Tributes to Dr. Bernard Rimland
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Posted July 29, 2007
I was very saddened to hear Dr. Rimland had passed. He was an inspiration to his colleagues as well as his patients and their parents. I enjoyed the contact I had with him, as he was always available and had a great fund of knowledge. He was a special resource and great individual that will be sorely missed.Jane M. Hightower, MD
Jane M. Hightower MD
San Francisco, CA
Posted July 22, 2007
I first came to know about Dr Bernard Rimland and his untiring work on autism while researching on autism spectrum disorders and the efficacy of the various biomedical treatments to treat children with autism for my postgraduate studies. Dr Rimland has contributed a lot in the field of autism and he will always be fondly remembered by those who have known him personally and others like myself who read about his works in various books and journals. May God bless his soul.Dr Noel K.H. Chia
Singapore
Posted July 20, 2007
In 1991 when our son Timothy was seeing a specialist in the UK we were given an article about mega vitamins, I was suspicious and thought that the Doctor was on some sort of commission I noticed a number in the US and decided to give it a call, Dr Rimland answered and we spoke at length, he told me that it was true and that for some children they had benefited from taking the vitamins. Dr Rimland asked about my son and seemed genuinely interested and wished us all the best for our future together, he then said he would have to go go as he was tired!, I thought strange! but then he went on to explain that it was infact 3am in the US,in the UK it was 10am, it had not occured to me in my desperation to find out the truth of the time difference, that is dedication for you and I have never forgotten that he was willing to talk to me at that time in the morning. I often wondered over the years if he thought about that woman from the UK who woke him up in the early hours to talk about mega vitamins. Dr Rimland you gave us hope the most precious gift, thankyou, RIP.Lorna McCrystal
South Yorkshire, United Kingdom
Posted July 19, 2007
I will never ever forget Dr, Rimland. My son Dan had been diagnosed with autism at the age of 4 in 1968 at UCLA NPI. Dr. Rimland and others were conducting sleep studies of which Dan was a participant. Aside from the long tedius nights when I slept in an adjoining room, there were the constant feelings of frustration and unknowns as to what autism was.At the time I was getting my B.A. degree at another college and constantly had to run to classes after each sleep study. I had kept a strong facade while inside I was crumbling apart with not only fatigue -- but the knowledge that autism was not known by the school system -- let alone the lack of remediation facilities for Dan at that time. I knew it would be a life-time struggle of research and matching the "kid to the program."
I remember one early morning when I was about to leave NPI for a final exam. Dr. Rimland approached me and offered me a cup of coffee "to get you through the day." He then put his hand on my shoulder, making a wry remark that's stuck with me ever since that moment. "Ann, don't worry -- 50 years from now we'll have a magic pill that'll instantly cure autism!" I left for my classes feeling a big load lifted from my shoulders. Dr. Rimland KNEW what the long road ahead would be in research and remediation for autistic people! It was his dark humor that let me know I wasn't alone in the struggle.
Dr. Rimland was not only concerned with research -- but showed incredible compassion for a parent that day in 1968!
Ann Boggio
Los Angeles, CA
Posted July 12, 2007
Dr. Rimland was a force and inspiration to me and my family especially when my son was diagnosed at 2 and 1/2 years old in 1988. It took me a few years to find Dr. Rimland but I followed his research and had my son on the multi-vitamin regimine for many years. My son is a happy young man at 21 years old and although he hasn't progressed as well as some, he has made important improvements. I was again searching for more recent research to help my son when I learned of Dr. Rimland's passing. I will never forget him because he helped me to face my son's disability and not give up hope!!!!!Lisa Merino
Houston, Texas
Posted June 3, 2007
When my youngest of 4 sons was first diagnosed with autism at almost age 3, I went through a wide range of emotions. Especially upsetting was local doctors' attitudes that nothing could be done other than maybe Ritalin when my son turned 6 so he could be calm in school, or I could put him in a home. Those were fighting words for me, my gut feeling was they were wrong and uninformed. I knew there had to be something out there somewhere, in the rapidly growing world wide web. I closed my store, sold my home and bought a computer and embarked on a search for answers, support and other parents. Imagine my surprise to find thousands of parents in similar situtations. New to the internet in 1998, I simply typed www.autism.com into my browser and there I found Dr.Bernard Rimland and his many articles on B-6, magnesium, DMG, ABA and oh so many great articles, and the E-2 diagnostic sheet, which I filled out and submitted Uncle Bernie returned to me a score, placing my son right in the middle of the spectrum. I immediately subscribed to the AARI and attended my first DAN! in Oct 2000. Change of diet, and adding of supplements totally transformed my little boy from lost in space to a connected child that began to speak in full sentences, play with toys, stop self injury behavior, toilet trained and other gains "overnight" just by a good dose of essential fatty acids. There were good gains with the DMG too. Without the wonderful work of Dr. Rimland, my son would not be as far as he is today in development and socialization. Thank You so very much, Uncle Bernie,and also the many prayers and God's mercy, for bringing my baby boy back to me and then some. Thank you for bringing us DAN! conferences. My son is a talented and bright child, once hidden in his own world, but for your hard work, these hidden talents are now flowing abundantly, and my son is now my greatest joy in life. We will miss you. Marlene Burkitt, SacramentoMarlene Burkitt
Sacramento, CA
Posted June 21, 2007
In time of dispare he help me to help Agustín and his father. He is not my blood son but I feel his as my own. I am from Uruguay and 9 years ago Dr Rimland show mw another perspective in autism when here we can´t afore the treatment, a wrong treatment based in psico analysis.Thank you Dr. Rimland.
Cintya Lacerot
Montevideo, Uruguay
Posted June 16, 2007
THANK YOU. REST IN PEACE!TIANNA SCOTT
MISSOURI
Posted June 11, 2007
dear doc I wish I could knew you before,but it's not too late.It's never late to say thanks to You and all the doctors dedited to the medical research.I wish one day your studies will help my 2 children and all my destroyed family to find again the smile.Lovetiziana orefice
reggio emilia,italy
Posted June 8, 2007
Bernard Rimland is the one autism expert who brought hope to me, when noone in Kenya knew or understood what autism was. My son, now 18, was diagnosed through filling out the E2 checklist, a most comprehensive questionnaire that also made me think alot about what autism was, and what finally brought a fresh breathe of air to me. Robin was 8 when he got this final formal diagnosis.I greatly admire the work that Bernard Rimland began. He worked tirelessly, and energetically to bring autism to the world stage. So many parents and families around the world owe him and his family a debt of gratitude for demystifying autism, for making it personal and for helping us to see autism as a really wonderful aspect of the human condition. I have eagerly read up his research papers and followed up what the Autism Research Institute is doing.
A film needs to be made about his life time achievements. He is one of the world's most important celebrities because his work has made a great difference in the lives of a truly remarkable group of people. We think of Bernard everyday. His spirit lives on.
Monica Magna Mburu
Nairobi, Kenya
Posted June 7, 2007
Extremely saddened to know that the erudite DOCTOR is no more around to guide us.When one hears /comes across the word "AUTISM",one can think of only Dr.Bernard Rimland! As a parent of a child with autism,his timely guidance has been of immense importance .I do not know how many lives the good doctor has touched.........but I can assure you that the life of my family changed for the better once I received his letter and pamphlets giving us all the information required to make a positive beginning.He will always remain a source of inspiration to each one of us !May the Lord be with the bereaved family all the way through .SUMITA KULKARNIsumita kulkarni
INDIA
Posted June 1, 2007
My son Thomas, who was born in 1993, was a normal baby and was developing as most children in his age group. He started talking at around 18 months but then it was like he just decided he didn't want to talk anymore. He would ignore me when I would talk to him and sometimes it seemed like he was hard of hearing. But I noticed that if I would unwrap a cellophane candy wrapper in the kitchen, he would come running in from the next room. He was also displaying some odd behaviours but nothing that really concerned me. When he was around 2.5 y.o. and still not talking our pediatrician didn't seem to concerned and said " don't worry about it." This was the response I kept getting even when he was still not talking at 3-4 years old. I started looking into language development and everything pretty much said if your child is not developing language normally it's probably a hearing problem. Then I saw an article that said if the hearing was okay it could be autism. I had heard the word before and thought it was just another name for mental retardation. I kind of dismissed it thinking my son isn't retarted, he just doesn't seem to want to talk. Well one night while working late I was looking for a business in the phone book when I saw a listing for Autism Research Inst. It was around 10 pm and on a whim I called the number out of curiosity. I was surprised when a man ansewered and I said " how do you diagnose Autism" and he said well I can send you a questionare and you can fill it out and send it back to me and we can make a diagnosis. I was skeptical and I said how can you make a diagnosis that way? He asked who it was I wanted diagnostic and I said my son. He said well let me ask you a few questions. Does he talk? no Does he look you in the eyes? no Does he spin things? yes Does he peel paint off the walls? yes-how did you know that? Does he have little nests stashed around the house with wierd things like pieces of glass or bits of concrete in them? I was like"Did my wife call you? He laughed and said let me send you a package. Then he said " if you can send a donation please do but it's not mandatory for a diagnosis." Well all I can say is that questionaire described my son to a tee and I couldn't believe how unscientific the questions seemed but amazed at how close they were to describing my sons behavior. The wierd thing was that I worked on Adams Ave half a block down from ARI and walked by it every day for ayear and always wondered what they did there with all them files you could see from the street. A good man and a great father. I met him once at the liquor store there on adams and introduced myself and he said "make plans for your sons care after your gone. Don't leave that up to someone who doesn't love him like you do."Robert Buck
San Diego
Posted May 29, 2007
Thank you Dr. Rimland for all your efforts which every autistic child is benefiting all over the world , thanks to you and to DAN protocol which my son is getting better with through one of the best consultants here in Kuwait Dr. AbeerAwadh . May god bless you and all your Dan team.Neveen Hussein
Kuwait
Posted May 27, 2007
Thank you Dr. Rimland for changing the world's view on autism! The number of people you have helped and families around the world, that you have been a blessing to, are immeasurable. Your words and actions throughout your life will live on forever! I feel honored to have met and talked with you, and pray you will always be looking out for our special kids... our Guardian Angel!With my deepest thanks,
Dori Schaefer (Brian's mom)
Dori Schaefer
Plano, Texas
Posted May 18, 2007
I remember when my son was first diagnosed in 1993. I called Dr. Rimland and he had such a calm and soothing voice, just listening to him eased my state of panic. My son is 16 now, and has made progress thanks to Dr. Rimland who suggested the B-6/magnesium and DMG back then...and the DAN protocol. He still is non-verbal with "AUtism" but his smiles and personality have returned and he has phenomenal eye-contact. I have high hopes for my son, thanks to Dr. Rimland and his tenacity in fighting this thing we call "Autism." Paul's momMary Holcomb-Schultz
Florida
Posted May 17, 2007
muna soud
jordan
Posted May 16, 2007
Thanks for all you work and detiaction to the cause. Rest in peace.gary
louisville
Posted May 15, 2007
Your a Lucky man!Matt Boucher
Ohio
Posted May 15, 2007
You are a wonderfull man!Matt Boucher
Ohio
Posted May 2, 2007
No tuve el placer de conocerlo en persona pero sepa que usted fue una persona muy importante en mi vida, escucho mi voz interna que me decia que mi hijo tinia una segunda oportunidad en esta vida y yo estoy dispuesta a darsela mil gracias por luchar y ceer en que podemos vencer el autismo. Donde yo solo tuve oscuridad usted represento luz y esperanza.annick berroa
Panama
Posted July 6, 2007
He was a wonderful man.Mike Delson
Los Angeles, California
Posted April 29, 2007
Dr. Bernard Rimland contributed a lot for the autism. May God rest his soal in eternal peace.His contribution and efforts can only and only feel the parents of autistic kids his personal
experience to handle the issues of these special kids are excellent.
aamir ashraf.
Lahore, Punjab, Pakistan.
Posted March 13, 2007
Dr. Rimland,You were (and will always be ) our GOD. Thank you. Rest in peace.
Jess
Jess
Ohio
Posted March 13, 2007
This letter is the one that I've written to Dr.Bernard Rimland ,it was written in 2001, after my son Cem was recovered and that time our story was published in the media,,somehow I have kept it,but now I see that most of the problems that I've mentioned are gone and Cem seems much better but we will miss someone like him forever." Dear Mr. Berard Rimland,
In the long way to treat my son Cem,you have played a very important role.
This newspaper tells about the success we got with our Cem.
He is 12 years old.
Now he goes to regular school 4th grade he swims, he plays drum, plays keyboard, goes to theatres and concerts he uses computer , has friends, talks also English, drives go-carts,he rides a bike and a horse, plays tennis
He enjoyes life.
But ofcourse he still has some problems left such as LD and ADHD , hand flapping, visual , auditory and oldfactory problems, his immune system is so weak.
He is on GF/CF diet.
His relationships are normal, but his puberty has just started and we don't know how to help him now.
It keeps me feel safe to know that there is someone overthere like you to help people like us.
Take care of yourself."
Gulcin Vardarci
Sair Esref Blv.
No:64/4 35220
Alsancak-Izmir
Turkey
Phone:00 90 232 421 82 66
Fax:00 90 232 464 45 12
Cell phone:00 90 532 275 01 41
Gulcin Vardarci
Turkey
Posted March 12, 2007
Dr. Rimland will always be a hero to me for his pioneering work and his dedication to people with autism. His books and research put me on the path very early to food allergies and autism, which has had a profound impact on my son's behavior and sleep. I'll never forget those dark, lonely days when my son was little and everything was so scary. My Ryan is now 17 years old and his life has been made better by the efforts of Dr. Rimland. I called the Autism Research Institute on several occasions years ago, and a couple times the phone was answered by Dr. Rimland himself. He offered his time freely and free of charge. What a loss his death is, but we will never forget him and his spirit lives on in all of our children. May God bless the family, especially his son Mark, who has autism.Carol Holmes
Toledo, Ohio
Posted March 1, 2007
He chose to help out when he could, i meen i never met him, but from the looks of it, he looked like he made a lot of hge decishions that inpacted everyone's livesBilly Sparks
Posted February 19, 2007
I cannot thank this remarkable man for all of his dedication and perserverance through this tragedy we call autism. He was truly an intstrument of the Lord. I hold his memory in the highest regard and will never forget this most important research that has helped so many children.He is a hero. He is certainly my hero. I thank you Dr. Rimalnd and my little boy Jack thanks you too! We'll see you in heaven.
Love and gratitude, Melissa Boyer
melissa boyer
littleton Co
Posted February 18, 2007
I just learned through an internet search of Dr. Rimland that he had passed away. My family had experienced autism early on when my brother David was diagnosed in the 60's and yes, my mother was told it was likely her fault. We appreciated Dr. Rimland's research in changing that devastating theory. His dedication to this disorder was unrelenting.Dr. Rimland was one of the first people I met when I decided that I was going to honor the movie "Rainman" and raise money for autism research and supporting agencies. So we began the project together and he helped me on many levels,(including getting Dustin Hoffman involved)
in order for it to be successful.
On December 9, 1989 "THE RAINMAN BALL" took place at the Breaker's Hotel on the island of Palm Beach with Dr. Rimland, the Autism Society of America, the producers of "Rainman" and other notable people connected to this cause in attendance. It was a remarkable evening.
We were very proud to raise money for ASA and for Dr. Rimland's research when not much money was being raised at all. To see how this cause has moved forward is a testament to he and others who were the early pioneers. Autism has lost one of its parents and like a parent he will not be forgotten.
Donna Lane
West Palm Beach, Florida
Donna Lane
West Palm Beach, Florida
Posted February 16, 2007
Lavoro grande con il luogo! Siete il padrone! http://www.usate348.org/interfacciainterfaccia
...
Posted February 15, 2007
To Gloria, Mark,, Paul & Helen,As a parent of an autistic son, I want to express my deepest sympathy for the loss of your husband and father. Although I never had the honor of meeting him in person, I remember speaking to him on the telephone. I was humbled by the kindness and concern he showed for my son, even though he had never met us. I want to take this moment to repeat what many thousands have already said. He will be GREATLY missed, and WARMLY remembered. May he rest in peace. We all know there is a very special place for people as special as he was.
Sincerely,
Sophie Ross
Sophie Ross
New York, NY
Posted February 15, 2007
There are no words to express the depth of my gratitude to Dr. Rimland.More than five years ago, I was frantically typing symptoms into search engines desperate for answers as to why my infant daughter’s health and development was plummeting. She had fallen off the growth curves, refused to eat or sleep and screamed constantly. Her development had stopped. Each time, I hit enter, I found a reference to the Autism Research Institute’s website. Most sites were about mercury.
I contacted our pediatrician with the vaccine lot numbers and learned that my daughter’s vaccines contained mercury. Immediately we started her on the DAN protocol. She was then nine months old. She started gaining weight and developing. At twelve months old I was working with a DAN doctor and at 15 months old I was chelating her.
She is now normal for height and weight. At 5 ½, she is happy and laughs (appropriately!) a lot. She can walk, run and ride a trike. After 3 ½ years of silence and another year of utterances, she now speaks in small sentences. I am getting my baby back.
And it is all because of Dr. Rimland.
Libby Rupp
St. Paul, Minnesota
Posted February 15, 2007
Thank you for helping people with Autism, knowing that you were there trying meant
hope for them. God bless you.
J. Young. London.
J. Young.
london.
Posted February 12, 2007
I cannot put into words how much Dr. Rimland means to us. My son was 8 when he started having majorbehavioral challenges. Prior to this he was a pretty happy and mellow kid. I called Dr. Rimland for advice. I was told he would call back. I scoffed at the possiblity that this knowledgeable, in demand doctor would take the time to call back. Yet he did! He refered me to a DAN physician who has helped my son enormously. I will forever be grateful to this Champion of Autism! He was an angel sent from above to help our child. Rest in peace Dr.Rimland, you have made the world a better place in which to live.
Penny
Wisconsin
Posted February 5, 2007
A quien corresponda....Tratar de explicar en un breve texto todo el agradecimiento que tengo en lo personal por tanta información y comprensión que brindó a través de muchos años el Dr.Rimland es difícil.
Ignoro si su hijo-el inspirador de esa vida de investigación- del doctor vive aún, si es así, les agradeceré darle un fuerte abrazo y beso de mi parte, el hecho de que el exista o haya existido ha repercutido tremendamente en la vida de muchas familias que tenemos una persona con el síndrome del autismo.
Aún sin haber tenido el honor de conocerlo personalmente, mucho me enorgullece que un ser humano como el doctor haya existido, la dedicación que tuvo para trabajar en pro-de personas con autismo lo sitúa sin duda en un lugar privilegiado al cual solo tienen acceso algunos poquísimos SERES EJEMPLARES que a pesar de no tener alas visibles son sin duda alguna un regalo a la humanidad.
Al contemplar su fotografía me transporto al infinito amoroso en el cual sin duda buscó siempre la mejoría no solo de su hijo sino de todos los nuestros.
Esa mirada profunda es conocida por todos y cada uno de los padres de un hijo con autismo, convencido de que hay un para qué vivir y porqué luchar, en esa batalla que no venció al Dr. Rimland sino que lo instigó a dedicar su vida entera y su conocimiento en búsqueda de mejorar la vida de todos los afectados por este Síndrome.
No permitamos que el trabajo de este gran hombre se quede en el olvido, luchemos porque la medicina actual a pesar de tanta cerrazón y deshumanización valore en todo lo que vale su trabajo y los resultados de toda una vida de esfuerzo y amor.
Considero muy justo que propongamos al Dr.Bernard Rimland para que se le otorgue el PREMIO NOBEL DE MEDICINA, no POST MORTEM, porque estoy segura que a pesar de que su corazón dejó de latir, en todos nuestros pensamientos el seguirá vivo e inspirándonos a la lucha, a esa lucha que a veces parece vencernos, recordemos, luchar, siempre luchar, tal y como fué su vida.
Incluyo en mis oraciones al Dr.Rimland y a su familia, sé que el está con el CREADOR DEL UNIVERSO
Alba Luz Balderrama Ramos
Hermosillo, Sonora, México
Posted February 8, 2007
I am a mother and a sibling of a person with autism.My brother was born in 1964, and diagnosed in 1968.
My mom LOVED Dr. Rimalnd and strongly believed in his vitamin therapy.
I remember my mom using a mortar and pestal to crush the vitamins. She would give them to Sam in chocolate syrup. She believed it made a huge difference in his personality and cognitive skills.
Thank you Dr. Rimland for giving my mom hope she so desperately needed!
Gretchen Heinrich
Cincinnati, Ohio
Posted February 8, 2007
"My son, Cem Vardarci, who is 17 yo., is recovered from autism".I am sure this sentence is filled with the most wanted words to be heard by Dr. Rimland.
After my son was recovered in 2001, I've written him and announced his progress and asked if this could be possible.
Dr.Bernard Rimland wrote me one of his favorite sayings that "if a duck looks like a duck,walks like a duck, then it is a duck."
Now my son is in fine arts music high school and playing all kinds of instruments, giving mini concerts,and he will be very famous very soon I beleive.
We are constantly giving lectures about his recovery volunteerly and our VCD's are delivered without any income,the media is interrested with us and my daughter has become a psychologist in order to help his brother and we all helped about 2000 children free of charge.
Dr Berard Rimland, you will always shine like a star deep in my heart.
Gulcin Vardarci
Gulcin Vardarci
Izmir/Turkey
Posted February 8, 2007
"My son, Cem Vardarci, who is 17 y.o., is recovered from autism".I am sure this sentence is filled with the most wanted words to be heard by Dr. Rimland.
After my son was recovered in 2001, I've written and announced his progress and asked him if this could be possible.
Dr.Bernard Rimland wrote me one of his favorite sayings that "if a duck looks like a duck,walks like a duck, then it is a duck."
Now my son is in fine arts music high school and playing all kinds of instruments, giving mini concerts,and he will be very famous very soon I beleive.
We are constantly giving lectures about his recovery volunteerly and our VCD's are delivered without any income,the media is interrested with us and my daughter has become a psychologist in order to help his brother and we all helped about 2000 children free of charge.
Dr Berard Rimland, you will always shine like a star deep in my heart.
Gulcin Vardarci
Gulcin Vardarci
Izmir/Turkey
Posted February 8, 2007
I am so sad I didn't get to listen to him more than what I have done already. He speaks so well and I am so glad to hear his dedication to Autism... Right when I feel exhausted and there is no hope I heard his speaking and I am so motivated. I am thrilled that someone offered so much inspiration to Autism. What a purpose he had here. I hope his legacy does continue very strongly.Jamie Swenson
sioux falls, sd usa
Posted February 5, 2007
I am saddened to hear of the passing of Dr Rimland.He will never really die.He lives on in every autistic child, and adult,living in this world,and every family touched with autism,now living free from prejudice. Thankyou for shining your light into our darkness, and giving us hope. Joyjoy plummeridge
stevenage, hertfordshire,england
Posted February 5, 2007
I was shocked to see on the web page that Dr Bernard Rimland has passed on. He was my saviour nearly 20 years ago. What a wonderful man. Who knows where we who live and deal with autism on a daily basis would be now without his dedication to this particular disorder. May your good work continue in your honour Dr Rimland.jenny from Australia
Jenny Jackeulen
Australia
Posted January 29, 2007
We were all dimished by this man's passing.Michael and Judy Fales
Olivet, Michigan, USA
Posted January 27, 2007
I feel a profound sense of loss with Dr Rimland's passing.He was "hope" when I had none left!
I have an immense affection for this man I never met, who used his personal grief to help so many other parents of Autistic children.I had hoped to meet him one day to say our "Thankyou" in person.
He will live in my heart forever and ,as my son steadily improves,his family will be in our prayers too. I thank them for sharing him so generously - to fight this scourge which robbed so many children of their future.
He reminds me of Australia's own Sister Kenny.An Australian nurse who treated the symptoms of polio against her times' standard medical protocols and saved literally thousands (including Alan Alda) from paralysis.She too had to fight the prejudice and ignorance of the medical establishment (at home and in the US ) but history finally gave her due credit.
'Vale" to a truly great man.
Kerrie Waldron
Sydney, Australia
Posted January 24, 2007
Bernard Rimland will be missed by lots of parents including myself. Many a time I called him and he was always kind enough to talk to me about some questions I had regarding Eric. He was a pioneer, advocate and like a father to me. He was always there to advocate for our children and never one to hesitate to speak up about the vaccine issue and autism. His accomplishments are too numerous to mention. I remember him at a 1995 and 1997 NIH meeting and when I mentioned autoimmunity and autism he was there by my side because he knew it was an important issue. I'm sure there is a place for him in heaven. God bless him and his family.Raymond Gallup
Lake Hiawatha, NJ
Posted January 23, 2007
Dr.Rimland will be sorely missed by my family. His willingness to openly share his findings and research enabled my wife and I to understand Autism and be knowledgable of more effective methods to help our son. Becuase of the knowledge he shared (allergies and Autism, B6 and Magnesium) our son, who is 9 is doing very well. He is taking music and in his church choir , doing very well at school, has friends and will be soon starting Karate, in general he has a bright future in part due to the treatments Dr.Rimland suggested. He had the courage to ask why children are autistic rather than accepting that they simply are, he has set the standard for any professional in the field of Autism.best wishes to his family,
Brad Forbes and family
Brad Forbes
Canada
Posted January 21, 2007
Dr. Bernard Rimland passed away just a few days before this past Thanksgiving and will be mourned by many. At times controversial, always searching for answers, he changed the way autism was viewed worldwide. Those of us who knew him as Bernie will always feel a twinge of sorrow around this holiday, a reminder of how much we have to thank this pioneer who played David to the medical establishment’s Goliath. As research would prove, fighting Goliath was not a lost cause but a righteous endeavor.The first time I heard Dr. Bernard Rimland’s name was the day after a visit with my son to a psychoanalyst for the only treatment on offer for autism in Paris at the time. The bookshelf in the waiting room included a few copies of ‘The Empty Fortress’ by Bruno Bettleheim, who believed that autism was a reaction to bad parenting and expounded the ‘refrigerator mother’ theory of autism.
Dr. Rimland’s book, ‘Infantile Autism: The Syndrome and Its Implications for a Neural Theory of Behavior’(1964), would have been a better choice in this psychoanalyst’s waiting room. In his book, Dr. Rimland lambasted the then generally held view that autism was a psychological disorder, brought on by cold and unloving parents. His conclusion was that autism was the result of biochemical defects underlain, perhaps, by a genetic predisposition, but ultimately triggered by environmental assaults. This book grew out of the research he did searching for answers when his son, Mark, born in 1956, displayed behaviors which are now easily recognizable as symptoms of autism but were rarely seen in those days.
The psychoanalyst I visited informed me that my son had autistic behaviors due to separation issues from breast feeding. This she gleaned form watching my son play with two round objects, and crawl across the floor in an attempt to retrieve one that he accidentally dropped. Following this Allen Woodyesque moment, and looking for some useful advice, I called an old friend and former colleague from a state hospital for the developmentally disabled in California. She gave me the telephone number for the Autism Research Institute, the non-profit founded by Dr.Bernard Rimland in 1967.
Many are familiar with Rimland and know that his autistic son, Mark (now 50 and an accomplished artist), was the impetus for Rimland making the field of autism his life’s work, yet few know from where he got his unrelenting fighting spirit. It most probably came from one of his maternal uncles. Rimland once recounted to a journalist from the San Diego Jewish Journal, "My mother used to tell me about one of her brothers who was a mathematical genius. During the war [World War I], an elderly Jewish gentleman was being harassed by German soldiers. My uncle interceded because he couldn't stand the injustice. The soldiers beat him and left him there, bleeding to death. My mother would finish this story by telling me, 'So don't be like him!' Instead, it inspired me to fight injustice."
Dr. Rimland was born in Cleveland, Ohio in 1928. His parents were Russian immigrants who met in Cleveland, married and had a son and a daughter. World War I precipitated their move to the US, and it was another world war that precipitated their move to San Diego where his father had a metalworking job with Convair. From the minute he arrived at age 12, Rimland fell in love with San Diego. He once told a reporter "Cleveland had been muggy and dirty. I got here and said, 'This is heaven, I'm never leaving."
Although a college education was not considered a necessary or worthwhile pursuit by his blue-collar family, both Rimland and his sister went on to attend college and to earn graduate degrees. His sister earned a Master’s degree in education and Rimland earned a Master's in psychology at San Diego State University. For those familiar with Rimland’s work and his fascination with research, methodology and the search for truth, it will come as no surprise that Rimland went on to earn a doctorate from Penn State in experimental psychology and research design.
In 1951, after college, Bernard married Gloria, the sister of a childhood friend. In 1953, after he received his Ph.D. he worked with the Navy at its Personnel and Training Research Laboratory in Point Loma, San Diego as the director of the Personnel Measurement Research Department.
When his son Mark was born, their tranquil life changed. “From the moment Mark was born, everyone noticed he was different," Rimland recounted to a reporter. "He was always screaming at the top of his lungs and nothing would placate him. But no one knew what it was. The pediatricians threw up their hands."
His wife, Gloria, remembered having read in one of her college textbooks about a child wandering around, staring into space, and appearing not to recognize people. Rimland’s first step into autism was into their garage to find that textbook packed away in box with other college momentos. In the book he found the term ‘infantile autism’ that described the characteristics his son was displaying. Rimland began studying the disorder, only to find that autism was blamed on ‘refrigerator mothers’ by most of the scientific community, mostly due to the work of Bruno Bettelhim. Knowing that Gloria was an affectionate and caring mother to Mark and his siblings (one brother and one sister) Rimland found this to be ridiculous. As a scientist, he decided to research everything that was out there on the topic.
For five years Rimland researched autism in the evenings after his Navy job, long before the internet and faxes, when even photocopy machines were not easily available. "When I started my quest, autism was no less than an obsession," he once wrote. "I quickly read everything I could find on the subject and hungered for more. This was war. I envisioned autism as a powerful monster that had seized my child. I could afford no errors."
At the end of five years he had about 400 pages of information amassed. He thought of publishing a paper, but his wife, Gloria, told him he had enough to write a book. Although the medical community for the most part ignored his book ‘Infantile Autism’ when it was first published, it is now considered a classic by doctors and psychologists (although perhaps not by French psychoanalysts). An interesting tidbit: ‘Infantile Autism’ was very popular with psychology students and Rimland was once told by a librarian that it was one of the most stolen books off the shelf.
After his book was published, Rimland started receiving hundreds of letters and phone calls from parents searching for answers concerning their children. After work at the Navy every day, he spent hours replying to these queries. He then started the nonprofit Autism Research Institute (ARI), originally named Institute for Child Behavior Research, in order to share the latest information on autism research with those interested. The ARI became a worldwide network of parents and professionals concerned with analyzing the scientific data for diagnosing, treating and preventing autism.
Dr. Rimland was often at odds with the medical establishment and in the middle of controversy. He was one of the first to conclude that the United States was undergoing an epidemic of autism, that diagnoses rates were climbing, and one of the first to state that mercury and vaccines as well as other environmental and dietary triggers could be a primary culprit in autism.
One of the first treatments investigated by Dr. Rimland was high dose vitamin B6 therapy, and he did this based on reports from parents of autistic children. Stephen Edelson, Ph.D, Dr. Rimland’s close friend and colleague for many years and now Director of ARI, told a reporter, “One of the most remarkable things about Dr. Rimland is that he realized in the early days that parents held many of the keys to solving the mystery of autism. From day one he listened to them and respected them – and he followed their lead.” He went on to say that ‘It’s a key reason why ARI has always led the way in identifying treatments and uncovering the roots of autism.”
Rimland was always putting people he knew in touch with one another if he thought they had something in common besides autism. After a while, I got used to receiving interesting calls from people in different time zones telling me Bernie had given them my phone number. Whenever I heard my fax machine after 10:00 pm, I knew it had to be Bernie sending me a document with some comments scribbled in the margins, either a sardonic remark or an observation about the contents of the document. I knew the phone would ring next, and it would be Bernie, wanting to discuss the fax.
One of Rimland’s major talents and accomplishments was taking an idea, getting people together, and putting that idea into action. In the 1960’s he started what is now the Autism Society of America with a few other parents in order to share information, provide moral support and, in large part, to promote applied behavior analysis – then known as behavior modification. In the 1990’s Rimland brought together leading researchers from different fields and created a think tank from which grew the now worldwide Defeat Autism Now! movement. Today, DAN! conferences take place a few times a year providing information to parents and training to medical professionals. Currently there are hundreds of DAN! trained physicians experienced in biomedical interventions. The idea that ‘autism in treatable’ is an off shoot of the DAN movement and part of Dr. Rimland’s legacy to all impacted by autism and their family.
Another of his many accomplishments is serving as the technical advisor to the Oscar-winning film Rain Man (1988). Although it is true that not all individuals with autism have an incredible talent as depicted in this movie, the film created much awareness about autism in an era when few people had ever seen a person with autism.
Despite all his long hours and importance in the autism community, Rimland was always available to provide encouragement to others, including unpublished and unknown authors. Although I had contacted the ARI a few times since I was given his phone number those many years ago in France, Bernie did not know me personally. Yet, when I sent him my book proposal for ‘Autism Spectrum Disorders’ hoping for some encouragement, he called me as soon as he received it and read it. It wasn’t late at night, but it was a Saturday ( the day after I had mailed it), and I remember my disbelief as I heard on the other end of the line “This is Dr. Bernie Rimland. Are you Chantal? I just got your book proposal and I had to call you right away. This needs to get published. What can I do to help?”
When I first visited Rimland in his office in San Diego, I walked by it a few times before realizing that this dusty old storefront is where he waged his daily battle against autism. The storefront is on Adams Street which is a gentrified and trendy part of town. ARI fits right in with the antique book stores, the vintage movie theater and hip restaurants. Trendy, Rimland was not, but his ideas, the work he generated, the research he supported and published, were. This is where new educational therapies, biomedical treatment and dietary interventions were discussed and where Defeat Autism Now! (DAN) had it’s beginnings. Inside, the disarray - piles of documents and boxes that covered every inch of floor and desk space - made me wonder how a man whose office looked so rumpled and disorganized could produce such detailed and exacting work. Perhaps the answer lies in what he told a reporter at the San Diego Union Tribune in 1988, “I will never stop until I have found the answer or die, which ever comes first. I will find the answer, and if living to be 150 is what it takes – I’ll do that, too.” Obviously, Bernie was a man on a mission to defeat autism, and he had no time for the details of every day life such as filed papers and a clean office..
If San Diego feels a little empty now that Bernie is no longer here, I take comfort in knowing that his family and ARI are. It is thanks to Gloria, his dedicated wife who took care of Mark, his siblings and the household schedule, that Dr. Rimland was able to devote so much of his waking time to research. At ARI, autism research and sharing of information continues. Dr. Stephen Edelson, who relocated to San Diego in May 2006, is now Director of ARI, and Matt Kabler, Rebecca McKenney, Mallie Odle, and Sue Field continue to keep ARI operations going.
In Paris, this past December, for the fist time, an international conference covering both biomedical treatments and applied behavior analysis took place, organized by the only DAN doctor in France. I miss Bernie, but I take comfort in knowing that before he passed away, he knew that his work was reaching and helping families in this country where the ‘refrigerator mother’ theory of autism is still accepted. Marian Wright Edelman, Founder of the Children’s Defense Fund, once said: “You really can change the world if you care enough.” Thank you, Bernie, for caring enough, not only for your son but for all of us.
Chantal Sicile-Kira, for Spectrum Magazine, January 2007
Chantal Sicile-Kira
San Diego, CA
Posted January 23, 2007
How do you thank someone who has done so much for so many? We were stunned and saddened by the passing of Dr. Rimland. We owe the quality of our son's life to him. Upon receiving our son's diagnosis, we were told, "Just accept it," "He never going to talk," "He will never make a friend," "He will never play," and "Make arrangements now because he will never be potty trained or be able to live on his own."Dr. Rimland gave us hope and a road to follow, and that brought the emergence of our son back to us.
Ethan talks a blue streak now, engages in play, and has a wonderful imagination. He loves to watch the Food Network and tells us he wants to be a chef someday. He is potty trained. He behaves better in public than any average child, though like any child he has his moments.
We cannot say he is cured, but we can say that he has improved drastically. Teachers have often remarked, "It's amazing," or "It's a miracle."
If we had not found out about Dr. Rimland and the work he pioneered, we hate to think where our son would be now. We will be forever grateful.
Haven DeLay and Gerard Dziuba
Scurry,Texas
Posted January 21, 2007
I am surprised at how, even now-several weeks after Dr. Rimland's death, I feel such profound loss. I guess I didn't realize how comforted I felt knowing that, as my family bumped along on our journey through Autismland, somewhere nearby Bernie was there thinking and working and getting worked up about the injustices that mark our shared world.His enthusiasm and wry humor were contagious and as the parent of a just-diagnosed child exactly what I needed to push through my fears and get moving. We met personally on only a few occasions, and spoke by phone infrequently- most likely he couldn't have put my face with my name- still, I felt bigger and stronger and ready to “stay the course” as a result of those contacts.
One might expect to feel smaller in the shadow of a giant, but this extraordinary man lifted us up so we could share his vision of a world where parents are respected and children recover.
Thank you Dr. Rimland
Cherri Cary
San Diego
Posted January 20, 2007
January 20, 2007I am a mother of son that has Autism; diagnosed in 1995.
I spent a year working & studying mercury and vaccinations and sent my research to Dr. Rimland.
I was honed that he took the time to call me and share his thoughts and advice.
To his family & colleges; please know that he has made such a personal difference to thousands of us and I think of his will power daily. I remember it and practice it myself so that I too in whatever way I can; be a positive influence to those affected by this disorder.
