TONI BRAXTON BREAKS DOWN AFTER DEDICATING SONG TO SON
Friday, October 20, 2006
Toni Braxton stunned fans during a recent concert at the Flamingo in Las Vegas, Nevada, when she broke down in tears while discussing her autistic son. The singer is married to musician Keri Lewis and they have two sons, Denim Cole, four, and Diezel Ky, three.
A source tells MSNBC’s The Scoop,
“She was dedicating ‘I Wanna Be (Your Baby)’ to her son, and then she said something about how people have warned her that she shouldn’t talk about it, but said that he was autistic, and then she started crying and rushed off stage. It was very emotional.”
Fans were moved by Braxton’s honesty and have shown a tremendous amount of support. One fan, who also has an autistic child, wrote to the star saying, “Please don’t lose heart. You’ll see great improvements with your little one. May God bless you and bring your little one around soon.”
Yall make sure you keep Toni and her family in your thoughts/prayer…












79 Comments
COMMENT PAGES: [1] 2 » Show All
1.
creolebutterfly
Friday, October 20, 2006 /
Toni I will pray for you and your son
2.
BashyBoo
Friday, October 20, 2006 /
I WOULD HAVE BEEN A MESS ON THAT STAGE TOO, SO SAD
3.
Joanna UK
Friday, October 20, 2006 /
Am a great fan of Toni’s, I hope her and her husband can be strong. The plus side (if there is one) is that they can probably afford the best medical care to ensure their son lives a quality life
4.
Yola
Friday, October 20, 2006 /
Oh, that’s very sad. Will surely keep her and her family in my prayers. God still sits on the throne of grace and will definitely perform a miracle in their lives. Keep the faith Tony… All the best.
5.
SaFFIRE IN NY
Friday, October 20, 2006 /
TOOOOOOONNNNNNNNYYYYY GIRL WHERE YA BEEN ALL MUH LIFE, NAW IM JUST JOKIN. I HOPE YOUR SON GETS BETTER. HE WILL EVENTUALLY COME AROUND. GOD TOLD ME TO TELL YOU SO. KEEP YOUR HEAD UP.
6.
blk dds
Friday, October 20, 2006 /
Toni needs some time off. Sit that Vegas act down and devote more time into your son.
May The Almighty bless her and her family.
7.
PAT
Friday, October 20, 2006 /
TONI IF U SEE THIS
REMEMBER NOTHIN IS TOO BE FOR GOD
U AND YOURS R IN MY PRAYERS
8.
Bouga
Friday, October 20, 2006 /
This is really sad. My wife Toni, keep the first girl. May God give Toni and Keri the strength to care and support their son.
Keri even left his boys Mint Condition to take care of his family, he’s a great man. All the best to them.
9.
Lilly
Friday, October 20, 2006 /
I have a friend who has an autistic son…..he is starting to improve. He is 7 years old and “just” beginning to talk…but he “is” trying to say words. Its like his speech is that of a 2 year old. But, he understands EVERYTHING you say to him.
Austic children are usually very smart and creative.
10.
Lilly
Friday, October 20, 2006 /
BOUGA:
You got ONE more time to call someone else your wife! And then I am calling my lawyer..
11.
GirlBlue
Friday, October 20, 2006 /
Truly sad, but many autistic children make great improvements. In fact, one of my friend’s boyfriend was an autistic child and now he is the principal of an elementary school at age 28…India.arie said it best, THERE’S HOPE!
12.
carmeldelight
Friday, October 20, 2006 /
aw thats sad god bless you toni and your family. i have an autistic cousin and he’s the guy that everybody she be like kind hearted, thoughtful, and people like him are positive and people that everybody should be around because they are so sweet!!!!!
13.
Trudy
Friday, October 20, 2006 /
@ BOUGA,
I AGREE WITH LILLY, HOW MANY WIVES DO YOU HAVE?? I REALLY WANT TO KNOW HOW MANY WE ARE? I CAN’T KEEP SHARING YOU LIKE THAT! I WANT YOU ALL TO MYSELF…
14.
Yola
Friday, October 20, 2006 /
@ #9;11& 12, Thank you for the inspiring testimonies. There really is hope for autistic children. All the best to everyone who is going through it.
15.
NiQ
Friday, October 20, 2006 /
That is just terrible, I hope they make it through this difficult time…Im blessed to have a happy healthy child, and I hope one day…she and her family can get the help they really need. May GOD bless them.
16.
Soulfull
Friday, October 20, 2006 /
Man, may God bless her and keep her and her family in his loving embrace…
17.
1NubianQueen
Friday, October 20, 2006 /
With God all things are possible! God obviously felt that Toni/Kerri were able to take this task on. Just keep the faith Toni/Kerri and things will turn around. I have a friend whose little brother is autistic and he’s 17 now and he’s very smart and creative. Toni/Kerri’s family will be in my prayers.
