing Julian, it would look normal, but to us it was a "victory" to get to these milestones! We're focused on getting him on the road to recovery and getting him back. As his Mommy, I know there's more of him in there. I can see it in his eyes and we’d love to see him express the boy inside . . . Julian, whom we love with all our hearts!

We are an Air Force Family who just recently got stationed overseas. At the moment my husband is away in Afghanistan for the next 4 months. My goal is to get Julian to a DAN! Dr. here overseas to help us thru this journey to recovery. Thank you in advance for this opportunity and for all the support! We are very grateful! It's wonderful people out there who are willing to help a family in need of getting their child some help. Thank you."

Reference Provided By: Yolanda B. and Sandy F.

Julian's Community of Lenders [not updated real-time]:

Kristyn: $10
The Monegro Family: $50 ["Rachel, Your family are always in our prayers. Love You!"]
Sandra: $10
James: $100
Antonio: $50
Holly: $30
Cara: $10
Henry: $20
Petra: $10
Joanna: $40
Uncle Rick & the Bruce family: $50 ["Julian this is from your special friend "Uncle Rick and the Bruce family" We love you!"]
Michelle: $20
Karen: $5
Jeff: $11
Matt: $10
Corey: $11
Petra (again): $6
Carrie: $39

UPDATES - UPDATES - UPDATES

January 22, 2009: Julian's loan was fully funded!

January 23, 2009: Promissory note sent to Julian's mom for signature.

January 24, 2009: Signed promissory note received from Rachel.

January 24, 2009: Note from Julian's mom, Rachel: "Hello! I just wanted to take this time to thank everyone from the bottom of our hearts who loaned for Julian! We feel blessed! We are so excited to get him in now to see a DAN Dr. My husband is currently serving in Afghanistan and when I told him that our loan was fully funded he was very happy to hear this! He said, “Strangers that we don’t know loaned us money for Julian, that’s amazing”! We are now on the road to recovery and thank all who helped make this possible. We will keep everyone informed and updated when we go to his first appointment. Thanks again!! The Sanchez Family, RAF Lakenheath England"

February 4, 2009: Update from Rachel: "I just wanted to pass along that this Friday, 6 Feb, I will be having a Phone consult with DAN Dr. Jonathan Tommey from The Autism Clinic. I mailed him a 20 page questionnaire, along with copies of all Julian’s medical information . . . let me tell you that used up all my ink in my printer and I had to go buy more. But I sent out the packet and we are now on our way!!! Just wanted to give you a little update! I’ll email again after we speak!! Thanks again!!

February 6, 2009: First repayment of $26.16 received, nine days early.

February 7, 2009: Update from Rachel: "The consult was wonderful! I’m excited to start our treatment plan . . . he said he was starting the write up last nite, which is the detailed protocol and prescriptions for supplements/tests. I should receive it by this weekend via email. He’s very detailed and explained everything in plain English. :D Before we finished our 1 ½ phone consult I told him that the consultation was made possible by “Lend 4 Health” and I proceeded to tell him about it. He repeated it (I believe he wrote it down :D ) and proceeded to give me more information as far as grants that would be available to us now that we live in the U.K. After our conversation, I logged on to pass all this good information onto my husband. He was very excited and pleased at how much progress I’ve made with “getting the ball rolling” with all of this. Now all he wants to do is get home so that he can be here for us. I have no doubts this Dr. Tommey will help Julian. He also mentioned his son several times throughout the consult, he’s very passionate about his work. He also mentioned that Dr. Andrew Wakefield will be a speaker at an upcoming Autism Campaign and that he is close friend of his. He said he could introduce me. He went on to mention how many “mums” he speaks with, etc. I know I’m rambling a bit, but I came away feeling so “blessed” by coming across your site, and now speaking with a Dr. that will help us...I will continue to keep you posted! Thank you!! Rachel"

February 11, 2009: Second repayment of $26.16 (the March 2009 installment) received one month early.

