LAKE MARY, FL -- Angel Diaz looks like a typical 8-year-old, but he's come a long way.
Angel has autism.
"Typical kids, they do a lot of things, but it's more hard for us because we have to teach him in different ways. They don't learn in the same way the other kids learn."
As part of his treatment routine, Angel gets occupational therapy 3 times a week. During the therapy, he wears a weighted belt.
"It’s a nice way of giving the body some weight information about where they are in space."
The weighted belt causes muscles to feel tension and sends that information to the brain, helping kids become more aware of their body and feel more in control.
"It is amazing sometimes, how a little bit of weight around the waist makes a big difference in some of the children."
The belt has made a difference for Angel.
"When he's wearing the belt, he's much more grounded. He's much more focused."
But some say it shouldn't be called a "miracle."
"That can be helpful to some children, but it's not helpful for all children, and it certainly is not a miracle cure for any childhood disorder."
While it may not be a cure, Hilsia says it's worth it.
"I think everything we do with him is part of his miracle."
It's helping her son get back to being a kid.
For more information, contact:
Sue Horwath, PT
Optimum Rehab
Lake Mary, FL
(321) 363-7620
optimumreh@aol.com