18.
trinib
Friday, October 20, 2006 /
wow…seeing a different side to CL people….loving it
Toni and family…be blessed and know u are one with the spirit…in him everything is possible.
19.
mika
Friday, October 20, 2006 /
That is really sad & unfortunate. I couldn’t imagine going through that with my children.
20.
jscene
Friday, October 20, 2006 /
It’s hard right now Toni, but i swear it’ll get better! I know you feel like a bomb has been dropped, but while it’s a rare disorder, it’s been thoroughly studied, and your son has a great future ahead of him. I know the dream is when we have kids is that our children are born healthy, but sometimes that doesn’t happen, and while you’re down now, you will eventually come to see how this disorder just makes Diesel that much more special of a gift! I know someone who has a daughter with this disorder and she’s as smart as a whip, she just don’t talk or socialize alot, though she has her moments when she reaches out. Please don’t be disheartened, this disorder your son has just mean he requires a little more extra care, but lorrrrrd look out for the rewards!
There’s no way this would be happening to you if God knew you couldn’t handle this. You’ve already been blessed in so many ways; you’re one of the most envied women in the world when it comes to your beauty and voice; you’ve got a marriage that has lasted at least 4 years, you have your family to support you; your career (singing/broadway) is allowing you to show a great range of versatility- (my god girl you have it all)!
I luv you as a artist, much success on that. And personally you seem to be a really good person (drama free). The lord will look after his own and that includes you. Keep your head up. Normally i would say i’d pray for you, but on second thought, i think God got this…just do your best with him, love him as you have been, use the god-given resources you’ve already been blessed with, and leave the rest to God.
Take care and i look forward to hearing about Diesel’s accomplishments and/or successes.
21.
Bouga
Friday, October 20, 2006 /
@ Lilly and Trudy
Well, I’ve always liked Toni, before she married Keri.
And you know I’m African and very traditional, so I can have as many wives as I want, just like Akon, lol.
22.
Lilly
Friday, October 20, 2006 /
@ BOUGA:
The divorce papers are in the mail!! Be prepared to give me HALF of your internet site… I want alimony and I want the mercedes.
{cause you are do cute, I’ll let you hit it one more time}
23.
Shag
Friday, October 20, 2006 /
NEW MOMS BEWARE: I heard a Bobby Kennedy,and a doctor yesterday on, AirAmerica radio. They were talking about how incidence of Autism used to arise in kids at the rate of 1 in 2500. It is now 1 in 166, and 1 in 80 boys.
They both stated the reason is because of aerisol vaccines. Kennedy said, prior to 1989, kids only received 3 vaccines, they now receive 22. Included in that 22 is mercury at a very dangerous level.
He said the government is aware of it and has covered it up. Also, they have shielded the pharmaceutical companies from any responibility, with the help of Sen. Frist of Tennessee.
He said their are non-aerisol vaccines available, and parents should ask for those. This info needs to be spread.
24.
quick question
Friday, October 20, 2006 /
There is NOTHING too hard for God
25.
SUGA BUGA
Friday, October 20, 2006 /
I agree, why is she on tour at at time like this?. God can turn things around, just look at that autistic boy that made all of thoes basketball shots. Prayer makes a difference, and there is alot of things out there for kids with disabilities!!
26.
KB
Friday, October 20, 2006 /
Shag
What is an aerisol vaccine?
27.
Queshia
Friday, October 20, 2006 /
May God bless Toni and her Son. I always listen to Mary Mary’s Yesterday when i am feeling blue it always helps me back on my feet.
28.
Miss Chi Chi
Friday, October 20, 2006 /
I did my master’s thesis on autism and to this day there is NO cure for autism. I know plenty of people [rich & poor} who struggle daily with their autistic children. This is far too sad and I’m glad Hollywood is finally tapping into autism. What pisses me off about autism is that SOME people are quick to think those with autism is just like Dustin Hoffman in “Rain Man” or Sean Penn in “I Am Sam.” Toni just keep your head it’ll be alright in the end.
29.
Danielle
Friday, October 20, 2006 /
Like someone said….autistic children usually grow up to be very smart and creative….I know it will be hard Toni, but please keep the faith. God is real!
30.
Tigress81
Friday, October 20, 2006 /
#23-Shag. Thank you for the informative post!
Austism is a challenge; I just hope Tony remains optimistic and not fatalistic about the situation. She is in a far better predicament than most individuals who have a loved one struggling with this disorder–she has the monetary resources to get her son the best help possible. And never forget prayer!!
Vaccinations aside, diet and the environment may also be contributors.
This country really needs to investigate the rising incidence of the three A’s that are affecting young’ins: anemia, asthma, and autism.
