Hamilton's daughter Loralee, now 15, had been diagnosed with autism.
Like many parents, Hamilton didn't know how to deal with autism or much about it, beyond what she saw in the movie "Rain Man” — which is far from an accurate representation.
As one of the founders of the new Edmond Family Center for Autism, she wants to make sure parents of children diagnosed as autistic don't make the same mistake.
"Now I know my daughter is amazing, real, honest and trusting,” she said.
Autism is no death sentence, but ignoring the condition can be devastating, Alan Danielson said.
Those who don't know much about autism often refuse to accept that their children need help, Danielson said, or that early intervention therapy that can be vital in the years to come.
Danielson and his wife are the minds behind www.TeamAutism.org, which has put together a charity marathon to raise money for the Edmond Family Center for Autism. Their team of five will run in the Honolulu Marathon later this year after raising $5,000 each.
The center got its start as Parents of Autistic Children, an online support group in Edmond. But the needs of the community have grown, Hamilton said.
She said the group hopes to educate parents and the community about autism, provide support and raise awareness.
Those meetings can be a lifeline for parents who feel trapped by the behavior of an autistic child, Hamilton said.
"There are some families that haven't left home in three years because of autism,” she said.
It's easier to stay at home than have to explain to everybody why a child is acting out, Danielson said. "It's ironic, because getting out and interacting with people is exactly what those kids need.”
Hamilton said she wishes groups like hers weren't necessary, but Oklahoma is "in the dark ages” of autism services.
The cost of raising an autistic child is through the roof, she said, adding she hopes the center will be able to ease that burden on parents.
The center's support group meets from 7 to 9 p.m. the second Monday of the month at the Edmond Public Library, 10 S Boulevard.
They are also looking for donations and building space to set up offices. Those interested in helping or looking for more information can call Hamilton at 850-8000.