Today I sit on the Autism Society of Iowa Board and have run a parent support group called
"KEEP THE HOPE" for the past 4 years. I feel a great since of joy that faith that we will all continue to work for this cause each & every day.
Thank you all & God Bless~
Jennifer
Jennifer G. Wolfe
Des Moines, Iowa, USA
Posted January 19, 2007
Dear Dr. Rimland,You have passed on, I believe, to a place where there is no autism, and there is no suffering. You spent the years of your life well, serving first your own son Mark, and in turn children like our son, Chancellor. With the researched advise available to me through your Institute, I implemented a strategy over the course of our son's life so far since age 3, to help him be well. Your guidance and advise was everything to me, it was my Guide Book and my rock in deciding what, amongst so many confusing choices, options and opinions, to "give" my son when he was bloated, noncommunicative, and substantially "on the spectrum." Beginning with B6 and magnesium and going from there, thanks to you his life, and in turn OUR lives, have greatly improved. I am happy to share with you, in spirit, that Chancellor is now 11, in supported age-appropriate 5th grade, and has a great sense of humor, is very affectionate and talkative, and shows remarkable art and mathematical ability. Thank you for your guidance. I literally could not have helped my son without you. Rest in Peace. "Day is done; gone the sun. From the lake, from the hills, from the sky. All is well; safely rest. God is nigh."--Nancy Swiderski Brach and Robert Brach, San Antonio
Nancy Swiderski Brach
San Antonio, Texas, USA
Posted January 17, 2007
Every now and again one has the privelege of encountering remarkable people who have changed the world and Bernie was one of them. He certainly changed me. His passion, integrity, and devotion to the cause of those impacted by autism was inspirational. May his family be comforted with the wonderful legacy he has left us all.Raun Melmed
Scottsdale Arizona
Posted January 17, 2007
I first met "Bernie" 25 years ago and I had an undignosed 6 year old son who happened to have autism. Throughout the years, Bernie was always reachable for the support of our family. He arranged for medical testing that we could not have received in Texas. He encouraged us with our journey through nutrition and holistic medicine. Bernard along with Ivar Lovass helped shape an unreachable child into a child who could "learn" in school.
Today my son is 30 years old and is a happy young adult.
Dr.Bernard Rimland holds a special place in our hearts and he will be greatly missed by our family.
Ann and Ernest Loera
Kingwood, Texas
Anna Loera
Kingwood, TX
Posted January 16, 2007
You will be sorely missed for your empathy, your courage, and your knowledge. My son's recovery is assured because of your work and he's only one of many. You have left a wonderful legacy in the shape of all the autistic children who have a better life today because of your work and understanding, and all the families and physicians who have been empowered by your research. What a gift to humanity you have been, may you rest in peace Dr. Bernard.Eileen Chiverton
United Kingdom
Posted January 15, 2007
I am just now begining to understand your movement and how many people you had helped in your life.You will continue your movement in death. I am so ever grateful that you devoted yourself to this work. My daughter will benefit from your hard work and devotion. What a wonderful man you must have been. THANK YOU!!!! Debra Wrenn (mother of 12 y.o. Aspergers girl)
Debra Wrenn
Youngstown, Ohio
Posted January 11, 2007
Today when I opened DAN website after a long while , I saw the sad news of Burnie Rimland passed away. I met bernie in 2004 in Los Angeles, he was an remarkable person, simple and sincere. I had the same storey like his , so he looked in my eyes and told me that my son will be alright. He is a true example of person who changed the perception of the world. He was atrue leader and great healer, his successes and work will stay alive . I have learned alot from him.I pray for peace for his soul .Syed
Syed Ghazanfar Ali Naqvi, MD
Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
Posted January 10, 2007
I ran across this poem online and think it says a lot that is true about autism parents who are doing biomedical in general and specifically, Bernie Rimland, and all he has done for his child and ours.It Couldn't Be Done
Edgar A. Guest
Somebody said that it couldn't be done,
But he with a chuckle replied
That maybe it couldn't, but he would be one
Who wouldn't say so "till he tried."
So he buckled right in with the trace of a grin
On his face. If he worried, he hid it.
He started to sing as he tackled the thing
That couldn't be done, and he did it.
Somebody scoffed: "Oh, you'll never do that;
At least no one ever has done it."
But he took off his coat and took off his hat
And the first thing he knew he'd begun it.
With the lift of his chin and a bit of a grin,
Without any doubting or quiddit,
He started to sing as he tackled the thing
That couldn't be done, and he did it.
There are thousands to tell you it cannot be done,
There are thousands to prophesy failure;
There are thousands to point out to you, one by one,
The dangers that wait to assail you.
But just buckle right in with a bit of a grin,
Then take off your coat and go to it;
Just start in to sing as you tackle the thing
That cannot be done, and you'll do it.
Lila White
Illinois
Posted January 8, 2007
My heart is truly thankful to the man, Bernard Rimland. Without him, generations of children with autism would have been lost and forced to fend for themselves. We have a son named Evan who is 4 1/2. He was diagnosed at 2 1/2 with autism. By God's grace, we immediately heard the name Bernard Rimland from a doctor. His name was all we needed to begin finding out the hope that is out there for autistic children. All we knew was that we would be living with a brain damaged child with no hope of recovery but all of that turned to hope when we realized how much is available to help Evan. We attended a DAN! Conference in Boston of '05 and what we learned certainly changed the course of Evan's life. It's been up and down, trying to find a formula, watching and waiting, but he is doing so well! Evan began preschool with his age group this year with no support and is thriving. We have been so blessed by Bernard Rimland's life work and passion because without him, our son would not be looking forward to a quality of life that offers so much hope. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts and may your family be blessed and comforted knowing how your life has touched so many.Alissa Kalczuk
Phila, PA
Alissa Kalczuk
Philadelphia, PA USA
Posted January 8, 2007
I have never met Dr Rimland personally, but he helped my son with autism far more than many of my son's doctors and teachers. When my son was diagnosed with autism, the "experts" in the medical and teaching professions were most unhelpful, and even national parent groups had little to offer beyond vague offers of emotional support. I am so glad I found Dr. Rimland and his Autism Research Institute. Although everyone agreed that autism was caused by poorly understood medical problems, ARI was the only resource that provided me with medical insight, research, and concrete treatment recommendations. We tried Dr. Rimland recommendations of vitamins and DMG, and found that DMG made a huge difference in my son's life. Dr. Rimland was the only source of concrete recommendations for medical and educational treatments specific to autism. These recommendations are invaluable for new parents who cannot afford to waste their children's time until the windows of opportunity close. Thanks to Dr Rimland's support, I had the data I needed to try discrete trial therapy and continue to use DMG in the face of medical skepticm, and my son was able to recover from autism. My son and our entire family owe Dr. Rimland a tremendous debt of gratitude.Emily Duthinh
Clarkston, Michigan
Posted January 5, 2007
Thank you for all your hard hard work for this epidemic..Too few like you. A special manHelena
New York, NYC
Posted January 5, 2007
To the Rimland family, the Autism Research Institute family and the families of autistic children all over the world, to DAN practitioners and researchers in the field - we have lost a hero. Our love and condolences to all.In our particular case, Brent. our son, was born in 1964. We are all familiar with the kind of world that he entered; that is, the lack of knowledge and/or support from the medical and educational community, and the destructive blame of mothers by the so-called experts of autism. However, there was one bright light, our beloved Bernie.
At the age of two, we came across his landmark text and we embraced the logical analysis of his doctrine. From that moment on, we never accepted the power of authority or text from any assumed experts without thoughtful consideration. It was the beginning of challenging our thinking on every front. To Bernie, we give our humble thanks.
Our 1966 correspondence with Bernie began a lifelong friendship with an incredibly busy family that opened their hearts and expertise to us as well as countless others in the autism community. (How in the world did they do it all?) What was truly amazing was how Bernie listened to each story as though he was hearing it for the first time- even after 40 some years). To him, each autistic individual is unique, as of course, he or she is, but since the struggles are so similar, one would wonder how Bernie could remember the uniqueness of each child? But he did, - a tribute to his careful listening, outstanding memory and empathy!
The Rimland family is a group of marvelous individuals: honest, humble, brilliant, caring, kind, thoughtful, artistic and sharing. Thank you Gloria, Mark, Helen and Paul for sharing your mate and father with so many needy families. That you were able to cope with significant sacrifices clearly demonstrates your inner strengths. Is it any wonder that we value and honor your friendship?
For some forty years, we have watched the Autism Research Institute grow from the first computer when Bernie was doing scatter analysis of parent questionnaires, to the Defeat Autism Now movement, compilation of new research, his prolific writing of articles, books, and the coveted ARI quarterly newsletter. He has bravely fought the establishment on so many fronts. He was relentless with his search for a cure, and a treatment of the full spectrum of autism disorders. How can we from the families of autistic children thank you and your family enough for all you have accomplished?
Of course, your final plan was to "pass on the torch" to someone well-qualified to carry on your work. We know you have chosen wisely with Stephen Edelson - with Matt continuing at the Institute with his expertise, and Gloria on the Board of Directors, we know the fine work will continue.
Bernie, rest in peace knowing the power of one!!!
Tom and Marlene Bell
Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.
Marlene and Tom Bell
Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
Posted January 5, 2007
Every mother of a child on the spectrum owes a great debt of gratitude to Dr. Rimland. Without his dogged determination to change the ridiculous "scientific" conclusion that "refrigerator mothers" were the source of their children's autism, who knows how much longer mothers would have been blamed and true progress would have been delayed?! That was only the first of Dr. Rimland's MANY, MANY contibutions to the advancement of autism research, but indeed a critical turning point! He was as patient and giving with parents new to the "realm" as he was brash and controversial. He was indeed one-of-a-kind! Thanks Dr. Rimland, for your contributions to the field of research and especially for your contributions to our families! Your family will be in my prayers.Teri Sasseville
Fairburn, GA
Posted January 4, 2007
Your contribution to Autism Research will be valued forever. May you rest in peace for eternity.Leslie Santiago, MD
NY
Posted January 4, 2007
LAMENTABLEMENTE ME ENTERE DE LA MUERTE DEL DR. RIMLAND, PERO A LA VEZ ME ENTERE DEL ARDUO TRABAJO EN LA INVESTIGACION SOBRE EL AUTISMO, EN PAISES COMO EL NUESTRO ESTE SINDROME AUN NO ES ADECUADAMENTE TRATADO, PERO ESTOY SEGURA QUE PERSONAS COMO EL DR. HAN ABIERTO UN CAMINO NUEVO PARA PADRES DE TODO EL MUNDO QUE DESEAN UN MEJOR MAÑANA PARA SUS HIJOS AUTISTAS. EL DR. RIMLAND YA NO ESTA FISICAMENTE PERO SU OBRA CONTINUARA VIVA Y NUESTROS MAS SINCEROS AGRADECIMIENTOS.
lorena de marroquin
guatemala, centroamerica
Posted January 4, 2007
I'm so very glad for Dr rimland's dedication - for his sheer dedication to all children with Autism,I had two very normal, healthy babies My Daughter kimberley was born on the 08.06.1988 and my son Craig. R. A was born on the 08. 09. 1988. and I watched /witnessed their lives change dramatically-firstly my daughter Kimberley developed Thrombocytopaenic Purpura alias Henoch Schonlein Purpura-her Paed. said IDIOPATHIC that means there was no known cause-I was demented brought up by a father that taught me there was a reason for everything-I couldn't find the reason for this monstrous disease H.S.P. my daughter was suffering! My Gut kept telling me something was wrong, looking back everything was a virus... Then in November 1994 the Uk MR(Measles Rubella Vaccine campaign was launched-Measles Epedemic-get your children vaccinated -I believed the government Propaganda-that is, as I now know it to be-why shouldn't I? No Government would allow children to be harmed and vaccines were, after all, alledged to protect our children from harm....After allowing both my children Kimberley and her younger brother Craig to be vaccinated with the MR vaccine on the 29.11.94; at their school My worse nightmare began- they developed temperatures, spots,"Viruses" green diarrhea, white stools so abnormal - they stopped looking at me, they both couldn't stand to touch certain materials,couldn't stand noises, lost empathy/feelings...my son went on to be dx'd with Focal epilepsy with Secondary Generalisation-his behavior change - I was told was due to the Epilepsy! Looking back, I had niggling doubts about Doctors since my daughters Dx IDIOPATHIC H.S.P. there was a reason-my gut kept telling me-I just couldn't find it..Then in January 1997 Craig and I attended another Neurologists appointment and I picked up a leaflet printed by the Enchephalitis Support group at the bottom of this leaflet was information in tiny writing stating Vaccines can cause Encephalitis from that moment I knew I had the reason for my son Craig's suffering and it began with the MR 94 schools campaign vaccine and I could re-live every moment he was never right from that vaccine, lord he was given four Influenza vaccines since then as recommended by his Doctor rakesh bhalla-what had they done to him?. Going on to realise I had found vaccines to be the reason for both my childrens - Kimberley and Craigs -suffering was without doubt vaccines Devastated me beyond belief. Why didn't I see this? why didn't I know? Going on to see both children sufered from Autsm after the '94 MR, nobody wanted to know or to dx I found Dr Rimlands website he saved us because he believed. The only reason the medical profession here didn't want and still don't want to know is because vaccination is their sacred cow one can't say any vaccination harms so many children, because so many Doctors are making lots of money from this monster in our medicine. I wil always be deeply in debt to Dr Rimland he saved my sanity and gave me direction though he may never realise this, my children are a lot better than they used to be all thanks to his dedication and that of his colleagues. we still have a long way to go like so many families lack of Interest and money play a large part.
My Kimberley is now 23 years old, has done moderately well for herself, passed her driving test and holds down a job, my Craig is now 18 years old has passed his driving test and attends colledge for IT, they both still have issues and medical problems-inc Bowel, who knows what the future holds for them I don't but I know some very good Doctors are fighting in their corner and they are not alone a great many children suffering from Autism. bowel problems etc are being ignored to date. thanks to the pioneering work of Dr Bernard Rimland this work will carry on and one day Autism and all of it's biomedical problems will become a thing of the past. God Bless you Dr. Rimland, your family will always be so very pround of you as we are so very proud of you too.
Margaret Cummings
England, UK.
Posted January 4, 2007
I didn't know Dr. Rimland had passed away. But I think today I was led to this knowledge for a reason. The day he left us was the day my autistic son became ill. By the next day he was being rushed to a childrens hospital to save his life. It was found that he had a large abcess off his appendix that appeared to have had a slow rupture. He had an extensive infection throughout his intestinal track. We almost lost him. After 2 weeks he was stabilized and sent home with his appendix still in. The plan was to remove it 6 weeks later. The doctor called and said he wanted additional testing because it didn't look like the typical appendicitis. They suggested chrones disease, colitis, inflamitory bowel disease...then I started to think back when I saw Dr. Rimland speak many years ago. When I listened, he was describing my autistic 3 year-old son. He talked of a vitamin suppliment called Super Nu-Thera and a condition called leakey gut syndrome. I thought "how could a vitamin help my son...his brain is the problem, not his diet!". But what was there to lose. We tried it. The day after we started, I was called by his pre-school special ed teacher. She wanted to know what had happened to Travis! He wasn't scared, screaming, hiding and crying (which went on daily)...at all!! In fact he was happy and smiling at what was happening in the class. Super Nu-thera saved my son's life. He could then cope with the strange world around him. We continued for years on the vitamins until puberty hit. At that time(3 years ago) we started him for the first time on medication because it appeared that the vitamins were no longer effective and discontinued the Super Nu-Thera. Now he's having symptoms of diseases stemming from the result of leakey gut syndrome. I wished I had never stopped the vitamins.Dr. Rimland saved my son's life. Maybe he's doing it again. Thank you
Diane Pugh
Western New York State
Posted January 3, 2007
I was lucky enough to have met Dr. Rimland at a DAN! conference in Atlanta, GA some years ago. That conference changed my life. He was kind enough to talk with me at this conference and answer the many questions I had about autism. I found Dr. Rimland to be an extremely dedicated, intelligent, and hard-working person. He clearly cared about the people he was fighting for. His family is in my prayers. We have truly lost a great pioneer in the field of autism.Michelle Bell
Columbia,MO
Posted January 3, 2007
I am so shocked to hear that Dr Rimland passed away. What a great life. Even though I never got a chance to meet him I read every article he wrote. I listened to every speech he made. I always thought what a great person he was ,so dedicated to a field like autism so neglected over so many years. I am pretty sure without him being there no body will ever give the attention that they give now to Autism. We are so blessed to have him in this field. Without a doubt he was one of the greatest men in this century. Please accept my deepest sympathy & may god bless his family.nimali hewawasam
middletown,ct
Posted January 1, 2007
I never met Dr. Rimland but still i knew him by his work, seing his videos, listening to him in his wonderful words on stage seing the recovered children. Being father of an Autistic son it was my utmost desire to meet him and take my son to him so that he can be helped.But God took him early.But i am sure children like my son all over the world will be treated by his work of so many decades. My condolances to his wife and childrenQaiser Mirza
India
Posted December 31, 2006
I never met Bernard Rimland. I never heard him speak. And yet he touched my life. When my nephew was diagnosed with autism, I read everything I could. I searched for answers. I don't believe everything I read. But I believed everything that came from Bernard Rimland. I trusted him. It was clear to me, from very early on, that his only agenda was to help.Bernard Rimland wasn't afraid to speak out if he believed many in the scientific community were wrong, and he didn't hesitate to defend those who needed it. Mostly, he listened to parents. He was smart enough to know that when he heard the same statements by numerous families, over and over again, then there might be some truth there, or at the very least, something worth investigating.
God bless Bernard Rimland, and God bless his family. I can only imagine the enormous sacrifices they made over the years, so that he could search for answers. I hope he has those answers now. May he whisper in God's ear, that the rest of us might find those answers as well.
Ellen Rosner
Brewster, NY
Posted January 1, 2007
great guybob
boblevile, new mexico
Posted December 31, 2006
Aun me parece imposible que se haya alejado de la tierra, pero se que descansa en paz porque hizo todo lo que estuvo a su alcance y mas por sus semejantes y en especial por los que sufren un desorden neurologico con el que no nacieron en su mayoria. Otros seguiremos sus pasos y estaremos eternamente agradecidos por su brillante labor. Descanse en paz.Grisel
Riverside. California
Posted December 30, 2006
DR. BERNARDGRACIAS POR SU GRAN LABOR POR NUESTROS NINOS CON AUTISMO, POR SUS INVESTIGACIONES Y EL TRABAJO QUE HIZO EN LA TIERRA, GRACIAS EN NOMBRE DE MI HIJO KEVIN DE 6 ANOS. GRACIAS Y QUE DIOS LE TENGA EN SU GLORIA.
MARGARITA PEREZ
PUERTO RICO
Posted December 30, 2006
DR. BERNARD RIMLANDGRACIAS POR SU LABOR EN LA TIERRA POR NUESTROS HIJOS Y AUNQUE JAMAS LO CONOCI, SE QUE MUCHOS PADRES AL IGUAL QUE YO LE DAMOS GRACIAS A DIOS POR GRAN LEGADO. GRACIAS. QUE DIOS LO TENGA EN SU GLORIA.
MARGARITA PEREZ
Puerto Rico
Posted December 29, 2006
Although I never had the privilege and honor to meet Dr. Rimland, I wish to credit him for the progress of our daughter Grace. Had it not been for the dedication of Dr. Rimland and other doctors at the Institute, my daughter would not be making the progress she is today. I hope that someday I can join the parents who present at the DAN conferences as having a child who is fully recovered from autism. We may not have him here with us in person, but I know that all the children diagnosed with autism have a mighty fine angel in heaven watching over them. God Bless You, Dr. Rimland - we will never forget you - and may we all continue to do our part to contribute to Autism Awareness and add to the list of recovered children. We Love You! "Grace's Mom"Mary Beth Theisen
Jaffrey, NH
Posted December 25, 2006
A tribute to Bernard Rimland by the author of an unchallenged autism theory.Dr Rimland has had a uniquely most special place in my life.
Hans Eysenck's book "Genius" in pages 148-152 describes the reality behind a myth (www.zazz.fsnet.co.uk/gen.htm). The myth is that great geniuses are sure to be universally acclaimed just as were Einstein, Newton, Darwin, etc, etc. The reality is that they are far more usually ignored, ridiculed and indeed harshly persecuted. Dr Rimland appears to have had a mixed reception in this regard. On the one hand, his pioneering work, not least on vitamin B6 and on the reality of the autism increase has been steadfastly ignored by the medical establishment. And yet of course there has also been much due recognition, firstly of his paradigm-revolutionising book, and latterly from a new global audience that is not so hampered by institutional blinkers and malmotivations.
My personal assessment is that Dr Rimland had quite a lot of 'geniusness' about him, allied fortunately to a great level of commitment to the subject, and maintained over four decades. But he had of course also a greatness of humanity which even some greatest geniuses do not have.
Different sorts of talented people have their different contributions to make and no one of them is an adequate substitute for the other. Without Dr Rimland's preceding work my own would have been that much the more retarded.
Only a handful of people have ever shown any appreciation of my published theories (and in this instance specifically, my theory of autism, IQ, and genius, which you can find at
http://cogprints.org/5207 ). But a very special handful I venture to suggest. This open elite included the late Hans Eysenck, the late David Horrobin, and, last but far from least, the now late Dr Rimland.
But now all dead!
The first of my numerous encounters with Dr Rimland was in the late '70s, seeing his name in an Adelle Davis book. I later read some of his articles and noted that he was clearly not one of those stuffy "normal" people that other scientists come over as.
Then late one night in 1982 the antiinnatia theory was unexpectedly born, and in my subsequent literature-studying I naturally encountered Dr Rimland's book, which turned out to have much concurrence with my own ideas.
When the theory eventually emerged from the anti-publication system in 1993, only two people had anything to say about it. That those two were both dominating giants of their field is of course not just my own opinion. Prof Eysenck said it was "well worth publishing". Dr Rimland said it was "excellent", "fine work". And later he wrote " ... Mr Clarke is one of those rare souls with the ability to assimilate [etc]... ". Meanwhile, the famous Lorna Wing sent a reply that "As a social psychiatrist I do not have the expertise to comment on your gene-expression theory of autism" -- then went on to write high-profile reviews of autism theories that mentioned neither that lack of expertise nor my own eleven-year effort. And a Dr Ferri said "I am too busy organising the conference [on the biology of autism] to have time to read your paper [on the biology of autism]". And all the other experts said ...(well have a guess).
The huge storm created by the successful culmination of my eleven-year odyssey into despair and out the other side amounted to a deluge of two (almost-)citations, basically two mentions by Dr Rimland in the ARRI newsletter.
Unlike Dr Rimland I am not a specialist in autism. If I'm anything it is a specialist in behavioural causality more generally. My solution of the autism "mystery" was not particularly complex but I guessed maybe it was too complex for other people to appreciate easily. I moved on to publishing an outline of my manic theory, then reckoned that at least my explanation that dementia results from long-term memory becoming full up would be simple enough for even everyone to understand ( www.zazz.fsnet.co.uk/adtheo.htm , update never completed).
A scientific theorist is what I am by nature and by grim fate, but there is no point in struggling to write things that no-one is ever going to read. So I resigned myself to the inevitable total failure of my scientific non-career, and filed my numerous other equally brilliant but yet unpublished theories in the bin. There were more important things to be done anyway (e.g., www.lulu.com/content/140930 ).
Earlier, in 1998, Dr Rimland contributed to a paper I wrote showing that a UK official statement against vitamin B6 was deliberately contrived to mislead legislators. But the Lancet fiddled and fudged and eventually "lost" all copies of it.
In mid-2004 it was becoming clear --clear to only me that is-- that I was being seriously poisoned by the 20 amalgam fillings I had and still have. So I started studying mercury toxicity. I noticed a reference to mercury binding to DNA and suppressing gene-expression, and that rang a loud bell because my theory had stated that things that bind to DNA and suppress gene-expression would be antiinnatia factors, causing autism.
That led me to starting on a spectacular update review of the antiinnatia theory. In 2005 I was continuing with struggling at working on that, under the considerable difficulties of the mercury I could not afford to have removed. Well, at least I had at last overcome all my other devastating health problems and for first time in my life gloriously saw light at the end of the tunnel of adversity. But just then in May 2005 I was brought to a total halt by a hideous scheme of harassment by the 20-20 housing "co-operative" I had helped to start 20 years earlier ( www.2020housing.co.uk and www.lulu.com/content/297752 ).
Twenty months on, the harassment has now escalated into an expensive malicious legal action to get me --a chronic invalid with severe mercury poisoning-- thrown out on the street as "intentionally homeless", me alone versus lying barrister et al. And just this month I've had bricks through my window twice. My lungs are regularly inflammated by the mercury, I can't last much longer, and quite likely may not live to get the update published. Anyway at long last, this 24th December 2006 I am within a few days of ready to send the completed autism update review to a journal. Its title is "The causes of autism: a theory now further confirmed by three predictions; and why dental amalgams were the cause of increased autism".
Actually, a fourth prediction (in the consultation draft I sent out in October) has already been confirmed –-that autism would be associated with lack of ventilation and outdoors-– by Waldman et al’s paper about television.
Thanks to the long delay caused by the harassers, it is to my great regret that when I tried to contact Dr Rimland to discuss my update paper, instead I learnt of his terminal illness.
With regard to the autism increase, I believe Dr Rimland got several major things right and just two things wrong. He was right that the increase was real. He was right that it was caused by mercury. He was right that chelating out the mercury was the way to cure many victims. He was right that there was outrageous cover-up by the establishment. He was wrong only in thinking that vaccines were to blame, rather than dentistry.
I think his error is understandable. Firstly he didn't study dental mercury as I had to. Secondly, he came to the vaccine question early on, years ago, when the evidence was confusing, and thereafter he suffered that same mistake as the frog that stays in the water that gradually heats to boiling. Thirdly he didn’t have the liberating advantage I had of being an isolated, personally uninvolved, individual.
I am sure that if he had lived to read my update paper, he would have eventually become even more positive about it than about my first paper. I am sure it would have persuaded him that the true cause of the greatest medical disaster in history was mercury from non-gamma-2 amalgams.
Well, anyway, I end here with the hope that subsequent to Dr Rimland's life, there does not arise a fixed orthodoxy of Rimlandism to close out any further advances which he could not have forseen. I'm sure he wouldn’t have wanted that as part of his legacy. Hopefully my update paper can at least persuade to a new paradigm those who carry on from his own lead as a paradigm-changer.
rpc (at) rpcc.info
Robin P Clarke
Birmingham, England
Posted December 29, 2006
THANK YOU DR. RIMLAND.THANK YOU FOR ALL THE ADVICE.
THANK YOU FOR ALL THE HELP.
THANK YOU FOR YOUR WORK AND
THANK YOU FOR YOUR LIFE.
THANK YOU MY GOD!
Sincerely,
Erika JERKUS
Százhalombatta-HUNGARY
Erika JERKUS
Százhalombatta-HUNGARY
Posted December 27, 2006
Dr. Bernard Rimland IS truly a founder of Biomedical Treatments in Autism. I used IS, becuase we will continue to seek guidance from the exemplary work he has done for this field. As they say in universities we do not train people to solve the problems but to identify the solutions to satisfy the system. Dr. Rimland refused to follow and justify the system. He was a true problem solver and has given the respect and dignity to the people who have ASD diagnosis. He challenged the tunnled vision of so called scientists and asked them to look and think outside the box!Dr. Rimland you are always with us and your cool shadow, like that of a neem tree, will always provide relief and respite to those who embark upon this challenging journey.
With all love and respect,
Noor Muhammad
Intervention and Resource Consultant
&
Executive Director
Autism Centre of Canada.
Noor Muhammad MBBS, MCPS
Ontario, Canada
Posted December 27, 2006
Dr. Rimland helped me in sevral ways. When I was Administrative Assitant for the Louisiana State Autism Chapter, he allowed me to use articles from his newsletter for the BRIDGE, the LSAC newsletter. His editorals were of current topics and the parents appreciated his "take" on the subjects.I referred parents to him and his ARI staff for assistance. The parents were so appreciative of the help they received.
Dr. Rimland was the keynote speaker at several conferences in Louisiana. The last one only three years ago. He came at a reduced rate, and never acted as though he was a celebrity and needed special treatment! It was an honor to have him present in Louisiana.
Geri Christ Landry
Lake Charles, LA
Posted December 23, 2006
Be the hands of God touching the hurtingWith loving arms wide as the sky
Be the heart of grace, bleeding forgiveness
With tender, compassionate eyes
When a wounded soul needs a little hope
Be the miracle
Be the miracle
(Written by James Thicke and Jeff Silvey
recorded by Mark Lowry)
Bernie Rimland was our miracle - he gave us hope. Our beautiful granddaughter was diagnosed with autism 5 years ago this month at the age of 18 months and her older brother was diagnosed with Aspergers about a year later. Today, both of them are in a private Christian school with the school having no knowledge of any diagnosis. Their success is because of lots of pray and the DAN! protocol.
I had the absolute pleasure of knowing of Bernie Rimland and then actually knowing him because of some minor fund raising activities I did for Autism Research Institute. The first time I stepped into the ARI office it was clear that here was one of the most humble men I would ever meet. My daughter and I also had the joy of taking the kids into the office for him the meet. Our grand-daughter said as soon as she got in the door that she had seen a spider web outside. At that moment, this giant of man in autism research asked her to show him and outside they went, looking at spider webs, talking and walking down the sidewalk - the giant researcher and the result of that research walking hand and hand - a miracle.
Sharon Swafford
Escondido, CA
Posted December 26, 2006
I have posted a piece on Dr. Rimland on my blog: http://docsaleeby2.blogspot.com/2006/12/autism-researcher-dies.html----
Autism Researcher Dies
by Dr. JP Saleeby, MD
I had the pleasure of meeting Dr. Rimland at a DAN! (Defeat Autism Now!) conference in 2002. He was a researcher in the field of Autism that had an axe to grind and took his research very personal. He helped found and direct the DAN! organization. The conference in Portland, OR was amazing in that it brought together scientists, physicians and parents of autistic children in one forum. Since that time I have embraced much of what DAN! researchers offered as therapies.
For more info visit: www.autismwebsite.com
Source: Time Magazine -Milestones, Jef Chu & Jeninne Lee-St. John (12-11-2006)
JP Saleeby, MD
Savannah, GA
Posted December 25, 2006
CONTINUATION---I clicked too fast. To Dr. Steve Edelson, what an honor that Dr. Rimland chose you to carry on his mission at ARI. I will continue to follow your work as I know Dr. Rimland chose a great person for a crucial job to go forth. Thank you for carrying the torch.Blessings,
Gretchen Wilson
Gretchen Wilson
Houston, TX
Posted December 25, 2006
I must revist this site of tributes to write again. When I first starting studying about autism and met Dr. Rimland he told me about his book "INFANTILE AUTISM" I always intended to order it to read. I am just now doing so after a strong urge from his passing. My Grandson is 27 years old now. Sean was young at the time. I thought I knew "pretty much" all the info on autism, gathered from bits & pieces. Reading this book has given me so much more insight than I had. I suggest all who have not read the book to do so. It is a brilliant writing Dr. Rimland has left to us. I will continue searching his works with DAN. I am truly thankful for the blessings he gave to us all. Sometimes I feel "If I could just ask him a few more questions". Reading his book is like talking to him. He was such a comfort zone to know. I will miss him. He gave instructions on DMG to parents just picking up the phone and calling him. I find now that one must go to a nutritionist. There will never be another Dr. Bernard Rimland. However, we are still blessed with others following in his footstepts, dedicated to the cure of autism and what causes it. A fine job will be done from the foundation he laid. We all must keep moving forward with those to whom Dr. Rimland left the research!! To the Doctors & Researchers carrying on his work, Thank You!!Respectfully,
Gretchen Wilson
The Sean Ashley House
Gretchen Wilson
Houston, Tx
Posted December 24, 2006
Dr. Bernard Rimland was a mentor and guide to me for over a decade. Because he was such an important and influential person, it was with much trepidation that I called him 12 years ago for advice on my graduate research project. I was surprised that he was so nice and so willing to talk to me and offer advice and guidance. He was a natural teacher and educator, always willing to discuss the current research and issues in autism. He became instrumental in my dissertation project. He continued to be my main source of guidance after I started my post doc, and even after I became faculty. He was an unfailing friend and mentor. He was always kind, straight forward, supportive, and generous with his time. And he had a way of making me laugh. He was such a great person. I will miss him very much.Janet K. Kern, PhD
Dallas, Texas
Posted December 22, 2006
We have never met Dr. Rimland personally. In 1993 our son was diagnosed with Autism. Autism Research Insitute helped us immeasureably in teaching us teach our son, and building our confidence on how to handle this challenge. Dr. Rimland's passion reflected in his work will always be remembered and we are forever grateful!Monina and Reg Tinio
Oakville, Ontario Canada
Posted December 22, 2006
Though I never met Dr.Rimland in the beginning when I found out my now 20 year old son Devin had Autism, his physician Dr. William Gordge made a phone call from Roanoke, Va. to Dr Rimland. Dr. Gordge told Dr Rimland he was calling on behalf of one of his patients and spoke in length with Dr. Rimland about mega vitamins and dmg and Autism. Devin was one of his first patients with autism. I was so very impressed at Dr Rimland's compassion for a child he had never met, and the amount of time he spent with Devin's Dr. on the phone. His information was so very helpful to us all.What a huge loss to the autistic community! Thank you Dr. Rimland for your thoughts, your hard work to get help for our childred,and for putting autism on the Map. You will be missed and thought of for many many years to come. THANK YOU!!!
Debbie R Gillispie
Blue Ridge, Va
Posted December 20, 2006
"The quest for understanding requires that we give upthe search for certainty and go on a voyage of discovery."
John Dunne "Spiritual Adventure"
I will never forget the first time I ever met Dr. Rimland. It was in February 1979 at Trinity University in San Antonio, Texas. Shortly before that meeting I had read his article, "Inside the Mind of the Autistic Savant" published in Psychology Today. I was living in rural Maine at the time, but I had come back to my home in Ausitn for the funeral of my father. One day while still in Austin, I read an article in the Austin paper about autism, and it listed the name of the man who was head of the Austin Autism Society. I was moved quite suddenly to stop what I was doing and call the man. As we talked I mentioned having read Dr. Rimland's article, and the man said, "Did you know that Dr. Rimland will be speaking in San Antonio today?" I said, "No, when and where?" I immediately changed my plans for the evening and drove to San Antonio. The small auditorium was jammed packed, but I found a seat on the side near the front. At the conclusion of his presentation, people rushed to the small stage to talk with him. I, too, went up because I had for the past two years been in contact with Richard Wawro, an autistic savant artist from Edinburgh, Scotland, and I wanted to share his art and his story with Dr. Rimland. Just as my turn approachet to speak with him, someone said that Dr. Rimland must leave immediately for the airport. I quickly thrust into his hand some post card sized prints of Richard's art and a small brochure describing his life and art. That was it. I didn't even get to speak with him.
Three days later I received a two page typed letter from Dr. Rimland saying that Richard's art was some of the most amazing work he had ever seen. That began a long friendship and shared mission to advance the knowledge of autism and giftedness. We were together many times over the years. He visited Austin and my home, and I visited with him in San Diego. He purchased one of Richard's beautiful pictures, "A View of Central Park, NYC." I was with him at numerous conferences. I have continued to gain much insight and knowledge from each issue of the Autism Research Review International. I read it cover to cover the day it arrives.
For over forty years Dr. Rimland waged a fierce battle against the "conventional wisdom" of the medical community, represented by Dr. Bruno Bettleheim, who first determined that autism was caused by "refrigerator mothers" and recommended psychotherapy as the primary treatment modality. After that dragon was slain, he took on the AMA, the FDA, and the pharmaceutical industry, who would prescribe powerful drugs to "control" the symptoms of autism, but did nothing to address the causes. He constantly sought biomedical approaches and was always open to less than orthodox approaches. I remember well his statement that "over the past forty years the primary advances in autism research have not been made by men in white lab coats, but by mothers."
He was lelentless in his search ever guided by the belief that autism could be defeated. Dr. Rimland's life and work, like Richard Wawro, who also passed away this year, will live on in the lives of countless individuals and families whose lives were touched and transformed by his pioneering quest for understanding and his very personal quest to shed light on the ever growing mystery of autism.
Laurence A. Becker, Ph.D.
Austin, Texas
Posted December 19, 2006
Conversations with Bernie Rimland always reflected his strong-minded endeavors as well as his open-mindedness. As a mentor and source of all types of information, no one could have been more helpful and gracious in sharing. I recall one such conversation in which we discussed the pursuit of signing and total communication systems at my Michael Reese Hospital based school. He pointed out a study that had been tried in England but then suggested I might teach or do it differently and therefore to "Go for it." And that we did using a behavioral approach as well as incorporating pictures. Bernie knew when the science(and technology) wasn't there yet but the thinking might be valid. He was willing to "look again", in Latin, "respectus." Indeed, he merited my greatest respect.Margaret Creedon
Chicago, IL
Posted December 19, 2006
To someone who really made a difference and helped so many Autistic children and adults. May your work live on as we continue on this Bio-medical journey with our 9 year old son Jordan.Our thoughts are with the family he left behind a fantastic inspiration to all
Mariella and Darren Moult
Mariella and Darren Moult
Stoke on Trent England
Posted December 18, 2006
First my heartfelt sympathy to Gloria and the Family. All of the tributes given to Dr. Bernard Rimland are true and tell of the man that many of us knew personally and some through his works. I cannot add any more words than others already have. I will say THANK YOU for all you did for the Autism community. People you have helped might not even know it, but you did it! I alos thank your Family for the time you gave from being with them in order to help ALL of those who needed your special help. The Family missed you when you could not be with them and they with you. I know this was and is hard on them. THANK YOU again and The Family for all of their understanding, devotion and dedication. God is with You and Them. With Fondness and Adminiration, Liz Roth.Liz (Elizabeth) Roth
Olney, MD, USA
Posted December 18, 2006
I am humbled to have known and to have been so influenced by Dr. Rimland’s love and wisdom.One simply can’t discuss “treating autism for a cure” without honoring Bernie. He was an amazing champion of autistic people and advocate for not settling for simply palliative care. It is because of his efforts that so many of us providers are now treating for a cure and that so many parents have gotten their kids back. Bernie lives on in every person we help.