31.
naturalblkluv
Friday, October 20, 2006 /
dayum, i dont like it when pretty girls cry.all parents want there children to be healthy happy and safe. the want them to grow up and and live great lives and chieve all there dreams and to have that dream redirected or aborted is very sad and it takes parents yrs to get over that. after a lil while things will and you deal with the hand life gives you and live another day.
32.
sheneice
Friday, October 20, 2006 /
GOD BLESS TONI AND HER FAMILY I’LL BE PRAYING FOR THEM
33.
leekagyrl
Friday, October 20, 2006 /
Toni is really struggling with this. Austistic children are actually very intelligent children and pleasant and extremely loving. She is blessed, God picked this soul for Toni to nurture and care for. I hope she stays strong and keeps loving and doing her best as a mother! I’m sure she is a good mom…….I will defnatley ask for God to keep her encouraged.
34.
Sharon
Friday, October 20, 2006 /
Hopefully– Toni and her husband can help drive the awareness of this disease. It’ s more common that most people think…one in 166 children are diagnosed annually. The cause is unknown and there’s no “cure”. Although, children can improve with the proper medical attention and therapy
We should all pray for a cure for this disease.
35.
Ms. T
Friday, October 20, 2006 /
My son is autistic, he is 3 years old and making great strides. His language is delayed but he can talk and he understands everything that I say to him.
My son can write his name, knows his ABCs, can count 1-30, identify shapes and colors and count objects.
So yes autistic children are extremely intelligent.
His pre-k teacher told me that he is the most advanced child in his class acedmically he just needs to improve his langauge and social skills.
I too was a complete mess when my son was first diagnosed. It takes a while to come to terms with it.
But then I realized that AUTISM IS NOT A DEATH SENTENCE. And with the proper help and support a child can make great advances.
So if I could talk to Toni I would tell her be grateful that it was diagnosed early, STAY IN PRAYER, and seek out the best help available(teachers, speech therapists, child psychologists) AND HE SHOULD BE A-0K.
36.
Ohsoluvlee1
Friday, October 20, 2006 /
I have an autistic cousin and yes Toni they are the sweetest kids you could ever want to meet. Keep that child on the alter and keep faith that with God all things are possible.
37.
southern_gal213
Friday, October 20, 2006 /
I understand Toni’s emotions. Especailly since the situation is still “fresh”. But in time things will turn around. Having a child with autism isn’t easy;but managable. In my experience there will always be a “hill to climb”,but I’ve gotten “over the hill” and my son is
a very intelligent and happy child. He surpsies me everyday. God is good!
38.
Slovely
Friday, October 20, 2006 /
Poor thing. I sure will Angel. LA
39.
PLEEZE!!!
Friday, October 20, 2006 /
That is so SAD!!!!! I have 2 sons as well and I am so GREATFULL that they are both pretty normal and VERY intelligent!!!
I will be praying for Toni and her family and for more breakthroughs in medicin regarding autism
40.
Shag
Friday, October 20, 2006 /
I don’t have the particulars on the “Aerisol spray.” But according to Congressman Bobby Kennedy, and a doctor who called that same show, all pediatricians are aware of the difference between the aerisol and the non-aerisol vaccines. I thinks it’s very important for new moms to look into.
I just went to the Center for Disease Control website, and there is a lot of info on vaccines in there. Just do a Google search under, CDC.
41.
jscene
Saturday, October 21, 2006 /
@ suga buga #25 & blk dds #6
WHAT KIND OF CRAZY TALK IS THAT! How many of us can afford to quit our jobs to take care of our families..no toni doesn’t need to quit her job, because her job is what’s going to afford her son resources in which to help him…She and her family have bills just like the rest of us, and with her lifestyle, cannot afford to quit her job. Suga buga asked why is she on tour right now. For the same damn reason she decided to do the tour, she has bills!
Right now things in her life should be a constant, where if she quit her job, her son would have to be uprooted and moved to another environment. Please, really think about what you’re posting before you do so.
I’m sure toni is constantly thinking about what she could have done and what she can do, she does not need to be made to feel guilty about working right now or anything else; she cant’ stop working, she seems to be the breadwinner though i don’t know all their personal business..and quitting her job is not a option…
42.
SUGA BUGA
Saturday, October 21, 2006 /
Jscene: OKAY DEAR, I just asked why she was on tour? There is no need to have a baby over it. Her man is a muscian too, why cant he be on the road? Calm down, go take a laxative!!