February 11, 2009: Third repayment of $26.16 (the April 2009 installment) received two months early.

February 11, 2009: Fourth repayment of $26.16 (the May 2009 installment) received three months early.

February 11, 2009: Fifth repayment of $26.16 (the June 2009 installment) received four months early.

February 11, 2009: Sixth repayment of $26.16 (the July 2009 installment) received five months early.

February 11, 2009: Partial payment of seventh repayment received (the August 2009 installment). $19.20 of this installment has been paid. Remainder needed to fully repay the August 2009 installment is $6.96.

February 27, 2009: Remainder of August 2009 installment received.

February 27, 2009: Eighth repayment of $26.16 (the September 2009 installment) received.

February 27, 2009: Ninth repayment of $26.16 (the October 2009 installment) received.

February 27, 2009: Tenth repayment of $26.16 (the November 2009 installment) received.

February 27, 2009: Eleventh repayment of $26.16 (the December 2009 installment) received.

February 27, 2009: Twelfth repayment of $26.16 (the January 2010 installment) received.

February 27, 2009: Thirteenth repayment of $26.16 (the February 2010 installment) received.

February 27, 2009: Partial repayment of fourteenth repayment (the March 2010 installment) received. Remaining amount due on this monthly payment is $15.08.

March 12, 2009: Remainder of the 14th payment (the March 2010 installment) received.

March 12, 2009: 15th repayment of $26.16 (the April 2010 installment) received.

March 12, 2009: 16th repayment of $26.16 (the May 2010 installment) received.

March 12, 2009: 17th repayment of $26.16 (the June 2010 installment) received.

March 12, 2009: 18th repayment of $26.16 (the July 2010 installment) received.

March 12, 2009: This loan has been fully repaid. This family is in good standing on Lend4Health and, therefore, is eligible to request a second loan if they ever wish to.

March 16, 2009: Note from Rachel: "I just wanted to take this time to thank all of our lenders who made it possible for us to get Julian into see Dr. Jonathan Tommey at The Autism Clinic here in the U.K. Your support means so much more than you know I’m sure. We are forever grateful!! So far we’ve done several lab tests, and are starting all our supplements with Julian within the next week. We just got results back today from his urinary porphyrin test. It shows the extremely high amounts of Mercury. Along with aluminum, lead, etc. I have a appointment tomorrow with Dr. Tommey to discuss results and treatment. We have a ways to go yet, but we will NEVER give up hope for recovery. We will continue to keep everyone posted on his progress. Our family thanks you from the bottom of our hearts!! -- The Sanchez Family

April 11, 2009: Update from Rachel: "Hi Tori! I know it’s been a while since I’ve updated. But I wanted to send a quick note on where we are. We’ve gotten results back from all our lab work and are now implementing supplements. It’s been a challenging few weeks, but we’re finally at a point where Julian is much more accepting of them (as he gets reward afterwards) :D I’m very proud of Julian as he’s really been working hard at school as well with his speech, occupational therapy, and physical therapy. He had this past week off for spring break and we’ve just been enjoying our time off and getting our routine of supplements going. We’re also on countdown mode for Daddy to come home soon, so not much longer until the 11th of May! I hope you and your family are well, and Have a “Happy Easter”.

Thanks again Tori! Keep up with the wonderful job you’re doing with Lend4Health!!

Many thanks & Blessings always,
Rachel"

May 19, 2009: Great news! Julian's daddy is home from Afghanistan! Here are some photos and an update from Rachel: "We’re a happy family now! We’ve just been enjoying time together. He has off until the end of the month, so this is good. The boys are getting back into their routine of having their Daddy home! Julian is doing great so far on supplements/vitamins. I see lots of changes happening and all are good. My husband has seen changes physically in Julian too, like no more dark circles under the eyes, speech improvement with lots of new language and sentences he’s using on his own, and he’s so much more social. Really too many things to list in the 4 months he was away, so it’s been good!"