Before I met Dr. Rimland, I was a natural medicine practitioner occasionally treating a few autistic kids. After being touched by his greatness of heart and spirit, my practice became much more dedicated to people on the Spectrum and I owe Bernie a huge debt of gratitude for the adventure that he has taken me on.
The shamash (“servant”) is the candle which lights all the other candles at Chanukah. As Bernie touched each of us, taught us that autism is eminently treatable, and turned us into DAN! Providers, he used his Light to spark the heart, mind, and creativity in each of us who will carry on the work which he championed so tirelessly and fearlessly.
Bernie, I will do my best to honor your memory by continuing to share the Light and by serving and teaching autistic people and their parents and providers as you have done for me. Please keep guiding us in the right directions.
Jim Blumenthal, DC, CCN
DAN! Provider
Los Angeles, CA
Dr Jim Blumenthal
Los Angeles, CA
Posted December 17, 2006
Thank youFor being the strong voice that I heard when I had lost all hope.
I first saw a special on KCET about Rimland's child and his own research and the movement. This was 3 months prior to me figuring out that my own son had Autism. As a professional I identified that my son who was only 12 months old may be Autistic. He was formally assessed and by 14 months old he was served by the Regional Center. As a result of his early intervientions (OT, DTT, and Speech) I have a bright eyed bushy tailed 3 year old who speaks clearly and interacts with his peers...OK, he gets stuck a but he is truly amazing.
When he was 12 months I was afraid he was mentally retarded, no utterances, no pointing at anything, no communication through gestures, preference for liquids, sensory issues and a serious lack of social interest. He would spend his time in repetious play.
I am grateful for what Dr. Bernanrd Rimland did for my son, my family and the families that I work with.
Sincerely,
Araceli May
Araceli May
La Crescenta, CA
Posted December 17, 2006
Although I have never met Dr. Rimland, he has touched my family's life, like he has so many other families, in a very positive way.I have two boys who were vaccine injured. Nick was severely injured, and Brandon was moderately injured.
However, thanks to Dr. Rimland's hard work, they are both well on their way to recovery, and I will be forever grateful to him.
Sincerely,
Michelle Panek
Michelle Panek
Huntley, IL
Posted December 17, 2006
DEAR DR. Rimland,The world has lost a great man who brought lots of hope and help to people like myself, who had
nowhere to turn to when our son got diagnosed with autism. You gave us the strenght and knowledge to move forward to help our son live a more productive life. You were more help than any doctor my son has had by far. We are greatly thankful for you sharing your knowledge with the rest of us.
You will be greatly missed, even though i never met you.
sincerly:Miguel Ramirez
MIGUEL RAMIREZ
HAMMOND , INDIANA
Posted December 17, 2006
Tribute to Benard Rimland
Not just a father but a God-father.. to all of us.
Bernard was one of many heroes'. (Well personally my biggest hero)
IMO He was the original forefather; pioneer and most well respected
individual of this "great movement."
And if it wasn't for him, his life and dedication to the work of
autism research, I do not think any one of us would be here today
giving time to reflect.
Let us give praise and honor to such a dedicated man. I never met
him, nor spoke to him Alltho I did call the ARI on a few occasions,
But I know he would have taken the time to reply and speak personally
if that was requested. Just want to mention to those of you didn't
know. He was the one who unfolded many of the truths about autism as
well as opened the door to the biomedical movement and also supported
many of the educational approaches that we now have today. If it
wasn't for him we would still be applying many methodologies that
were from the early 60's
As we know Bernard spent well over 50 years of his life often 7 days
a week, dedicated to such a great cause. "Truly a hero."
I am confidant that at he will be honored by many and the foundations
of his research will continue. I am also thankful that he was able to
see the fruit of his work before he passed. His efforts, work as
well as his contributions will never leave us, nor will his rewards
go unnoticed.
Thank you Bernard
May God continue to Bless
all of us through the work that you started.
Kenny V
Proud Father to Joel
Kenny V
Brick NJ USA
Posted December 16, 2006
I am the mother of a 17-year-old son who has severe autism and severe mental retardation. I will always remember with gratitude the time that Dr. Rimland gave so graciously to me on the phone almost ten years ago. My husband and I were desperately searching for any treatment that might relieve some of our son's symptoms of autism. Dr. Rimland did not hesitate to hear our story and offer his expertise. I was strengthened and encouraged by his unselfishness in helping us to find our way on this difficult journey defined by autism. I appreciate his family for sharing him with so many other families.Sincerely,
Barbara Vinson
Hoover, Alabama
Barbara Vinson
Hoover, Alabama
Posted December 16, 2006
La Comunidad de profesionales que estamos dedicados a la atencion e investigacion del autismo en Venezuela, asi como los padres de niños autistas nos sentimos sumamente afectados por el deceso del Dr. Rimland y hemos recibida la noticia con gran tristeza.
La conceptualizacion del autismo, su investigacion, asi como el impulso al conocimiento profundo de las bases biologicas no estarian en el estado de evolucion actual sin el empuje entusista del Dr. Rimland.
Sentimos profundamente su perdida, si bien confiamos que su pasion, entusiamos e ideas seguiran vivas en ARI y en Movimiento DAN! del cual nos sentimos parte.
Aldo Barbero
Venezuela
Posted December 16, 2006
I'm not sure what to say except for "Thank You". Thank you for sharing your husband and your father so that he could work tirelessly to uncover the truth about autism. Thank you for sharing a man who has helped thousands of children recover, and has given me hope that some day my son will recover as well. Dr. Rimland has given me hope, and that means everything to me. He will be missed, but I know his spirit will live on.Danica Chollar
Stanwood, WA
Posted December 17, 2006
A quiet but heartfelt thank you, from both our Alfie and his family.Jane x
Jane Ashwell
Hertfordshire, UK
Posted December 16, 2006
I want say thank-you to the angel who started doing the research to find a cure for our children.You see I have a 10 year old son with autism and everyday is a struggle,DR.Rimland is an angel because he made people aware of this disease our kids face and not made them aware but also educated the public.He will be greatly missed in the autism community.Rebeecca Newman
westspringfield,pa
Posted December 16, 2006
From the beginning of time, the universe has chosen to wend its way down just ONE erratic path. Any other path would NOT have included us! Had one leaf flopped, instead of flipped, a billion years ago, none of us would be here now. It's no wonder many people consider all this a miracle and that we're here by the grace of a God that always was and always will be.Belief in a God does solve one problem: By "knowing" there's an Afterlife, the fear of our inevitable death is eliminated. For those of us who can't fit a God and an Afterlife into our picture of the universe, this nagging fear of death is very real. Perhaps the knowledge that we're so extremely fortunate to have experienced life may help to allay that fear somewhat. On the other hand, after being so miraculously lucky to be here at all, it's very disappointing to discover that we'll be RETURNING to blackness and nothingness after just an instant on earth. The blackness up to our birth was finite. But after our death the blackness is eternal and terrifying.
Bernie was aware of all this. We both wished there was an Afterlife where we could continue having our pleasant lunches where all manner of subjects were dissected. After over 3 decades of discussing politics, religion, FDA, Shockley & Jensen, Autism, mutual friends, and, yes, death, we seemed never to disagree. His death came as a shock to me. He was immortal in my eyes. Bernie would never die. He was the one person on this earth that should never die.
We all will miss him, but I will miss him forever.
Oscar Falconi
Saratoga, California
Posted December 16, 2006
Bernie's career spanned the lives of all our children, and his efforts inspired every gain which has changed their lives: special ed, through his interest in ABA; biomedical research, which has helped so many; and advocacy, through founding ASA. His direction in research will be borne out in years to come: whether or not he always had the right answers, he always asked the right questions, with persistence! He was the first to gather parents together, to respect their own knowledge of their children, to act on their concerns. He empowered us all. He was an inspiration, a mentor, and a friend for 30 years. Like all those who knew him, I miss him tremendously but will never forget him.Sue Swezey
Menlo Park, CA
Sue Swezey
Menlo Park, CA
Posted December 16, 2006
4 years ago our son dropped off the map.At the age of 15 months following "doubled up" vaccinations, the child who once sang songs and knew everyone's name became silent. His little life suddenly taking on painful GI episodes and a constellation of mysterious behaviors.
As parents who religiously took our children to wellness visits we were left with hollow answers as the doctors were baffled.
We were not fortunate enough to find "a better diagnosis". Doctors simply told us to wait things out, surely siblings were just talking for our son.
However, a neighbor who worked as a Special Ed teacher recognized that all the oddities added up to Autism.
The local ASA website confirmed this with a simple checklist.
Our child displayed classic Autistic symptoms.
A word that we only knew from Rainman.
After traveling through a revolving door of doctors, hospitals and professionals offices and thousands of dollars later...our son was deemed hopeless. Moderate to maybe Severe on the Spectrum.
Meanwhile as the behaviors problems increased, so did the biological problems and the flight risk.
So we were left to live in a house fortified like a prison, well armed with alarms/locks so our child didn't flee. While Joshua, our once chatty baby, retreated into his own little prison. Family outings became a nightmare, one involved a near drowning. Siblings training in search and rescue just to go to the grocery store.
Our precious toddler lived a shell of a life, gravitating to the basement to tear the furniture, chew the sheetrock, stare endlessly at the TV naked, all the while smearing fecal matter into our rug. We were devestated and cried ourselves to sleep at night. While Joshua woke routinely screaming in pain.
Every story has a hero. (If it is a *good* story that is.)
We are blessed that our story had many DAN heros....and a very happy ending.
In our dogged quest to not let this be our child's final chapter,we began research every possible answer.
Then while culling hundreds of sights we found the Autism Research Institute website and eventually an excellent Biomedical practice.
If ARI's website were a book it would be well worn and tattered as it was visited time and time again. It was our handbook on our four year journey out of Mercury/Enviromental poisoning.
It offered hope that sustained us,information that helped us evaluate various interventions and educational materials written by seasoned professionals. Even statistics that spurred us to get help early and remain steady with diet and chelation.
Today, 4 years later at 6 1/2 our son talks and attends a typical classroom. He still displays Autism but the quality of our life is 110% better and his future is bright.
The highlight of our life will always be walking in a toy store after a chelation treatment and hearing him delare "MOM! I can talk to you now." While holding a hand voluntarily and using perfect eye contact.
Thank you Bernie Rimland for helping us find the beautiful butterfly wrapped in the neurological cocoon called Autism. The happily ever after...the calm after the storm. Hope. Answers.
The corners to the puzzle called Autism.
Perhaps that is why when I(Karen)stepped into an elevator at the NAA conference and found myself shoulder to shoulder with Bernard Rimland....and I couldn't speak. I just couldn't find the words.
How do you put into words the gratitude that belongs to someone that went against the grain professionally, to change the course of Autism treatment for millions of kids.
This year we had the pleasure of handing off DAN CDs to parents in Cairo Egypt while looking into their eyes and telling them "Yes-there is hope." "My son...he *was* just like this."
All across the world parents are traveling down a road of hope Bernie paved.
So thank you Bernie.
Because of people like you we will be enjoying Christmas this year with our clothes on,screaming with glee (instead of pain),playing with typical toys and the alarms off our doors.
Because you cared enough to help.
Thank you God... for gracing this world with a Bernard Rimland. We were so blessed to have him.
We can only hope to raise our children to live so excellently.
We pray that in your last moments Bernie you knew how well your life was lived.
All our love.
David and Karen Beauvais
Sarah,Jacob,Joshua and Tiffany Beauvais
Atlanta, GA
David and Karen Beauvais
Atlanta Georgia USA
Posted December 15, 2006
Shannon Johnson29 Shapleigh Rd
Harpswell, ME 04079
Autism Research Institute
San Diego, CA
December 15, 2006
To Whom it May Concern:
I am sincerely sorry to hearing about the passing of Dr. Bernard Rimland. Although I never met him, I have listened to him at conferences and on tape for over 8 years. I have been fed by his determination and strengthened by the hope he offered me as a parent as I struggled with each breath to bring healing to my ailing son named Wynn.
When most of the other professionals in the field were telling me to prepare myself for the worst, and to plan to one day institutionalize my then 3 year old baby, Dr. Rimland held out a candle in the dark. And with his light which still glows brightly even after his death, I continue to reach for that brass ring that will lead me to the answers for my son.
The Bible tells us, in Romans 5:3-5 that, “We can even be joyous when we go through sufferings because we know that suffering produces patient endurance, and patient endurance produces strength of character and character gives us unshakable hope”
I am struck by the prophetic accuracy of that text as it applies to Dr. Rimland. Through his own experience and sufferings as a parent of a child with autism, he developed patient endurance in his search for answers, which produced amazing strength of character as he came up against critics and nay sayers, which in turn has given generations of children and their parents unshakable, recoverable hope.
If I could speak to Dr. Rimland, I would say thank you for giving me back the son that autism tried to steal. We have not yet reached recovery, but thanks to you, our hope and faith is strong and steady. Your name will always and forever be synonymous with hope. You are missed.
Sincerely,
Shannon Johnson
Mother of 11 Year Old Wynn
shannon johnson
Harpswell, Maine, USA
Posted December 15, 2006
What does one say in mere words to thank Dr. Rimland ? Dr.Bernard Rimland profoundly altered the course of our lives for the better. He gave us the wisdom, the hope ,the strength to continuetoward recovery. And he lives on with each new day in our hearts and minds, as we continue the bio nutritionals we began due to his research, his studies. The only therapies that pulled us out of the 'black hole' so many years ago, and still maintain our equilibrium today.
I believe life is eternal and love lives on and wisdom grows.
In my vision Dr. Rimland is still working with the grandest of comrades in
a dimension we are not yet able to understand. His passion will always shine in the eyes of
recovered and healing children everywhere. We love you Dr. Rimland and especially our family wishes to extend our sympathy, our gratitude and appreciation to Mrs. Rimland and the Rimland family for so many years of being so generous with their amazing genius husband and father, Dr. Bernard Rimland.
May God grant you abundant peace and love always.
Sincerely, the Vasulka Family. (14 year old sweet, charming, beautiful daughter with autism)
Gayle Vasulka
OH
Posted December 15, 2006
Dear Dr. Rimland and Family:Our condolences to your family on the loss of this heroic man. I never knew you, Dr. Rimland; I only learned of your existence last year when my beautiful son was diagnosed with HFA at 4 years old in September of 2005. Our story is the same as many others: Hopeless pronouncements by utterly ignorant mainstream pediatricians, only to find a DAN practioner and watch our son change from a non-communicative, tantrumming, sleepless suffering (and constipated) little creature that only wanted to escape down the street, to a bright-eyed, intelligent, verbal, fun-loving, happy and healthy little boy who stays right I live to see the day when your research and efforts will be validated by this world and your lby my side! He is now attending kindergarten w/ an aide, but is consistently achieving more and more on his own. He romps with friends on the playground, writes his first and last name, counts, and is even beginning to read. The change in him has been like watching a miracle unfold. I hope that your legacy and work will be honored as it should have been -- AND, children with so-called "autism" will be instantly medically treated as standard protocol.
You have done more for our family, again, than anyone, ever. I my mind, you should be honored as a saint -- a Saint for Autism, and for children afflicted with this everywhere. My hope is that both my boy, myself, and my entire family will meet you someday in Heaven, able to thank you personally for all you've done for us.
(For parents reading our interventions have been: gfcf diet, SCD diet, supplementation, ABA therapy 10-15 hrs per week, and MB12 injections. We are currently pursuing chelation.)
Julie Davisson
Falls Church, VA
Posted December 15, 2006
Bernie, as he always liked to be called, will always be remembered for his commitment to our kids.I remember when we first met him about 15 years ago when we had a conference here on Long Island.
He knew me as Angela from Long Island. I would call him at ARI, and it always amazed me that he would answer the telephone each time, himself. We had a terrible time with my son not going to sleep. It was Bernie that gave us our first peaceful nights of sleep, with the help of melatonin that he suggested. Still 15 years later, my son still takes the melatonin.
Bernie you will be missed, but now our Angels have their own Angel.
Rest in Peace Bernie, you will always be remembered.
The Cerina family,
Dix Hills, NY
Angela Cerina
Dix Hills, NY
Posted December 15, 2006
Thank you will never be enough! THere really are no words. There is a special place in heaven for you and in all of our hearts. In your name we will not give up the fight. This is still war! With your help in heaven we will certainly win it! May you now rest.Kate Dorn
Menasha, WI
Kate Dorn
Menasha, WI
Posted December 15, 2006
Dr. Rimland was the first trailblazer on this journey. My heartfelt gratitude and inspiration for all that he has given to us.He called me regarding the following letter that I wrote and wanted to include his statement. He was so passionate about helping all our children and wanted to encourage me to send it anywhere I could. He so wanted to get the word out that our children could be helped biomedically.
Thanks Bernie.
Date: Tue, 2 Sep 2003 06:45:50 -0700 (PDT)
From: teresa
Subject: Autism Article
To: letters@newsweek.com
September 2, 2003
I am sickened by your article about autism. I have a daughter who
regressed
into autism by age 3. She received an enormous amount of mercury from
her
childhood vaccines in the form of thimerosal, a vaccine preservative.
Where
in your article do you speak about the thousands of kids who cannot
speak,
understand danger, have sensory issues that render them untouchable,
and
unable to handle normal sounds? Where are the kids who cannot digest
foods
normally, who have developed autoimmune issues, who are in pain from
stomach
issues? Where are the kids who have seizures, who bite themselves out
of
frustration and constant fear? Where are the kids who developed
normally,
who had language, laughed, and cuddled with their parents,when
gradually or
suddenly, they stopped? Do your homework! Autism is not funny. It is
not
a "geek" and quirky lifestyle for my daughter. You minimize the plight
of
so many children and families when you say that no cure is needed. We
deserve to have our stories heard. The following is a statement from
Dr.
Bernard Rimland. Please read it and consider contacting him and others
in
the field of autism who do real research, not opinions that echo the
Bruno
Bettleheim days.
Sincerely,
Teresa Conrick
July 14, 2003 STATEMENT BY BERNARD RIMLAND, PH.D.
Director, Autism Research Institute
Editor, Autism Research Review International
Founder, Autism Society of America
THE AUTISM EPIDEMIC IS REAL, AND
EXCESSIVE VACCINATIONS ARE THE CAUSE
The vaccine manufacturers, the Center for Disease Control, the FDA, and
the
various medical associations have failed miserably in their duty to
protect
our children. Rather than acknowledge their role in creating the
immense,
catastrophic rise in autism, these organizations have resorted to
denial and
obfuscation. They stand to lose their credibility, and billions of
dollars
in liability suits will soon reach the courts.
As a full-time professional research scientist for 50 years, and as a
researcher in the field of autism for 45 years, I have been shocked and
chagrined by the medical establishment's ongoing efforts to trivialize
the
solid and compelling evidence that faulty vaccination policies are the
root
cause of the epidemic. There are many consistent lines of evidence
implicating vaccines, and no even marginally plausible alternative
hypotheses.
. As the number of childhood vaccines has increased 700%, from 3 in the
`70s
to 22 in 2000, the prevalence of autism has also showed a parallel
increase
of 700%.
. Late onset autism, (starting in the 2nd year), was almost unheard of
in
the `50s, `60s, and `70s; today such cases outnumber early onset cases
5 to
1, the increase paralleling the increase in required vaccines.
. Thousands of parents report - and demonstrate with home videos --
that
their children were normal and responsive until suffering an adverse
vaccine
reaction. (The Autism Research Institute has been tracking such
autism-related vaccination reactions since 1967.)
. Mercury, one of the most toxic substances known, is used as a
preservative
in many vaccines. Some infants have had 125 times the maximum allowable
limit of mercury injected directly into their bloodstreams, in one day,
in
vaccines. (People vary enormously in their sensitivity to mercury,
because
certain genes predispose to mercury sensitivity. The highly-touted New England Journal of Medicine Danish study failed to mention the very
convenient fact that none of the Danish children had prior exposure to
mercury, since Denmark, unlike the U.S. had, banned mercury from
childhood
vaccines in 1992, the year before the birth year of the children in the
study.)
. There are numerous scientific studies showing large differences in
clinical laboratory measures of blood, urine and biopsies which compare
autistic children with normal controls. Such findings, pointing
directly to
vaccines as the cause of the group differences, are conveniently
overlooked
by those attempting to conceal the strong connection between the autism
epidemic and excessive use of unsafe vaccines.
The truth must - and will - emerge. It is long overdue.
Bernard Rimland, Ph.D.
Director, Autism Research Institute
Editor, Autism Research Review International
Founder, Autism Society of America
Teresa Conrick
IL
Posted December 15, 2006
Although you never met my son, your hard work in the autism field has helped my child make the progress that he does today. You will always be remembered for your tireless work and dedication. Because of you, one day I may be able to see my child become a contributing member of society and live a fulfilling, happy life. My deepest sympathy to your family. May you rest in peace.M. Petsos
New Jersey
Maria Petsos
Hamilton Square, New Jersey, USA
Posted December 13, 2006
Dear Bernie,God needed you to be by his side! You will be greatly missed, yet eternally remembered. I will always treasure our relationship, and revere your tireless conviction, hope and faith! You made my world a better place. It was my honor and my pleasure--thank you for everything!
Love,
Cindy Goldenberg
Laguna Niguel, CA
Cindy Goldenberg
Laguna Niguel, California USA
Posted December 14, 2006
Dear Bernie,I am so sad at losing you. You have been such a tremendous guide and role model for me. More than anything else, you gave me hope for my daughter. Due to your work and the rest of ARI/DAN!, she has made good progress, far more than we had been led to believe, and for that I can never thank you enough. You inspired me to pursue the biological causes of autism and how to treat it. I so value the advice you gave me, and the example you set for me of how to focus on listening to parents and DAN! physicians, and to look at the biochemistry behind possible treatments, with a focus on natural interventions to restore health.
It is just amazing how much you accomplished, and how your life helped so many. For me, I am so grateful for the help you gave to me and my daughter.
Love,
Jim Adams
Jim Adams
Tempe, AZ
Posted December 14, 2006
Dr. Rimland was a tireless champion on behalf of all of us in the autism community. He was a consistent source of encouragement and wise advice for parents and professionals for decades. I will be forever indebted to Bernie for his enthusiastic endorsement of a novice author’s desire to give other parents hope and help in facing autism. He was a wonderful coach, mentor, cheerleader and friend to me and to countless others. Children around the world owe their bright futures to his persevering and endless work. I can recall numerous times when he called me late into the night with some new information that would benefit my son or others through my book. It seemed to me that sleep was secondary to helping those with autism. My heart aches as I think of a world without him, but he will never be forgotten. His fingerprints are everywhere - especially in the lives of those he helped.Lynn M. Hamilton
Parent & Author of “Facing Autism”
Lynn M. Hamilton
Colorado Springs, CO
Posted December 12, 2006
I first knew Dr.Rimland in l966 when I was desperate to find out about Autism and his book "Infantile Autism" was published. We had been friends for over 30 years. I admire him greatly because he never gave up helping and investigating this enigmatic disorder. I wish I could tell him how much love and respect parents had for him, no problem was too small or to large for him to be interested in and helpful with. We parents all must realize what we have lost.You can rest now Bernie. I love you. Thank you so much. Margaret Eastham
Margaret Eastham
Canada
Posted December 14, 2006
I met Dr. Rimland in 1994. He was one of the few psychologists who understood my autistic's son's brutal, chronic, self-injurious behavior. And without shame, he advocated effective treatment of autistic children in a myraid of creative, energetic ways. Mainly, through his unique, no nonsense approach to life. He spoke in concrete terms. There was nothing vague or pretentious about him. Nobody can ever replace Dr. Rimland. This man was a gem. A hero. The king of autism research.Kim Oakley
Kim Oakley
California
Posted December 14, 2006
Our family is so saddened by the loss of Dr. Rimland. When my son became sick as a regressive autistic when he was not quite two years old I was told by our medical community that there was no treatment for him and that I would have to come to terms with placing him in an instituition by the time he was fourteen most likely. I as a mother was devastated and knowing almost nothing about Autism I refused to accept this. I began to research Autism and luckily I stumbled across the ARI website. Dr. Rimland is the first person that I contacted that gave me any hope in my son's recovery. I spoke with him on a few occasions and he encouraged me to attend a DAN conference. It was the miracle I needed to help my son. I can only credit the ARI and the doctors of DAN and more then anything Dr. Rimland in helping me acheive the impossible- my son's recovery from Autism. I was told that my son would never speak and all I ever wanted in my life's time was to hear him say "I love you mommy". I won't say the road was easy, but through tireless hours and exhausting work my son is now considered "recovered". I have absouletly no doubt that without Dr. Rimland that this would not have been possible. He lit a fire under me to push the envelope, to not blindly accept the word "no", he showed me to trust my instincts and to push myself to learn. I not only helped my son "recover" I learned so much about myself and that through hard work and tireless efforts anything is possible. I know that without Dr. Rimland establishing the ARI and gathering the DAN network together that not only would my son not be recovered, but that countless others wouldn't be or that other's wouldn't have benefited from the dramatic improvements that he showed all of us that there could be, despite what our local medical communities said. Because of him I pushed myself to stand up in our community despite criticism from our local doctors. He called on us parents to push for public interest, we did that and we got a four page article starting on the front page of our Sunday paper. I talked about the ARI being the foundation for parents to learn how to save their children, that there they could gain the knoweldge that should be in so many other places, but so sadly isn't. I talked about the leaders in the Autism field and the amazing doctors of DAN. Because of this and my thoughts on vaccines I was ridiculed in our community by many doctors and banned from a leading pediatircian office. The members of my support group were also banned. One night I was very discouraged and my phone rang at 10:00 pm to my amazement it was Dr. Rimland! He wanted to tell me that I was doing a great job and that to continue the fight and that the article was great no matter what anyone else thought locally. While at a DAN conference not long after I was approached by a woman who I'd never met that had a realtive that had read the article and because of what I wrote that is why she was there at that DAN conference. There were so many times that I was tired and wanted to quit, but I always thought of Dr. Rimland and the others that refused to quit on our children. How could I? Now everyday I hear my beautiful son's voice all day long. He is now 6 years old and in a "typical" class with no aides and has placed higher then most of his classmates in tests. He tells me everynight that he loves me. I just can't thank Dr. Rimland enough for his tireless efforts in finding a cure for our children, for encouraging us as parents to push for treatments and public recognition of Autism. He was always so kind in his interactions with us as he knew our struggle better then anyone and I know that the Autism community will never get over this loss as he was a pioneer. I know that without him I would have lost my son into a dark and sad world where I wouldn't be able to reach him, he gave me the greatest wish I ever wanted just to hear him say "I love you mommy".Thank you Dr. Rimland
Toni Taylor
Bellingham, WA USA
Posted December 14, 2006
We are the parents of a teenage boy who has made tremendous strides towards his full recovery from autism. It was only in the beginning of 2003 (when our son was 14) that we first heard about Dr. Rimland. It was then that we started seeing an orthomolecular doctor and started down the long road towards our son's recovery. I attended a DAN! conference in April of that year. The words we heard at that conference--that we must take responsibility for our children's health and well-being as opposed to putting blind trust in doctors--were words I had never dreamt of hearing, least of all from doctors themselves.And so we (my wife and I) did just that, availing ourselves of the services of three wonderful DAN! doctors as well as an anthroposophical doctor (they combine conventional medicine and homeopathy). We followed the DAN regimen of healing the gut first (which we were able to do via homeopathy). We were then able to heal his autoimmune system using Transfer Factor and we also made significant use of lauricidin and olive leaf extrtact. All the while we gave him various suppliments to promote brain and nerve health and overall health in general. When out son began playing soccer a few years back in the town rec league, he was (as you might expect) the worst player on the team. In the season that just ended, you could not distinguish him in any way from the other players on the field.
Because he has missed so many years of normal growth and development, he still has significant catching up to do, but there is no doubt in my mind that he will be able to pursue the career of his choice and manage well on his own as an adult.
There are NO WORDS TO DESCRIBE WHAT WE OWE TO DR. RIMLAND! It breaks my heart to know that he could not do nearly as much for his own son as he was subsequently able to do for so many others! The love emanating from this man was nothing less than extraordinary. I feel as if Dr. Rimalnd was our son's second father. And we never even had the priviledge of meeting him but surely hope to some day, in heaven.
Harry Eisenberg
Glen Rock, NJ
Posted December 14, 2006
To The Loving Family Of Dr. Rimland,Our oldest son was diagnosed 10 years ago. It was a great challenge getting him to live in our world. It was also difficult dealing with his asthma and allergies.
Our middle son was born 7 years later. He was very ill, severe allergies and asthma, surgery at one month old. He was diagnosed at two years old.
Our third son was born almost three years ago. Our beautiful baby diagnosed at 18 months old.
That's when I realized this was not a coincidence and I started researching. The difference that Dr Rimland has made for my family alone has been miraculous.
You as a family have made such a huge sacrifice to share your husband, dad and son with the world.
For that we thank you from the bottom of our hearts!
We are all saddened by Dr Rimland's passing yet so fortunate to have had him make the difference he has.
Thank you and God Bless your family.
Pam
Albany, NY
Pam
Albany, NY
Posted December 14, 2006
I first heard of the wonderful Bernard Rimland about 5 yrs ago when my son was finally correctly diagnosed with autism after 3.5 yrs of questioning and searching for answers to his baffling behaviors. What a person he was! Working tirelessly for the children, individuals, and families whose lives are changed by autism while having a child with autism himself. Then because of his research which dispelled the myths of autism my son was able to progress further than we thought possible.Dr. Rimland's legacy of hope will live on forever and I would like to thank his wife and family for sharing him with us for so long.
God bless and keep you Gloria and family.
Thank you from the bottom of my heart.
Mary Chouinard
Maine
Mary Chouinard
Maine
Posted December 15, 2006
Thank You Dr. Rimland!Like many of us, he was the first person I called when my son was diagnosed. He spent hours on the phone with me going through the different types of therapy available and gave an honest opinion of each. Each day I would wait for the mail to deliver yet another article or research study on what would help my son the fastest, most effective way.
Over the years he and I would spend many hours on the phone and writing back and forth. You could always hear the passion in his voice and almost see the twinkle in his eye as he spoke.
We had him speak at our conference here in 2003. The night before the conference we brought him to dinner at the local Hibatchi restaurant. He had never experienced this type of dining before. He sat side by side with Tony Attwood, Robert Nasef and several of us from the ASA. He spoke quiety and humbly. He was dressed very modestly. When he arrived back in San Diego he called me to tell me he arrived safely. I asked him what he thought of this area, Binghamton, NY and he said "Sally, do you know how many checkouts that Wegmans store has?!" I answered "32". He excitedly answered, "NO! Can you believe they have 35? Have you ever seen them all working at the same time?"
Over the years many have asked me, "What keeps your passion for autism going? What makes you able to accomplish all that you do in a day?" I have always pictured one man as my mentor, my reason for continuing and my inspiration when it comes to autism - Dr. Rimland.
Over the past few months, speaking with him has not been possible and I thought that it would make it easier for when this day came. But it doesn't.
Thank you Bernie for all the years of selfless dedication and continuing on when we were all worn down. Your spirit lives on in Mark and in so many others with autism.
https://www.autismwebsite.com/ari/index.htm
Sally Colletti
Fax: (909) 752-9694
Owner Advocates For Autism www.advocateforautism.com
NYS 22nd District Rep: www.achamp.org
Autism is diagnosed in 1 out of every 166 children.
Become informed and support autism research!
Sally Colletti
Vestal, NY
Posted December 15, 2006
Dr. Rimland was a dear friend of Bittersweet Farms and he will be sorely missed. Early in our formation, Dr. Rimland agreed to serve on our Professional Advisory Board. As a parent and a professional he was a pioneer in recognizing early on the need for good active treatment and a wide range of residential options for adults with autism. Dr. Rimland was available at the drop of a hat to help on anything we ever asked of him. There were times when I knew he would be in his office in the wee hours of the morning and he would avail himself even at that hour to help and do whatever he could for our cause. Dr. Rimland, above all else, was a passionate, no nonsense advocate that always maintained the highest standards for those who truly have no voice of their own. He was ever ready to lend his name and his support and the credibility that came with his name to causes that would advance services for persons with autism. We were truly blessed to have such a man working so devotedly on behalf of those we serve and so fortunate to have a dedicated professional devoting three life times worth of work to the field of autism research. Dr. Rimland worked tirelessly to improve the condition of autism itself and the quality of life for those who are afflicted by it. For his service, dedication, compassion, and presence we are eternally grateful.Charles Saunders
Outreach Director
Bittersweet Farms
Charles Saunders, Bittersweet Farms
Whitehouse, Ohio
Posted December 15, 2006
Dr. Rimland was a true hero. When our fourth son started developing autism at the late age of 3 1/2, we found no answers from our local doctors, it was on the internet that I first discovered Dr. Rimland and some of his research. Had it not been for him, our son would probably be very autistic today. But now he is a very normal, neurotypical 7 year old little boy. Fully recovered from autism, our son is actually rapidly accelerating in his scholastic abilities. He is very far ahead of his classmates in most subjects. The school he goes to allows kids to accelerate as far as they can. To go from a dianosis of PDDNOS, to ASD, then to be totally recovered would not have happened if not for Dr. Rimland and all of his years of hard work and dedication to finding a cure for our kids, and creating the DAN! movement. Words cannot express the depth of grattitude and thankfulness our family has for Dr. Rimland. I know that he has a special place in heaven.
God Bless you Dr. Rimland, I know you are peace now.
The Thompson Family
Ruston, LA.
Jennifer Thompson
Ruston, LA.
Posted December 15, 2006
I never met Bernard Rimland, or even saw him speak, but nevertheless I felt a real sense of sadness when I heard about his death. I first came across his name when our daughter was diagnosed 18 months ago. I very quickly read loads of books by parents and I was surprised to find that he was almost always the person writing the foreword. Wasn't there anyone else who knew something about autism? Quite soon I realised there were hundreds of other experts, but that parents turned to Bernard Rimland because they trusted him and liked him and knew that he was on their side. Like thousands of other autistic children, our daughter has benefited from the interventions he championed. He was obviously a colossal force for good in the world and of course he will be missed.Andrew Sparrow
London, United Kingdom
Posted December 15, 2006
Considering that he was someone I never met, Dr. Rimland helped my son and family more than anyone. He was my first and best source of information about autism, my first source of hope, and a continually guiding hand through our 17-year trek. I found our fabulous doctor through the ARI website so Dr. Rimland continues to help us every day through her. I grew to love Dr. Rimland simply out of gratitude and respect, and that will never change. I'll miss him.Marjorie Glasscock
Roanoke, Virginia
Posted December 15, 2006
I want to add my tribute to others given in recognition of Dr. Bernard Rimland. The Autism Spectrum community and their families owe him an enormous debt of gratitude expecially for two of his outstanding qualities. One was his stubborn belief that Autism has a biological origin (however this will be eventually defined)and his advocacy for parents who had been subjected to so much blame. The other was his warmth and personal connection to so many suffering people, especially to families struggling with new diagnoses. I remember him asking to talk to me when he heard I was on the phone calling about something I thought ARI could help me with. He appeared on television with me and my son when our book was first published, later remarking in an ARI editorial that he thought Paul was "recovered" or "cured." Although Paul and I both thought these words were not quite right (they didn't recognize Paul's continuing struggles), we were both grateful for the genuine compliment they conveyed. Finally I remember that the Checklist he developed many years ago was the first listing of significant behavioral markers in Autism I had ever seen. Bernie was one of the warmest, kindest and most energetic people I have ever met, untiring in his efforts to help thousands of peopleI send my very best wishes to Gloria, Mark, Helen and Paul. And also to Steve in taking over the important work of ARI.
Jane Taylor McDonnell
Northfield,MN
Posted December 12, 2006
I first knew Dr.Rimland in l966 when I was desperate to find out about Autism and his book "Infantile Autism" was published. We had been friends for over 30 years. I admire him greatly because he never gave up helping and investigating this enigmatic disorder. I wish I could tell him how much love and respect parents had for him, no problem was too small or to large for him to be interested in and helpful with. We parents all must realize what we have lost.You can rest now Bernie. I love you. Thank you so much. Margaret Eastham
Margaret Eastham
Canada
Posted December 9, 2006
Dear Dr. Rimland's family,Just a note to thank you so much for Dr. Rimland's immense contribution to the field of autism. Believe it or not, I live in San Diego County and have a twelve year old daughter, Annie, who has seen so many doctors, psychiatrists, psychologists, GI specialists, neurologists and others in the area and only this year received the diagnosis of autistic spectrum disorder!
Over the years, Annie has been on probably ten or slightly more psyhiatric medications to control her terrible rages and no one has been able to truly help her for that, for her significant GI problems, or for her developmental delays. I have been to well regarded medical clinics, hospitals, psychiatric clinics, university neurological departments, and others in San Diego and LA. No one has even mentioned ideas of diagnosis or treatments like those proponed by Dr. Rimland.
Less than two months ago, I came across the relationship of yeast to austic children by a search on the internet and from there I just kept going on a massive learning curve. I am astounded and very dissapointed that so many excellent biomedical interventions and recommendations--so much of which were started and championed by Dr. Rimland--are not either known or supported by many well known medical institutions that are frontline to parents seeking help for children like Annie.