43.
shahron39
Saturday, October 21, 2006 /
I understand how Toni feels - I have commented before when it was first posted about her son. My son is Autistic and believe me its not easy. All autistic children are not the same - so for those of you who keep saying that god will perform miracles or that there is nothing too hard for god, although you say it with the best of intentions until you actually experience having to live with a child with autism on a day to day basis, you don’t know what it’s like. If I believed in God the way some of you do I would think us parents were cursed. It’s better to say that in life we have challenges and that through the support of family and teachers etc it helps us to try and get through it. It’s not something that children can recover from or get better, they may improve, which a lot do. I know some parents have autistic children who at the age of 9 have to wear incontinence pants because they are unable to use toilets. My son is 9 and I am fortunate that he is able to use the toilet. His main problem at the moment is speech. He has improved alot because it was diagnosed early but nevertheless some of the things he does still affects you mentally. There have been women who have commited suicide because of their child’s disability, so please don’t mention God in this way. If miracles happened our children would have been cured through simple prayer. It’s just life and things happen in life that either makes you or breaks you.
44.
shahron39
Saturday, October 21, 2006 /
And also some parents because they have support from immediate family or friends are still able to work. I work 4 hours a day and I think that if you can work,it is the best thing for you. So I dont think Toni should give up her career, although it would probably depend on how serious his autism is, because it wont just affect her but her husband would be finding this just as hard as well as the rest of the family.
45.
Ian
Saturday, October 21, 2006 /
I have a brother that’s autistic, and the first thing Toni, and everybody needs to know is that everyc child is different. Poster Lilly said that she has a friend with a child that’s 7 who’s just starting to talk, my brother was already talking by the time he was 5. Every child is different. Autism is not something that can be cured, but it can be overcome, not with drugs or meds, but with hard work and dedication. Speach therapy, ocupational therapy and just spending LOTS of time with the child so that he doesnt get lost in his own world. Force him to be a part of ours.
My brother is 22, he is a wiz in computer games, he knows has taken various vocational courses (woodwork, cooking, baking, etc), and he’s taking his 12th grade equivalency exam.
People with autistic children, dont despair. Your child can lead a semi-normal, productive, independent life, you just have to put in the work and dedication to help them overcome their condition.
May God give Toni, and anyone out there struggling with this the patience, love and understanding they will need to help their child overcome this.
46.
lea
Saturday, October 21, 2006 /
i agree with #43 autism is a learning disability not a sickness folk acting like toni is suffering what she needs to do is keep her ass home and teach him herself with patience and all the love she has inside of her treat him like a normal kid and he will be just fine patience is the key here i should know my son has austim and at first i waz scared but then i had to realise this kid did not ask to come here and if he can hear he can learn and we r doing great his speech is a lil off but he understand discipline is the key also not abuse
47.
lea
Saturday, October 21, 2006 /
oh i forgot he sings i no u dee it by young joc thats how he seds it “dee” lololololoololoo it so cute to see him point at him self and say it lolol i wanted to share that lolololololol
48.
JOYEBB
Saturday, October 21, 2006 /
Having a child who is “diagnosed” with autism is rough. My son, who is 12, was diagnosed at the age of two and a half. He had behavioral problems, speech delays, and problems communicating his needs. It was very difficult the first 5 years. Things are better, but my son may never have what people consider to be a normal life. That’s okay, as long as he is happy, and lives his best life. That’s all I want for him.
As much as people would like to believe, “raising him right” is not a cure. Staying home and taking care of him is all fine and good, but even the most saintly of parents need respite care, and time away from home. I had people tell me all the time that all I needed to do was to be a better parent, and my son would be better. It was extremely frustrating, since no one bothered to educate themselves on what austism was or what my son needed. I’m sure Toni Braxton spends lots of time with her children. That was the reason why Celine Dion got a Vegas gig–stability. Stability is key for autistic children. At the end of the day, Toni Braxton is a bigger name than being a member of Mint Condition. People will pay to see her. She is bringing in the money to take care of her special child in the way he needs to be taken care of. Let’s face it, when your child is diagnosed with a disablity, you will move heaven and earth to get him the best care. I only wish I could do more for my son. She’s lucky. Most of our 9 to 5’s don’t pay enough to provide our children with everything there is to offer in the way of treatment for autism. My son is getting good schooling and therapy, but I had to fight hard for that.
My son is a wonderful and loving child, but the first few years was really rough. As #43 said, we had issues with incontinence for 3 years, and he was basically nonverbal until age four, then he began to blossom. He speaks like any other child-just with a slight impediment-and he has been continent since age 5. The period of time between diagnosis and beginning to see positive changes varies for each child. I was blessed that our period of adjustment only lasted five years. Some folks’ difficulty lasts for the duration.
I wish her well, and I know what she is going through. To those who chose to judge, she needs your prayers, not condemnations. Educate yourselves. Do us all a favor.
