I do not know how people react when they learn they have a child with autism, but for Penny Reisler of Pasadena it was her second child that she loved and adored just as much as her first.

Her daughter, Annie, has autism and is now a teenager.

“I do not think I ever sat back and cried or said ‘why me’.  It was what it was and I never felt sorry for myself,” Penny said.

Penny said she always wondered how to improve Annie’s life and get the most help for her but no one seemed to have any answers other than support groups. However, through a friend, Penny learned about the Autism Waiver and joined Anne Arundel County Chapter of the Autism Society of America.

In Anne Arundel County, Penny said there is a division in the school system that coordinates the waiver and every year Annie has to be re-certified. Through this certification, she receives Individual Intense Support Services (IISS), respite care, full medical benefits and other essential items. The waiver also pays for Annie to enjoy summer camp at Camp Fairlee Manor.   

“This was one of the most useful financial tips I ever received,” Penny said.

Daily struggles affect families every day, but no one really stops to think about the struggles of taking a child with autism to the dentist or for a simple haircut. After chatting with Penny about these issues it was very interesting to know that several establishments in the area accommodate children with autism. Here are some practical tips that can help others with children who have autism.

Penny depends on several businesses for their patience and understanding. Cartoon Cuts in Marley Station Mall is where Annie loves to go for a haircut because she gets to watch her favorite movie. Penny went through several dentists who claimed to work with autistic patients until she finally found Southgate Dental Care.

“The dentist used to be very traumatic, but they purchased a ‘papoose’ and since it is something that wraps Annie up tight so she cannot move, and most autistic children like the tight hugging sensation, the dentist is no longer an issue. We get there and she hops in the chair and lays back and waits for her big hug,” Penny said.

Another issue was that Annie always had misfit shoes and her feet were always bothering her, so Penny said she was frustrated trying to find good shoes until she stumbled upon Comfort Shoe Source and thought they were amazing.

“They took time to really measure her feet and make sure the shoes felt comfortable,” Penny said.

Finding restaurants to go to was also a struggle, but Penny and Annie join friends almost every Thursday night at Anne Arundel Seafood on Mountain Road.

“Annie enjoys getting her grilled cheese and fries and most of the employees and owners know her by name and always make us feel welcome,” Penny said.

For Penny and her husband Tom, Annie having autism is just a normal part of their life and they learn as they go along.

Penny added: “Annie definitely keeps us on our toes. She makes us laugh, loves her stuffed animals and watching movies and we are very fortunate for our support from family and friends.”