Division of Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics Patient Stories

Siblings with very different manifestations of autism both find the support and resources they need through CHOP’s Center for Autism Research.

CHOP support helps Luke and Esmeralda’s family access vital resources. The family is grateful to have such a positive community.

Rohan, 13, isn’t sure what path he wants to take in the future — athlete, engineer, architect, analytics or maybe some creative pursuit — but what he does know is that he’ll be successful because of the guidance he’s received from Jenelle Nissley-Tsiopinis, PhD, a psychologist in Center for the Management of ADHD at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia.

Diagnosed with autism as a toddler, 19-year-old Anthony is learning the skills he needs to work and live independently.

Kate, 18, doesn’t let anyone stop her. Born with Down syndrome, she is a member of the National Honor Society, a cheerleader, and a volunteer at a local food bank.

Since being diagnosed with autism at age 2, Ben has faced every challenge with enthusiasm. His quest to be crowned homecoming king was no different.

Braylen Clayton was diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder at age 2. Today, he is a 7-year-old who loves reading and playing with friends, thanks to intensive teamwork between his parents and experts at CHOP's Center for Childhood Communication and Autism Integrated Care program.

When Cristin needed to transition to adult healthcare, she had the support of the Trisomy 21 Program at CHOP to help guide her.

John and Sara have been coming to CHOP's Trisomy 21 Clinic, now the Trisomy 21 Program, all of their lives. The program provides care coordination for children and adults with trisomy 21.

Born with trisomy 21 (Down syndrome), Katie's doctors knew to be on the lookout for potential heart issues. At 3 months old, Katie was diagnosed with patent ductus arteriosus and came to CHOP's Cardiac Center for help.