49.
theatrakal_1908
Saturday, October 21, 2006 /
there’s hope, im sure they’re still learning about it in her family, so the more that she learns about it, the better she’ll start to feel about him growing into a completely normal and active child. she and her family are certainly in my prayers…
50.
rehabloveaddict
Saturday, October 21, 2006 /
Toni was having problems with her husband for a while now. This was a very difficult pregnancy for Toni indeed. Also the rigors of doing that video while pregnant also took its toll. Now instead of pointing fingers, she should deal with the misstakes that were made and try to correct it. Staying home more and really connecting with her family would help alot. Your child Toni is a gift to you to choose what is more important in your life, and pay attention. Good Luck to you Ms. Toni
51.
jscene
Sunday, October 22, 2006 /
@ suga buga
Quit it. You asked why can’t her man be on the road cause he’s a musician too…well damn, i don’t know their personal business. He don’t have a cd out so what reason would he gave to be on the road? Please make sense. And I wasn’t having a baby over what you said, nor do i need a laxative. Just urging you to be mindful of what you post on this very sensitive subject because most mothers when something is wrong with their child automatically blame themselves for so much; now is not the time to call her job into question. Please take no offense…
52.
jscene
Sunday, October 22, 2006 /
@ #50 rehabloveaddict who wrote:
“Toni was having problems with her husband for a while now. This was a very difficult pregnancy for Toni indeed. Also the rigors of doing that video while pregnant also took its toll. Now instead of pointing fingers, she should deal with the misstakes that were made and try to correct it. Staying home more and really connecting with her family would help alot. Your child Toni is a gift to you to choose what is more important in your life, and pay attention. Good Luck to you Ms. Toni”
My response:
OKAY NOW I’M MAD AND I’M GOING STRAIGHT HOOD ON YOUR STUPID ASS!!!! YOU SOUND LIKE THE BIGGEST FOOL EVER! WHO THE FUCK TOLD YOU WHAT CAUSES AUTISM STUPID BITCH! WHERE IS YOUR FUCKIN MEDICAL DEGREE YOU IGNORANT ASS! YOU SOUND LIKE A TONI HATER; DON’T COME ON THIS SITE PRETENDING TO CONSOLE HER WITH THAT BULLSHIT POST, JUST TO POINT OUT ANYTHING IN HER LIFE THAT YOU PERCEIVE TO BE NEGATIVE! YOU SIMPLY DON’T LIKE HER AND ARE TAKING THIS OPPORTUNITY FOR A LOW BLOW YOU FUCKIN LOW LIFE! AND YOU HAVE THE NERVE TO COME ON HERE TALKING ABOUT RUMORS LIKE YOU ACTUALLY LIVED IN HER HOUSE AND KNOW WHAT’S GOING ON; YOU KNOW NOTHING YOU STUPID BITCH! I REALLY WANT TO KNOW WHO THE FUCK TOLD YOU STRESS CAUSES AUTISM, CAUSE IF THAT’S A FACT, EVERY GHETTO CHILD OR CHILD BORN IN URBAN AREAS SHOULD BE AUTISTIC!
I SWEAR I’M STUNNED AT YOUR HATE AND IGNORANCE…TAKE YOUR DUMB SHIT SOMEWHERE ELSE. YOU MADE NO FUCKIN SENSE AT ALL. BUT I THINK YOUR NAME TELLS IT ALL - I GUESS I SHOULD EXPECT THAT FROM SOMEONE WITH A LOG ON NAME OF “REHAB LOVE ADDICT”…YOU MUST BE STILL ON WHATEVER THE FUCK TOOK YOUR DUMB ASS TO REHAB. COME BACK ON THIS SITE WHEN YOU’RE FUCKIN SOBER YOU DUMB BITCH! I HATE SNEAKY HATERS WHO TAKE AN OPPORTUNITY TO GO OFF ON SOMEONE THEY PREVIOUSLY WERE JEALOUS OF OR HATED ON BACK IN THE DAY, WHEN THEY FINALLY FIND AN OPPORTUNITY TO DO SO. IF I COULD FIND MORE DEROGATORY WORDS TO CALL YOU I WOULD HAVE USED THEM YOU LOW LIFE HATER!
53.
bon bon
Sunday, October 22, 2006 /
I agree with #52. WTF is #50 talking about?! And hello, she’s a performer. That what she does. When was the last time she had an album out? Plus if you perform in Vegas, you make major gouda.
Autism can be very rough on anyone. It’s not cause by not spending QT with your fam or Being busy while your pregnant. You wanna know more I suggest you atleast go to wikipedia.org. It’s made for dumb asses like our friend rehabloveaddict
54.
bon bon
Sunday, October 22, 2006 /
Also, my deepest prayers go out to Toni’s family. I have a close friend who’s autistic and I could just imagine what she and her entire family is going through.
