A year ago, the Hopson family was informed by doctors that they would have to wait 8 months to 1.5 years for an Autism Assessment. Recently, they were asked by their pediatrician to contact them and see where Walker is at on that waitlist, to which they got the unfortunate news that he has now been bumped to a 2.5-year wait from now.

This timeline would put Walker at age six at the time of the assessment. He will be in grade 1 at that time. The school informed the family that Walker needs a diagnosis before starting kindergarten so that necessary support can be arranged. If he receives support in school, it will be limited as those with higher needs are prioritized. Currently, his diagnosis only considers complex physical needs. If he receives his autism assessment, he will be placed in a new category, which will open up opportunities for a full-time support worker. This will be necessary because he will require support with G-Tube feedings, bowel movements, and learning assistance while he is in school.

I started this fundraiser to get Walker the assessment he needs to succeed. This cost is solely for the assessment in Kelowna, as gas and stay are covered with assessment cost. This unexpected cost is not covered, and if Walker waits until age six for the assessment, it could harm his social and educational development.

If Walker has no support, he will not qualify for local social programs as he will age out of them. This is unfortunate as Walker is such a social boy and enjoys these programs so much.

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