Well, in these almost two months, I have seen a DAN doctor, Dr. Woeller in Temecula, and have contacted Thoughtfulhouse, Dr. Krigsman. Annie has had all the tests recommended by both, is on M-B12 injections, yeast fighting medication, Magnesium, GSH supplements, probiotics to name a few. You would not believe the GREAT progress she is making! Annie asks me to please give her her M-B12 shot so that "(her) head can feel better" and so that "(she) can talk more". We will be going to see Dr. Krigsman in late December.
Thank you again for everything! I read a few of the other letters to Dr. Rimland. They are all such good testimonials to how much he has helped not only children like Annie but truly the world. I personally think that so many of his ideas and research will someday also prove beneficial for maladies like Alzheimers, Parkinson's, cancer and other's.
Well, God puts special people in the world with gifts of different kinds. Dr. Rimland made tremendous use of his gifts, and as I write this I just realized what a great gift to the world was your son without whom perhaps none of this might have occurred!
Most sincerely,
Silvana Freestone
Poway, CA
P.S. I wish I had known about Dr. Rimland twelve years ago. I plan to do something to get the word out about his great work so that other children like Annie do not have to go for so long without valuable help. I have already started by letting my office and friends know about this information. In one week since my first efforts to get this message to parents with children with developmental delays, five parents / friends of children who need help have asked me for referrals to books and doctors.
Silvana A. Freestone
Poway, CA 92064
Posted December 8, 2006
When my younger son was diagnosed with autism in 1989, I found that there was little useful information available about this terrifying disorder. Then I discovered the Autism Research Institute and its wonderful newsletters that dispensed both advice and hope. In those days it was not unusual to call the ARI office and have Bernie answer the phone. For a great man, he was truly accessible. I was lucky to meet him a few years later at a workshop at the Eden Institute. Aftergiving an energetic talk, he graciously hung out with a small group of parents who wanted to pick his brain. I'll never forget his scornful rejection of the designation PDD - Pervasive Development Disorder - as a euphemism for high-funcioning autism. "What's pervasive about it?" he asked. "It doesn't affect the arms or the legs, does it?" Dr. Rimland didn't want parents to be ashamed of the "A" word because he knew that we were dealing with a syndrome that could no longer be considered rare. I last saw him at the first Autism Rally in Washington, D.C. He was sitting alongside the stage, awaiting his turn to speak. I waved and shouted "Hey, Bernie!" and he smiled and waved back. He was clearly as pleased as I was that autism was finally having its day in the sun. I am heartbroken that he did not live to see the Combating Autism Bill passed by Congress this week. It would not have come about had Bernie Rimland not shown us the way.
Theresa Kelly
Ridgewood, NJ
Posted December 8, 2006
I never met Dr Rimland in person, but through the DAN! webcasts and through his writings, he became "Bernie" to me....Bernie dug for answers, examined research for ethical and proper data collection & reporting, brought together people with similar commitments and opened a new world for children on the spectrum and their parents.The first time I heard him speak in a web conference was within a month of my youngest grandson's diagnosis. He spoke with conviction of what I knew in my heart...that my grandson was not a child that "just came that way"...that my grandson was not "hopeless" or "incurable".
I KNEW something had done this to this child, and so needed to know that something could be done to help him be better.
I had been gifted with a path to this kindred spirit.
Over the last 2 1/2 yrs, my grandson has gone from screaming and headbanging to speaking, playing, and loving others...the child they said should be institutionalized reads and uses a computer at age 4. Everyone in my family has had an improvement in health because of the information brought together by this amazing man. This is a debt of gratitude that is impossible to repay.
The newsletters were always a treasure, sending me off to look at research I would never have known existed. The personal touch that was evident let me feel the immense love this man gave to the world.
I never met him personally, but I choke with emotions for a man who I knew in a very personal way...he opened the gates for my beloved grandson to leave the hell he had here on earth and enabled this child to come into the light.
So, thank you, Bernie, from the bottom of my heart. I miss you.
Victoria J West
Silver City, NM
Posted December 7, 2006
Dr. Rimland has been my beacon of light in trying to understand autism and its many facets. I am so saddened to know of his passing. The world has lost the greatest champion for autism and its biomedical foundation. The world is also a much better place for having this great man in it. Thank you from the bottom of my heart for giving so much of yourself to all of our wonderful children.
Debra Damiano-Mutsch
Madison, WI (formerly Seal Beach, CA)
Posted December 7, 2006
Thanks to the efforts that Dr.Rimland started years ago, more & more children are being recovered from this devastating disorder called autism, my son being one of the many other children on the road to recovery. My family is deeply indebted to Dr.Rimland for helping us get our child back.May your soul rest in peace.
Nancy Jones
New Jersey
Posted December 7, 2006
My wife, my daughter in law and I attended the fall DAN Conference last year in Los Angeles and unfortunately could only see Dr. Rimland in the conference room. We would have liked to have met him personally. Nevertheless, we feel like if we've lost an all-time friend, and we send our biggest sentiment of grief for the enourmous loss to his familiy and all of who, like us, are involved in this shattering experience of having an autistic child or granchild.My grandson, 'Emilito' as we call him, was born in New Jersey 3 and a half years ago and when he was two years old was diagnosed with autism by a DAN-trained doctor, Dr. Malla in Lima, Peru where my son and his family live since 2005. It was a great blow to all of us, and since then, with the help of the internet, I began to learn about Dr. Rimland's enormous work to establish an understanding of this disorder and a protocol to reverse the effects of the intoxications and organic differences to avert these external factors that some children cannot deal with and which result in all the autistic sindromes they suffer. Of course, the minute we lesrned of the Conference, we signed up!!, and it was a wonderful experience.
We thank Dr. Rimland for his tremendous work and success and hope many doctors and all the people involved will continue and expend tenfold his excellent efforts. We are sure Emilito will some day -not so long from now-will be able to interact with his family and friends, attend school with boys his age and eventually live a normal life. He is in chelation and God knows how many other treatments and therapies with experts trained in the findings of Dr. Rimland. For this, we will ever be grateful to him.
Que Dios lo acoja en su seno!
Emilio van Oordt
Lima Peru
Emilio van Oordt
Lima, Peru
Posted December 7, 2006
God is given the credit when humble people stand for truth amidst difficult circumstances and troubling times. Dr. Rimland has completed a mighty battle and deserves our heartfelt respect and thanks. I am happy I had the chance to talk with him at least once in my life. His courage is an inspiration to me as I strive to stand with thousands of others who work to understand and correct environmental insults threatening our health and that of future generations.Philip Ranheim M.D.
Lake Stevens Washington
Posted December 7, 2006
when i know that my little child is autism, i feel dead, i praid many hours to find a solution , and know my son is recovering step by step , thank you Dr. Bernard Rimland, God needs angels , is the reason to Berland Rimland is in the heaven.Fiorella Pita Rainuzzo
Lima, Perú
Posted December 7, 2006
It was sad to hear that Bernhard Rimland passed away. We were aware that he had been battling illness for some time but never the less his passing leaves an emptiness.I had the pleasure of meeting him at a DAN conference and 'accosted' him in the foyer(as we were getting into the same lift) to take the opportunity to shake his hand and to tell him (like many thousands before me) how much he was appreciated and his work was valued in Australia. He was appreciative of this and as a token I gave him a tiny koala. I consider this meeting and his friendliness a major highlight of my life.
I don't believe there will ever be another person who has single-hand brought autism to the fore of the worlds attention with his views on biologically treatments and giving hope of recovery along with liberating parents from previous antiquated notion of the 'cold mothering' syndrome.
The world (especially the world of autism) is a better place because of Bernhard Rimland. Well done true and faithful servant....
Maurean Brand
Maurean Brand
Mooloolaba Beach, QLD, Australia
Posted December 7, 2006
30 years ago, I met Bernie, thru my aunt, Bettie Plante who ran the westchester, NY branch of the Huxley Institute. They were friends. He became my friend. Our lives have intertwined for 30 years on so many levels; mental health, art, networking friends, etc. In Nov of '79 we worked together on an art opening at the Village Hotel on Prospect in La Jolla for autistic Scot W/IQ of 30-legally blind, Richard Wawro, referred to as the 'Autistic Scot with the Artistic Touch'. Hotel owner and friend, Carl Ludlow, (deceased many years) took all of about 3 minutes to say, "Yes! Let's do the show here!" We did. It was awesome. Dr. Lawrence Peter, author of the 'Peter Principal' was our guest of honor. So many lives were touched the eve of that art opening, but mostly I remember one little autistic child, a girl, who looked at me with tears streaming down her cheeks as she read of Wawro's extreme disabilities, then gazed upon his lovely accomplishments; she turned to me and said: "Maybe I can do something beautiful, too!" WOW! I cried with her then, almost 30 years ago, and I cry now at the epithany she realized that night! I hope she grabbed her star and ran with it! I know Wawro inspired many! He had been seen on many a TV program. He was Maggie Thatcher's favorite artist! Bernie Rimland inspired many; helped many, loved many, gave EVERYTHING to many! There are truly Angels who walk among us; he was one of the finest! I know he's continuing his divine work from the divine plane where he's running the show! Gloria is the wind beneath his wings; a woman so sweet and good and kind; Also an angel. Though I know Bernie is with us in spirit, my heart aches to not be able to hear his beautiful, reassuring voice; to realize he's (physically) gone, to think of all the people that need him; depend on him. I pray Dr. Edelson will carry on; Bernie spoke so highly of him a few months ago, so I know this is a good man. Dr. Bernie, my friend, I love you and I miss you. Planet earth is weeping. Ali MinerAli Miner
Carmel, CA
Posted December 6, 2006
When my son Joshua was diagnosed with autism I was beside myself ... I didn't believe it ... didn't want to hear it ... and was terribly frightened as to what that meant for his future. I called the ARI for information fully not expecting to get to talk to Dr. Rimland. I was amazed when he answered the phone. This kind and gentle man allowed me to "cry on his shoulder" for over an hour and a half while he provided me with much needed information. He sent out free of charge many other pamphlets ... and his autism checklist. I filled out the checklist and got back his report on Joshua. He was my first messanger of hope ... prior to that all news painted a dark road. He may be gone ... but I can assure you, never forgotten! I have checked this website often throughout the years ..Melinda
Melinda A
Olathe, KS
Posted December 6, 2006
My 2 year old daughter was diagnosed with Autism May of this year. Although devastated, we chose to be completely proactive and find answers that could help us to give her the best life possible. The first thing that I ever read on Autism cited Dr. Rimland and I thank God that it did. I have learned so much that has helped our daughter. We were told by pediatricians that the only way to treat autism was to do behavioral therapy, nothing else would work. Dr. Rimland, although I was never privileged enough to meet him, helped me realize that this was entirely false. Since May our daughter has gone from 5 words to well over 200. She has done so amazingly well that we can go to any public place, and no one ever knows she is any different than any other child. Had she been born decades ago this would not be the case. It is thanks to Dr. Rimland that we have this opportunity to help our children thrive in life. In the spirit of Dr. Rimland's philosophies, I have made it my mission to help educate parents and physicians in my local area on what can be done to treat our wonderful children. Dr. Rimland worked too hard for us to keep it quiet. I can only hope that all of his research will continue on with all of us parents who can understand why it is so important to eradicate Autism.A
Jennifer Murton
Sonora, California
Posted December 6, 2006
I never knew what Autism was until our son Scotty was diagnosed with it in 2004.Dr. Bernard has helped our family a great deal with all the imformation that is own
the web. Our family like many others thank him and will miss him.
Jolly Family
San Saba ,TX
Posted December 5, 2006
I first heard about Bernard Rimland exactly 4 years ago as I frantically looked for answers after hearing the words Autism and My Son's name in the same sentence. I read how Dr Bernard Rimland was a Psychologist who had a son with Autism and how he disproved the barbaric theory of a Refrigerator Mom or the notion that a mother of indifference was causing Autism. For the next 4 years, nearly every road we took to treat our son lead back to Bernard Rimland.I for one do not believe Bernard Rimland will be remembered as the Doctor who merely disproved the Refrigerator Mom theory. I believe he did so much more for the advancement of finding a cure and treatment of Autism-
Dr Rimland helped instill a confidence in each and every parent that we can make a
difference, we can treat autism, we can find a cure- we can Unlock Autism.
The community we share today is a direct result of Dr Rimland. The efforts to share knowledge on therapy's and treatments has been the single most effective way to treat the disease, sadly because Autism Research today is still grossly under funded. The National Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that as many as one in 166 Americans 21 or younger is afflicted with autism, which affects children in different ways, sometimes the symptoms are accompanied by extraordinary talents and skills.
The best way to remember a person who dedicated his life to Autism and helping so many others is to keep his cause alive, active and growing. Through the web the community has never been better armed with access to information and research. I dedicate my site- UnlockAutism.com to the sharing of knowledge and information regarding the treatment and advancement of Autism Research and ultimately to find even more effective treatments and a cure once and for all.
Having been bombarded with the story of Dr Rimland from friends and relatives, I am once again exposed to the story of a man trying to help his son when there seemed to be no one really listening. He broke open new ground for the treatment of Autism and a new way to research other unexplained and misdiagnosed ailments.
Today, I feel the same way I felt after watching Lorenzo's Oil and the struggle of the Odone Family. For anyone who has seen Lorenzo's Oil and the Herculean effort into finding a cure for Lorenzo, who suffers from ALD (adrenoleukodystrophy) you know what I mean. Through the relentless research effort and undying support of his wife Michaela, Augusto Odones figured out what the medical establishment could not about ALD and demyelization. He too had a similar community project - www.myelin.org to share information and exchange ideas similar to Dr. Rimland's Defeat Autism Now and earlier projects. I also want to recognize that Dr Bernard also had a remarkable wife Gloria who supported and encouraged him in his efforts.
Today both these men and their families, help my family push on, looking past the misunderstandings about the disease, not accepting less then the best from our doctors and school system in order to figure it out, there must be something I can do to unlock the mystery.
When I discover the cure, I will for certain name it- Bernie, as this parents tribute to a kind stranger.
Rest Easy and Thank You Dr Rimland.
George
New York, NY USA
Posted December 5, 2006
I wrote this editorial for the newspaper I work at, the Daily Messenger in Canandaigua, N.Y., near Rochester.He brought autism
out of the shadows
Ask 10 people on the street to name a psychologist and most of us couldn’t muster names beyond Freud or Skinner or even Phil.
But a psychologist died recently who rightfully deserves his place among the giants of the field, Dr. Bernard Rimland.
The name wouldn’t ring a bell for most of us, but for the parents of children with autism, of which there are hundreds in the Rochester-Finger Lakes region, he was a shining light, focusing on a public health problem that until recently was given short shrift.
Now news stories on the issue are commonplace. According to a cover story in Newsweek on Nov. 27, the Harvard School of Public Health said caring for people with autism is costing $35 billion a year, with care for an individual estimated at up to $3.2 million over a lifetime. A large portion of these costs are borne by taxpayers, including expensive special-education programs in our schools.
Rimland’s contributions to autism research were many, but his most important accomplishment was debunking the prevailing — and offensive — theory in the 1950s that autism, a mental disorder that often affects social and cognitive functions, was the fault of mothers who subconsciously rejected their children.
This “refrigerator mother” theory was soundly rebuffed by Rimland’s research. He determined autism’s roots were biological, and all research since then has supported that theory.
But Rimland, whose own son has autism, did more than just debunk lousy psychology with his landmark book in 1964 on infantile autism. He spent the rest of his life seeking causes and cures, forming what is now known as the Autism Society of America.
Rimland’s theories have sometimes clashed with others in the medical and psychological community, especially in recent years, when he began to look beyond the educational therapy he developed called Applied Behavioral Analysis and into medical interventions. He pushed for vitamin therapy, particularly high doses of B6, in an effort to improve cognitive function.
His theory that autism may be caused by child vaccines has been intensely debated in the medical community. Rimland suggested vaccines with the preservative thimerosal, which contains mercury, could be behind some autism cases, noting that symptoms of autism and mercury poisoning are similar. He and others have pushed for heavy-metal detoxification called chelation, which many parents believe has improved the mental and social abilities of many children with autism.
While the pharmaceutical industry and many in the medical fields continue to denounce the theory as baseless, Rimland was successful in pushing more research for autism’s causes and treatments.
“I will never stop until I have found the answer or die, whichever comes first,” he told the San Diego Union in 1988. “I will find the answer, and if living to be 150 is what it takes — I’ll do that too.”
Rimland, who died of prostate cancer at the age of 78 on Nov. 21, didn’t live to see a cure. But both parents and children with autism are better off for this extraordinary man’s contributions to a disorder that continues to befuddle the psychological and medical community.
Steve Buchiere
Palmyra, ny
Posted December 5, 2006
When I discovered that my 4 yr. old son, my only child, had autism, I was at a complete loss. The doctor who gave me the diagnosis offered no suggestions, no treatment, no hope at all for the future. Luckily, I heard about Dr. Rimland and turned to his information for help. I completed his ARI questionaire, read his pamphlets, read articles about and by him, and started on my own journey of research and discovery about autism. I am absolutely certain that it is because of him that my son (now 10) is doing so well.I am also immensely grateful for the work he did to dispel the myth of "the refrigerator mother." His work, showing that autism is a physiological disease, rather than mental, helped me stand up to the (too many) people who believed my son's affliction was caused by me (either loving him too much or too little). I'd had years of people, including my own family, telling me that I wasn't handling my son correctly. I was most often accused of "coddling" him too much, or trying to keep him away from the rest of the family. I started to doubt my own mother's instincts, and so tried to do what others suggested. It is because of Dr. Rimland that I realized that I should follow my instincts to shield him from too much comotion and stimulation, and to only let him be part of small groups. This was a huge benefit to my child and me, resulting in a new calm and less stress for my son, which allowed him to learn and grow. I will forever be grateful to Dr. Rimland for this, and I am sorry that the world has lost a truly great man!
Louise Barr
Los Angeles, CA
Posted December 5, 2006
Dr Rimland was the light in our darkest days! He had such courage and faith that our children could recover! Without his strength to fight for the truth and for the children - I don't know where my son would be today. We owe you an incredible debt. We will continue your fight! We will defeat autism!Lauri Pugliese, Mom of Corey 6 yrs
Canada
Posted December 4, 2006
This message was sent to a group of parents in Lima Peru that, like me, trust on Dr. Bernard Rimland ideas. This message is in spanish, but I consider it as our tribute to this wonderful man.Muy buenos días a todos:
El Dr. Rimland siempre será mi heroe. Si alguna vez le pedí a Dios un milagro para curar a mi hija, ese fue el día que por primera vez leí algo que intuía: que el problema de mi hija, no podía ser psicologico, sino biologico y bioquimico. Esa primera lectura fue una en la cual el Dr. Rimland decia de que el problema de los niños con autismo era un problema GASTROINTESTINAL y que en sus estudios el efecto de nutrirlos con B6 y magnesio tenía buenos resultados. Eso fue como una gran luz para mí, y de ahí en adelante me puse a investigar y encontrarle lógica a todo lo que hoy sé de nutrición holistica.
Después de estudiar e investigar por un poco más de dos años, estoy más que convencido de que la sociedad y por intereses diversos, vivimos en un mundo lleno de mitos (leáse mentiras), para lo cual los medios de comunicación son expertos en vendernos desinformación.
El Dr. Rimland se empeño en demostrar de que uno de esos mitos era FALSO. Ese mito es que los niños autistas no pueden mejorar su calidad de vida, a no ser de que se les aplique DROGAS para que NO nos molesten (lo que propugnan la mayoría de los pediatras y psiquiatras convencionales) o de lo contrario se les aplique programas de psicología intensa (psicologos convencionales). Esto es convencional, el "status quo", que no identifica el origen de porqué una persona es autista. Contra esa convención lucho el Dr. Rimland porque hipotizó de que el problema NO SIEMPRE es génetico, como lo hace la medicina convencional, que a todo lo que no entiende o no puede curar lo etiqueta como génetico.
En ese sentido, nosotros lo deberiamos recordar al Dr. Rimland por haber sido un MAVERICK, pero no un MAVERICK cualquiera. Fue un CIENTIFICO calificado. A mi no me interesa si algún día la medicina convencional o el "status quo" de nuestra sociedad reconoceran su trabajo. Lo que me importa y debería importarles a todos los padres que confiamos en lo que estamos haciendo, es que gracias al trabajo del Dr. Rimland nuestros hijos SI podrán mejorar su calidad de vida de verdad. Incluso serán niños completamente sanos en el sentido amplio.
Qué Dios lo bendiga Dr. Rimland!!!!. Usted estará siempre en nuestras mentes y corazones.
Edwin
EDWIN P NAVARRO
Lima, Peru- South America
Posted December 4, 2006
If I were able to only credit one man for the progress my son has made, it would be Dr. Bernard Rimland. After a diagnosis of Autism, I was told by many to get counseling and accept that my child was Autistic because he would be autistic for life. I was sitting with a lap full of medical records and medical reference books when my husband finally said what he had been thinking for months. He said, "You need to stop this, you are not going to fix this." I told him that he was wrong, like so many others. Upset by his lack of faith, I quickly got online. I immediately found and ordered a book "Treating Autistic Children". Within a few short days, I recieved it. When it arrived on a Tuesday, it came with a flyer about a DAN! conference that weekend in Boston. I had never really believe in fate before this. When I walked in to that conference and found Dr. Bernard Rimland, hundreds of professionals and parents telling me what I had known all along, I finally smiled again. In fact, I smiled all the way back to Maine. What Dr. Rimland has done for my family and thousands of others cannot be fully explained in writing. He has made recovery possible and restored hope! I am greatly saddened by the loss of one of the greatest men I have ever known. I truly believe that he has given my child his life back. Thank you Dr. Rimland for all you have done.Holly Austin
Holly Austin
Maine
Posted December 4, 2006
I am writing on behalf of GRA; Autism parents group in Ireland, to express our sadness and shock at the news that Dr.Bernard Rimland has passed away. He was an inspiration for all of us working to support individuals and families suffering from Autism. He will be remembered for giving hope and empowerment to parents facing the challenges of Autism. To have offered light at the end of what can be such a dark tunnel, this is a magnificent legacy.We will miss Dr. Rimland as a pioneering spirit, and 'father' of the Autism community. Our deepest sympathies go out to Dr. Rimland's family. Many families here in Ireland will be mourning the loss of this great man, and we hope his spirit continues on in the work of the ARI and DAN! and further Autism research worldwide.
THANKYOU DR.RIMLAND. WE PRAY YOU REST IN PEACE. GOD BLESS.
Sheila Ryan/ Hester Whittaker
Republic of Ireland
Posted December 3, 2006
If it had not been for Dr. Rimland, I would not be doing what I am doing. That is to bring Mexico into the 21st century. We are lightyears behind where autism is. I will not laydown. I will continue help in the name of Dr. Rimland. He set a very high standard. It is one that we should all try and achieve. I look forward to the challenges set before me. I give thanks everyday to the Rimland family for all that is here for us today.Thank you for your confidence and support.
Kerri Rivera
DAN! Mexico
I miss you everyday. However, that gives me power to never let down.
Kerri Rivera
Mexico
Posted December 4, 2006
DR. BERNARD RIMLAND, PH.D. 1928 - 2006We join the worldwide autism community in mourning the death of Dr. Bernard Rimland.
Voltaire said "Every man is guilty of all the good he didn't do." In the world of autism Dr. Rimland alone stands guiltless.
Living outside of convention takes a certain kind of individual, a particular kind of courage. I submit it is Dr. Rimland’s courage that defines the modern autism movement.
Dr. Rimland’s seminal work “Infantile Autism: The Syndrome and Its Implications for a Neural Theory of Behavior,” published in 1964, refuted the established “refrigerator mom” theory. His greatest strength, however, was not in refuting a hypothesis of blame, but in his decades-long, single-minded pursuit to find the truth behind the veil – in building bridges to recovery.
Dr. Rimland intimately understood the disorder was most firmly rooted in the environmental medical ecosystem. "We don't have a complete picture of the scope of the problem. Nor even of its definition." - Dr. Julie Gerberding, CDC Director. "We don't really understand that whole landscape very well." Dr. Thomas Insel, NIH Director.
Against the prevailing zeitgeist of institutional stagnancy, Dr. Rimland, through the efforts of Defeat Autism Now!, developed "Autism: Effective Biomedical Treatments," a 300-plus page reference to understanding and treating autism, trained hundreds of physicians, and launched a worldwide campaign to overturn the prevailing paradigms by way of the Defeat Autism Now! conferences.
In addition to co-founding Defeat Autism Now! Dr. Rimland also founded the Autism Society of America and the Autism Research Institute, which funded many of the most important research projects and served as the premier nexus of knowledge, collecting, tabulating, analyzing and disseminating state-of-the-art information.
Certain individuals transcend their field by reaching out in understanding. Dr. Rimland became the conscience of the autism diaspora returning the lost to their homes, the dislocated to their faith, the children to themselves.
Simple acts often tell more about a person than all their public accomplishments. Walking to lunch with Dr. Rimland years ago, he stopped, picked up some trash that was lying on the sidewalk, and deposited it in a corner bin. Watching a world-renowned scientist helping to brighten the streets of his hometown was to see a selfless act of humility and kindness… the egoless advocate step by step, imposing order in a world of disorder.
Looking back on Dr. Rimland’s life it is easy to loose sight of the fact that first and foremost he was a father of an affected child. I believe the love for his son and for all our children was the driving force behind his passion.
The active dialogue he started in 1964 will continue. For more than forty years Dr. Rimland refused to be shackled to the social structures we inherit. One man made a difference. One man turned the sins against tomorrow to an empyrean movement and helped save both me and my son. God Bless Dr. Rimland.
My Best,
Ed Arranga
Edmund C. Arranga
Fullerton, CA
Posted December 3, 2006
it has been almost thirteen years since i contacted the autism research institute and received the first packet and newsletter that was edited by Dr. Rimland; at the time, i did not even have a computer,so all the research available for us was through books and the telephone. Dr. Rimland was like the "Angel of Hope" that i needed so desperately when my son was first diagnosed; i also had the good fortune of speaking to him a few times over the phone. he was reassuring and positive and made me feel like i was not alone; this was definitely one of the most trying times of my life. My son is now fifteen, and doing well; a whole lot better than what the pessimists had predicted; everyone in the autistic community will miss Dr. Rimland; but the goodness that he left behind is here forever. Thanks so much Dr. Rimland!virginia
miami
Posted December 2, 2006
Bernie was my friend, first and foremost. His focus wasn't just on autism, but on anyone who was ailing and needed help. He used his extensive research network to research everything from my late husband's diabetes to my friend's diagnosis of Waldenstrom's Syndrome, and generously gave of his time (80 hour weeks, burning the literal midnight oil) toiling to find a cure for autism until his brave heart beat no more. I will miss his cheerful voice on the telephone, his presence across the monthly lunch table, his laughter and jokes, his kindness and humility. He and Gloria walked hand in hand throughout their lives, dedicating their time to others. I'm sure Gloria will carry on with dignity and devotion, albeit with invisible footsteps alongside. Bernie wouldn't want us to cry - he'd want us to carry on his work as best we can.I wrote a poem last week that might show how Bernie uniquely dedicated his life to the study of autism.
JUST VISITING
Your promised land
isn't the same one I was promised,
or looked forward to -
No competition there.
Mine has shallow streams with grey rocks,
Slimy with weeds, slick
stones to walk to the other bank
if I'm careful. Sun.
Over there, fires and fireweed,
Woods and woodbine,
Grass and grass snakes
Monkeys and monkeyflower.
Noseful of sour wind-smoke,
Honeysuckle trampled barefoot.
Fairy-hair sticky with
Facefuls of spun spider silk.
Your promised land
May be further on. Dry.
Down that rutted trail of gravel
Marked with mink scat and wolftrack,
Chapparal, thorns of cholla,
Lightning-scorched stumps and
desert tortoise tail dragging
through fields of quartzy dust.
Eagle locked tensely in the updraft,
yellow eye zeroed on a hare.
No one's watching -
Take me there!
Sue LeMontre
11- 27 - 2006
In Memorium
Jerri S. LeMontre
San Diego
Posted December 2, 2006
I am almost afraid to write this message. After having read some of the tributes, my story is nothing different or special. I thought I was being treated well by Bernie because of a donation we had made, or because of some "bond" that we had formed. Now after reading some of these tributes I am humbled to realize that one of Bernie's special talents was to make everyone he came into contact feel that way.How do you honor say a firefighter or policeman who saves a life from physical peril? He or she is branded a hero and the community honors them with many accolades. By this definition, Bernie is a special hero. He has given me back my autistic child. We did not really exist to her when first diagnosed. It was as if she existed only physically. Unable to recognize emotion, unable to communicate, unable to show and express feelings, emotions or even to look into each others eyes. I recall using a camcorder to get her to look into the lens, so that I could appreciate that view from the other side of the viewfinder.
By any definition, that child was "lost", although not physically, surely in every other sense of the word.
Bernie brought her back.
By offering alternatives, by suggesting therapies, by recommending books and articles, by introducing us to people and physicians, by taking a personal interest in our plight and removing the fear and the darkness of the unknown and offering hope and knowledge.
It was not an easy road, nor a quick one, but we saw progress everyday. I recall counting the length of her sentences as they kept pace with her age. 4 words for a 4 year old, 5 for 5 and so on. Till suddenly one day I realized that I was having a conversation with her and she was certainly not 30 or 40 yet.
Nor is it over as the official diagnosis of Autism has long been removed. She is unaware of her past as is anyone at her school or among her friends. She is "normal" to all except us as we hyper-critically make judements as to weather she will ever marry, have kids and grow up to live the life we imagine for her.
Essentially she is back with us and although many people played a role in her recovery, from therapists to doctors to family, Bernie was always there as the connective tissue and the center of our research. We could not have done it without him.
How many similar stories are there? How many more children have been saved by Bernie? How much good can one man do before he is judged a hero by those who did not know him?
To all of us who knew him and to the entire Autistic comunity, a hero has passed on.
Please donate your time, money and knowledge with those around you so that the ripple of his impact will continue to grow and affect many more children for many years to come.
Bernie, I know you are gone, but as long as your work continues, you will continue to be with us. Please know that you will continue to save children, even from the grave. You will continue to be a hero even though you are no longer physically here. You are missed yet praised, and although gone will still be with us for a long time to come.
Thank you for sharing a small part of your life with me and my family. Thank you for saving my daughter. Thank you, thank you thank you!
Frank
San Diego CA
Posted December 2, 2006
Dr. Rimland was a rare individual and no one like him is likely to emerge anytime soon. Completely devoted to his research, Bernie touched many lives along the way. I,first as a parent, and then as a leader in national advocacy, was fortunate to have him as a friend, advisor and confidant. A visionary, this man saw how things should be and worked almost every waking hour to reach goals that would make Mark's life and that of others more fulfilling.I am thankful that I had this wonderful man in my life and extend to Gloria and his children my heartfelt sympathy. This lady unselfishly supported him and gave to us a great man. Thank you, Gloria. As our hearts seek healing, let's not forget the zeal and wonderous talents this man displayed. Much work is yet to be done. We should try to help each other find the answers to this relentless puzzle that is autism.
Audrey Horne,
a past president of ASA
Audrey Horne
South Carolina
Posted December 2, 2006
Thank you for all of your hard work. A special thank you for your book, Infantile Autism, which saved us mothers from the harshest criticisms. We'll never forget you!Love,
Mercy Peña, and Ken, Leah, and Jeremy Wishnia-Peña (son with autism)
Mercy Peña
Port Jefferson, NY 11777
Posted December 2, 2006
Dear Dr. Rimland-
My son is 2.5 and I am just about to make his first appointment with a DAN doctor. I have so much hope for what wonderful progress that he will make. God bless you for paving this way for us. Giving parents and children hope in healing. Words can not express all that you have done for the world of autism. I regret never having the opportunity to hear you speak in person but know that the knowledge that you have passed on will be with us forever. May God be with your loved ones during this time and always.
Brett's Mom- Becky
Becky - Brett's Mom
Adams, Wisconsin
Posted December 1, 2006
I am really sorry to hear about this great loss for autistic children and parents, as he devoted his life fighting the disorder. I had the honor to talk to Dr. Rimland in two occasions in both he gave us great hope and support to fight the disorder,I was hoping to meet him one day but I think we will meet people like him in Heaven.GOD BLESS HIM AND MAY HIS SOUL REST IN PEACE.
Ghassan J. Alyousef
AbuDhabi -U.A.E
Posted December 1, 2006
Thank you, Dr. Rimland. Your passion for defeating autism has given our son a chance at a richer, better life. We've only been following the DAN! protocol for about a year, but Brian has improved greatly. He's almost eight years old, and he reads and laughs and is a joy to everyone in our big extended family.Mary
Jackson, MI
Mary Hobbins
Jackson, MI
Posted December 1, 2006
All of us who love someone with autism celebrate the life of Bernard Rimland and his extraordinary gifts. What a grand life he made from his passion to know, to solve, to serve. Countless lives are richer, more connected, more peaceful, more whole because of his work. Bless his soul, his family, and those who must carry on his legacy. Peace be with you, Bernie.Kathleen Stein
Concord NH
Posted December 1, 2006
I can't say enough about Dr. Rimland. If it weren't for him I don't know where my son with autism would be today. He gave me hope and direction. He gave my son a second chance in life. I will greatly miss him.. He was one of a kind with a gift that he shared with others generously.dar sherwin
lake forest, ca
Posted December 2, 2006
Dear Bernie,For you the battle is over. Your place in Eternity is established. May you now rest in peace in the brilliant Light of our Creator and Savior's loving Heart. Thank you for all you did for so many children and families throughout the world. Our Lord certainly knows each and every way you touched so many suffering with Autism. Thank you for changing my life with your decision to adopt me into the great Autism Family. Though I had no child with autism and little experience treating it, you invited me the first Mercury Detoxification Consensus Conference, and made it clear that many more physicians were needed to deal with the mercury problem that was and is still to be accepted by most doctors and governmental agencies.
There is no doubt that God allows you to know about us you have left behind to continue the battle. Now that you are not burdened by the sufferings and limitations of a mortal body, you know Truth itself. And parts of the puzzle of Autism yet unknown to us are simple and clear to you. Perhaps if we ask God with humility and simplicity and confidence, you might continue to share of your wisdom and help us complete the task you so courageously began so many years ago.
I will continue to remember you and your Family in my thoughts and prayers. I pray that those of us who fight on will put aside our differences and pride to unite our efforts in this war against
all children's minds and spirits that is seen so dramatically and tragically in Autism. We must not only overcome toxic substances and infectious agents that affect developing brains; but we must also overcome ignorance and deliberate efforts to hide the truth and prevent the availability of proper treatments. I promise you, Bernie, to do my part, as God gives me strength and wisdom, to help the children and families in the Autism Family in which I have been adopted. If I can be of assistance to your compatriots, especially, Dr. Steve Edelson, who takes your place at ARI, I am offering now to do so.
With love and prayers and gratitude,
Requiescat in pace, requiem aeternam,
John L. Kucera, MD
Colorado Springs, CO
John L Kucera, MD
Colorado Springs, CO
Posted December 1, 2006
Bernie, why did you have to go...In last summar when I saw Mark in St. Madeleine's after finally our son Danny got into there, he said "I'm not sure if my Dad can come to your house for Christmas," I thought he was joking.
Bernie was like a Santa Clause. Came every Christmas with Gloria and Mark for dinner with a huge bag full of new knowledge and news in autism world. We on the other hand tried to show him how much progress Danny made during the year.
Our Danny made a lot of progress thanks to Bernie's kind guides this year too but sadly can't see his warm smile of acklowledgement this Christmas.
Our family lived in Japan until our son was diagnosed ASD at age 4 in 1989. We were told to go to the states and after some research, we located Bernie in San Diego and decided to come here.
We arranged to meet him at ARI office on Adams Ave. to seek help when he so warmly welcomed us and gave us all the information about biomed and early interventions. B6 and magnesium...
We struggled with all sorts of supplements but there wasn't any WOWs. We did some chelation but ended up throwing up because there were too many pills to take. We didn't have ANY internet lists back them. I and my husband were more or less alone.
(Danny I'm sure could have done much better and might even have recovered if we could pick the knowledge and experiences of all other parents of ASD kids through these all these autism lists we have now while he was around that age.)
Still we struggled and did whatever new development we learned from Bernie and Danny grew to be a fine young man very kind and sweet although still quite autistic. His expressive language is the weakest. To make it worse, little he says people usually don't understand because of poor articuration. He still has stims and mild OCDs but such a helper around the house.
I've been on all the possible autism-related boards, and back to biomed at full force again over 2 years now, and it is making some difference.
This kind of parent-powered internet organizations all came to exist thanks to Bernie-He believed in parents most of all.
And autism is certainly a desease caused by biological causes like heavy metals, virus, bacteria, yeast.
That means there's a cure if we try to find hard enough!
Thank you Bernie for all you've taught us parents of autistic kids.
Tazu
Tazu Whitty
San DIego, CA
Posted December 1, 2006
My heart goes out to Bernie's family. The loss of Bernie's advocacy will be missed greatly.I have friend who is guardian for her brother with autism who is in his 50s. She has shared with me the struggle her mother went through when she and her brother were growing up. Her mother lived in the era of the "refrigerator moms" who were deemed as the cause of their child's autism. Her mother struggled with depression and guilt for many years.
