Community Corner
Please Help Support the DeFilippis Family in Raising Money for their Autistic Daughter’s Medical Care
The DeFilippis family is trying to raise money for medical care for their daughter, and they need as much help from others as they can get. Stephen and Stephanie DeFilippis have two children, Christopher and Amanda, ages 13 and 10, both who have low functioning Autism. Neither can communicate with words and they cannot express their basic needs or when they are hurting or sick. They often become frustrated and cry and their parents don’t always know why.
Recently Amanda has become increasingly aggressive both at school and at home where she hits her head or chin against anything hard. Her teacher, therapists, and behaviorist have been working hard to try and reduce these behaviors, which can happen up to 100 times a day, but they are not having much success. Amanda’s school has recommended she see a child psychiatrist that specializes in Autism as soon as possible. The doctor, however, does not accept the DeFilippis' insurance; therefore the visits will be extremely costly. The initial evaluation alone will cost $1,000. Regular office visits after that could be as much as $350.
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In addition to the children’s autism, Stephen and Stephanie both suffer from Autoimmune Disorders. Stephen sufferers from MS (Multiple Sclerosis) and Stephanie suffers from Lupus. Due to the debililtating side effects of MS Stephen has had to quit his job and this family of four is now surviving solely on Stephanies teacher’s salary. Adding expensive therapy is not something they can afford on their own. Please think about donating or sharing this story to help support this family!