55.
lea
Sunday, October 22, 2006 /
@#52 you r all that with that response thank you so much autistic children every where would luv to meet you and thank you and for the record autism is random not cause by parents it just happens maybe shot at birth to 1 yr old that what they r trying to find out until then we hafto be loving parents patience is key i cant say that enough
56.
southern_gal213
Sunday, October 22, 2006 /
PLEASE PEOPLE DO SOME RESEARCH….BEFORE COMMENTING ON THIS SUBJECT/POST.-That comment about “stress” causing autism,well that’s some damn “ish”! Because if that were the case then my daughter should be autistic NOT my son. I was under lots of stress when I carried my daughter. So autism has nothing to do with STRESS! *this would be directed at #50.
57.
WhyLawd
Sunday, October 22, 2006 /
I can most relate to #48. It is very rough to have a child diagnosed with Autism. My cousin is autistic, and while I might not have as much time with him as people who have an autistic child or an autistic sibling, I have spent my fair share of time with him. And let me tell you, it is not easy.
Have any of you who have not had first hand/long term experience with an autistic person even researched what autism is? It’s not a learning disorder as #46 said. Please look it up on an autism site or on wikipedia before you go giving false definitions.
While I do not live with my cousin, I’ve been his occasional babysitter since birth, and caring for him is NOT easy by any means. All autistic children are different. My cousin is now 8 and is just really starting to speak in sentences. Most often he repeats what everyone says. It was so scary in the days when he couldn’t talk because sometimes he would end up with bruises after coming home from his paid babysiter and he couldn’t tell us if he was being beaten or if he fell, if he was being molested or otherwise abused. Unfortunately my aunt does not have the patience to deal with him and is constantly highly stressed and screams at him a lot. I’ve had to live with him and take care of him by myself with no help for 3 weeks and it was a crazy and very enlightening experience. He drove me up the wall but it was out of sheer love for him that I kept pushing on. And that’s only for 3 weeks! I can’t even imagine how difficult it is to take care of him as his mother.
I love my cousin very much and I have hope that he will eventually communicate as “normally” as he can and will be able to live as normal a life as any of us can live. However I do believe Toni has to pay her own bills and getting the best care for a disabled child can be very expensive. Also it has nothing to do with how rigorous you are during pregnant #50. There is no absolute definitive cause for autism, although it has been linked to the 3-in-1 booster shot. That is not the only thing that can cause autism in a child, and I am not sure what else is cited as a possible cause for autism.
Do the best you can for your child Toni. That’s all any of us can do.
58.
londonfreak
Sunday, October 22, 2006 /
1st of all id like to wish Toni all the best with what it is that she’s dealing with right now!
Secondly toni isnt on tour, she signed a 7million dollar contract to take over Dionne warwick @ the flamingo in Vegas, till March 07.
Her show is called “Toni Braxton - Revelaed”…..performing over 20 of her songs dating back to 1993, as well as tracks from her 2005 release “LIBRA” the show has seen prince, babyface, gladys knight etc come out to support & celebrate her carrer
www.toni-online.com has a petition that will be sent to toni’s managemengt to support her during this tough time(under the forum section) as well as news, clips, pics etc on toni.
59.
chacha123
Sunday, October 22, 2006 /
Here’s something that popped up on google regarding the AEROSOL VACCINES. It’s about their potential use in 3rd world countries but it should provide some general background for those who are interested in the topic. I hope the link works!
http://news.zdnet.com/210...mp;tag=feed&subj=zdnn
60.
MOMMIE4LYFE
Monday, October 23, 2006 /
Toni, my heart goes out to you and yours. I will definitely keep you in my prayers. Although it may seem impossible to imagine, know that “All Things Are Possible, Through He Who Strenghtens Me”…..
Keep mental measures of your son’s progress and in time you will come to appreciate where you are in life. Today isn’t as bad as yesterday and tomorrow will be better than today. If you measure it day by day, it’s a lot easier to see the varying degrees of improvements and celebrate those, rather than focus on thing Diezel in incapable of doing (for now). Try to refrain from displaying your disappointment and sadness. Although you know in your heart, it’s not dissappointment that he is your child, but rather, you wishing for better circumstances for your loved one……..he is unable to understand that.
Trust me when I say that all children (yours included) have a way of knowing when mommy/daddy are sad and that in itself will imped progress. Praise him for any accomplishments, no matter the size and he will surprise you!!
May God bless you and keep you strong…………
61.
quashana denise singleton
Tuesday, November 21, 2006 /
Toni,
The Lord does not give us more than we can handle in life. The Lord saw that you are a beautiful and loving woman and knew that you were the perfect solider for this assignment. Hang in there. This child may achieve great things for the world and make momma proud one day!!!! Remember love and devotion conquers all.
62.
jaquiz
Wednesday, November 29, 2006 /
first of all children with autism are not called autistic. and she shouldn’t be that sad, there is hope!
63.
Louise
Tuesday, January 2, 2007 /
Toni Braxton looks great!