August 14, 2009: Update from Rachel: "We got an approval to go back stateside and will be stationed at Nellis AFB, Nevada (Vegas)! So LOTS more resources and services! We'll be in S. California by the end of Sept. so lots going on right now!! Julian will be starting ABA once we get there!!!! YAY!!! =)"

February 25, 2010: Update from Rachel: "We have now started ABA [Applied Behavior Analysis] for Julian and are pursing HBOT [hyperbaric oxygen therapy] in a few weeks!! We are excited...I'm investing in a new video camera to record our adventures! :D"

Make a Microloan for Brothers Avery & Anthony's Health!

This loan has been fully repaid!

First Posted On: January 9, 2009

Name: Avery and Anthony [Photo: Anthony is wearing glasses]

Age: 3 years old (identical twins)

Diagnosis: Autism (Avery); PDD-NOS (Anthony)

Loan Sought: $500

Loan Needed For: IgG food sensitivity test + follow-up DAN! doctor appointment for Avery; first DAN! doctor appointment for Anthony

Repayment Terms: 3 months (~ $166.67/month)

Other Notes: Avery and Anthony's mom, Tanya, wrote, "Anthony (PDD) had a stroke in utero that affected his right side. We are not sure what procedures he needs. Avery is now taking B12 shots. He is aggressive and very strong. Both are GFCF [gluten-free, casein-free]. Anthony is my free spirit -- always happy and very creative. Avery is my "gentle giant." He is a big boy but he is super sweet. They are my heart and soul . . . God's greatest gifts to me are my kids."

Avery has already seen a DAN! doctor. Anthony was diagnosed later and hasn't gone yet. Both references for this family noted with much admiration and respect that Tanya "is doing everything" to help her sons. One said that one of the boys used to scream constantly -- no words, just screaming. She said that, after taking Omega-3 fish oil, the screaming has stopped and that he is trying hard to form words. The other reference is the boy's teacher and noted that he gave her a kiss the other day and answered a question! Note: Tanya learned about Lend4Health through CafeMom, where Delia's mom had posted information about it. Their DAN! doctor is Timothy J. Callaghan.

Reference Provided By: Jessica H. and Amy S.

Avery & Anthony's Community of Lenders [not updated real-time]:

Noel: $25
Valerie: $20
Petra: $20
Michael: $25
Amy: $75
Roy: $15
Anthony: $320

UPDATE - UPDATE - UPDATE - UPDATE

January 21, 2009: Loan fulfilled! Woo hoo!

January 22, 2009: Promissory note sent to Tanya for signature.

January 24, 2009: Signed promissory note received from Tanya.

January 24, 2009: Loan ($500) sent to Tanya via PayPal. The first repayment installment will be due March 1, 2009.

January 24, 2009: Note received from Tanya: "I would definitely like to say thank you to everyone...Jenny McCarthy expressed many emotions we parents have about A.S.D. [autism spectrum disorder]. One of which is that she doesn't accept that her son is "just that way." Like her and many others, I want my "old" Avery and Anthony back. The ones that are locked somewhere inside.... The ones who laughed and played patty-cake and blew kisses. You all have given them the chance to come back to me. I will forever be grateful and I could never express my overwhelming joy in my heart. Thank you doesn't seem enough. God bless you all...and he will."

March 2, 2009: The first repayment installment has been received. The amount was $166.67 and it was on-time [within the 24-hour grace period].

April 2, 2009: The second repayment installment has been received. The amount was $166.67 and it was on-time [within the 24-hour grace period].

May 2, 2009: The third and final repayment installment has been received. The amount was $166.67 and it was on-time [within the 24-hour grace period].

May 2, 2009: This loan has been repaid in full. This family is considered to be in good standing on Lend4Health. As such, they are eligible to request another loan on Lend4Health if they ever would like to.

May 4, 2009: The original loan amounts have been sent back to the lenders via PayPal.

Why Not? Lend4Health in 2009