Bernie is the example of a real advocate. Though his theories are not accepted at first, he perseveres and provides the evidence needed to prove to other professionals that his findings are credible. So many of us find our hands tied when trying to advocate for specific types of services because federal and state agencies don't want to pay for services that are not "evidence-based". Bernie has persisted in his research that is filling that need. I believe there are many more things we will have in the future to also thank Bernie for that will come from all the work he has done.
I had the pleasure of inviting Bernie to our conference last March where he had graciously agreed to be a keynote speaker for our Best in the Northwest Autism conference. I had many conversations with Bernie prior to the conference and was impressed by the fact that he was so available to anyone who called and by his warmth, dedication and passion for his life's work. We invited our founder, his good friend, Katie Dolan, who also attended and who asked for the honor of introducing Bernie. This was an incredible moment: Bernie who founded the Autism Society of America and Katie who founded the Autism Society of Washington, both with lots of praise for the other. This time is especially poignant for me considering Katie passed away about a week before Bernie. The Autism world lost two great autism advocates and heaven has gained two exceptional guardian angels.
I look forward to the continued work of ARI as I know Bernie's vision will not end simply because his body is no longer here. His spirit lives on in the thousands, maybe millions of lives he has touched. His encouragement to parents to keep doing what works and sharing it will continue to help others as will Stephen Edelson and others who continue the research and studies at ARI.
Diana Stadden
Tacoma, WA
Posted December 1, 2006
Dear Dr Rimland,Thank you for all that you've done for my son and family. Your dedication to autism research has changed our lives. You've been an extraordinary inspiration to me personally, both as a professional and a parent. I will forever be grateful for all of your efforts. May God bless you and your family...
-Michael Abidi
Michael Abidi
San Jose, CA
Posted November 30, 2006
Dr. Rimland,You have saved my family and I will forever be thankful for your knowledge, persistance, leadership, love and dedication.
Because of you my five year old son plays tag with the other children in his kindergarten class, laughs with his friends at recess, tells knock knock jokes, reads chapter books, and writes his own stories. He is far more social than I ever was as a child and no one that meets him would ever guess that he had autism. Because of you the screaming has stopped in our house, the days of horrendous tantrums, drooling, and walking on egg shells has finally subsided. I no longer cry myself to sleep at night. Instead I spend my days feeling so incredibly thankful for the gift that you and the rest of the DAN! organization has given us- my child back.
My three year old son went from banging his head on to tile floors without crying and jumping off of high objects head first just to try to feel his mercury and lead poisoned body. He would scream all night with horrendous stomachaches. He was in so much pain. My days and nights were filled with terror, sadness and exhaustion. Now, after a year of biomedical intervention, my son would never hurt himself and asks "Are you okay?" if he falls down, makes great eye contact, sleeps all night long, and is beginning to put 3-4 words together. He gives his mommy and daddy hugs and kisses and is an extremely happy little boy. He laughs with such joy as he chases his older brother through the house. It's as if he is laughing in the face of autism, filled with your spirit. I know that I will be writing about his recovery some day too.
There is not a doubt in my mind that without DAN! I never would have learned that my children had so many underlying medical issues that created their autism. Once these issues were resolved my sons started coming back to me.
Dr. Rimland, you uncovered one of the largest medical mistakes of our time. Thank you for helping so many people understand that these children do not simply have autism, but that they are sick.
Jeanine Ryan-Frandsen
Phoenix, AZ
Posted November 30, 2006
I too will miss "Bernie" so much. I called ARI one Saturday morning expecting to leave a request for the list of DAN doctors on an answering machine...and instead I got Bernie himself, who shared insights about my situation with my son on such a personal level. I was truly blessed. We corresponded breifly afterwards on specific matters we had discussed that day. It really meant a lot to me. I was so happy to meet him a few weeks later at the 2000 DAN conference in the fall. In our family we refer to the year 2000 as "The Summer From Hell" due to my son's violent behavior. Bernie, I never got around to telling you, it's better now, much much better. My autistic son is now 15 and has no behavior problems at all. He attends regular ed. classes with an instructional aide four hours a day, and SDC classes the other two. While he still has challenges, they are now about reading and typing, not about aggression, property distruction, and self-injurious behavior. Everything I have learned from the Autism Research Institute, from the Special Foods Diet to Secretin to AIT to Chelation has made such an incredible difference in my child's life. I know we wouldn't be here without you. We are working toward a real high school diploma in 2013. Thank you, thank you, thank you! Paul, Barbara, Brendan, and especially Philip LopezBarbara Lopez
Temecula, CA
Posted December 1, 2006
Even across the oceans we have felt the impact of such a great man ! Yes of his death recently but more so of his life - words cant even describe what an impression Dr B has had on me and many others here in OZ .Life changing seems far from good enough but thats what has happened because of Dr B .
When I started to talk to parents in the USA for help and support a few years ago because no one could help me here , they were talking in what seemed like another language - that language was something they had learned from the great man himself and was known as the DAN protocol. It took some time but I finally got some help for my first boy and saw dramatic results . I saw such impressive results that I made a decision to stop vaccinating my youngest child which I believe ultimately saved his life . Yes he too has Autism but somehow has been less affected then his older brother who was completely vaccinated . Thanks to treatment my eldest boy has lost his "Autistic characteristics" and we are on the road to recovery ! We still have a long way to go but thats ok , because my son who once stopped smiling , laughing , hugging and kissing and talking and understanding is now starting to do all of these things and more !
My youngest son is now talking and can write his own name , copy the alphabet and numbers 1 to 11 , all were accomplished long before he turned 4 recently. Yet a year ago he could do none of these, would not comprehend anything said to him , he would not sleep until 4am most nights and would scream like somebody was torturing him at the simplest of things which was awful. Now I have hope , and 2 beautiful children who now know I exist , who know I am there mummy and that I will never give up on recovering them and now I get my hugs and kisses returned !
Thankyou Dr B because you are the one that made all of this possible !
Georgie - Autism Club Australia
Georgie
Sydney NSW Australia
Posted December 1, 2006
Dear Rimland Family,As I hopped onto my computer to order my son NuThera caps, I saw Dr. Rimland's picture. I said, "Oh he must've came up with some new stuff and Kirkman Labs are introducing his discovery through their site."
My spirit was SHOCKED, DISMAYED and HUMBLED with regrettable discovery when I saw the words "In Memory Of". I thought perhaps I had read it wrong, that there was a mistake. I scrolled back up, scrolled back down and scrolled back up again. Still in shock and panic, I figured I would go to ARI site to really get the information.
Ah, my friend has left this world. In my mind I always knew Dr. Rimland would live to see Autism cured, would live to be the forerunner with is elbows up, tablet, notes and presentation ready to say "There, it is done..Autism no more." I would like to share my story how Dr. Rimland assisted my son and damped out anxiety within my life.
In the months of March and October in the year 2000, my son was suffered a seizure. When it occurred in October, I knew who to contact. I remember reading his newsletters when my son was 4. I also remember how he warned that many autistics during adolescent stage have seizures especially males. He also indicated that many parents had reported that when their children had seizures it appeared that in their teens their development and/or socialization-grades improved; tended to have a better overall disposition.
I jumped onto my printer/fax, send a desperate plea to Dr. Rimland revealing my son's second seizure. At 11 p.m. (9 p.m. PST) he faxed back a note telling me to use Kirkman Labs NuThera, Zinc, Vitamin C and DMG for the rest of his life. He also said that I should have not stopped giving him the vitamins. I also must note that his advice for my son at age 3 to begin Super Nuthera (when it was a powder) was right on time...my son's speech improved tremendously and he began to read at age 3 1/2!
Well...Dr. Rimland BLESS HIS SOUL...Lord, I will miss him. My son (Kevin Smith) is now 17, will graduate from high school, has participated in football, basketball, track is mildly autistic AND HASN'T SUFFERED ANOTHER SEIZURE SINCE 2000.
My eyes have welled up again with tears, I am so very, very, very saddened. I always figured he would be there for me and millions of other parents who relied on this gentle giant to be our eyes, ears and pulse of this devastating and puzzling neurological menace.
I will say a prayer for the Rimland family for comfort during this time. I will also say that yes Jesus knew he had done great works, knew the road for him was weary and his spirit needed rest.
Love and Memories,
Constance Smith - Dallas
Constance Smith
Dallas, TX
Posted December 1, 2006
Dr. Rimland is truly an individual who as the song "For Good" says has left a "handprint" on our hearts and for whom having known, either personally or from afar, we are all better.Our condolences and our appreciation to his family.
Joanne Buccellato
Floral Park, NY
Posted November 30, 2006
To the family of such a champion supporter in Autism research. I am so grateful for Dr. Rimlands for providing answers to desparate parents like me that had few places to turn - via the ARI. Plesae realize that offering solutions in the form of viable treatments has meant hope for me - that there were people like him out there who cared enough to what he could.Sheila M.
Los Angeles, CA
Posted November 30, 2006
My deepest sympathy to the Rimland family; you will be in my thoughts and prayers. I'm remembering today that Dr. Rimland was a mortal man who started out as one father. He became that and so much more to thousands of families and to all of the families who are yet to come. To me he was a man who saved my life and gave me the tools to save the life of my grandson. I'm autistic, but because of the work of Dr. Rimland, I no longer suffer with endless fear, despair, confusion and pain. I can communicate and relax, and I can relate to other people; I can sleep at night, and draw in a deep breath and digest my food. This is what I mean when I say that he saved my life. He completed his work: he found the cause and cure for autism and handed the answers and tools off to very capable hands. I pledge to do anything I can to help Dr. Edelson and the DAN! Doctors carry on. Dr. Rimland's work will continue, but we will all mourn the loss of the man who gave his live to save the kids. He will go down in history of one of the greatest men of this century.With love and gratitude,
Shari Dolan
Shari Dolan
Carson, Wa 98610
Posted November 30, 2006
I wanted you(immediate family and parents of autism family) to know how greatful I am to our guardian/angel/scientist/researcher compassionate and empathetic man Bernard Rimland was. I, like so many other desperate parents embarked on the ARI website after hearing a diagnosis of PDD-NOS for my son Alex. Although I did not take action until Alex was 7,(read ARI's list of DAN dr.'s 1and 1/2 yrs. prior) I'm grateful to have tools and resources that were available through Bernard's vision and his undaunting desire to help so many of our youth. My son Alex has progressed so much farther than I had ever imagined in less than 1 year after starting chelation/probiotics and methyl B12 therapy as noted through the ever valualbe work of all the DAN community out there. But if it wasn't for this website, I would have never been convinced of the fact that recovery is a reality for those children affected(I'm in the medical feild). My son has not been completely recovered but has come a long way from last year and I truly feel blessed to have my son back!!, and am hopeful that his road to complete recovery will become a reality. Mercury is starting to come out at this time and he is improving 10 fold in his school environment. I thank you, I thank You from the bottom of my heart to have such a man with such a genuine interest in the wellfare of so many families, we have been blessed with his vision as a leader and pioneer of such great work. This web-site and his work is the hallmark of the possiblity of great outcomes for our youth and he will always be in my heart for his perserverance. I hope you continue his leagacy through this website. Thanks again! You have touched our souls forever.
janine Killeen
Warwick,NY 10990
Posted November 29, 2006
Dear Rimland Family,Our deepest sympathy. We are extremely grateful to Dr. Rimland and to the entire Rimland family in their efforts to cure autism. Dr. Bernard Rimland's research and communications has helped millions including our son. Your entire family must be so proud of his work!
Dr. Rimland's legacy will live on forever!
Sincerely,
Delma Hutchins & Michael Propst
Delma Hutchins (Michael's Mom)
Homestead, FL
Posted November 29, 2006
How I regret that I did'nt write to tell you how much I appreciate all you have contributed to the curing Autism when you were alive.You don't know what you've got till its gone............
Why do people generally send roses to the dead? You deserved the whole Rose Parade to enjoy while living, but believe me, we all have built the float in our hearts.
And you are the Grand Marshall
Guy M.
Rowland Heights, Ca.
Posted November 29, 2006
Bernie:Thank you for all the advice. Ben and Joe are much better off because of our talks! We will think about you often and try our best to make you proud.
Peacefully,
Jeff
Jeff Sell
Houston, Texas
Posted November 29, 2006
Thank you for your work. I have an autistic friend who I love. Im still trying to understand him and Im greatful that there is research out there to help me along the way! Congradulations on a remarkable life!Nichole
North Carolina
Posted November 29, 2006
Dr. Rimland was trully an angel. I spoke to him personally several times. Each time he answered my questions and put my mind at ease. My son and the many autistic individuals in the world are fortunate to have had such a special person in their corner. He will be sadly missed.Love and gratitude,
Dawn Light
Dawn Light
Sutton, Massachusetts
Posted November 29, 2006
Wednesday, November 29, 2006Autism Hero Dies
Bernard Rimland, Founder of the Autism Research Institute died last week. He probably did more to help children with autism than anyone else in the world.
He debunked the "refrigerator mother theory" which supposed that autsim was caused by poor parenting; mothering in specific. What mothers of autistic children went through before this change I can't even fathom.
He was a scientist who recieved his doctorate from Penn State. He was also the parent of an autistic child. (You'd be surprised how many medical people suddenly are willing to look outside the box when their own child is affected, Todd and I included).
In Rimland's obit in the New York Times , autism is referred to as a "puzzling" social skills disorder. They forgot to mention the bowel disorder, the emotional disorder, the behaviorial disorder, the immune disorder, the detoxification disorder, and the gross and fine motor disorder it typically is as well.
The word "puzzling" in association with autism gets on my nerves too. If an adult is suddenly mercury poisoned, and loses eye contact, and speech, and starts flapping their arms, it's called environmental poisoning. The only thing "puzzling" to me is that when it happens to a child, it's called autism instead.
But, I digress. This post is about Dr. Rimland. Without him, my daughter and tens of thousands of others would be far worse off than they are today. My hope is that he's going to continue his work, perhaps tossing obstacles out the way even more effectively, from the other side.
Thank you Dr. Rimland.
From my depths, I thank you.
posted by Michelle O'Neil Wednesday, Nov. 29th
www.michelleoneilwrites.blogspot.com
Michelle O'Neil
Lynchburg, Virginia
Posted November 29, 2006
thank you Dr. Rimland and to Gloria my condolences to you on your losswe love Dr. Rimland for all he has done for the asd kids
I called once when I was in the pediatricians office getting my son a shot and he answered the phone.
When I first found out what might be possibly wrong with my sons I filled out the questionarie ari had
to see if they had autism and this was my first step in getting to know all about the disorder.
I did try the b-6 and dmg and tmg and was on my way to recovery for my now 8 year old
God Bless his soul and bless the Rimland family always
Sincerely, a better mom because of Bernie's work...and better sons too :)
Tiare Lindahl
newport beach california
Posted November 29, 2006
Dear Rimland Family,My prays are with you...I have only begun to research the history of autism and the effects it has on our precious babies. In doing so Dr. Rimland has been at the center of my cause. I feel as though I recently lost a good friend. Thank you Dr. Rimland for who you were and will always be.
Blessings
Rosalind A. Williams
New York
Rosalind A. Williams
New York
Posted November 29, 2006
As a giant in the autism world, it is impossible to overstate Dr. Bernard Rimland's contribution to the autism community. From the lifting of misattributed guilt pointing the cause of autism to poor mothering to the shining light of research on biomedical causes and interventions for people with autism, Bernard is the true "grandfather" of the autism community. Let us celebrate the life and contributions of Dr. Rimland by redoubling our efforts to empowering those with autism to lead fulfilling and productive lives.Stephen M. Shore
Brookline, MA, USA
Posted November 29, 2006
Dr. Rimland's life is one to celebrate. We will always remember him.May he perpetual peace and joy in heaven !!
God bless his family !!!
Julie
Toronto
Posted November 29, 2006
I was so sorry to hear about the death of Dr. Rimland. What a gift the world has lost! Dr. Rimland helped so many people in his lifetime. It is a measure of the man that his work will continue and many, many more people will be helped long after his death. In talking frequently with Dr. Rimland when he was writing the foreword to my book on autism, I was impressed, of course, by the scope of his knowledge, but also by how calm he seemed and by his sense of humor, neither of which could have been easy to maintain amidst the stress of responsibility and tragedy, as he must have experienced every day in stories he heard from parents of children with autism who did not get the help they needed before they came to him. I feel honored that I got to talk with this great man and send all my prayers and best wishes to his family.Sincerely,
Stephanie Marohn, author of The Natural Medicine Guide to Autism
Stephanie Marohn
Sebastopol, CA USA
Posted November 29, 2006
God Bless him and the work that he has done. Because of him and his work and dedication I have my son back when others told me it would not happen. My deepest regards for his family.Brigid Kruse
Long Island, New York
Posted November 29, 2006
The news of Dr Rimlands passing is so saddening.Dr Rimland fought tirelessly and endlessly for it to be recognised that Autism is a Treatable condition.
One of the first papers I ever got in my now huge 'collection' of papers was from the ARRI in the early 90's. The newsletters were a breath of fresh air and so positive about how our children could be helped.
I will never forget that when I wrote DR Rimalnd in the early 90's asking about DMG, he not only sent me his newsletter and other very useful information and reports, but also took the trouble to type me a letter and sign it and that was sent all the way to the UK. I understand now that Dr Rimalnd spent may hours answering parents request and queries. He helped us all so much and helped our children tirelessly and with such dedication. He will be so sadly missed.
I feel so sad for Dr Rimland's family, and my Heartfelt Condolences go to his Wife Gloria, children and grandchildren. Dr Rimlands life is a life certainly to be celebrated and given thanks for, and I hope his family and close friends can take great comfort in that.
A truly special man and devoted father. I hope he is at peace.
Marilyn Cramer
(mother of a 17 yr old son with regresseiv autism whom in the early days Dr Rimland held out a hand of hope)
Chertsey, Surrey. England
Posted November 29, 2006
Dr Rimland - you will be sadly missed. You were the true and loudest voice in Autism Awareness. There isn't parent, an AS person in the whole of this world who hasn't benefited from your work.We will all miss you and your encouragement.
Wherever you are now, I know you will carry on Raising Autism Awareness. You inspired so many of us, you guided us on the right path and you were a true friend when we needed one.
Many, Many Thanks for all the help and encouragement you have give us all.
My deepest sympathies to the family, colleagues and the AS community.
Sheena.
Sheena Parry
UK
Posted November 28, 2006
To the Family of Dr. Bernard Rimland I would like to extend my deepest sympathy. Dr. Rimland was certainly a very wonderful and caring man and I am sure that he will be greatly missed by his family.I never will forget my experience with Dr. Rimland. This man touched my heart to the very core!
It was in the year 2000. We had recently moved to this area seeking educational assistance for our newly diagnosed autistic son. In doing research, I realized that there was a literal plethora of supplements and biological treatments that I knew nothing about.
To say that I was bewildered and overwhelmed, would be a gross understatement. Our family was confused and had so many questions about what could be done for our out of control child. While doing research I noticed that the Autism Research Institute and Dr. Rimland appeared to be very realiable sources of good information.
One day, I picked up the phone and called the Autism Research Institute. The phone was answered by a man that spent about an hour and a half talking with me and answering my many questions. This man put me at ease and gave me hope that there might be some things that we could do to ease the pain and suffering of our dear little boy. At the end of the very lengthy phone call, I paused and asked the man to identify himself telling him I wished to thank him for his very generous help and selfless use of his time. The voice on the other end of the phone replied: I am Dr. Rimland!
This conversation still brings tears to my eyes. I know that Dr. Rimland was a very busy man. The fact that he took so much time to talk to a complete stranger spoke absolute volumes about the charater of the man.
When I heard of Dr. Rimlands death, the sadness that I felt was so very overwhelming. I felt like I had lost a member of my own family.
Sincerely,
Kelly Meyer
Kelly Meyer
Cedar Rapids, Iowa
Posted November 28, 2006
Dear Rimland Family,Thank you from the bottom of my heart for supporting and encouraging Dr. Rimland. I can only imagine the sacrifices your family made for the sake of "autism". For your understanding and encouragement, I am deeply grateful. I had the honor of briefly speaking to Dr. Rimland 3 years ago, when I was searching for answers with our son's newly diagnosed autism. From my conversation with Dr. Rimland, so early in my quest, I keep with me today the courage to tackle autism, and to not let it defeat our family. I am no longer afraid of what his life will be like, but rather so hopeful for what it can be. I see what it can be, as I look at my 2 other NT children, and when I get beat down with despair, I remind myself of the hope that Dr. Rimland gave me. He said, "Yes, you've got the idea, try and try again and you will succeed." Our son is now 6, and a long way from being recovered, but as I reflect on a single conversation with your husband, father and friend, I will never give up the fight. Thank you Dr. Rimland, for your heart, your courage and your strength. May the gates of heaven glow, trumpets sound, and a feast be given in your honor on the day you passed through.
Audra
Mom to Brock
Olathe, KS
Audra
Olathe, KS USA
Posted November 29, 2006
I spoke to Dr. Rimland briefly in 2001 to discuss treatment options for our now moderately (from severe) autistic daughter, Hannah. And really, I just wanted to talk to this kind gentleman about the subject he had made his life's work.I thank you Dr. Rimland from the depths of my soul that on top of everything else, I did not have to overcome the past stigma of a "cold" mother. Were it not for you the natural guilt all of us parents feel watching our children slip away as we desperately search for answers, could have comsumed our marriages and our lives. Dr. Rimland, you not only gave us hope for our children but absolutely blazed, tread and marked the path for us to follow and blaze our own trails. A true pioneer whose life work has already touched millions and untold millions more.
I thank you for waging war on this thing called autism that invades so many homes. God knew what He was doing when He handed you a challenge; He knows a true champion with the heart of a lion. I also thank your family for enduring your incredible work hours and extensive travel, a sacrifice whose payoff will stretch over generations.
My Deepest Respect and Admiration to you and your family.
Jennifer Deaton
Atlanta, Georgia
Posted November 29, 2006
i miss u B!.......wordMatt Donovan
Canada
Posted November 29, 2006
It was year 2000 when I did my research thru internet and Dr. Bernard Rimland was the first man I've known to answer my questions re my autistic son, Mark Christian June de Leon, 24 years old. From then on, I followed his advice and research works thru the Autism Society of America. His name is instilled in my mind when I think of my son, the diagnosed thru correspondence was really amazing. How I wish I could attend the seminars and conventions just to see him, but now I lose that hope because he's no longer around us but I never lose the hope that my son would recover because of the legacy he left with us. In behalf of my son, DR. RIMLAND, you will forever remain here in our heart!!! THANK YOU FOR EVERYTHING!HELEN V. DE LEON
Philippines
Posted November 29, 2006
REALMENTE CONSTERNADA, SORPRENDIDA Y TRISTE!NO ESTA AQUI, PERO SE QUEDA, NO LO VEREMOS, PERO LO SENTIMOS.
UN GRAN HOMBRE EMPRENDEDOR, LUCHADOR INCANSABLE, CON DONES MARAVILLOSOS, UN VERDADERO PROFESIONAL., INSPIRACION, MAESTRO Y EJEMPLO DE MUCHOS. "SU NOMBRE DR.BERNARD RIMLAND"
GRACIAS POR SUS INVESTIGACIONES Y SU LUCHA.
MIS MAS SINCERAS CONDOLENCIAS PARA SU FAMILIA Y TODO SU EQUIPO DE TRABAJO.
EL AUTISMO ES TRATABLE
CASUALMENTE YO COMO TANTOS PADRES EN UNA OCASION NAVEJABA POR INTERNET, BUSCANDO RESPUESTAS A TANTAS DUDAS Y ENCONTRE ESTA SENCILLA ORACION QUE ME ESTREMECIO AL ENCONTRARLA EN INTERNET. Y EN MI MENTE SOLO EXISTIA UN OBJETIVO VISITAR AL DR. BERNARD RIMLAND., CUANDO, CUANDO PODRE HACERLO. Y MOMENTO A MOMENTO CUANDO REVIZABA SU INFORMACION, MAS ERA MI DESEO DE HACERLO. PORQUE NO LO HICE?....
REALMENTE LO VAMOS A EXTRANAR.
CON RESPETO Y CARINO
ABIGAIL
Abigail Gonzalez
Alta Loma Ca
Posted November 28, 2006
My children were diagnosed 10 years ago, and Dr. Rimland was the first voice of hope that we encountered. I am saddened to hear of his passing, but am comforted thinking of his spirit continuing to advocate for all of those affected by Autism. If there is a position in the universe for "Guardian Angel" to guide all of us involved and affected by Autism, then that the position has been filled.claudia courtright
san antonio, texas
Posted November 28, 2006
Dr. Rimland,I offer my deepest gratitude for the amazing blessings your devotion and dedication brings my family every day. Your life's work will continue to inspire me and I will think of you often as we journey the amazing road to recovery with my beautiful daughter. With prayers that your family will be comforted at this difficult time, I offer my sympathy and heart-felt, eternal thanks,
Rebecca
Rebecca
St. Louis
Posted November 28, 2006
Dear Mrs. Rimland and Family,Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this most difficult time. We are deeply grateful to God for Dr. Rimland life's and all he did to help those affected by autism. His research gave parents of children with autism hope. He also gave us the courage to fight for our children. Through some of his literature, we found out about the many interventions that were available. Our now 11 year old son continues to make progress and is now high functioning.
Lutmer Family
Long Beach, California
Posted November 28, 2006
I only have onething to say.DEAR DR.RIMLAND THANKS FOR LIVING......mali darian
Overlandpark Ks
Posted November 28, 2006
You entered to our dark world with a candle at your hand. We will miss you a lot and never forget.Rest in peace...
ASIM TOKGOZ
Istanbul,Turkey
Posted November 28, 2006
I feel a tremendous sense of personal loss at the passing of Dr. Rimland. He has been the icon of help for us living on the spectrum. His many years of talented, effective, dedicated and devoted service to our children is unparallelled. The world will forever be in his debt for his invaluable book (Infantile Autism) which transformed the world's view of autism and for the foundings of ASA, ARI, and DAN - each a phenomenal accomplishment of high impact. Though having only spoken to Dr. Rimland from the floor at a conference, I could still sense his gentle spirit and altruistic, helping nature. My 13-year-old son with an Asperger's diagnosis would still be unhappy, staring into space and ridden with meltdowns of anxiety if it had not been for the far-reaching impact of this man. Our numerous mainstream medical providers in 3 states where we lived over the course of 9 years were quite inadequate to help my son. Yet after starting biomedical treatmentat age 11, my son no longer qualifies for an Asperger's diagnosis though he is still somewhere on the spectrum. He is happy, social, off his anxiety medication of many years, and much more attentive (though on less attention medication than ever before). Dr. Rimland made this miracle happen. His devastating loss will be felt to the four corners of our world. It is with tremendous admiration and gratitude that I wish his family and friends the comfort of knowing that Dr. Rimland lived life to the fullest and rewarded his fellow man with our most precious treasures, our children. SallieSallie Kirchhoff
Richmond, VA U.S.A.
Posted November 28, 2006
Dr. Bernard Rimland holds an extraordinary place in our hearts and in our lives. We will forever remember him and be grateful to him for his passion to cure autism in our society. I found ARI in our deepest, darkest moment in autism... suffering a broken nose inflicted by my flailing autistic son, expelled from every mommy and me class, no normal moments left in our lives, and home-bound without daring the experience of public scrutiny. The day I found the DAN! Convention was the day the light returned into our lives.Without Dr. Bernard Rimland in the world I would never have been able to proudly present Luukas as one of the first recovered autistic children. I am so glad he was able to witness the recovery... the grand prize for all his efforts.
Luukas heals more every day... and every day a new facet of his personality emerges from the repressed place it's been. I mourn the loss of this extraordinary man. Every day there are still questions to answer because the fight isn't over and he was our hero. He was the master coordinator, the heart and soul of our journey. The person asking the questions before we could come up with them.
A truly great man has left our world but he will live on in spirit because there are so many recoveries now - children on football teams, attending normal classes, having friendships who had no hope of ever having these experiences. My son may NOT have to be in an assisted living center as an adult, he may hold a job, and get married - things that were unimaginable just a few years ago. Luukas will grow up and he will know, remember, and be able to articulate in his own words and contribute in our quest for the truth.
I will always cherish the information Mr. Rimland placed in my hands and that I ran with. I was lucky to get my son back. I will be involved in any way I can to help all parents and children just as he did for so many of us. He truly is an inspiration for everyone. We will march on and he will watch from the heavens as we collectively try to carry his torch. No giving up until all is won - and the world will know...
There is an emptiness in our hearts with the news of this great loss and we are truly blessed to have been graced with his passion and his presence.
Tiffany and Luukas (recovered and being successfully treated, age 9)
Tiffany Bowne and Luukas Harlin
New York, NY USA
Posted November 28, 2006
We are so very thankful for Dr. Rimland and his tireless work. In the early days of our daughter Grace's diagnosis, it is the information provided by the DAN conference and ARI that led us to where she is today. She was diagnosed moderately to severely autistic and we were given little hope by traditional medicine. In the absence of this information and guidance, we would have been lost to the belief she was hopeless, doomed to medication and eventually, institutionalization. Today, she is participating with a higher functioning group of children at a 1st grade level curriculum. She is 7 years old. We are sincerely and emotionally stricken at his loss. We are thankful for a life so full of light and courage. Many blessing to his family at this difficult time. He was a hero and a leader to many.The Coffey Family
Brownstown, MI
Posted November 28, 2006
I have a child, now 19, who has Aspergers. We are at a happier place now, but at a bleak time a few years ago, when I was under continual stress, fighting for her rights and didn't know where to turn, and was searching for answers, I found Bernard Rimland's site. I requested information which was sent to me for free. Such sympathetic help was a rare thing. I was so sorry to hear we had all lost a friend. God Bless, Bernard. Pat.Pat Smith
Camden London
Posted November 28, 2006
Subject: a quick note of thanksDear Bernie,
I know from numerous people that you’ve been dealing with some serious health issues. My father had similar issues so I want you to know that my thoughts and best wishes are with you frequently.
I also suspect that you are hearing from a number of people right now, but I do want to add my own voice to the chorus. And I want to say thank you for all that you have done, both for my daughter specifically and for all of us in the community that we call autism.
I remember when I first came back from the hospital after hearing Michaela’s diagnosis. Elise and I were overcome with so many emotions: grief, panic, anger desperation, I’m sure you know them all well. The first thing I did when I got home that weekend was to turn to the internet and one of the first resources I found there was the Autism Research Institute. And the single most valuable thing that I learned very early in my education was that there was a movement of parents and physicians dedicated to finding practical solutions to helping children recover. That movement was, of course, the Defeat Autism Now! movement and it was my daughter’s salvation. Michaela is 10 years old now, well on the way (we hope) to recovery, and so greatly improved from where she was that dark September day that it’s hard to remember how bad things all seemed.
Everything we have done that has worked came from you and your followers in DAN!: the diet, secretin, anti-fungals, the anti-inflammatory treatments, vitamin therapy, detoxification therapies, chelation, the list goes on. As a father, I just want you to know how deeply grateful I am to you for helping my child so, so much.
If that were all I had to thank you for, that would be plenty. But I just want you to know as well, that I think you are a truly great man. One of the greatest, I submit, in the history of medical science. I know that sounds a bit grandiose, but I have had the occasion a number of times to give talks on the history and politics of autism. This has given me an occasion to educate myself on the generations of theories and beliefs that the autism world has gone through. And as I have done that, I have found myself completely in awe at what you have accomplished.
Many pundits (myself among them) love to talk about episodes of “paradigm shift”, those rare cases in medicine or science when an entire theoretical framework is jettisoned in favor of a more satisfying system. Any single one of these “scientific revolutions” is a rare and unique occurrence. And any successful scientific revolution usually has a hero. These visionaries are the people that make up the textbooks when historians look back to describe the drama and conflicts that constitute scientific progress.
I don’t think that there is anyone else in human history, with the possible exception of Albert Einstein, who has instigated not just one, but two scientific revolutions in a single lifetime. But you have done this Bernie. The repudiation of the psychogenic theory of autism by itself was the accomplishment of a lifetime. But the remarkable thing about your life’s work is that you didn’t stop there. You remained committed to the cause of finding answers to the devastation of autism and you have been the central figure in an even more bitter struggle, the current battle over the environmental causation problem in autism. And you have instigated a revolution yet again, not just by making intellectual contributions, but by organizing a movement of clinicians and parents unprecedented any where in the world. What I have come to learn is that that was by far the most powerful way possible to make scientific progress in a hostile environment. By focusing on treatment results and health outcomes, by mobilizing parents around the most revolutionary act imaginable, taking control of their own children’s care and treatment, you enriched the lives of thousands of families. All of us owe you a great debt for what you have done to help our children.
I feel privileged to have been a foot soldier in one of your revolutions, Bernie. I hope we can all carry on the good fight on your behalf. Please know that when we face dark days ahead, and I know there will be some, that there will be many of us who look to your example for inspiration and many more who owe you a deep debt of gratitude, the size of which they will only dimly grasp. Thanks you again for everything that you do.
With deepest respect and admiration,
Mark Blaxill
Mark F Blaxill
Massachusetts
Posted November 28, 2006
As an undergraduate psychology student I have read much about Dr Rimland. One of the most significant changes he has made to society is the removal of 'refrigerator mother' as a cause of autism. For this I suspect many families have been able to concentrate more successfully and fully to helping their child without being dogged with guilt. A marvellous contributor to the work of autism. Many are indebted to you.L Semmens
England
Posted November 28, 2006
My son would not be where he is today without Dr. Rimland. When my son was first diagnosed at the age of 2, I searched the internet and found that B6 was helping some autistic kids. I immediately gave it to my son and saw instant results. It didn't cure him but it brought him back into our world.He is 5 now and I have tried other things but B6 stands out as being the most dramatic. My son is a happy, creative, and very funny 5 year old. He still has a ways to go but I know without Dr. Rimland's help my son would be alot different. I feel a great sense of loss and sadness over Bernies death. I just want to thank Dr. Rimland and his family for helping my son. You will be missed Bernie!
Robbin
CA
Posted November 28, 2006
The world lost a great champion last week. I would like to extend my condolences to his family and my thanks to them for sharing Dr. Rimland with the rest of us. Thanks to him for never stopping in trying to help the autistic community and let all know that it's not a hopeless diagnosis and there is a treatment. He is truly one in a million.I
Mary Cutler
Brick, New Jersey
Posted November 28, 2006
A life well lived is one of the greatest legacies a person can leave behind. Dr. Rimland certainly personified that life. Although it saddens me to hear of his passing, I will never forget his generosity, his tenaciousness and his love for our children. Dr. Rimland was one of the first people I spoke with after my son was diagnosed with autism. He was very kind and encouraging, he gave of his time and knowledge freely. His information set me on a quest to heal my son, and help other children with autism. I regard Dr. Rimland as my hero, and I try to immulate his values in my life. I am certain that heaven is made richer by his prescence there.Nagla Moussa
Plano, Texas
Posted November 28, 2006
Dear Mrs. Rimland,
I am the grandmother of an Autistic child who lives in Poway, Calif. I was there when he was born, and I have been with him and his parents every birthday. I have seen the changes in him, sometimes with a broken heart, other times feeling like there was hope. What is needed is more research, like the kind your husband dedicated his life to. Thank you and your husband for helping people all over the world.
Most gratefully yours.
Betty Allison
255A Oceanview Lane
Indialantic, Fl 32903
Mrs. Betty Allison
Indialantic, Florida
Posted November 28, 2006
I didn't know you, and you didn't know me, but I mourned your passing.Your work has improved my son's life, and has given me hope and strength when I needed it most, and could find none elsewhere.
You were right--I am not a refrigerator mother--and neither are the thousands of other mothers (and fathers)I have met along the way who work tirelessly to make our children's lives better through biomedical work.
Thank you for your courage, your effort, and your love of our community.
Lisa Gibson
Baltimore, MD
Posted November 28, 2006
Our family is deeply saddened by your passing, Dr. Rimland. You have truly changed our lives in magnificent ways.I wrote my first frantic letter to you in 1996, describing our young child's behaviors, expressing our frustration and agony of not knowing what was wrong with him, despite actively seeking answers.
Kindly, you sent us two ARI diagnostic forms (E-2 and E-3) and database report at no charge, which ultimately helped us get a formal diagnosis for our son at age 5 1/2 so he could receive an appropriate educational program and placement he would benefit from.
In 1998, my second letter to you described his untreated chronic gastrointestinal symptoms, together with autism. You were the first professional to recognize our child needed medical attention. You replied to my letter and referred us to a DAN! Practitioner in our state. I keep your letter to me in a sheet protector. It is the first page in our son's biomedical treatment binder. For this was the end of despair and the start of greater things to come.
Our son has made significant improvements. He began to speak spontaneously with standardized speech scores improving from a 74 to 93 percentile. He regained a sense of smell, and his gut issues were partly controlled -- all within the first year of receiving certain biomedical treatments, namely secretin.
We were able to learn more about children who have complex biochemical and immunological abnormalities by attending DAN! medical conferences, the knowledge and support of online parent groups, and autism rallies held in Washington, DC. I am honored to have met you.
Your hard work and tireless efforts to create a biomedical treatment protocol for persons with autism led some conventional medical doctors to consult and treat autistic children.
Our son developed a wasting condition along with his gastrointestinal symptoms. A consultation with a pediatric gastroenterologist (now autism researcher) led to a colonoscopy and endoscopy. We learned our child suffered at three sites with moderate terminal ileum lymphonodular hyperplasia (LHN) and colitis or "autistic enterocolitis."
In our child's case, this inflammatory bowel disease was resistant, yet treatable with the right medication. A feeding tube is no longer recommended. No longer must he drink an expensive prescribed enteral formula, Pediatric EO28 with his meals. He is gaining weight and keeping it on.
Our son, now 14 is happy, healthier, making friends and some decisions, as he is given real options to help plan his own life and future.