I like the dramatic look with the red and the shades.
I work with Autistic students and I think that she will be okay.
She has to figure out what methods of teaching work best with him and with lots of attention and reinforcements, he should excell at his own pace.
This is a very challenging subject for parents but JESUS can help them as a family and they will get through it with faith.
I think that prayer will help her through this.
We should remember her and her family in our prayers.
PRAYER DOES CHANGE THINGS.
HAPPY NEW YEARS EVERYONE!
64.
Michelle Singh
Saturday, January 13, 2007 /
Sorry, but this is long.
I have always been a big Toni Braxton fan. I have a 5 yr old son with autism. I don’t like to say he is “autistic”, because that is not what he is. It is what he has. First and formost he is a little boy and not a label. My heart goes out to Toni. I know that I didn’t sleep much for the first 6 months and did all my research at night when he was sleeping. I know Toni was very upset that her son was not diagnosed sooner when she brought this up with thier pediatrician. This was the same for us. He could have been diagnosed at 15-18 months, but was not diagnosed until 26 mos. Early Intervention is so important at this age. I have taught my pediatrician a lot about autism. He was misinformed 3yrs ago. There is not support for families dealing with this. There is an 80% divorce rate with families with an autistic child. If it is normally 50% with “nurotypical” children, I guess we have 30% more stesses to deal with. I am a moderator of a parent support group. Parents are dealing with so much. Many of the therapies our children need the school districts won’t pay for. If a family can afford the therapies they can run 5 to 20,000 a month and many times it is hard to tell which therapy is making the difference. There is not enough research being done. Things have changed a lot in just 3 yrs. More pediatricians are aware of the early signs of autism. One test is called C.H.A.T. It stands for ChildHood Autism Test. That is why Toni said it could have been caught at 15-18mos. The test is for toddlers this age. The county Regional Services are supposed to be doing community outreach and visiting pediactric offices letting them know if any parents are concern with development whether it be motor skills, speech or social can be referred to them for free screenings and services. Regional services do not do this enough probably because they can’t afford to support so many children out there that are falling through the cracks. Helping families and giving them all the referals to resources has help me heal. By turning something positive out of something so devastating. We can all do our part, because someday we will all know someone touched with with heartbreaking disability. The autism community could really benefit from a well respected spokesperson like Toni Braxton. She didn’t hide her son’s autism, but showed us that autism has no boundaries and can affect anyone. I’m sure she has enough on her plate right now as many of us parents do, but she could make a huge difference to our community. There is so much political bullshit surrounding autism its criminal. Read, “Evidence of Harm”. It has to do with the vaccines and mercury. The phamacutical companies are not spending any money on research not only because there is no money to be made for them with autism- it’s not like there is some magic pills cocktail like there is for aides. In addition they won’t do any research because they could posibly be the ones that pushed many of these children over the edge into autism. If you want to make a difference, vote for politicians that support autism research and therapy funding and health care reform. Attitude is the REAL disability.
Michelle
mother to a 5yr old angle
65.
Caity
Tuesday, January 30, 2007 /
Toni:
I know you probably feel that you are in a bottomless pit of hopelessness and despair — a deep, dark abyss that nobody else can possibly understand. And if there was anything I could do for you and for all others who are going through this, I would. I have a 5-year-old son with autism, who was never caught by the pediatrician at all, but rather by a SLP relative when he was 3-1/2. So I share your frustration about the ignorance/misinformation of the medical profession. However, a lot of what these people are saying is true:
a.) Pray — it DOES work
b.) Do your homework as I’m sure you are
c.) Be patient — progress can be painfully slow
d.) Hope — there are so many “success” stories in the autism world — your son can be one of those … who knows?
e.) Believe — if you don’t…how can he?
f.) Love and accept. I’m still working on that second part, but I believe it can make all the difference.
And please know there are many, many of us out there who share your struggles. You are not alone — among us strangers - nor among your friends and family.
You are in my prayers.
Caity
66.
locus
Thursday, February 22, 2007 /
WOW THATS REALLY SAD. YOU ALWAYS PRAY THAT YOUR KIDS COME OUT HEALTHY BUT WHEN IT DOESN’T IT CAN BE DEVASTATING. I HOPE THAT SHE IS ABLE TO BECOME MORE STRONGER FOR HER SON, SHE DOES NEED TO TALK ABOUT IT. HOLDING IT IN WILL MAKE HER CRAZY.
67.
