Ben's Story

It's been over 9 years and I can tell you I remember how it all began, just like it was yesterday.  I was 33 years old and 20 weeks pregnant.  The child I was carrying had enlarged kidneys. so my OB sent me to a specialist, where, after a series of tests....we found out I was carrying a child with Down syndrome.  After seeing the high risk specialist, they encourage me to terminate my pregnancy, like 90% of other mom's did in my situation.  But that wasn't an option for us.  Ben was born early and stayed in the hospital for 67 days.  While there, he underwent several operations.  When Ben was discharged we knew we had a long road ahead of us, but were happy to have him home.  For years we had to keep up with all the appointments to see specialists and therapists. 

A few years ago, we were involved in a study with JFK Partners.  We found out what we had suspected for years...that Ben has Autism.  This study also found that 20% of people who have Down syndrome also have Autism. 

Ben has been in the public school system since he's was 3 years old.  We love the people who work with him, but because of his very complicated dual diagnosises we have had to find a way to educate Ben in a non traditional way. 

We found the Joshua School.   It is a private, non-profit school and resource center for individuals with autism, Asperger’s syndrome, or other special needs, and their families. They are committed to building a community that offers the highest level of care and individual instruction for students, the most comprehensive array of services, and the strongest level of outreach and education regarding autism spectrum disorders (ASD) for the greater Colorado community. (To read a recent article about the Joshua School go to http://www.denverpost.com/ci_12980454)

Ben will be attending The Joshua School for the 2009-2010.  Because it's a school outside the system, it will cost our family more than we have, however, we believe in Ben so much, we are willing to give Ben the chance he deserves.

Please consider making a tax deductable donation to The Joshua School in Ben's name.  You will find them at www.joshuaschool.org.  Please remember to make the donation "on behalf of Ben Fieber."  Thank  you so much for the wonderful gift you will be giving to our son.   The gift of education.

May 2000
Our first family picture taken in front of our house.  Our neighbors, family and friends welcomed Ben home.