We believe a brighter future with good outcomes for our young man is possible now due to your dedication and mission to help all individuals with autism. We are forever grateful to you.
Our heartfelt condolence is extended to your family, friends and colleagues.
May God forever keep you in His Grace.
Wanda Brown
NY
Posted November 28, 2006
When tragedy strikes, people often ask, "Where is God?"I lived in a state of utter despair for 18 months after my precious son was diagnosed with autism. I went from doctor to doctor and received no help and no hope - - only told that autism was a lifelong disorder and not to expect any improvement.
My answer to prayer, and my answer to "Where is God in all of this?" came when God led me to Dr. Rimland and the Autism Research Institute. I will never forget how I wept when I received and read the first packet of information mailed to me from ARI - - reading the ARI information, filled with Dr. Rimland's brilliant articles and editorials, was the first time I was given ANY hope, and the tears of gratitude just flowed and flowed.
I had the privilege to speak to Dr. Rimland on the phone several years ago, and I was so moved by his genuine concern and compassion, and so very grateful for his advice and relentless dedication to all those struggling with autism.
I slept better at night knowing that as long as we in the autism community had Dr. Rimland, we could rest assured he would leave no stone unturned in his mission to defeat autism.
We have lost an absolutely extraordinary man. I will be grateful for Dr. Rimland's help for the rest of my life. I give thanks that God sent such a phenomenal hero to us in the life of Dr. Rimland, and I have no doubt that Heaven has welcomed him with loving and open arms.
Michael's mom
Illinois
Posted November 28, 2006
I was privileged to hear Dr Rimland speak at the 'Breakthroughs' conference in Connecticut, 1993, Ever since that time, he has been my inspiration and model. His courage in 'taking the road less travelled' in autism, in in fearlessly exposing 'medical mafiosi-ism', in calling for sanity and honesty in our decision-making and planning --- made his example difficult to follow, and now that he has passed from us, I'd say nigh-impossible.A giant of a man indeed. Thank you, Bernard, for all you've done.
Thanks and appreciation to his family for supporting him in his work, my sincere sympathy in your time of sorrow.
Rosalie Seymour
Ireland
Posted November 28, 2006
Thank you for your vision Dr. Rimland, you are one of those people that change the face of the Earth. Families from all corners of the Earth recognize your labor and are willing to take the challenge.Thank you to his family for their generous and selfish contribution.
Patricia de la Garza
Brussels, Belgium
Patricia De_La_Garza
Belgium
Posted November 28, 2006
How could someone so strong be so loving and supportive? How could someone so down-to-earth be so wise and clear minded? How can I find the words to say goodbye when this person is someone of whom I never want to let go. How can you say thank you to someone who saved you, saved your child, saved so many of us? Bernie, Every time I will look in my son's eyes, every time I celebrate his accomplishments, every time I hug him and feel him hug me back, it will be because of you. You are the Martin Luther King of this, our newly awakening and recovering generation. You were the one with the common sense, the hope, the tenacity of spirit and foresight to change the way many of us were foolish enough to believe. You have traveled the road untraveled while creating a wake of rescued children and information that may end up saving us all. I just don't have the capacity to fully express how grateful I am for you. My friend, my second father, my son's savior. I will cherish you everyday for the rest of my days and beyond. I will spend my remaining time here continuing what you have taught me, continuing the mission to see the truth and how to be a better person for the sake of our most precious gifts. With all of my love, yours always, Stan KurtzStan Kurtz
Los Angeles, California
Posted November 28, 2006
There is no greater heroism than to experience a tragedy in your own life, then turn your energy toward preventing it from happening to others and making things better for all.And I think of Dr. Rimland's family and I thank them for the many sacrifices, large and small, they must have made so that Dr. Rimland could give so much time to this cause. He is the type of man I imagine you would miss very much when he was away at the office. So this means that for every child Dr. Rimland saved, there were 4 other Rimlands who also helped to make it possible. You are all wonderful and I hope as you read these tributes that you know that they apply to you too.
When I try to imagine what would have happened to all of our families had Bernard Rimland not chosen to confront Bettelheim's ridiculous theories, I think of the famous painting "The Scream." That's what our lives would be like now. Instead, there is hope, much joy, and the light at the end of that tunnel is our child's smile.
Carolyn
Our son is 90% recovered .. . diagnosed HFA age 3 with echolalia and many language, attention,social, and sensory difficulties. Now age 5-1/2. Complex full language, empathetic, creative, plays with peers pretty well (initiates) ---but still many gut problems and some auditory issues. In case this might help other parents: the interventions that caused the most dramatic changes: fish oil, GFCF, melatonin, DMG, Brainchild, AIT. Lately great gains in attention and calmness: Quartet, LDN, aminos, SCD. Next stop: fuller chelation and more targeted gut treatments. What therapists said: When we began biomed interventions, our son's progress accelerated tremendously. He still needed ABA with RDI components, speech, OT, and social skills classes. But this was to catch up for lost time--the time after the cascade of vaccines finally stopped his progress cold and put him in a near-stupor until the time when we began to help his body cope with the damage. He's almost caught up!
Carolyn Weisburg
San Francisco Bay Area, CA
Posted November 27, 2006
I am deeply saddened by the passing of Dr. Bernard Rimland. He made it possible for parents to have hope that their children will recover and drastically improve. He gave me great hope and inspiration that my daughter Sophia will recover from Autism. When I first found out that my daughter Sophia had Autism I felt as though it was the end of the world. I was devastated. But Dr. Rimland gave my family hope and inspiration that Autism is treatable and my daughter can recover. I am enternally grateful for all the hard work and devotion that this kind man has made possible for so many children. If it was not for Dr. Rimland, society would probably still be living in the dark ages and blaming "mother's for children with Autism.Thank you so much Dr. Rimland. Words cannot express the impact that you have left behind. Your hard work and legacy will not be forgotten!
Our thoughts and prayers go out to his family. God Bless.
Sonia Brown
Sonia Brown
Diamond Bar
Posted November 27, 2006
Dr. Bernard Rimland Thank you for your contibution,thank you, for bringing us a ray of light and thank you for being a voice for autism. May your ray of light shine from above so we as a society can find a cure and never give up. God bless your family . endy& mathewendy
los angeles ca
Posted November 27, 2006
How amazing is it that one life could mean so much to so many? How blessed are we that Dr. Bernard Rimland used his gifts and talents to leave so much good behind? We are so fortunate to have shared this world with someone who cared so much about humanity and devoted his time, energy, and efforts helping others.
Dr. Rimland, you have inspired so many and in turn, they have inspired even more. May you rest in peace knowing that you did a job well done.
To your family, may they know that many are mourning your loss and that they are not alone in their grief.
Stephanie
Newport Beach, Ca
Posted November 27, 2006
Our prayers and well wishes to Gloria and the Rimland family. We thank you so much for sharing your incredible husband with all the rest of us as an autism society. He will be greatly missed. We have all been inspired by Dr. Rimland and will not give up on his dream for a cure and to simply never give up on our lovely children, just like he refused to do as well.I was only able to read about Dr. Rimland but all his work was exactly what my wife and I needed to help our son Marcos. He listened to us all and was a perfect voice for our children.
We all rejoice his life and his heart for a great cause and he will never be forgotten.
We are simply greatful for the whole Rimland family.
Raul and Alicia Sanchez
Raul Sanchez
Brea, CA USA
Posted November 27, 2006
In the dark days after Colin's diagnosis, ARI and Bernie's message of hope kept us going and moving in the right direction. He lit the way, shining star that he is. Our condolences to his family, friends and colleagues on this great loss.Tom Nestor
Mt. Tabor, NJ, USA
Posted November 27, 2006
During those dark days when we first discovered that our son had autism, Dr. Rimland's work and research gave us hope. We heard a lot of comforting words, but Dr. Rimland and the ARI gave us things no one else could, ANSWERS. Little did we know how his work would change the course of our lives.We attended the fall DAN conference at Long Beach, CA last year. Having been moved by all that we heard there, we decided to drive over to San Diego to visit the ARI. Luckily for us, Dr. Rimland and a staff member of his were at the office. And for the next half hour, the two of us got to spend time and talk about autism with him. He spoke to us like he had known us for years, talked about autism and all the barriers that were keeping DAN from taking the giant leap to mainstream media. Needless to say, that half hour would be forever etched in our memories as the time we spent with a great man. (good thing we brought our camera along for posterity) We would definitely have stayed longer had it not been so late in the day!
Since then, his work and the DAN movement inspired us to create a website (www.autismpinoy.com) specifically for families dealing with autism in the Philippines.
And by the way, thanks to him, our little boy is getting better everyday!
Goodbye Dr. Rimland, your work will never be forgotten.
Edward and Awit Dalusong
Philippines
Posted November 27, 2006
I met Dr. Rimland for the first time at a conference sometime in the late 70s. I remember that Gloria was also there. He took my name and address and sent me the information he promised to send me. That alone made a big difference. May he rest in peace in heaven, and may his family be blessed through his merit during his time on earth.Diana Parisy
NYC
Posted November 27, 2006
Dr. Rimland,I will be truly indebted to you for the rest of my life. Because of you and Dan I am doing the most rewarding work of my life and have been able to recover many children. I know that God has made the most special place for you in the abode of heaven. I can only wish that one day, when it is my turn to leave this earth, I will have earned a spot next to you. May your soul rest in peace, and may your family attain peace and strength during this difficult time of your passing.
Karima Hirani MD, MPH
karima hirani md
los angeles, california
Posted November 27, 2006
I would just like to say what a wonderful man, I never got to meet him in person, but I was in great admiration for his work & his willingness to be subjected to criticism for the sake of Recovering our Children-The world has lost an amazing man, May God bless him & his Family.Anna
Anna Smith
Oregon
Posted November 27, 2006
Dr. Rimland,Thank you, thank you, thank you.
There are no words to express what I feel. My heart is heavy and tears just flow at the thought of your passing. I feel as though I've lost a member of my family, and in a way I have. Although, I have never met you, I have felt your dedication, persistence, and help to all in the autism community. I was so excited about the DAN conference in Alexandria, VA this coming Spring because I was overjoyed that I may finally have gotten the chance to meet you in person.
As stated above, words elude me. Rest in peace.
Cynthia Brock
Mother to Gregory Hancock (ASD)
Cynthia Brock
Washington, DC
Posted November 27, 2006
Our not quite 4 year old son, Kyle was diagnosed with Autism in 1996. I attended my first DAN conference in Cherry Hill, NJ in '98. That was the first time I met Bernie Rimland. You couldn't ask for a more comforting, more encouraging, more compassionate, more gentle champion for Autism. I was so scared because when I looked in my son's eyes, I knew there was someone in there. I just didn't know how to get him out. What was even more scary was meeting so many other parents who had the same story we did: child seemed to be okay, hitting all the developmental milestones and then, after the MMR and/or the DPT vaccines, they just weren't the same again.We needed to believe in something and/or someone and we put our belief in Bernie & DAN. Dave and/or I have attended subsequent DAN conferences in NJ, PA and MA over the years and were lucky enough to speak to Bernie at many of them. He didn't really know us, how could he with all the thousands of grateful parents he'd met over the years? We'll never forget him. My Mom used to always send me a poem when something good or bad, something happy or sad but something always significant happened in my life. Your arrival into and departure from our lives will always be significant and so we share this poem with you:
Lives of great men all remind us,
we can make our lives sublime,
and, departing, leave behind us,
footprints on the sands of time.
Henry Wadsworth Longfellow
Bernie, you've left your footprints on the lives of so many people and families around the world. If she gets the chance, I know my Mom is reciting this poem to you as thanks for all you did for her grandson. And as for Kyle, while I won't say he's recovered, he's seriously re-claimed on the DAN protocol. He's gone from a mostly non-verbal, no eye contact, repetitive stimming 6 year old to mostly verbal, look you straight in the eye, award winning artist 14 year old struggling with algebra! When I met Bernie in '98, I'd never have let myself even dream my child would be able to do the things he can do today. Kyle's a walking miracle because of Dr. Rimland. Our deepest sympathies to the Rimland Family and the DAN/Autism community.
Lesa Walsh
Orange Park, Fl [formerly Warwick, NY]
Posted November 27, 2006
17 years ago, an autism support group coordinator gave me Bernie's phone#. She had heard my crazy story about my little boy whose development had been irratic, then arrested/reversed following
a series of illnesses, then improved dramatically on a special diet and vitamins. When I called Bernie, I expected him to tell me that Mike had a rare disease that mimicked autism, something in the same "neurological ball park." Instead, Bernie knew our ball park, section, row and seat number! He encouraged me to keep fighting for my son, and steered me toward some interventions and away from others. Today, Mike is 20, a published author, public speaker, and a soon to be college student. When I told him that Bernie had passed away, he cried. Your legacy, Bernie, is all of these kids/families you have helped lift from the darkness. All I can say is Thank You
Jean Michael and Lisa Curtin
Jean Curtin
NC
Posted November 27, 2006
The first time I heard Bernie's voice I knew there was an answer. His confidence, his warmth, his professionalism and his no b-s attitude was such a relief. Because he was who he was, we have so much more than hope.I want to say something else as well. Lots of people have lived longer lives, but how many have lived as well? He faced the storm and fought hard, to the last moment of his life. He won and will keep on winning, with every improved and recovered kid.
Thanks Bernie! Thanks for everything! Farewell!
Kathy
Morgan's Nana
Kathy
Los Angeles, California
Posted November 27, 2006
I don't think today we can even begin to understand Dr. Rimland's legacy. As the years pass, it will be clear exactly what he accomplished. Although I never met him personally (I did share an elevator with him at a DAN! though), he directly helped me and my family. I hope to further his legacy in my own profession, one that frankly has been sullied by the vaccine fiasco. The only way physicians can recover their legacy of helping, healing, and truly having patients' best interests at heart is to face the truth about autism, whereever it leads.My condolences and thanks to the Rimland family.
Helen K., MD
Virginia
Posted November 27, 2006
Four years ago my daughter didn't speak or play or even look at us. Today she is in the backyard arguing with her sister over the proper way to build a snowman. Bernie Rimland saved my daughter and changed our family. I will always be grateful.Maisie's Mom
Woodinville, WA
Posted November 27, 2006
Our hearts fly from Venezuela to all family, relatives and friends of Dr. Rimland. Persons like him should be given longer lifes. He is now in God´s hands an we are sure that he will be working from his office up there!!!Jose, Luisa, and Jose Jr.
Jose Fernandez
Valencia, Venezuela
Posted November 27, 2006
I am deeply moved by the passing of such a great human being. I am very saddened that he is no longer with us, but what he has left for us is a treasure to help our children towards recovery. I was very sad a few days ago because I, a firm believer in recovery, was looking into my son Christian's eyes and for a moment I thought what if he doesn't get better? Now I know that when I have bad days I will remember Dr. Rimland and picture him working tirelessly and sometimes sleeping in his office because of all the research- I will picture him fighting tooth and nail for his son and for all our children and I will not doubt that Christian will get better. Christian will recover. Thank you God for sending us an angel that has helped us all and walked our walk. May you bless him and give him a warm welcome into your arms. Heaven definitely has one more angel.Elizabeth Cuevas
West Covina, Ca
Posted November 27, 2006
I am forever grateful for Dr. Rimlands' passion and commitment to the field of Autism reasearch and to those with autism. As they grow, my sons- ages 11 and 5- will continue to benefit from Dr. Rimlland's research, while his legacy of education, advocacy and empowerment reshapes the world we all share.Anita Newhouse
Minneapolis, MN
Posted November 27, 2006
Dr Rimland, THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU.Without you and your dedication I wouldn't have the hope and strength that my child will recover. Thank you for enlighting people about autism amd helping them understand that we as parents are not at fault. Thank you for showing us the way out of the darkness of autism and into the light of recovery. Words cannot express the sorrow of our loss of you.
God Bless you and your dear family
Simran Mangat-Garcia
Akshay (ASD) and recovering thanks to the work of Dr. Rimland
Simran Mangat_Garcia
Anaheim, CA
Posted November 27, 2006
I thank Dr Rimland from the bottom of my heart for giving me back my daughter, Miriam. I started bio-med with her when she was 10 - those were very dark, black days and Dr Rimlands advice kept me going -THANKYOU. She is now 14 and recovered. I thank God every day for my good fortune and for giving the world heroes like Dr Rimland.God Bless You
Jean Muscroft
United Kingdom
Jean Muscroft
United Kingdom
Posted November 27, 2006
It is hard to be able to put your thoughts into words about such a great man. "Dr. Rimland" was a much used name in our home. He has helped and encouraged us greatly. I will never forget the day about ten years ago when I called the ARI to ask a question about the B6. A man answered the phone, something told me I was actually talking to the great Doctor himself. I asked him if he was Dr. Rimland and he said yes. I got so excited I could hardly even talk. When I calmed down and could talk again he answered my questions as though I was very important and took time with me without rushing to get back to what he was doing. I never got to meet him but I feel so honored to have talked to him on the phone. When I read the email heading from the ARI about sad news I was already crying. I knew what it was going to say. My son is nineteen now and I have a large collection of the newsletters and books that have helped so much and gave me new things to try.You will be so missed!!!!!!
Susan Hobbs and son Jake
Susan Hobbs
North Carolina
Posted November 27, 2006
Thank you...Thank you...Thank you Dr. Rimland!
May you rest in Lord's Bosom, for you will never know how many lives you touched, improved and changed for ever! God will comfort your son and family members who mourn you.
Judith Foyabo
Judith Foyabo
Los Angeles, CA
Posted November 27, 2006
Every day, every minute, every second one more child is recovered, or on
the way to recovery, a parent is silently thanking Dr. Rimland.
His work has changed the destiny of so many afflicted, has motivated the research of so many brilliant minds, and has united the efforts of so many anguished parents.
Our voices now must echo his, and continue his work. Thank you, Dr. Rimland,
and your family, for the compassion and leadership you have shown our children.
God Bless, Suzanne Messina REAACH
Mom to Mike, ASD; Nick, ASD;
Anthony, Metabolic Disorder/ASD,
Suzie and Will, NT
Suzanne Messina, REAACH
MA, USA
Posted November 27, 2006
When I was crying over losing Bernie last Wednesday, my daughter asked if whether I had any regrets about my relationship with him. Oddly, the question was a comfort.Without Bernie, I would not have known my husband or my best friend, rescued my son, written my book, or had the chance to help others help their children. On so many occasions I was able to let him know what that meant to me. It was nothing he hadn’t heard before, but he never tossed back the compliments or dismissed them. He knew how we all felt, but he was neither vain nor self-conscious about it. He always allowed us to give him the gift of gratitude, and he gave it back. I doubt that any one of us has been with him without feeling appreciated and important. More than important – necessary.
Last year, he and I sat together, watching a mother and daughter in the hotel lounge. The little girl flapped her hands. I touched his arm. ‘We’re going to solve this,’ I said. ‘I know it,’ he said, without a trace of doubt. He really did know it, and as a result, so do we.
What a life, and what a legacy. He infused his passion for this cause in every one of us. We don’t need cliches and promises to carry on his work.
No, I don’t have any doubts or regrets, I just really, really miss him.
Karyn Seroussi
Norway
Posted November 27, 2006
To the Family Of Dr B RimlandOur hearts are heavy knowing we lost someone who has touched so many. Please know that SOOO many families have been touched by the hard work and dedication Dr Rimland provided. I know my family will be forever grateful. With deepest sympathy to you all. And prayers and blessings to find comfort for you during this difficult time.
Melissa
Melissa Rodriguez
Cypress,Ca
Posted November 27, 2006
Dear Bernie,I have met you twice but I'm positive you would never be able to pick me out of a crowd. The first time we met, I was just another broken hearted parent of a child stricken with autism. My oldest son Steven had been diagnosed a few months earlier. At that time, I was told my beautiful first born son would never learn to speak, didn't know that I was there, would never have a friend and would someday end up institutionalized. Then, I went to an A.S.A. conference in Arizona and heard you and some other doctors talking about a special diet and a group called DAN. My wife was pregnant with our second child and I learned about the possible link between autism and vaccinations. We decided at that time to avoid his vaccinations and today have a healthy, happy youngest child. I credit his health to you.
The second time I met you was a year later at a DAN conference in Washington. My son was now seaking, starting to come back to us and healthier than he had been for quite sometime. He was beginning to sleep through the night. It was so exciting seeing him progress along his journey back. I was so thankful when we met in an elevator and could barely contain my enthusiasm when I got a chance to shake your hand again and tell you he was slowly improving. I'm sure I'm just one of thousands that you've met the same way. At that DAN conference, we learned so much more that could help our son.
Today, I can barely hold back my tears of gratitude to you as I write this message. I wish I could have met you one more time. This time, my son is cured. I have a loving, outgoing, happy and healthy little 7 year old. I owe his health and happiness, as well as possibly the health of my other son to you. You were a giant among men and hero to me. As I help other families start down the path that you blazed, I never stop remembering that you are the one that made the difference. You are the one who gave me back my son. I am, and will forever be in your debt.
Steven Schwartz
Scottsdale, Az.
Posted November 27, 2006
As the parent of a 4.5 yr old son that has autism, I want to thank Dr. Rimland and his family for his courageous efforts.
Louis Cionci
Santa Rosa, CA
Posted November 27, 2006
When our son was diagnosed 9 years ago, Dr. Rimland was one of the first resources we turned to. His work guided our journey; he was a hero and will remain a legend for all of us on Planet Autism. Dr. Rimland's generous spirit and tireless efforts have changed the course of history, and we are all in a better place for the work he put forth.Our thoughts and prayers are with his family. We thank you for loaning us this wonderful man.
Warmest sympathy.
Mari-Anne Kehler
Redondo Beach, CA
Posted November 27, 2006
Dr.Rimland,su nombre fue el primero que aparecio cuando revise en internet el diagnostico de mi pequeno hijo: espectro autista. Fue en Junio de este ano y desde ese momento no he parado de estudiar diariamente. He comenzado por este camino del revirsing, mi hijo esta mejor,gracias a todo lo que usted hizo por mejorar a los ninos autistas.Muchas gracias por todo el amor que entrego en su vida.Deseo que en este nacimiento en el mundo espiritual le entregue las respuestas que nunca encontro en la Tierra.
Mama de Baltazar.
Ingrid Bravo
Antofagasta, Chile
Posted November 27, 2006
My condolence, sincere gratitude, and thanks goes out to this great man and the family who supported him in his lifelong dedication to educating others about autism. Though I am a young mother and my child is now 4 years old, I feel very confident in our current and future journey together. I wouldn't trade my child for any other in the world...he is unique, especially made for me and for the world to love.The information that has been presented to me within the last few years have given me greater awareness in neurological issues in children who are, on many occassions, mis-diagnosed then overly medicated, labeled, and cast aside. I've never medicated my child for being overactive and I never will. That is his personality...how dare I alter that for my own sake.
My child is mildly autistic and I never thought, for a minute, of isolating him from the rest of the world. He is progressing each day because of the love and interaction at home, school, and anywhere that offers him social engagement with others. The information I've recieved and continue to recieve is priceless. And though there is a chance that he will be dependent for most of his life, I have accepted that possibility and will love him until the end.
Though I don't know much about Dr.Rimland the testimonies I've read is enough to trust that he was very dedicated to helping others living with autism. Thanks again, for all that you have done.
N.R.Mallory
Canton, MI
Posted November 27, 2006
It was with great sadness I read about his passing, first on the SAR report and here.My wife and I were blessed that when our 2 year old son was diagnosed autism/PDD-NOS that we were able to find helpful information and guidance from many sources including ARI, Dr. Rimlands writings, and the DAN conferences. As a result, today our son at the age of 5 has fully recovered, has no diagnose and is likely to be disqualified from his IDEA eduational services as he starts kindergarten.
It was devastating when we first heard the developmental pediatrician and autism expert at Georgetown University Hospital (Wash. D.C.) and her resident tell us, it was classical autism and he needed further evaluation to establish how greatly affected he was and determine if he was also (comorbid) mentally retarded. Searching desperately we found hope in Dr. Rimland, the ARI, DAN and many others. We found Dr. Megsons protocol and theory which fit Ryan-Alan well, we started treatments at home within a week even while waiting to get into Dr. Megson's busy schedule. Within weeks Doctors were pulling back from the original diagnoses and continuing with many of the DAN protocol suggestions over the next two years we say Ryan return to typical with delays. Now he appears mostly to need opportunities to build his confidence and excel. It is nothing short of a miracle to us and we credit many saviour in this including Dr. Rimland.
We are greatful to Dr. Rimland, to ARI and the many dedicated people who continue to research, publish and publicize hope. God bless Dr. Rimland and God bless his family.
sincerely,
Jeffrey & Shirley O'Leary and Ryan-Alan
Jeff & Shirley OLeary
Huntingtown, Maryland
Posted November 27, 2006
HOPE. That is the gift Dr Rimland gave to our family. Thanks to Dr Rimland's dedication and determination, my son has the hope of a "normal" life. Thanks to Dr Rimland, our family and thousands of others, have a hope today, that most likely, we would not have if it were for the efforts of his great man. Dr Rimland's efforts have given so many of us, lost in the fog of misinformation, denial and despair, a literal road map to normalcy. Some days were very lonely on that road (as only those touched by this horrid condition can truly know), yet the map showed us the way. Thank you, Dr Rimland, for giving me my son back and thank you for giving Jake, the chance of a normal life.Rest in Peace,
Jake's Dad
Jake's Dad
Santa Barbara Ca
Posted November 27, 2006
My condolences to the family of Dr. Bernard Rimland. I never talked to him or personally knew him, but God used him to impact our lives in such a huge way. Our 3rd child was diagnosed with autism in 2002. It was a time of extreme pain. We were exhausted and our family was trying so hard just to make it through each day. God led us to a doctor who used the DAN protocol(Dr. Stephanie Cave). Our son is now in a regular kindergarten class and is completely off the spectrum. I will never forget where we have walked and what God has delivered us from. We are forever grateful for the work of Dr. Rimland. It is because of him, that we have our son back.Tricia Sonnier
Jennings, Louisiana
Posted November 27, 2006
I am thankful that God gave us Bernard Rimland, a strong soul, who's spirit has touched so many that have been affected by ASD just as he was himself. His tenacity to find answers for children and those living with Autism is the pinnacle of his accomplishments. I believe that Bernie planted seeds of hope in parents and physicians, teaching us to look at all options of treatment and therapy for those with the diagnosis of Autism, and to understand that Autism is Treatable.Thank you Bernie for your love of Mark, and for sharing it with the rest of us in the Autism Community around the world, with love and gratitude, thank you for helping my son Jagger have the opportunity to recover from Autism.
Laurey Tedeschi
Burlington, Vermont
Posted November 27, 2006
My now 3 & 1/2 year old son was diagnosed with PDD-NOS at 20 months old. At the time he did not point, did not babble, did not make eye contact, did not communicate at all. I took much for granted at the time. I took for granted the ability to have a diagnosis at that young age. I took for granted that intervention was available. I took for granted that my son would improve. It wasn't until later that I learned I had no right to take any of that for granted; that had my son been born in another time or in another place (we live in NYC, where early intervention services are realtively easy to access), I would have been advised to institutionalize my son.Now, almost two years into this journey, my son speaks. Conversation has not yet followed, but I have faith that it can. Communication, love and affection are all present, both the giving and the receiving. Biological intervention has not noticeably helped my son, but it was there for us to try, and the research continues. I have faith that some day the key to helping my son will be found. My family owes a huge debt of gratitude to Dr. Rimland and the work that he pioneered, for without him we would not have been offered the hope that I also took for granted.
My thoughts and prayers are with Dr. Rimland's family. You generously allowed the world to share your husband, father, beloved family member, and so very many of us are richer for it. May you find peace in knowing that he will live on through his work and your love.
Michele Montanez
Brooklyn, NY
Posted November 27, 2006
Dear family and friends of Dr. Rimland,It was with great sadness that I learned of Dr. Rimland's passing on November 21st. He was a personal hero, and mentor. In the early days of my son's onset of autism, he was a tremendous help to me. Later, he became a role model for me as an advocate for individuals with autism. I began my autism awareness work in the early 90's, and eventually incorporated myself as a not for profit commited to raising awareness for adults with autism. Please visit our website at www.dannyshouse.org to see our tribute to Dr. Rimland.
Sincerely,
Loretta Dougherty Boronat
DannysHouse, Inc.
P.O. Box 1440
West Caldwell, NJ 07007-1441
973-403-7613
DannysHouse, Inc.- Loretta D. Boronat
West Caldwell, NJ
Posted November 27, 2006
The words cannot express my fellings and appreciation to you Dr. Bernie, all what i can say is MY SON IS BACK TO LIFE HAPPY AND HEALTHY because of your work.Dr. Bernie i was crying every day looking to the darkeness with no hope of the future then i heard about your work ( DAN! ) and there is a hope and it is treatable, you saved me and the whole family and a lot of many other parents now from the darkness and frustrating we had before my son first diagnosed, My son is recovering now after 2 trips to the States ( visiting great DAN! Dr.)then i started Autism Center in Egypt( Arab Defeat Autism )with my brother in law ( he is DAN! Dr. now )and many of parents from Egypt, Saudia Arabia, UAE, Kuwait is following the DAN! protocol and see a lot of progress with thier kids.
The history will remember Dr. Bernie as the Autistic kids saver, we will all remember you forever.
I didn't meet you but i was hopeing to meet you in DAN! conference one day, but you will alwayes be the hero for my family.
Hanan Fawzy
Cairo, Egypt
Posted November 27, 2006
After reading the wonderful tributes, there is little more to be said. I just wanted you to know that there is a mom and her wonderful 14 year old daughter in Colorado whose lives have been touched by you and your work as well. I am sure that you will never really know just how many lives you have made better. God Bless and a sincere "Thank You".Our thoughts and prayers go out to Dr. Rimland's family and friends.
Peggy Baker
Colorado, USA
Posted November 27, 2006
Dr. Rimland,Thank you for all you have done for our children. You will be greatly missed. Because of you we have hope. May God bless your family and comfort them in this time of sorrow.
Christine Horton
Burlington, Vermont
Posted November 27, 2006
It has been a priviledge and honor to have known Bernie Rimland , the inconsumate visionary whose dedication has led us on this journey of knowledge and biomedical treatments. As I look to the heavens I know that that the twinkling star above is Bernie guiding us forever more on the journey of discovery.Thankyou Bernie and my sincere condolences to Bernie's family and his extended DAN! family
Jayne Barese RN
Jayne Barese
Hamden,CT,USA
Posted November 27, 2006
Our family was out of the country when I received word from several parents of autistic children about the death of our beloved "Bernie Rimland". For those of us who were helped by his work, his time and his efforts, his loss is as painful as losing a member of one's own family.My son, Andy, was diagnosed with autism in 1985 and I sought the help of Dr. Rimland in 1991. As a result of several letters and phone calls our family traveled to San Diego to work on an auditory training project with Drs. Rimland and Edelson. The project was quite successful and our son benefited greatly in the years to follow. Something more important happened on that visit--we were so overwhelmed by Dr. Rimland's humility and dedication to the families of children of autism--that we vowed to always be there for parents as he was for us. That is what his great legacy will always be--teaching parents to help parents. I am so sad that, although he did live to see many children with autism benefit from his work, he did not live to see it eradicated forever. How fortunate that Dr. Steve Edelson will carry on the work of his dear friend and colleague.
Our love, prayers and thoughts go out to Bernie's wife, Gloria and their three children.
Diane & Paul Widlak
Bloomfield Hills, MI
Posted November 27, 2006
I am so touched by what Dr. Rimland has done for autism and so sad to hear the news. Dr. Rimland will be a role model for my research career in autism. I pray for GOD to show us the right research directions and effective treatments to benefit the autistic families around the world.Deqiong Ma
Durham
Posted November 27, 2006
The news of Bernard Rimlands death has left me sad, but not lost.Unlike others in the professional field he has championed the possibility of a new life, new opportunities, for Autistic children.
His aims and work help me to remain focused and determined never to accept no for an answer for my children.
That ultimately anything is possible for them.
Knowingly, or unknowingly, he has been a supporter to me, a friend to so many worldwide.
May you rest easy and heartened Bernard, you've touched untold hearts, minds and souls :-)
Shohna
Dublin, Ireland
Posted November 27, 2006
Dear friends and All, listening...In the political age, how much should be taken as true about what we say and remember about each other? In a political world "nothing" should be entirely believed (as "Bernie" impressed upon me!) except what we "feel," about each other.. . I miss Bernard Rimland, so. Of what I understand he has done for me and my son.
God Bless Dr. Rimland and may he Rest in Peace, of The truth, of Understanding, thereof. Bernard Rimland, of "all," helped bring science, of objectivity, of "all" the facts, "especially" of our special-needs children... to The people, for "all" The people, for a greater understanding of more, thereof.
Thank-you Bernard Rimland and those of you who have supported him, thereof. Keep up The good work, as he would want and expect of us, I am sure.. .
"Communicating," more, very much "because" of Bernard Rimland, in "every" sense of The word...
Nicholas' dad,
Michael Glavic
Michael Glavic
Niagara Falls, Ontario, Canada
Posted November 27, 2006
In 1993 we recieved the shocking news that every parent fears. Our son is Autistic. We were deeply saddened at first. We read everything we could get our hands on, talked with other parents, seeked out cures and became the strongest support system we ever could for our Child. Our goal was to do everything within our power to fight against this terrible disorder and fight we did. RJ is now 14 years old and a high funtioning gentle giant. If asked by anyone "If you had to do it over again." I would shout "YES !!" No way would I ever give up this experience, It has been the experience of a lifetime. We have become better people because of our son. We thought we were teaching him, but in reality he has taught us and what a lesson. He has showed us patience, endurance, hope, compassion, strength and most of all love. We were truelly blessed and we've grown beyond our years in the knowledge of what the words sacrifice and faith truely mean. Everybody in this world has value no matter the differences. Dr. Bernard Rimland gave us parents hope and he inspired us to keep fighting no matter what the odds were. He will be missed, but his message will live on forever, in the hearts of us all.
Teresa & RJ McLean
Temple, Texas
Posted November 27, 2006
When I learned my child had autism in March 2000, it was the saddest day of my life. My husband and I lived in the Middle East then and as we travelled back there from the UK I knew life would never be quite the same. I wrote to everyone involved with autism I could find and joined the ASA very quickly. I'll never forget the feeling of hope after receiving the positive words from Dr Rimland (ASA) about ABA and biomedical intervention. So began our quest to help our screaming child. Today Rebecca can speak, has friends, rides, attends regular school, laughs, has a sense of humour and of family and so much more. Life is still tough sometimes and we continue to battle with bowel probs and all the other things we families do. I now try to help other parents find a similar path here in the UK!(www.treatingautism.com). There is so much hope. Thank you Dr Rimland, praying that we carry your work forward and for all your family too. Much Love Caroline, Harry, Rebecca and Cameron Traa xxDr Caroline Traa
Aberdeenshire, Scotland
Posted November 27, 2006
Thank you Dr.Rimland.The years and time put in towards Autism will always be appreciated by all parents of Autistic children. Dr.Rimland will never be forgotten.
Nancy DeLuca
Ontario Canada
Posted November 27, 2006
Dear family of Dr Rimland,I was deeply moved when I heard the bad news that he had passed away, infact I was shocked.
I keep asking myself why such a good man who dedicated his life to children with autism, like my son Matthias (10, hyperlexic, ASD) had to be taken away from his world, it seems so unfare...
I sincerely hope and pray for him, I am sure that God will give him a place in heaven, next to his side...
Thanks, a million times from Matthias and myself.
Ann
Belgium ( Vlierzele -Eastern Flanders)
ann van peteghem
Belgium
Posted November 27, 2006
My son, Billy was diagnosed with Autism at the age of 3 (1999) when there was very little information about the biochemical/metabolic abberations associated with this disorder. We were desparate and found The ARI of america. I attended my first DAN in San Diego and met with Dr Rimland and a host of very well informed individuals.Bernie was an inspiration to me and since then it has enabled me through Billy to have acieved a great deal, Billy is no longer Classically autistic but high functioning, we have produced a magazine which has a data base of 4,500 called the Autismfile and is dedicated to helping parents treat their autistic children. I have completed a second degree in clinical nutrition and have set up a clinic to help autistic sufferers and I remain happily married with my wonderful wife Polly, and my two other children Bella and Toby.
He was a great man that put his life into autism and was and always shall be a great inspiration to us all.
My sincere condolences to all members of his family.
My thoughts are with you all during this difficult time.
Jonathan Tommey
Jonathan Tommey
United Kingdom
Posted November 27, 2006
GRAZIE DI TUTTO, MIO FIGLIO GRAZIE A LEI HA POTUTO RIAVERE LA SUA VITA!!!!atturi loretta
ROMA-ITALIA
Posted November 27, 2006
Gracias al Dr. Rimland por abrir una nueva puerta y conducirnos en un nuevo camino para recuperar a nuestros hijo. Dándonos a todos una esperanza y mejorando la vida de nuestras familias. Estamos seguros que, desde donde sea que esté, continuará su incansable búsqueda para encontrar más respuestas.Mis sentimientos están con su familia.
Dios lo tenga en su gloria.
Thanks to Dr. Rimland for opening a new door and leading us on a new path of recovering our chidren. Giving to all of us a hope and improving our families life. We are sure, wherever he is now, he keeps on with his tireless searching to find more answers.
My thoughts are with her family and closer friends.
God blesses you.
