Autism Support Group

Offering your family hope through local resources.

Held at Mile Bluff Medical Center the following Tuesdays, at 7 pm:

   • August 17        • November 16

Support group being held at Mile Bluff to help those affected by autism

By: Amanda Emery

If you are a caregiver or a family member of a child living with autism, you are no stranger to the fact that it presents the family with a number of challenges.  The effects of the disorder reach well beyond the individual with autism; and as a result, there is often an increased level of stress within the family unit.  Fortunately, Mile Bluff Medical Center in Mauston makes help available to you. 

Each quarter, Mile Bluff’s Director of Pastoral Services, Reverend Jeff Fairchild, facilitates a support group for families affected by autism.  The next meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, August 17 at 7 pm.  As a participant, you will have the chance to talk with others who are going through situations similar to yours, and may gain knowledge and information on how to best prepare for future challenges that may arise.

In America, one child out of every 110 is diagnosed with autism, and it is estimated that in 2010, more children will be diagnosed with autism than pediatric cancer, diabetes and AIDS combined.  This makes autism the fastest-growing serious developmental disability in the United States.

If there is a child in your life who is living with autism, you are not alone!  Mark your calendar for August 17, and make plans to attend the autism support group at Mile Bluff Medical Center.  The meeting will provide you with the opportunity to network with others who are also affected by autism.  For more information, call 608-847-1285.

The Autism Support leader is Reverend Jeffrey D. Fairchild. He has hundreds of hours of experience in counseling and crisis intervention as the Director of Pastoral Care at Mile Bluff Medical Center. He holds a Master of Pastoral Counseling Degree from Olivet Nazarene University and a Master of Art & Religion Degree from Northwest Nazarene University.  He is a member of the American Association of Pastoral Counselors. In his studies he had special emphasis on counseling those who are dealing with grief issues, as well as those who are depressed or dealing with marriage or family issues.

For more information, please call Rev. Fairchild at 608 847 1285 or email him at jfairchild@milebluff.com.