Raise Hand for
Travel support for medical and assessment appointments?

I need to travel up north with both of my kids for additional assessments and medical/services-related appointments through ANMC. Their care is my priority right now, especially making sure their evaluations are fully completed and that we have clear next steps for their care and services.

I am autistic, and air travel — especially the milk-run route — can cause significant sensory overload for me. Noise, smells, crowds, bright lights, elevation changes, transitions, and being confined on the plane can become overwhelming enough that I have experienced meltdowns and difficulty regulating my nervous system and executive functioning.

At the same time, both of my children have recognized additional needs and require support with their own sensory, emotional, and transition needs. Trying to regulate myself while also managing both kids, luggage, airports, flights, food, appointments, and unfamiliar environments is a lot for one person.

I will likely need at least one trusted adult to travel with us so there is another safe person available to help with the kids, belongings, transitions, and travel logistics, and so I can take space to regulate when needed without worrying about my children’s needs being delayed.

I also have medical appointments of my own that I’m expected to travel for, so this kind of support may be helpful for future trips as well. Right now, though, my children’s assessments and care are the priority.

Dates have not been scheduled yet. I’m putting this need out now so I can begin identifying someone appropriate before travel is arranged. Specific travel and medical details will be shared privately.

Do you have a question? Ask the Organizers