Gustavo
Venezuela
Posted November 27, 2006
I pay rich tribute to Dr. Bernard Rimland.Chandra Prakash Sharma
Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
Posted November 27, 2006
Our deepest sympathy is offered to the Rimland Family and the ARI Family at this sad time. Dr Bernard Rimland will be remembered for his devotion to families who have (or had) children with Autism. He "believed" in our children when other professionals gave up. We hope history will recognise him as the Medical Pioneer he was. God Bless you Dr Bernard Rimland. Thank you for helping our family.Tim and Cath Leunig
Western Australia
Posted November 27, 2006
Dear dr. Rimland,Thank you...
...For all the knowledge of autism you brought to the world
...For all the hope you brought to the parents of an autistic child
...For the relieve a mother must have felt knowing it wasn't her fault
...For your precious lifework
May you rest in a peaceful heaven, among all the special souls...
Fatima de Kwant-Campilho
the Netherlands
Posted November 27, 2006
Addio dott. RimlandGrazie per la speranza
Fam. Acquistapace G
Milano italy
Posted November 27, 2006
Bernard The Great!Australia
Posted November 27, 2006
Merci pour nous avoir sorti de la culpabilité et nous avoir permit d’envisager de réelles stratégies psycho éducatives pour surmonter l’autisme.
Luc RENOUX
France
Posted November 27, 2006
To ARI and the Rimland family,We just want to convey our condolences to you. Dr. Rimland is obviously one of those unique souls that was driven to change the world in a wonderful way. If only everyone had that quality, then the world would be a very different place. We just want to say thank you as the parents of 4 children, 2 of whom have been diagnosed with ASD. Because of Dr. Rimland and ARI my children are living more comfortably and are still progressing in a way I once believed wasn't possible. I feel so grateful!
You have our deepest sympathy!
Thank you so much!
Sincerely Olgeir and Carrie
Olgeir Thorisson and Carrie Ralston
Iceland
Posted November 27, 2006
What an inspiration, just read your fantastic book. We are putting all your advice into practice for Thomas our 11 year old autisitc son.My wife and I are very grateful, for your work, long may the ARI continue to excel and work towards a cure.
With great gratitude and respect
Deborah & Graham Smith.
Graham Smith
Tadworth, United Kingdom
Posted November 27, 2006
As a father of an autistic child, I am always inspired by the work of the institute and particularly by the dedication of Dr. Bernard Rimland. When I heared the sad news I was shocked and could't believe it. He was a very inspiring person for us who sow a good hope for our children. Though he passed, his inspiration and dedication will stay with us until the problem is solved. May the almighty God rest his soul in peace.
God bless his family and all
Mesfin Assefa
Ethiopia
Mesfin Assefa
Ethiopia
Posted November 27, 2006
As a father of an autistic child, I am always inspired by the work of the institute and particularly by the dedication of Dr. Bernard Rimland. When I heared the sad news I was shocked and could't believe it. He was a very inspiring person for us who sow a good hope for our children. Though he passed, his inspiration and dedication will stay with us until the problem is solved. May the almighty God rest his soul in peace.
God bless his family and all
Mesfin Assefa
Ethiopia
Mesfin Assefa
Ethiopia
Posted November 26, 2006
My name is Annette Jackson and l live in the outback of Australia in a remote mining town called Roxby Downs.My daughter Cassy who is Autistic and 12 years old now,owes everything to Dr.Bernard Rimland,l unfortunately didn't start Biomedical and Diet interventions till one year ago with my daughter,as l am isolated from the specialists etc where l live, it wasn't till l got the internet, that l found the Autism Research Institute and my godsend Dr.Bernard Rimland,my life changed forever.
l now am following his advice,l see a Biochemist in Adelaide 600 kilometres from where l live(unfortunately no DAN doctors in Adelaide or anywhere near where l live),l purchase most of my products from Kirkmans Labs for my daughter Cassy,we have a long road ahead but thanks to Dr. Bernard Rimland we are on the way to my daughter getting better,and l am spreading the word to others,as we have 16 children in my small town with Autism and Aspergers Syndrome.
To the Rimland family my many thanks of sharing your husband and father to all the many people in the world,we now have HOPE,and may this great man be forever etched in history as one of the greatest pioneers of modern Autism.
Annette Jackson
Roxby Downs, Australia
Posted November 26, 2006
Our dark and painful days now are full of light and much happiness thanks to Dr. Rimland and his supportive family. He has taught and united an entire world fighting one tough battle. We will keep fighting with all that he has inspired within us. My thoughts, prayers and condolences to the Rimland family and ARI.Marie Walchle, mother of Grant
Ponte Vedra Beach, FL
Posted November 26, 2006
Dearest Bernie and Family,My heart aches and pains to have to construct this letter but finds strength through your memory. You have lead your life and others by the highest example. You are a giant in every meaning of the word. Your family is extraordinary in showing the world what family support really means and what it looks like. I only hope they know how many hearts they have touched, as well.
I'll never forget a phone call I received one Sunday afternoon. I was so thrilled I felt like I had won the Lottery. "May I speak with Karen Kutcka?" you asked, and I replied, "This is she" and then you said, "This is Dr.Rimland" and I said, "Sure it is." You laughed. Then I immediately became a bit nervous at the reality of who was calling me. You quickly eased my "butterflies" by telling me about your latest venture. Having recovered and nearly recovered children up on stage with a full court press to show the world that autism is treatable. My son's test scores over time demonstrated your initiative. We talked about what would take place, we had a few laughs and we spoke about what celebrities we might convince to participate. We would have a few more of those conversations and I cherished every single word.
Each time I hung up the phone, my heart felt full. Full of your goodness, your brilliance, your presence, your humanity. I felt like I could do anything. And, because of you, I did.
I recovered my son. Today my son thrives in a world that told me it was impossible and hopeless. You, and others like you, gave me hope and I held on tight. For that, my family and I will be eternally grateful. I wonder how many lives you have touched in your lifetime? Thousands upon thousands, I would guess. More than we will ever know.
May you rest in peace, Bernie. You will be greatly missed. In your honor, we will carry on strong and make you proud.We will never stop telling the truth.
Love Always,
Karen Kutcka
Mother of Jack-recovered 2005
Karen&Chris&Jack&Carly Kutcka
Pasadena, California, USA
Posted November 26, 2006
We will be forever grateful for the kind and caring help we received when we first began our
search for help for our daughter , McKenna . She slowly began losing skills and language at
the age of two . As parents of 2 special needs children already ( one from meningitis at the
age of 2wks and another from a reaction to vaccine ) we were in terrible denial and tried our
best to put off admitting the truth . When things reached a point of truth - we didn't know
where to turn. A good friend had heard of Dr. Rimland and suggested we contact him for help.
What a kind and gracious man ... he listened , he emphathized but he also made us understand
that this didn't have to be " a death sentence" . We looked into the suggestions he made and
began a rigorous home program for our youngest that was at times overwhelming .. and again
his support was always there.
Almost 9 years later , we have a new daughter!! She still struggles and has areas in need
of treatment - but gone are the shrieking , ear piercing screams - replaced with normal language
and laughter. Gone are the episodes of violence that left both her and us scared , shaking and
drained - replaced by discussions , compromises and negotiations when something isn't to her
liking. She has grown into a beautiful and increasingly confident young woman . Something that
we honestly feared would never happen . We know that would never would have or could have happened
without the help of Dr.Rimland ... His life has been a true testament to the " Power of One " .
One man with a vision and a mission ... that started a movement that has forever changed the
lives of countless children and families.
Our many sympathies to his family ... and thanks for all the sacrifices that they made to
allow Dr. Rimland to help so many others .
Terri & George Hollingsworth
Grateful siblings - Heather , Melissa
Whitney , Jameson , Spencer and
12yr McKenna - HFA
Terri Hollingsworth
Redwood City , Calif .
Posted November 26, 2006
Although I have never met Dr.Rimland in person and knew about him and his organizations via books and internet so far, I am deeply sadden by the loss of the great man. He restlessly motivated families with autism and made it became a valuable and beautiful hope for all. Dr.Rimland, your remarkable works, efforts, and supports for autism society throughout the world will stay and be remembered in our hearts forever. REST IN PEACE...Dewi and my autistic 6-year-old son, William.
Dewi Kartika
Jakarta, Indonesia
Posted November 26, 2006
Dr. Rimland was one of the first people I spoke with by phone, shortly after my daughter's diagnosis of autism in October, 2001. He was so calm and reassuring, and full of hope - exactly what I needed. The Autism Research Institute's website was the first one I found, as I searched for answers. I printed a huge stack of documents to read while nursing Robyn's baby sister who was 9 months old at the time, and read every one in just a few days, anytime I had the chance. He gave me great advice then, and continued to fearlessly and persistently lead us all in finding solutions to our children's biomedical issues, and largely due to Dr. Rimland's efforts with DAN!, my once non-verbal daughter at age 3, is now 8 and talking again - so much that we cannot even quantify it! She still has gains to make, but is able to be with her friends at school, and is reading, doing math, and interacting with her 2nd grade peers, and as we continue to detoxify her body and supplement what she is deficient in, I see her recovering every day! Her future would not have become what it is today, and what I foresee it becoming in the next few years without Dr. Rimland's tireless efforts. It would have been bleak to say the least. We owe Dr. Rimland and his family a huge debt of gratitude for all of their sacrifices and hard work on our children's behalf. He will always be a great inspiration to me. Thank you, Julia for writing your description of the service - we live very far away, and even though I couldn't be there physically, you are right, I was there in spirit! Sincerely - Dana Halvorson, BEAT IADana Halvorson
Northwood, Iowa
Posted November 26, 2006
Usted ha sido una inspiracion para todos. Gracias por su lucha por mejorar la videas de ninos con AutismoAura Villamil
Posted November 26, 2006
Words are inadequate to convey the sense of sadness that we feel here at SafeMinds regarding the tragic loss of our hero and friend, Bernie Rimland. I first heard Dr. Rimland speak at an autism conference in 1998. At that time secretin had surfaced as a promising treatment for autism. When asked if he had tried secretin with his son, Mark, Dr. Rimland replied that the product was in short supply that he felt it important that the scarce medication be reserved for younger children who would have more of an opportunity for recovery. I knew at that moment that I was in the presence of a man whose life defined altruism.A year later, in 1999, members of SafeMinds published an extensive literature review comparing the symptoms of autism to mercury exposure titled, “Autism: A novel form of mercury poisoning”. Dr. Ken Olden, Director of NIEHS invited us to present our findings at an NIH autism meeting on the environment and autism in 2000. A participating autism organization critized our hypothesis as being "garbage science" and unacceptable for presentation even at a medical school journal club meeting. Dr. Rimland, a man of unyielding principals and uncommon courage, immediately arose and objected strenuously to the assertion. He later published an editorial, “Garbage Science,” brick walls, crossword puzzles and mercury, regarding the encounter in his quarterly newsletter.You can read this editorial at .http://www.autismwebsite.com/arri/v144/page3.pdf
Dr. Rimland was in the small minority of those who took our hypothesis seriously and in 2001 invited us to participate in a think tank bringing together some of the top minds in the country and abroad to brainstorm how to best detoxify children. As a result, the Autism Research Institute created a consensus document which delineated the safest and most effective methods of detoxifying autistic children from mercury. Dr. Rimland’s dedication to Defeating Autism Now! Has resulted in thousands of children with autism now living richer, healthier lives.
And we as parents will never forget our hero and friend, Bernie Rimland. Long live his compassion, dedication and strength in our lives and the lives of our children.
We will never forget you Bernie!
Lyn Redwood
SafeMinds
Lyn Redwood
Posted November 26, 2006
In memory of Dr Rimland I want to say "thank you" for all the dedication and time spent for the kids and families involved in biomedical interventions.. I remember calling the ARI 8 yrs ago and Bernie answered the phone.."wow I was surprized and he took his time and shared information with me...Eight yrs later two kids with ASD and so many gains one pretty much recovered one still making gains .... I still go to the ARI for information and to share information..The institute and grown so beautifully over the years and only gets better all the time ;-)I am so thankful for all involed with ARI and DAN thank you so very much for this place to go to learn and share!
Thank heaven Dr Rimland stood up for "Biomedical Interventions" and opened the doors for soooooooooo many of us!
Sandy Nelson
Sandy Nelson
Duluth,MN
Posted November 26, 2006
WE WOULD LIKE TO IMPLEMENT AN ANNUAL TRIBUTE TO DR. BERNARD RIMLAND AND URGE ALL AUTISM ORGANIZATIONS AROUND THE WORLD TO POST THIS MESSAGE TO THEIR MEMBERS, LISTSERVES, FRIENDS AND FAMILY MEMBERS:Let us each honor Dr. Rimland on the first day of April of each year with a personal tribute
to say Thank you Dr. Rimland for all that you have done. We honor and remember you today and
always.
Autism Support Daily - Annual Tribute
All countries
Posted November 26, 2006
Dr. Rimland - A Gentleman and a Scholar.. A true hero to countless families around the world. A man not afraid to speak the truth and to "tell it like it is". We owe it to you and to ourselves to continue your work as best we can. May you rest in peace!Cecelia Young
Dublin, Ireland
Posted November 26, 2006
To the Rimland Family,Our sincere condolences to you all - our thoughts and prayers are with you.
As the family of a 29 year old autistic man, we were blessed to come in contact with Dr Rimland.
Dr Rimland was an amazing kind-hearted man who touched our lives and gave so much hope. We will never forget him.
The Madafferi Family
Melbourne, Australia
Posted November 26, 2006
Dear Doctor Rimland,We shall always remember of you…you have given new perspectives to our lifes….to the lifes of thousands of children, you have given back hope, you have given back smiles…..
Nicola Iulli
Modena - Italy
Posted November 26, 2006
In 1995 our 3 year old son,Ryan, was diagnosed with autism. We were terrified thinking we would raise a "little Rainman". We were given an extremely bleak prognosis with absolutly no direction for help. But God had a plan. Fortunatly our son's pre-k teacher was well versed on Dr. Rimland's and Dr. Lovaas' treatment methods. We went two conferences and had the pleasure of meeting and speaking with both of these pioneers. I've always called Dr. Rimland the authority in the field. I anticipate reading his newsletters each quarter. Once, when Ryan hit puberty, I called Dr. Rimland in a panic.Unknowingly,I reached him on his home number and he very patiently calmed me and after talking to me for a few minutes. He then asked me to call his office once it opened. (It was only 5:00AM California time!)I felt so bad for waking him but was so grateful he took the time to help me.What a miracle it is watching Ryan's progress. Although not recovered, he is doing awesome academicaly and socially. I can't imagine where he would be without the intervention that Dr. Rimland recommended.
I am extremely saddened buy his passing. We owe so very,very much to this man. I often held him up in prayer thanking God for him and his dedication. I always asked God to let him live long enough to see the fruit of his labor. Do you think "Bernie" had any idea of the magnitude of his gift to us all? If he didn't know before, let's take pleasure in knowing that he does now.
Forever grateful,
Keri Langlinais
Pensacola, Florida
Keri Langlinais
Pensacola, Florida USA
Posted November 26, 2006
We in South Africa are also deeply saddened by the passing of Dr. Bernard Rimland.The power and energy, optimizm and hope that the DAN! Movement has given thousands upon thousands of families with children with autism has sparked a global initiative, which has brought about recovery and improvment for children everywhere, who were trapped in the monstrous prison of autism.
I first heard about Dr. Rimland and the DAN! Protocol from my friend and colleague, Rosalie Seymour in 1996, who was (and still is) an ardent proponent of Dr. Rimland's work and enthusiastically taught me about the bio-medical basis for recovery from autism, as advanced by Dr. Rimland. The fervour and professional tenacity which Dr. Rimland displayed in publishing, through the ARI, all possible research gleanings regarding autism and what worked and what didn't, was heartening to read in a decade when it was still believed that drugs might be the only hope for the behavioural management of autistic children and that the condition was, sadly,supposed to be a life's sentence.
I bought the first DAN! Report in 1997 and started learning about the parameters suggested in terms of bio-medical testing, applying it to more and more children. Dr. Rimland's face appeared in my office, long before I met him, on the Invisible Wall (late 60's video about autism) as well as the Stehli's video collection about breakthroughs by means of AIT, and he became a 'household name' in my practice. I would say to parents and my trainees: "This is the father of an autistic son, who has changed the world of autism forever!"
Slowly but surely children to whom we applied the DAN! Protocol, started recovering. Parents were given hope and central to that hope was the emphatic belief of one man, Bernie Rimland, that the disease could be tackled head-on, by changes in nutrition, changes in diet and detoxification.
I've proven this over and over in my practice and find it so heartening that Dr. Rimland's record-keeping over 4 decades, based largely on parental reports of what worked for their kids and what didn't, eventually mobilized the monolith of medical science and galvanized it into action to do some serious research into what can spark recoveries. Today talk about recoveries is common-place, a decade ago, it was merely a dream!
During the last two years, as the DAN! movement has grown strong across the USA and has drawn healthcare practitioners from every corner of the earth to DAN! Conferences in the USA. Children who have recovered from autism were first introduced to the media at DAN! Conferences about 2 years ago and there wasn't a dry eye in the building when the kids were marched up with Diamond Lou Phillips the first time the ARI boldly declared: "KIDS WITH AUTISM HAVE RECOVERED - MEET THEM!"
I was privileged to attend one such conference last year in Long Beach California and participated in the post-Conference workshop to be certified as a DAN! Practitioner. My biggest excitement, delight and joy was to meet Dr. Rimland in person and know that I have met a living legend, who through his steadfast belief that autism can be defeated, has built a new hopeful world for children and their suffering families.
I salute and honour your life and work, Dr. Rimland - you will be dearly missed by all!
My deepest condolences to all at ARI and especially to his family and closest friends.
Sincerely
Carin Smit, M.Ed. (SA);
NCR. Ther. (Canada/USA);
I.E. and I.E. for the Blind (Israel);
AIT Practitioner and Bérard Approved International Instructor (France/SA);
Defeat Autism Now! Practitioner (ARI-USA)
C/Clinical Metal Toxicologist (IBCMT - Netherlands)
HEALTH AND SOUND ECOLOGIST
Carin Smit
South Africa
Posted November 26, 2006
I thank you for helping me in my search for a treatment for my daughter who has autism. Your work has helped her greatly and I am grateful for all the things you have done. May you rest in peace.Yasmeen Farooqui
United Kingdom
Posted November 26, 2006
very inspiring life!Srinivas V
Cupertini, CA, USA
Posted November 26, 2006
Words can never express my gratitude and love of the life's work and person of Bernie Rimland. Words also cannot express my sorrow for his passing. I will miss him forever.
Bernie Rimland, father, husband, friend and inspiration to all who suffer with autism and their families was a man unlike no other. His sense of commitment, love, and devotion to persons with autism and their families was unmatched by anyone I have ever known. It did not matter who you were, a president of a multi-national corporation or a regular mom or dad from Mainstreet USA, as long as you were a person with autism or a parent of a person or persons with autism, our beloved friend and mentor Bernie always made time to listen and help. History will show that no person ever has, or ever will, be a larger force for truth and justice for persons suffering from autism then Bernie Rimland. He was a great man.
Every person with autism and their families will forever owe Bernie an undying debt of gratitude for his lifetime of work for persons and their families with autism. For if not for Bernie, the absurd notion of cold, uncaring mothers causing autism, and that autism today is a rare, totally genetic disease would still be accepted in the mainstream. He never backed off or away from what he knew was right.
We must NEVER forget Bernie and his life's work by continuing his passion and commitment for the prevention of autism, and rededicating ourselves to the accelerated development of effective biomedical and other treatments and a cure. As Bernie would say...Defeat Autism Now!!!
Rick Rollens
Granite Bay, California
Posted November 26, 2006
If you hadn't started and stuck with this journey a great many children and adults would be in desperate straits. Thank you for your life's work - the impact will be felt far into the future.Steph and Mark
Stephanie Sirr
United Kingdom
Posted November 26, 2006
Not to be presumptive, yet here I go, remarking Bernie would wonder why all the fuss over his death.I know Bernie distinct or separate from his pioneering work in Autism, as a dedicated practitioner combating Autism. I understand the volume of words of appreciation, of praise and thanks showered on Bernie.I haven't seen Bernie or his family for nearly ten years, but whether they know it or not, they're family to me in my limited and distant way. Energetic, Enthusisastic, Compassionate, and Savvy. That's Bernie -- and more. Shalom, til we meet again.
Jim Skeese
Stow, Ohio
Posted November 26, 2006
Dear Dr. Rimland,It was hard to imagine that you are gone because I just have this image of a tireless but gentle warrior in a pursuit of real answers for our children's futures. Thanks to your efforts and to the DAN movement one of my sons is now recovered and the other one has made great progress.
You provided the inspiration and the light in the dark tunnel to find a path. You gave us alternatives and HOPE.
You will be truly missed but you left a legacy behind you and a group of children, parents, doctors and people who have been forever changed.
More than anything I am grateful that thanks to you I didn't have to be fight those who would have called me a "refrigerator mother" not so many years ago.
Thanks for your courage and your endless thirst for answers. You will forever be part of this family.
claudiabarzen
Denver, CO
Posted November 26, 2006
I first met Bernie Rimland at the Portland DAN conference four months after my daughter was diagnosed. If it wasn't for the DAN movement, I wouldn't have met as many wonderful people, including Bernie. He will be greatly missed, but I know that his memory and his work will live on forever. Forever in all of us parents, but forever in all of our children. I thank God everyday for the experiences I have had. I owe everything to my daughter for showing me how wonderful life is when you slow things down. Thank you also for Bernie and the DAN movement. God Bless you and your family.Beverly Dugan
Cornelius, Oregon USA
Posted November 26, 2006
Thank you, Dr Rimland, for having the courage and strength to wade against the tide of darkened misconceptions. Because of you, we have expanded our restricted minds to change. We will never allow others to return our children to the former thoughts of ill repute. We will stand strong knowing that your spirit will guide us. God Bless you and your family for the sacrifices you have made for our children. I am grateful for the freedom of choice.C Whalen
New Hampshire
Posted November 26, 2006
How awful it would have been if I only listened to mainstream medicine, and their belief that my son would be in his own world forever! After searching for answers, Dr. Rimland gave us so many precious gifts! He gave us courage and hope. He gave us the name of our DAN doctor. But the most important thing that his hard work and dedication gave to us is the road to recovery. Our son has made tremendous gains in 6 months due to the DAN protocol. How do you thank and honor someone who gives you the most precious gift of all...he helps to get our babies back! For that, we must give back. Keep his flame lit, and never give up! We will remain steadfast in the face of resisistance, because Dr. Rimland did. I know he will continue his work from heaven, and he will watch over all in the autism community. Thank you Dr. Rimland.Julie R.
Pennsylvania
Posted November 26, 2006
I had the privilege to meet Dr Rimland at DAN conferences either in the US or in the province of Quebec, He was The Father of all our autistic children and for us parents represented the truth, the hope and the cures. His dedication to this devastating cause helped and saved many children and their families from the hell of autism.He will be in the heart of the autism community forever
No doubt that God welcomes You with a very special place by His sides and that You'll keep on helping us from heaven
Eternally thankful
Marie-Christine Destison
Autisme Quebec, Quebec City
Canada/France
Marie-Christine Destison
Quebec City Canada
Posted November 26, 2006
AS THE MOTHER OF AN AUTISTIC CHILD AND THE HEAD OF A MOROCCAN ORGANISATION FOR AUTISTIC CHILDREN,REST IN PEACE Dr RIMLAND AND THANK YOU FOR ALL THE HOPE AND THE WELFARE YOU HAVE BROUGHT TO AUTISTIC CHILDREN EVEN IN THE REMOTEST COUNTRIES....
NAFISSA EDDNADNI
MOROCCO
Posted November 26, 2006
I believe God has a purpose for everyone he puts on this earth and I know Dr. Rimland was one of the blessed few that fulfilled his purpose. I have four children two of which have Autism, Dr. Rimland understood the mystery and pain of Autism. He didicated his entire life to us, due to his research and doors opened by the Lord he was able to shed light on the organic causes of Autism. My son has five words he uses daily he used to have none. My son looks me in the eye and I can see the love. My son throws normal two year old tantrums that I thought I would never see. It is a sad day for Autism Research, my heart and prayers go out to the family and friends of this amazing man. Recently, I called ARI and to no avail I attempted to arrange an appointment with Dr. Rimland to thank him and to just be in his presence that is when his Office Manager answered the phone and told me the sobering news that he was gravely ill, he was in my prayers then and your family will be in my prayers now. Thank you for sharing Dr. Rimland with the World we are so Thankful.Jessica, Thad, Maddie, Payton, Cade, and Maycie Glover
Bend Oregon USA
Jessica Glover
Bend, Oregon USA
Posted November 26, 2006
Dear Rimland Family and ARI Community:We Mourn the loss of an outstanding, forward thinking and relentless man with whom we were privileged to call a friend. Doctor Rimland was a one of kind who will be sadly missed however his contagious laughter and broad smile is what we will hold in our thoughts and will help pull us through our every day struggle with autism. The hope and optimism Doctor Rimland and his works have brought into our home are what we hang on to daily. We are confident there will be a day when this crippling illness can make sense for all of us affected. Doctor Rimland started his work from his heart as a parent of an afflicted child and taught each and every one of us you must do whatever is possible to help your child. For that he is an eternal leader whose legacy will not be forgotten and most likely admired for centuries to come. His contagious personality is what would lure each of us towards him and his intelligence and world wide connections is what would amaze and us and keep us working forward towards the many successes we have been able to accomplish within his lifetime under his leadership. His work will continue and all of us are better in this world for being connected in one way or another to this wonderful man. My story is like many others who have children afflicted and have Followed Doctor Rimland's work with our children over the years. My story also allowed me the opportunity to work with Doctor Rimland personally after a tragic story that afflicted my family in September, 2001. My beloved sister perished in the World Trade Center and unbeknown to me she chose to leave her legacy with Doctor Rimland and his cause. My sister Kate was the godmother to my autistic son Daniel. She was amazed with the many succsees we were able to accomplish under the direction of the DAN protocol
within her short lifetime. Since she was never able to leave a legacy of children on her own-her husband opted to leave her legacy with the Autism Research Institute; to help with the research needed to continue. Doctor Rimland reached out personally to my parents, her husband and myself during this life changing experience and endeared himself forever in our hearts with his kindness, love and concern he brought into our home over the years to follow. Always a note of care would drop in occasionally and as stated in other tributes-never missed a call being placed. It was always wonderful to hear his voice and on the other end of the phone and he was never too busy to help out in any way he could. He even sent a personal letter for me to an IEP meeting so the staff could better understand autism and allow my son to meet many milestones in his life that may not have possible had it not been for his contribution to our lives. We will personally miss you Doctor Rimland but promise to continue your work in whatever way possible throughout our lifetime. Thank you Rimland family for the many sacrifices you gave to allow us to know this remarkable man and share his life with us. You're all in our thoughts and prayers.
Sincerely:
Ellen M. Macri
sister of Katherine McGarry Noack
& the entire Macri Family: Joe, Daniel, Ryan & Caroline
The Macri Family
Holly Springs, North Carolina
Posted November 26, 2006
Dr. Bernard Rimland is definately in heaven with God. If it weren't for him there would possible have been no hope for my daughter. She is recovered and has to stay on her protocol. She is 12 years old. She will be able to make it on her own when the time comes. Dr. Rimland is truly one of the most successful wonderful person in the world. Very loved and admired by those who knew him only through his research and internet. God loaned him to us and I deeply appreciate all the hours of research that Dr. Rimland had done. For starting the DAN doctors. My daughter goes to one of the most wonderful DAN doctor. All this came about because he cared so much for others. God bless you and be with you and lead and guide you. Thank you SincerelyNancy A. Kennedy
Callahan, Fl.
Posted November 26, 2006
There is not enough words to express the gratitude my family and I have for Dr. Bernard Rimland.he saved us from the deep of darkness we sink in when we received the AUTISM diagnosed for my grandson Donald in 1985. Because of Doctor Rimland Donald is a happy young man of 24.
thank you from the bottom of our heart we will never forget you
Rest in peace
Yolande and Family
Yolande Dewonck
Ben Weeler Texas
Posted November 26, 2006
While reading the foreward to a book on autism seventeen years ago, I came upon Dr. Bernard Rimland's name and immediately memorized it - knowing in the deepest reaches of my heart that it was important. Our then 2-year-old daughter had been diagnosed with autism and we were just beginning a journey that would have had an entirely different ending if it were not for our beloved Bernie. Because of his vision and dedication, the same psychologist who had initially diagnosed our child in 1989 had the joyful experience of un-diagnosing her eight years later. We will never forget what you have given us, Bernie, and will hold you and the ARI closely in our hearts forever. Our deepest condolences to your loving family. With great appreciation and respect, Cherri SaltzmanCherri Saltzman
Chanhassen, MN
Posted November 26, 2006
It is sad to hear the news. Sometimes you wish people like him live forever, and in a way he will because his efforts and struggles to help all of us in the autism community all over the world will keep him in our hearts for good.Our center was named after him on 2002 and we are grateful for his help to our Director, Dra Lilia Negron which made us improve the health and ever recover some of our kids down here in this small place of the planet. He was our beacon!
With tears in our eyes
Dr. Lilia Negron
Maria Russo de Lahoud
Dr. Andres Marcano
Dr. Petra Aponte
The staff of the Venezuelan Society for Autistic Children and Adults
And all of our children
SOVENIA
Venezuela
Posted November 26, 2006
The first message of hope that I read on the internet was that of Dr. Bernard Rimland.Thanks for Bernard for all the work that you have done for autism.
Elaine Taveau
Asperger Aide
http://www.aspergeraide.com
ELAINE TAVEAU
PARIS FRANCE
Posted November 26, 2006
Thank you, we had three autistic children and now we have two for one is recovered. The other two are slowly getting better. I wish I had eloquent words to say, but I don't. Thank You!Richard Butler
St. Augustine Fl.
Posted November 26, 2006
Thanks to Dr. Rimland for dispelling the insane idea of "Refrigerator Moms", and putting autism out in front for the world to notice and make everyone aware of the difficulties of our children and us parents, trying to live in a "normal" world.Thank you for being so reachable and human. I remembering calling ARI many years ago with a question on B vitamins. The gentleman who answered my question was so thorough and concerned. At the end of the conversation I asked who I was speaking to and he said, "This is Bernard Rimland." I was so astounded and taken aback that he answered the telephone himself and spent the time speaking with a mom he didn't even know. What a blessing he was for us all. Let us not let his dream go away.
Debbie August
Louisville KY USA
Posted November 26, 2006
Un pensiero affettuoso al Dr Rimland, la sua vita è di esempio per tutti noi.Un vero uomo.
Grazie
Giovanni Ciattaglia
Latina, Italy
Posted November 26, 2006
My daughter with autism turned four in 1993. I was frustrated because I wanted to do so much, but had no starting point. I read "The Sound of a Miracle" by Annabelle Stehli and, as soon as I finished, wrote to the Autism Research Institute. We filled out the checklists and were stunned at how many questions were supposedly unrelated to autism, but right on the mark with our daughter's physical health. We subscribed to ARRI right away and still are subscribers. We tried many, many things and the most helpful came from ARRI: gluten-free/casein-free diet, anti-yeast treatments, social stories, sensory integration, other food allergies (apples), auditory training, chelation, etc. ARRI helped us stay on the cutting edge, and our daughter has made so much progress because of ARRI. Most of my web page about my daughter is a testimony to the ideas that came into my home via that quarterly newsletter and I even have her ATEC scores posted there: http://home.earthlink.net/~tammyglaser798/pamela.htmlI know Dr. Rimland has taken hits from pro-vaccine factions over his outspoken opinions. I appreciate his strength and determination because he helped so many families, desperate for information, families that did not want to mask symptoms through medications, but wanted to address underlying root causes. I am so thankful Dr. Rimland had the courage to speak out when others did not. His message resonated with the people most affected by autism, the individuals with autism and the families helping them find their way in this world.
Gloria, Mark, Paul and Helen, thank you for your generosity—for all the years you allowed Dr. Rimland to dedicate precious time to his mission to serve other families with autism. It must have been a great sacrifice for you with all the time he spent working and traveling. I pray for God to comfort you as you grieve the loss of such a caring man.
Tammy Glaser
South Carolina
Posted November 26, 2006
This great man , He will be always in our hearts and we will not forget him forever .IBRAHIM
ABU DHABI - UNITED ARAB EMIRATES
Posted November 26, 2006
When our son Lenny was diagnosed with autism at age two, we turned to our pediatrician for help. We were told that there was no cure or hope and Lenny would require lifelong care.Today our son is a normal eight year old boy in regular second grade, and who just earned his yellow belt in Tae Kwon Doe.
Bernie, you made this possible. You instilled in us the willingness to say no to established thinking and to fight for our son. Thank you for giving our boy back to us.
Rest in peace.
The Hoover Family
The Hoover Family
Royal Palm Beach, FL
Posted November 26, 2006
Thanks very much for the great exemple of tenacity, perseverance, fight for finding the primary causes of autism, common sense, profesionalism,leadership and so many things...You have showed to the Autism Community the way. Now we are responsible to continue it all over the world.
Fernando Juanco - Martí Ruiz
Las Rozas - Madrid - Spain
Posted November 26, 2006
Dr. Rimland, We never met but your work has so greatly impacted my sons life and I am eternally greatful. Like so many other parents, I searched for answers and treatments when not offered any hope by the medical community around us and found ARI. You have legitimized treating autism, you have been a catalyst for research and broken down walls of ignorance. Most of all what you have given me is HOPE! This is a truly great gift.Everyday we move one step closer to recovery, sometimes those steps are very small,sometimes they are so hard earned, but there is HOPE. If I do nothing else, I will offer others hope.You have been and will continue to be an inspiration. The world has lost a real hero. My deepest condolences to your family and friends closest to you.Rest in peace,
Lisa Hughes
Lisa Hughes
Montreal
Posted November 26, 2006
Dear Dr. Rimland,Much has been said about you and everything you have done to help our children so what I can write here seems so little to be able to add or thank you enough.
I see my own days where I cried and waited and witness the horrors of people telling me there was no hope for my son, there was no happy life waiting for us as we once dream.
I walked through the fog until I found someone who beleived in you.A group of parents that wouldn't take no as an answer and were spreading around the knowledge and importance of your work.
Then I became the one who believe there was a way,I became the one who could see.
And now it seems to me I could never thank you enough and I wish I could translate my feelings into words to express what you mean to me. you left us with so much,you gave us back the hope of a better life for our kids,you will always be around us and to you we will dedicate every succesful step in the way of recovery.
Goodbye,Bernie.
Laura-mamma di Vito.
con il mio cuore e anima sulla via della guarigione.
Laura Mannucci
Riva del Garda, Italy
Posted November 26, 2006
Just to say thanks for all the help with Geoffrey whom you never met but we used your work to great effect.God bless and be at peace.Angus,Lucy,family and friends.ANGUS & LUCY FILES
OBAN,WEST COAST OF SCOTLAND UK
Posted November 26, 2006
To the family of Dr. Rimland my condolences to all of you. I wanna say thank you to Dr. Rimland though he passed away already, but i knew he can read this. He's an angel to evry autistic child. He's a great loss. Though I haven't seen him I want to thank him for being a good doctor and an inspiration to all of the families, to parents and siblings of autistic children. Through his works he had made possible for us to believe that there is hope for every special child. For every information we have used and became very beneficial for us so that we can understand our special children, we should thank him for these. He's a hero of every special child! I know God has said to you already when he met u therein heaven, "My son well done".....Grace de Pano
Philippines
Posted November 26, 2006
the moment a visionary merges with a larger consciousness,a temporary lull and confusion is inevitable,YET THE VISION IS ABSORBED and gets on to carry the unfinished work...it is with this indian belief that i bow to the larger goal of carrying forward his work...an indian chapter is what i as an early childhood educator can start...anju khanna
dr anju khanna
the circle
india
dr anju khanna
delhi,india
Posted November 26, 2006
Thank you Dr. Rimland for your dedication to our children ,to us ,once hopeless parents.Thank you for telling and proving the World that Autism is Treatable.I will always belive that you are with us ,looking after our children like you always did .
I know that our children now have their own Angel ,you our dear Dr.Rimland
With tears
Sandra and my family
Sandra
Windsor,Canada
Posted November 26, 2006
I never met Dr. Rimland but many years ago, on New Years Day, I called ARI to ask for help with my grandson that was having a terrible melt down and we didn't know what to do. I was hysterical and needed some help. Dr. Rimland answered the phone and spoke to me for a long time offering me suggestions as to what to do.I was so impressed that a man as important as he was would not only answer the phone but talk to me as if he knew us.
I will never forget him. The autism world has lost someone so very special.
My sympathy to his entire family.
Sincerely,
Lois Jacowsky
Lois Jacowsky
Tucson, AZ
Posted November 25, 2006
I remember Dr Rimland at the first march on Washington that I was lucky to attend. I also was extrememly LUCKY and privilidged to talk with him and receive his autograph on my treatment book. He is an inspiration and blessing to this world and will always be that way even through his angelic life now!Sandy Ball
Sandy Ball
Fort Myers, Florida
Posted November 25, 2006
November 21st is not a day I would like to remember. The loss of my mom and Uncle Bernie happened in the same day. Both of these losses leave a hole in my heart that will be hard to fill.Bernie guided me, provided me hope and valuable information to change the lives of many children. Most of all he changed me from the label of refrigerator mom to a caring mom looking for answers.
The world of autism will forever remember Dr Bernard Rimland and thank him for his amazing contributions. We owe him so much to continue his work with hopes of making him proud.
I am grateful he was here. I am grateful for the changes he made. I am so grateful to receive some of his many gifts. We are all in a better world because of his work. I will miss him so much.
He is forever in our hearts.
