Bennett is the most charismatic little boy who loves to greet everyone with a smile. He is playful, adventurous and loves his older brother and sister.
Bennett was diagnosed with Tuberous Sclerosis Complex at 13 months old after his parents noticed what they thought might be seizures. That combined with some white patches on his skin led to a brain MRI which confirmed the presence of multiple tumors in his brain. In a nutshell, TSC causes benign tumors to grow on several vital organs (heart, brain, kidneys, lungs, skin) and there is no “typical” manifestations or course it follows. Bennett’s seizures are well controlled now with medication. Although he is not officially diagnosed with Autism he has many “autistic-like” behaviors. TSC is the #1 genetic predictor of both Autism and Epilepsy.
Bennett is fortunate that he is only mildly affected at this time, but that could change at any given time. Bennett has a speech delay and some behavioral challenges but overall is doing well. He has annual MRI’s of his brain and abdomen and we are followed by a TS Clinic at the children’s hospital in Oakland.

You can learn more about TSC at www.tsalliance.org 

Bennett, you are such a cool kid and I am happy I was able to hang out with you during your session!