Stacee
Saturday, April 7, 2007 /
I too am a mother of an 11 year old with Autism. I agree with Michelle, there is a ton of misinformation around this condition. My son was full of Mercury, and Lead. Where did the Mercury come from? I believe my son was poisoned by the vaccinations. Thimerasol, a Mercury based preservative (49%) was and still is in the vaccinations (and flu shots) and kids are STILL getting sick. Why are pediatricians telling parents give their babies 35 shots by 18 months? Who said it is safe? It’s possible there are other contributing factors as well, I have amalgam (metal) fillings in my teeth, our soil is depleated, pollution, and so on. Even so, why put at deadly poisonous, neuro-toxin (second only to Uranium) in vaccines and inject it into babies, absurd. I gave birth to a healthly 9lb.1oz. baby boy and basically watched him start to deteriorate by 18 months. The CDC says there is no link between Autism and vaccines, but if you follow the money trial it’s obvious why they say this. The CDC, Pharmaceudical Companies and the higher-ups in the Medical community are all in cahoots which each other. The bottom line is GREED and Corporate Self interest, it’s all about the money. Eli Lily the manufacturer of Thimerasol attached a rider to the Home Land Security Bill protecting themselves from being litigated against. Look it up! There IS data linking this national crisis to “hot” vaccinations, it’s been covered up and changed by well funded Pharmaceudical Companies and the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and the powers that be that benefit from this tragedy.
FYI..if you look up Mercury Poisoning and Autism, they look like the SAME THING!!!!
I am raising my son a single parent (my ex-husband could’nt deal) it’s very hard, but I have personally seen miracles.
I have always felt deep down that my boy was not born this way. The more I understood the biomedical aspects of this thing we call Autism and began to address each issue, one by one, the better my son got. Yes, he used to be incontinent, did not sleep at night, and was horribly self-injurous, head banging, crying constantly, et cetera, but now he isn’t. He is thriving and exceeding all expectations. Therapies are great but, please help your child’s body begin to heal itself. They are suffering and can’t say, “my guts are on fire”, “I’m in pain all the time”.
Please don’t ever give up and don’t EVER give in or take no for an answer. Listen to your gut. We are all they have and we must fight for our children.
I too have felt cursed at times, but my son is my hero, he has given my a different heart for world and taught me what love and courage really is. When I get into self pity, I look at my son and all he’s come through and I know I can continue to carry on….. Listen, there is a God that will never leaves us for forsake us, and we are not here to have a perfect life, but I take comfort in knowing that though I walk through some deep very water, I do not walk through it alone.
Toni, my heart is with you and your family……..
Stacee
Please Google
Mother’s Against Mercury
The Britni Foundation
www.nvic.org
www.brainchildnutritionals.com
68.
AJ TONEY
Sunday, July 22, 2007 /
my nephew has autism and I know other parents who struggle with this complex disorder. I want you to know there is one friend of mine that reversed the autism in her child. He speaks with confidence and authority, He is a example that all things are possible. She has been sharing her story and I know the information would be valuable to all those who are searching for answers. Keep your head to the sky and know that God has something in store for you and your family ,receive it!!!
BLESSINGS
AJ TONEY
69.
Amanda
Tuesday, October 2, 2007 /
To Michelle, I’m afraid I have to disagree with you about something. I have an autistic child also, and I believe she is autistic, rather than has autism. My belief is that autism is not a disease that you have, it is a way of experiencing the world. Everything that she does, every way that she experiences her physical and social world, she does through what I call “autistic eyes”, which changes everything. The means that her experience of her world is totally different to a neurotypical experience. It’s not necessarily a bad thing, although sometimes it can be a hard thing, made harder by the attitude of other people and a lack of support services etc. The way she sees the world can be magical and fascinating, a gift. I feel privileged to be able to see the world through her autistic eyes. But it’s not something she has, like brown hair, or a hat or something. It’s part of her, it is her. It took me time to realise that, and when I did, I understood her so much better. And often it is exhausting, and there have been times, in the early days of her diagnosis, when I wished it wasn’t so, like all of us, but it is who she is and I am very proud of her, like you are of your child. So I agreed with everything you said, except that.
To Toni Braxton, I am not going to throw platitudes or bullshit. You are going through a hard time right now, it is your grief process. It will take time to get through that. But your grief is about you in the end, grieving for the child you thought you had and the plans you had for him, and the hard road you are going to have. And that’s OK, that’s normal. We all felt that way, and some days we still feel that way. And when you are ready, you will pick it up and run with it and be the best mother you can be for him. Just don’t go down the ABA path. It’s wrong, it’s bullying, and it was created by a nazi (seriously) who used to experiment on autistic children).
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JAMES VASQUEZ
Wednesday, November 21, 2007 /
My son is to autistic. There is nothing to be sad about. It is a blessing. My son was very difficult before we ever found out that he has autism. It is the most rewarding moments in our lives to see him excel. He is about to be six and we didnt find out until after his fourth birthday. Every child is different, but you get to be a kid with him. Explore life through his eyes.
75.
David
Friday, February 8, 2008 /
OH I LOVE HER AND MAY GOD BLESS HER
GOOOOOOD
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