Lisa A Jeffs mom
Newport Beach CA
Posted November 25, 2006
When my son was diagnosed with autism in 2005, ARI was one of the first resources I found to help him. My son has made remarkable progress on the DAN protocol. Until you enter the world of autism you cannot comprehend how truly devastating it is and how easily one can slip into despair. Dr. Rimland's tireless efforts to help those without a voice can never be appropriately acknowledged and his loss can never be sufficiently mourned in the ASD community.I send my prayer and deepest gratitude to his family.
Christine Arnett
San Jose, California
Posted November 25, 2006
Dr. Rimland will be missed so much by me and my family because of the great contribution he made to helping us understand what happened to our son. Our child has vaccine-induced autism and I felt like I had no where to turn when my child was diagnosed back in 1998. Dr. Rimland's energetic force to try to find a cure for autism revealed alot of information that even I as a layperson could understand and apply to my sons treatment. When I started giving my son vitamins and detoxed him ,there were no Dan doctors in the state of N.H. .Dr. Rimland and others in the Dan circle made it possible for my son to recover to the point of being mainstreamed in school. He plays baseball( he even received the most improved player award this year),has progressed thru 7 Tae Kwon Do belts in just 11 months, and receives all A's and B's in school. Because of Dr. Rimland's contributions to the autistic community, my son has a chance to participate in the "typical" world.My prayer for you and your family is that you are comforted in the fact that Bernie helped so many children and their families.Maria Rawlings
Nashua, N.H.
Posted November 25, 2006
Until sixteen months ago I had never heard the name Bernard Rimland. Then my beautiful daughter was diagnosed. As we continue our work to recover her (and we will!) I know that I owe all of her progress to this man whose name I had never heard. This past Tuesday, the day of his passing, I went to hear David Kirby speak. He began his talk with the news. Sitting in the front row, I immediately started crying for a man I never knew, but owe my daughter's life to. But what a life he had! To leave this kind of legacy, to have had SUCH a meaningful existance in this world, to have made such a difference in the lives of SO many people, both children and their parents...that is a life completely lived. I wish I had had the opportunity to thank him. Dr. Rimland, if you can hear me: "Thank you. Sophie's doing great."Diane Yellis
New York
Posted November 25, 2006
On Monday the 20th,November 2006, I read with shock about the death of Dr Rimland. A mail had been sent to me by ASA, announcing the death of a great man who has given many families of autistic children hope. For us in Africa his works has helped us tremendously, as the awareness of Autism is still very low. It has helped my husband and I understand how to cope with our 4 year old autistic daughter Andrea.
Ever since Andrea was diagnosed with baseline autism our lives has changed. But the works of Dr Rimland has hepled us in dealing with a situation which is thrice as difficult in Nigeria were there is no assistance and knowledge from both the medical practitioners and Country as a whole.Dr Rimland's works has given us hope and helped to jump start the care Andrea needed in fighting the battle against autism.
All the knowledge we have today of autism is mainly as a result of Rimland's efforts which has been embraced by the medical practitioners in the United States and other developed countries.
I want to say thank you to Dr Rimland whom I was hoping to meet someday.
May his good soul rest in peace.
Adieu,
Uzo Onwuka
Andrea Onwuka's Mum.
Lagos Nigeria
Uzo Onwuka
Lagos, Nigeria
Posted November 25, 2006
Our family is so thankful for Dr. Rimland. His research, passion and dedication to helping individuals and their families are deeply felt and will be profoundly missed. The impact he had in this life is immeasurable. May he rest in peace.Carol Woehrle
Missouri
Posted November 25, 2006
I met "Bernie" as he always liked to be called, about 10 years ago here on Long Island. We had him guest speak for a conference that we had here hosted by our local chapter the NSASA of Long Island.He spoke about the Super New Thera Vitamins, and B -6 Vitamins. My son at the time was not sleeping , as many of our children with autism. He suggested melatonin, and since that time, we have had sleepful nights. Without the melatonin my son would not sleep at all. He use to pull all nighters. "Bernie was always kind enough to talk to me personally. I remember calling the ARI and he would answer the telephone, and I was always amazed that I never got a recorder, just him always answering. I could say Angela from Long Island, and he knew who I was.
Bernie you are an amazing person and you truly will be missed by all.
Now we have our own angel of autism.
Bernie thanks for all you have done for our kids, you will always be rememberd.
Angela Cerina
Dix Hills, NY
The Cerina Family
Dix Hills, NY
Posted November 25, 2006
Dr. RimlandGracias por su entrega en beneficio de los niños con austismo, su entrega a servido de ejemplo a miles de personas alrededor del mundo.
Descanse en paz y Dios de consuelo a su familia.
Respetuosamente
Rodolfo F. Marin
Rodolfo F. Marin
Chihuahua, Mexico
Posted November 25, 2006
Dr. Rimland's work forever changed the lives of generations. He will always remain a true hero. Each night I thank God for Dr. Rimland and the Defeat Autism Now Movement. It gave us back our son. Peace be with you now Dr.Rimland. You will be greatly missed! We love you!!Julie Poteet
Cartersville, Georgia
Posted November 25, 2006
With the death of Dr. Bernard Rimland a few days ago, the world has lost a great man, and I have lost a wonderful personal friend.He was never tentative in his professional life. Thanks to him, the ridiculous concept of the "refrigerator mother" is forever gone. He was the scientist who insisted that autism was a neurological disease. His quest for biological treatments for autism, such as the use of magnesium and Vitamin B6, was never-ending. He also embraced behavioral treatments that worked (discrete-trial training methods and so forth). He encouraged other scientists and physicians to help those afflicted with autism, and when someone else discovered a treatment that helped, he was among the first to broadcast their news via publications and conferences. He founded the Autism Society of America and the Autism Research Institute. Through the various biological and educational approaches that he either created or popularized, many people with autism were helped - some to the point of actually losing the label "autistic spectrum disorder".
Those with autism and their families have lost their greatest ally this week. Fortunately, the movement he started in the 1950's and 1960's has blossomed into a large collection of dedicated parents and professionals. The work he started will continue, and one day, autism will be considered just a thing of the past, probably a curiosity studied only by medical students in their "History of Medicine" course.
He was a good and considerate friend. Bernie was always there when I needed him, especially in the early days when the connection between in-utero and neonatal exposure to mercury and autism was first discovered. He allowed me and others to present our early findings at conferences when the whole subject of the mercury-autism connection was controversial even among DAN! physicians. He mediated heated arguments on the subject among DAN! physicians with the ability of a true leader and gentleman. He encouraged me to pursue various methods of trying to remove mercury from autistic children, always keeping safety as the first priority. He was always available when I just needed to talk about disturbing matters, e.g., particularly challenging patients, or just needed to hear a friendly voice.
He once made the observation that all parents of autistic children are in reality more of a “family” than their biological families. And, he was right. Parents who do not have an autistic child can never understand what “our family” has to endure on a daily basis and our many concerns about the future of our affected children.
Because of his tireless efforts, many autistic people have been helped. Under his leadership, a large coalition of parents and professionals continued and will continue the work he started. Of this great man, it can truly be said that he left the world a better place. He will be fondly remembered in the hearts of all who knew him, and the work he began years ago will continue to positively impact the lives of countless others. Surely there is a very special place in heaven for this extraordinary man.
Amy S. Holmes, M.D.
Baton Rouge, Louisiana
Posted November 25, 2006
When my grandson was diagnosed and I started reading about autism, I found ARI and read of Dr. Rimlands work. Bless his family and thanks be for the wonderful life and work of Dr. Rimland.How fortunate the world was to have Dr. Rimland.Pat Viscosi
Temecula Ca US
Posted November 25, 2006
Dr. Rimland, thank you for giving so many families hope and so many children opportunity. We are personally indebted to you as are thousands, maybe more. For us, your insight into alternatives provided a starting point - we had a particular breakthrough with our son using one of the nutritional supplements that we discovered from your newsletters. But it was and is really more than that. Your efforts to fight and vanquish Bettleheim's horrid theory about autism has made everything else possible, and the world owes you a great debt for that.There is much work to be done, but you have blazed the trail. Rest now in peace; our prayers are with your family and friends.
Mark Henry
Texas
Posted November 25, 2006
I thank God for you, Dr. Rimland. For your work and the work of your colleagues who believed as you did. You have made life wonderful and hopeful for my son and our family. I have had so many struggles and challenges in seeking the best for my son. Without your work, your beliefs in these wonderful children fulfilled, I just don't know what my life would be like now. Once upon a time, my son wasn't supposed to learn, talk, relate, join our world. Now my son reads, works a computer, rides a bike and a horse, hugs and snuggles, thrills me with every new achievement. We all are born and die, but there are those who really help us to live. Thank you, thank you, thank you so very much!Wendy Fullmer
Palmdale, California
Posted November 25, 2006
My deepest Sympathies to Dr. Rimland's family. We all owe him such a debt of gratitude. I had the pleasure of meeting Bernie Rimland when he agreed to be our keynote speaker for The GRACE FOUNDATION OF NY's National Autism conference in 2003. I was the conference chairperson and was all prepared to make all the arrangements for all the speakers. It was Bernie Rimland who insisted on using his "miles" and asked us in turn to donate what we would have paid for his flight to ARI.He was such an unpretentious man. No bells and whistles. Just a regular guy with a wonderful soul. I had many conversations with him during the planning of the conference. I would shriek with excitement when the phone rang and i said "hello", and he replied " Hi Barb" its Bernie Rimland". It was the rockstar of Autism on the phone for me!!!!! A parent of an Autistic child from little Staten Island New York!! He was a wonderful speaker and everyone who attended the conference was so impressed by him.. As was I...I sat next to him at our dinner reception that evening and talked about everything under the sun. He was such an interesting man. I got lots of "free" advice that evening and lots of insight from a true genius. I am so glad I was able to meet him, talk with him, have dinner right next to him! Lucky me and lucky are all of us parents to have had Dr. Rimland in our lifetime to bring Autism where it is today. Although my beautiful 9 yr old son Nicholas is not recovered, he is our work in progress and doing wonderfully. Dr. Rimland was our HERO. May he rest in peace and whisper in God's ear about Autism......Barbara D'Amora
Grace Foundation of NY , Staten Island,
Posted November 25, 2006
When I bought in 2004 the book of Tamara Morar "ma victoire contre l'autisme" (my victory against autism), I was interested to read a testimony about a said untreatable affection. I had never heard about high doses of B6 vitamin and magnesium, nor ABA. Then our family was progressivly diagnosed with milk and gluten intolerances (she was not speaking about it), I found GFCF kids...most of the children were autistic....digging further we realized thaht our so difficult to bring up boy might have some symptomes....we made further analyses and by the age of 14 my stepson was officialy diagnosed with Asperger Syndrom. I spent hours on the ARI website to convince myself about the efficiency of treatments none of our french-speaking doctors had heard about. I wrote to parents, read "let me hear your voice" and "unravelling the mystery of autism". Finaly we found one of the few french meurologists aware and agreeing with the diet and the DAN! philosophy. Paul Shattock came for a workshop in Dubai, I was lent the book of Ted Brauer about ADD/ADHD and autism, and Patrick Holforod published his about the optimum diet for the child's mind.Our boy is not cured but we see so many improvements sinc he is regularly taking aminoacids like tyrosine and 5-htp and a good multivitamins. His outfits of violence are par less frequents, and his mood is uplifted.
I thank Dr Rimland for his boldness to declare the truth and his talent in networking.
Jeanne
Jeanne Queromain
France/United Arabic Emirates/Uganda
Posted November 25, 2006
What a sad day not only for me but for the nation. Thank you, Dr. Rimland, for reaching out to me when I founded The Sean Ashley House and for being on our Advisory Board. Thank you to his wife and to Mark for the time he spent away from you and helping others. Dr. Rimland was my first contact in the world of autism. He graciously accepted to be the Keynote speaker at the gala for the beginning of The Sean Ashley House. I was thrilled that he met my Grandson, Sean Ashley, who is autistic and blind. I remember my excitement when in my psychology class I read about Dr. Rimland and that I had the opportunity to meet this wonderful man!!! Many Moms are relieved not to be called "Refrigerator Moms. I listened at his presentation about his own wife and baby when they discovered Mark had autism; and the flowered dress his wife wore.I pray for his work to go forward as he would want it and that he looks down upon us and is pleased. Dr. Bernard Rimland is in his Special Place now. A great Man sent to us!!!!
God's Blessings for strength, courage and peace to Dr. Rimland's Family.
With Love,
Gretchen Wilson, Founder & Executive Director
The Sean Ashley House
Gretchen Wilson
Houston, Texas
Posted November 25, 2006
Eight years ago, devastated by the diagnosis of autism given to my son, I made a desperate phone call to the Autism Research Institute in search for answers as to how I could help my baby boy, then 2 yrs old, who was just diagnosed with autism. Bernie was patient and encouraged me to become educated in biomedical and behavioral interventions to help him. He told me all hope was not lost. It was in his words that I found the strength and fortitude to help save my son from the world of autism. I have had the privilege of meeting Bernie in person and speaking with him on the phone over the years, on days when things just werent going the way that they should have and when the treatments just didnt seem to be working. It was hearing his encouraging words that helped me find the strength to continue in the quest to have my son return to me. My son, now 10, is at a level of functioning that I was told 8 yrs ago by mainstream medical doctors he would never achieve. I owe my son's smile and laughter to Bernie and for that I will be eternally grateful.Our communty has lost a true friend, hero, mentor, and angel the day Bernie left us.
My heart goes out to his family.....
In our hearts forever......
Ellen and Nicholas
Ellen Sweeney
Brick, NJ
Posted November 25, 2006
Bernard Rimland.............A true hero. I never had the chance to meet you, but you are a hero to me. You have helped so many people. People you didn't even know. Your cause was fighting autism, but you did it with perserverance, knowledge, experience, but most of all love. The whole world was blessed to have you here, and I know you are still watching from above. Your impact will never be forgotten, and your work will continue. Someday autism will have a prevention or cure, and you will be proud.God Bless you and your family.
Lynne Sanchez
Albuquerque, NM
Posted November 25, 2006
Dr. Bernard Rimland.....the first sane voice that I heard after becoming lost in the mire of the diagnosis of my grandchild with autism. Someone was offering information that offered hope and real information that enabled me to do something to help this precious child. I will always be grateful for the information he made available to me as well as to others in my same predicament and that he did so with such compassion and in the plain english of a parent who has a child with autism. I pray, Dr. Rimland, for your family and for the loss they must feel. I sincerely hope that you are able to rest in peace in the bosom of Abraham and that all those angels who have gone before you are there to sing your praises as you enter the Kingdom.Barbara Benitez
Lfayette, Louisiana
Posted November 25, 2006
I was taken aback by the news that Bernard Rimland had passed away. It felt like he was a person who would live forever, a larger than life person who had brilliance, perseverance, insight, warmth, kindness, intuition, organizational and motivational strength, fearlessness, and the good sense and selflessness to share all these gifts with families who desperately needed his help. He bathed us all in hope that was real, gave us the strength to continue searching, trying, and to never give up. He was a giant of a man. I feel as if I have lost a family member.Paula Hashmall
Merrick, New York
Posted November 25, 2006
Dear Dr Rimland,I am writing this to you, because I know you are looking down from heaven. Words can not even describe how much your lifelong devotion and work mean to me personally. You, your work and your organization gave me my son back. I know that these last months were long and painful for you, and you were in my thoughts and prayers every day. I hold you higher than any other individual in the autism world, and in fact, the entire world; because when autism strikes, it IS your world. You stood up for our kids, you fought for our kids, you made a difference in the lives of thousands of children and their families.
The number one thing I ever did to help my son was attend my first DAN! Conference. I even tracked you down in the hall to get a moment to speak to a hero. You signed my book- “Treating Autism”. I keep that book on my shelf of books I don’t loan, because it’s a treasure to me- signed by a real hero.
In my short time as a footsoldier in Bernie's army, I’ve been laughed at, called a quack, told I am a conspiracy theorist, had other organizations censor me, and more. When I try to imagine how you spent DECADES fighting for our kids and facing the ignorance in our society, I am overwhelmed at your devotion and undying strength. I can not think of anyone in this world who was more courageous than you.
Dr Rimland, You fought the war for all of us. I am forever in your debt. I can never, ever thank you enough. You saved more lives than anyone could possibly count, and you deserve sainthood, the nobel prize, and more. There's simply not an award big enough for a man like you.
In the words of Ghandi:
“First they ignore you, then they laugh at you, then they fight you, then you win.”
Because of you Dr Rimland, we are winning. Because of you, our children have hope.
Godspeed, and God Bless your family in this time of sorrow
Tami Giles & son Daniel, age 8, recovering- thanks to you
www.autismrecoverywa.org
Tami Giles
Auburn, WA
Posted November 25, 2006
God bless Bernard Rimland. God has blessed us for what he has done.I spoke with him a few times, and his kindness is an inspiration to
all. He helped to steer us in the right direction and get our son back.
Thank you Bernie,
Ray, Charlotte, & Luke Foreman
Ray, Charlotte, & Luke Foreman
Crowley, Louisiana
Posted November 25, 2006
I've had a mission for over 18 years now. Dr. Rimland, along with others, helped me get on the right path and head in the right direction. My son, who is a young man with autism, has had his ups and downs, but really, his 18+ years have been good ones. Many, many thanks to wonderful people like Dr. Rimland.BVK
Ohio
Posted November 25, 2006
My family is so grateful for the work of ARI and Dr. Rimland. His was a life that changed the lives of so many. I have spent many hours looking for help for my son and other children and learning from his research. We use the magnesium and b6 to this day.Dr. Rimland had a passion to help and share. May he rest in peace.
Marie Archuleta
Tucson Arizona USA
Posted November 25, 2006
My dear Bernie is gone from this world and is officially an angel, although he has always been an angel to me. He should never be forgotten, and deserves to be missed by thoussands of people he afftected. He forever changed our lives and I will miss him dearly. I am honored to have known him.Bye Bernie!
Love always,
Suzanne Malouf
Suzanne Malouf
North Potomac, Maryland
Posted November 25, 2006
For me, Dr. Rimland was one of the world's truest heroes. Although his passing leaves the world a bit darker, his light was so bright with the hope and courage that he spread. It's up to each of us, parents and kids, affected by autism, to carry on.It is frightening to think what the world of autism would be like today, had there never been a Dr. Rimland. We have been blessed to have him in our corner. He will be missed.
Pamela Medley
Hillsboro, Oregon
Posted November 25, 2006
Science and Knowledge have no limits. When traditional main stream doctors with their narrow minds didn't accept the Autism and Vaccine facts, it is Dr.Rimland and other noble souls lit a candle of Truth which is still enlightening many more parents and professionals. Whether saving moms fro "Fridge Parenting" or focussing on Autism-Mercury links, Dr.Rimland is unique and will be revered by millions of parents worldwide for his great and selfless work on Autism.Ragha B
Charlotte, NC
Posted November 25, 2006
I could write a complete book giving thanks to Dr. Rimland. In short, he was our hero. My middle son, almost recovered at ten, full blown autism at two, would not have had made any progress without the information from DAN! and Dr. Rimland. He has saved so many, and given his whole life in the service of others. That is the defintion of hero. I cried when I read the news of his passing, but he will Never be forgotten; he gave us hope when there was none to be found.The man of genius inspires us with a boundless confidence in our own powers.
Ralph Waldo Emerson
or in other words...parents, believe in yourself, is what he taught us all.
Ronna Hochbein, OTR/L
above all---grateful mother
Ronna Hochbein, OTR/L
Pennsylvania
Posted November 25, 2006
Dr. Rimland will be sorely missed. I can honestly say that if not for him, F.A.I.R. Autism Media wouldn't exist... and all our efforts to help our children would still be a decade or more behind where we are today. The debt of gratitude owed to him is incalculable.With the deepest of gratitude, we thank you Bernie. We'll do our best to live up to your example.
Erik, F.A.I.R. Autism Media
AutismMedia.org
Erik Nanstiel, F.A.I.R. Autism Media
Chicago, IL
Posted November 25, 2006
Our hearts are broken with the word of the passing of Dr. Rimland. Along with ARI, he brought hope and strength into our lives and taught us the tools that have proven instrumental in our son's life. The legacy of his work is timeless, living on in the hearts and minds of anyone whose life is affected by Autism. Thank you Dr. Rimland.Carol & Rafael
Bronx, NY
Posted November 25, 2006
Je désire rendre hommage au Dr Rimland , un grand homme qui a contribué à arracher nos enfants entre les griffes de la psychanalyse
Dr Rimland reposez en paix et Merci du fond du coeur
Amrani Soumia
Maroc
Posted November 25, 2006
Dr. Rimland and the Autism Research Institute has saved our child's life and has saved our family's life. His almost 50-year dedication to helping those with autism and their families is truly amazing. I have known Dr. Steve Edelson, ARI's new director, for almost 20 years. He is also dedicated and motivated to make our children's lives better. I am certain he will continue to keep Dr. Rimland's mission alive.Wendy Rosen
Los Angeles, California
Posted November 25, 2006
i wish the world still had you,had you still researching as you always did.may you gently guide us ever forward in the great quest for a cause/cure.
my great sadness is for your family,your friends,and all youve touched.
i wish i could have met you,spoken with you,been helped by you..so much.
the torch will not go out. i and so many others will cling to it always.
i can only hope that we can make you so,so proud by not ever giving up.
M. Thornhill
Posted November 25, 2006
Dr. Rimland, the research we accomplished in 1975 on Vit. B6 was the major start of my research career, as well as continuing work with those with autism. Thank You. I also appreciated getting to know your family and office workers. Even now we are preparing an Autism Certificate for teachers to earn and learn more about working in this area. Of course your materials will be included in the trainings. You will continue to be an inspiration as I pursue working with others that are interested in the field. Again, thank you for your insight and inspiration.KayDee
San Gabriel, CA
Posted November 25, 2006
Someday we will tell our recovered son about this amazing, gentle man who helped rescue him. I don't know how I'll be able to convey to Grant what a miracle it is that a handful of strangers he's never met, facing tremendous odds bound together to protect him, led by Dr. Rimland. I doubt I'll have the words to explain how remarkable it is that a single man armed only with his intellect and love for his wife and children changed the way the world thought about autism not once, but twice.Our son should not be talking. Our son should not be jumping. Our son shouldn't have a crush on the little girl who sits next to him at circle time at his regular preschool. Our son shouldn't be able set up a race track by himself, get dressed on his own, or sing Jingle Bells. He turns 4 in two days, and he does all those things, and many, many more.
Dr. Rimland, thank-you for believing that autism is treatable and for more importantly making it okay for parents to fight to try and get our kids get out of this relentless pain.
What humblingly good work. What kindness. Blessings to the Rimlands, and eternal gratitude.
Denise Fulton
Olympia, WA
Posted November 25, 2006
Eight years ago , after learning that my nephew was diagnosed with Autism my husband found your website.One day I walked through the doors of the Autism Research Institute and started to cry. This wonderful man said
"Don't cry, there is help and hope" He gave me several articles to read, refered us to a Dan Doctor and invited me to
an art exhibit from his son's school.
I asked him what was the most important thing to do first. He said"do everything because you never know what will help"
In the years that followed we never missed a chance to hear Dr. Rimland speak. Your common sense approach to many of the problems our children encounter was so appreciated .
Thank you for helping us to go from grief to hope. My family did what you said to do. Today my nephew is doing very well.
There are not enough words to tell you how thankfull we are for your wisdom and kindness.
May you rest in peace.
Chuck and Joan Hansen
San Diego Ca
Posted November 25, 2006
I was so sad to hear of the passing of Dr. Rimland. Twenty years ago I first began treating children with autism, in part because of the great guidance I had from Dr. Rimland. He was always available to answer a question, give advice or steer you in the right direction. I felt that he played a big role in my career path--he contributed so much and inspired others to want to do the same. His energy was boundless as was his interest and work in searching for treatments and cures. He will be greatly missed.Sabra Gelfond
Bethesda, Maryland
Posted November 25, 2006
In our darkest hour, when we noticed our young son was displaying autistic behaviours, only one name and his organization offers some solutions and realistic hopes : Dr. Bernard Rimland and the folks who work in ARI and the DAN! movement.In fact, only about 1 week or so before Dr. Rimland passed away, my wife said " Hope Dr. Rimland will not get struck with any serious illness and pass away too soon. " What she meant is that millions of young and older autistic people need Dr. Rimland's efforts and his remarkable results in co-ordinating and help spread the word that autism is " treatable ". While not 100%, which doctor can guarantee 100% in treating ANY illness ?
Thus after a week when my wife hoped Dr. Rimland will live much longer, it is really a BOMBSHELL when I read the sad news of Dr. Rimland's passing. My wife especially was thunderstruck " I just said he is supposed to live a long life, But why now ? ...... "
Dr. Rimland, thanks for all you have done for all of us in the autism community. We have lost a maverick. I am seldom touched by the passing of a celebrity like the death of a moviestar, president, whatever. But news of Dr. Rimland's passing made me feel like I have lost an old friend.
Rochili S.
Jakarta, Indonesia
Posted November 25, 2006
think you very muchColomb Marie-José
France
Posted November 25, 2006
It is with great sadness that I read the news tonite several days following Dr.Bernard's passing. Its the day following the Thanksgiving holiday. So it is with a heavier heart on Friday that I recognize so much to be thankful for. I was reminded that I have a teenager who is a fully included high school student with only minimal supports,though my child was considered very autisitc at a young age and at that time there was minimal information and no real hope offered. The Autistic Society site and Dr. Rimland's Institute site on the budding early Internet saved so many families from total despair and gave them hope. I am so glad he had the opportunity to witness the results of his dedicated work. He was a giant among men. He opened the door to research,national advocacy,sensory integration,behavioral and speech therapies,education inclusion,and today even work oportunities for autistic spectrum children.The doors were opened forever,and we all will continue to follow his courageous path. Dr. Rimland,your courage and spirit will never leave us. The world is a better place because of you. Thank you.L.S.G.
CA.
Posted November 24, 2006
sono commossa davanti alla morte di un grande uomo che tanto ha dato alle persone affette da autismo e alle loro famiglie
combattendo l'ignoranza e poi l'errore reiterato.
Grazie
Condoglianze ai famigliari
Flavia Zanetti
CH-6983 Magliaso Switzerland
Posted November 24, 2006
Desde el fondo de nuestro corazon agradecemos el aporte y entrega que solo un padre puede ofrecer con su trabajo y su lucha por mejorar la calidad de vida de su propio hijo y de los nuestros.Dios mantenga en su Gloria y estamos seguros que desde el cielo el Dr Rimland velara por el futuro de su familia y de nuestros maravillosos hijos como lo ha hecho hasta ahora.
Gracias por toda esperanza y gracias por ayudarnos a luchar contra el autismo
Ana Luisa Molina
Gino Crovetto
Peru
ANA LUISA MOLINA
PERU
Posted November 24, 2006
Valentine's day 2001, we learned our 20 month old son may be autistic. He had the skills of a 9 month old. That day, I began searching the internet for information & help. The ARI website not only gave me the information I desperately sought, it gave me hope. Today our son, Michael, is a regualar first grader. His future is bright thanks to Dr. Rimland and the ARI.Rest in peace Dr. Rimland and thank you.
Michael's Dad
Walled Lake, MI
Posted November 24, 2006
Cher Docteur Rimland,Il y a quelques années, je passais avec mon fils de trois ans de longs moments dans une petite pièce, celle de notre psychanalyste.
La pièce était sombre, mais la cause était claire : j'étais "responsable mais non coupable" des troubles de mon bel enfant, et moi seule détenais sans doute la clé de la porte qui me séparait de lui.
Puis est venue la quête d'un diagnostic, les nuits passées à lire, les journées à souffrir. Les recherches sur l'internet et un nom, récurrent : Bernard Rimland. Je détenais une clé et ma première conviction : je n'étais ni coupable ni responsable de l'autisme de mon enfant, mais je responsable je serais en recherchant de l'aide pour le soigner.
Mon fils est toujours autiste, mais la porte est maintenant ouverte, il est joyeux, curieux et tendre.
Nous avons perdu le brillant chercheur que vous étiez, mais vous nous laissez un précieux trésor, le souvenir des qualités qui animaient votre quête - la passion, la curiosité, l'intelligence, la la volonté, la ténacité et le courage face à la critique, la créativité -, dans lequel nous pourrons continuer de puiser pour poursuivre, chacun à notre échelle, dans les directions que vous nous avez montrées.
Merci Dr Rimland
Reposez en paix
Françoise Ayzac
France
Posted November 24, 2006
IF I am working to recover my son ,I owe this Dr.Rimland.He gave me the hope.Only way this can be paid back to carry his mission .Thank you Dr.Rimland what you made for our children,we will carry the flag.Nur Duncan
New York ,USA
Posted November 24, 2006
We have certainly lost a giant in the autism world or better put a giant angel.If it were not for Dr. Rimland I am certain my son would not be recovered today.
If there were a Nobel Prize for autism you would be the first to get it.
You can go in peace knowing that you have passed the torch for finding the truth to many others and your original flame will never die.
With deepest sympathy,
Laurie Mawlam
Executive Director
Autism Canada Foundation
Laurie Mawlam
Canada
Posted November 24, 2006
I am so sorry to hear of Dr. Rimland's passing. I want to express my gratitude for his untiring work for families. At the beginning of our journey with autism a few years ago, my husband and I had to decide if we should place our mildly autistic son in a regular kindergarten classroom, with the help of a paraprofessional. I was so surprised and my heart touched that Dr. Rimland returned my call to speak to me personally and encourage me to give my son the opportunity. It was the beginning of discovering that my son always has a way of exceeding my expectations and should be allowed the opportunity to either succeed or fail. My first instinct is always to protect my son and shield him from the possibility of failure. I'll always be grateful for Dr. Rimland for pointing me in the right direction when so many things were confusing and frightening for us as a family. My son is now 11, loves to help other people, especially younger children, and also loves science and history.Lavena Fisette
Woodbine, GA
Posted November 24, 2006
Cher Docteur Rimland,Il y a quelques années, je passais avec mon fils de trois ans de longs moments dans une petite pièce, celle de notre psychanalyste.
La pièce était sombre, mais la cause était claire : j'étais "responsable mais non coupable" des troubles de mon bel enfant, et moi seule détenais sans doute la clé de la porte qui me séparait de lui.
Puis est venue la quête d'un diagnostic, les nuits passées à lire, les journées à souffrir. Les recherches sur l'internet et un nom, récurrent : Bernard Rimland. Je détenais une clé et ma première conviction : je n'étais ni coupable ni responsable de l'autisme de mon enfant, mais je responsable je serais en recherchant de l'aide pour le soigner.
Mon fils est toujours autiste, mais la porte est maintenant ouverte, il est joyeux, curieux et tendre.
Nous avons perdu le brillant chercheur que vous étiez, mais vous nous laissez un précieux trésor, le souvenir des qualités qui animaient votre quête - la passion, la curiosité, l'intelligence, la la volonté, la ténacité et le courage face à la critique, la créativité -, dans lequel nous pourrons continuer de puiser pour poursuivre, chacun à notre échelle, dans les directions que vous nous avez montrées.
Merci Dr Rimland
Reposez en paix
Françoise Ayzac
France
Posted November 24, 2006
Dear Dr. Rimland,A few years ago, I used to spend longs hours with my three-year old child at our psychoanalyst's office.
The room was dark, mais the case was clear: I was 'responsible but not guilty' for my beautiful child's problem. Probably I was the one hiding the key to the door my child was locked behind.
Then there was the quest for a diagnosis. Autism, dreadful word already dancing in my head for months. Then the nights spent reading depressing books, the days of fear and struggle. Then days of hope in our playroom, my first key to my son. Searches on the internet, and a reccuring name: Bernard Rimland. You gave me my second key and my first belief: I was neither responsible nor guilty for my son's autism, but I would be a responsible parent and look for a biomedical treatment.
My son is still autistic, but the door is open. My joyful, inquisitive and tender child owes you a lot.
We lost a brilliant researcher, but you left us with a priceless treasure, memories of those qualities that fueled your quest - your passion, curiosity, intelligence, willpower, persistence and courage in the face of critics, your creativity -, those will continue to inspire us in our journey along the avenues you showed us.
Thank you Dr Rimland
Rest in peace.
Françoise Ayzac
Francoise Ayzac
France
Posted November 24, 2006
Dear Mark,I'm very sorry to hear about your father, There has been so many break throughs in Autism research, Thanks to your father and all the Dr. in this feild. My 7 yr. old son (Joey) was finally dionosed last week. I was trying to find more information to help him when I saw about your dad's passing and I wanted to sent my warm thoughts and prayers to you and your family. GOD BLESS YOU KathyKathy
Sebastian Fl.
Posted November 24, 2006
I did not know you personally. But I read of you, your work, your passion... Then within this last year, two of our four children were diagnosed with Autism...You will be missed.
Stephanie McBride
Pocatello, Idaho
Posted November 24, 2006
Dr. Rimland, Bless you for taking away the stigma and allowing us to concentrate on the many valuable characteristics and treatments for our now 25 year old, violin-playing, happy, hard-working son.J.A. Caughlan
Kensington, MD
Posted November 24, 2006
We often have a hard time recognizing how valuable our talents are because they come easy to us.This can sometimes lead to treating our gifts casually. The story is told of the great artist Michelangelo and his mentor, Bertoldo de Giovanni. Michelangelo was only 14 years old when he came to Bertoldo, but it was already obvious that he was enormously gifted. Bertoldo was wise enough to realize that gifted people are often tempted to coast rather than to grow, and therefore he kept trying to pressure his young prodigy to work seriously at his art. One day he came into the studio to find Michelangelo toying with a piece of sculpture far beneath his abilities. Bertoldo grabbed a hammer, smashed the work into tiny pieces, and shouted, "Michelangelo, talent is cheap; dedication is costly!"
An excellent way to develop our talents is to find a mentor who will push us beyond what we would normally push ourselves. Dr. Rimland will continue to be a valuable mentor whose legacy will continue in me and my family. It is his passion that inspires me to find the talents and gifts within each person, regardless of whether they have autism or not.
Michelle Collier
Orem, Utah
Posted November 24, 2006
Dr. Rimland is my hero, because his life's work saved my son. Because of Dr. Rimland's steadfast search for truth, I'm not a "refrigerator mom", and my son is receiving the medical and educational help he needs to become the best person he can be. Because of Dr. Rimland, my son enjoys a happy life.Dr. Rimland had an all-encompassing vision to heal every child with autism, and the knowledge and dedication to educate the whole autism community - medical staff, families, and educators. He stood tall as a shining example who proved that one dad's love and commitment for his son can change the world. Let's all work together to make Dr. Rimland's dream a reality by building upon his example of how to take a solid stand for our children and work together toward creating the healthiest environment possible for every child.
Cynthia Stark
Vancouver, BC, Canada
Posted November 23, 2006
Last Tuesday I lost a very dear and wonderful friend. Bernard Rimland lost his battle with cancer.I have known Bernie since the late 1980's when my son was first diagnosed with autism. I first met him at the Seattle ASO conference. He immediately encouraged me to act on what I thought Sean needed. He agreed with me that autism was, and still is, a medical problem. He challenged me to become educated about medicine and biochemistry. He immediately became my mentor though he may not have known it.
Over the course of years, I tried to help him with projects and issues as best I could. He has even funded my research position for the last several years. I still believe that he always helped me far more than I could ever help him.
Bernie discovered the information that ultimately was the foundation upon which the improvement in Sean's condition is based. It is on his work, and the work of those who have followed him, that Sean will continue to improve.
Bernie has given so much to so many people throughout the world. The families now do not need to bear the burden of being the "Refrigerator Mother" or "Aloof Disconnected Father". Most people probably don't know that Bernie was the one who changed that. But I know it. Bernie was the one who helped me throw away the Bettleheim book and Bettleheim's theory of autism, the theory that had me weeping for months.
Bernie gave me courage, strength, focus and conviction. I know what I have to do.
Rest in peace, Bernie. We will miss you greatly, and we will continue your work.
Kathy Henley
Portland, Oregon
Posted November 23, 2006
Almost 5 years ago, my entire world changed. Our then 5 year old son, Jackson was diagnosed with autism. I was completely devastated. All I knew about autism was what I had seen on “Rainman” and that scared me to death. But, God must have known that I was going to need some help because the day before we received the diagnosis, I was in the Christian bookstore (buying yet another Veggie Tales toy for which our son was COMPLETELY obsessed) and ran across a book by Lynn Hamilton called “Facing Autism”. I didn’t buy the book that day because I didn’t want to “jinx” anything. But, the following day, after our appointment, I went back to make the purchase. It was through reading this book that I first learned about Dr. Bernard Rimland. Through the years since then, I have had the privilege to meet and speak with Dr. Rimland on several occasions. Because of the wonderful work of Dr. Rimland and his organization of Defeat Autism Now!, our son has almost reached recovery from autism. Were it not for his tireless work and dedication, I can honestly say that our son would still be lost in his own little, dark, bizarre world. Because of this, today if feels as if we have lost a member of our own family. To say that parents of children with autism owe him a debt of gratitude is a complete understatement. We owe him so much more than that. We owe him the pledge to continue this fight to find treatments and a cure for each and every person with autism. We owe him the pledge to try to keep his dream alive of inspiring hope in the lives of parents who deal with this horrible disorder everyday. We owe him many, many thanks for pioneering the work in dispelling the beliefs that autism is caused by poor parenting, and for bringing together the many brilliant physicians and scientists who have worked endlessly to help find ways to improve the biomedical state of these sick, sick children. We owe him an incredible sense of gratitude for bringing our children back to “our world”…for the return of their joy, their laughter, and their voices. Dr. Rimland will be incredibly missed. But, we as parents must pledge to continue the fight for our children that he began. We will miss you, Dr. Rimland. But, we pledge to honor the legacy you have left behind.Jill Urwick
North Carolina
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