After a quick 3 hour nap this morning for our crew’s 1200 mile drive, we arrived at the Rohde family house in Edmond, Oklahoma. Despite being physically tired, the crew was excited to meet Wayne and Robyn, and then the twin kids Nick and Austin. A great twist was Caleb, who helps take care of Nick often, was also there singing and doing cool stuff around the house. It didn’t take long for the crew to step it into high gear and get the best story possible.
We came at an interesting time for the family, as their tireless advocacy work for the Oklahoma autism bill known as Nick’s Law, named for their son, has been overshadowed now in the media with the need for the family to move to get better services for their child. They have an amazing story about what the dirty side of politics is like, especially for families trying to make such a huge difference in the lives of those around them. They’ve made the decision to head to Minnesota, to accept a position where the state requires insurance companies to not discriminate against autism. It’s been everything they’ve been fighting for, without all the threats to their safety, and a major increase of pay. They’re heartbroken to leave their beloved state which they have invested so much sweat and tears in, and all their friends, yet they’re positive about the future and what it will bring. You will be blown away by some of their stories without a doubt.
We crossed this evening into Dallas for our stay before we head to Fort Hood, Texas to interview our next family. Be sure to check out our pictures. Thanks again for all of you out there following us, we love you, and we can’t wait to hear from you!
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[…] This post was mentioned on Twitter by Robert Moran. Robert Moran said: RT @usofautism: RT @usofautism Day 20 of 40 Day United States of #Autism Movie Shoot – Nick's Law family http://bit.ly/cwdKjC […]
Please contact me if you will be coming near West Virginia. I have a wonderful family with 3 year-old twin boys with autism. They recently had to uproot their family at great cost, to another area of the state to get services. West Virginia is once again trying to get the autism insurance legislation passed this year. (4th year).
Thank you.
Cindy LeGrand
Our families have already been chosen for the film, though it does sound like this family has a great story. Please keep in touch so we can help out any way we can.
Wow, their story sounds like a beautiful one…I cannot wait to learn more about it, and to hear how they are doing. Best of wishes to the Rohde family and to the crew out traveling!!!
[…] Day 20 of 40 Day United States of Autism Movie Shoot posted on July 13, 2010 […]
[…] Day 20 of 40 Day United States of Autism Movie Shoot posted on July 13, 2010 […]