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Our sweet boy Eston was diagnosed with level 3 autism. He is the most fun-loving, goofy, adorable little boy. We have been so blessed to have him in our lives. He is very energetic and honestly never stops running and playing. Every day with Eston is an adventure. However, so is the nighttime.
See, what most people don’t know, myself included at first, is that autism and sleep disorders go hand in hand. Eston is put down for bed around 7:30. However, he never goes to sleep till around 9 unless I (his mom) snuggle him. Which, yes, that sounds simple. The problem with that is, if I move, he wakes up. Once he goes to sleep, he only sleeps for about 3-4 hours before he wakes up ready to party. I am amazed daily at how smart he is. So smart, in fact, he can open his door. We have tried to put the baby locks on his door; he figured them out. We put a gate lock at the top of the door; he broke it off. We have since turned his doorknob around and locked it from the outside. His reaction to this? Body slamming the door till he hurts himself or he tries to body slam his window, which terrifies us.
After endless research, we have found that the best solution is to get him a zPod safety bed. We tried multiple times to get it through insurance, but they deny it because they see it as a comfort, not a safety device. As much as I wish we had the money, we just don’t.
Right now, I am staying awake with him because his dad works, so he can’t. This is exhausting, as you can imagine. We also have a 6-month-old who needs me throughout the day. My exhaustion isn’t fair to either of our children.
So we are publicly asking for help. We have tried every other option (including grants) and have turned up empty-handed. We hate to ask for help; however, there is nothing we won’t do for our son.
Here is a little information on the zPod bed.
zPods is the first U.S.-based company to offer a customizable, sensory-friendly, 360-degree enclosed safety bed for autism designed specifically for children with sensory processing disorders, including special needs, autism, sensory disabilities, and mobility challenges.
Unlike traditional special needs beds, zPods combine advanced features like intelligent lighting, white noise generation, Bluetooth speakers, and temperature regulation to create a therapeutic safe sleep environment that adapts to each child’s unique needs.
Our innovative design promotes self-regulation, enhances sleep quality, and provides a secure, soothing space that empowers children to feel more comfortable and independent.
Any amount would really help. If you are reading this still, just know we really appreciate you.
