Just as Olive was nearing age 2, alert grandparents pointed out that she may have developmental delays. Shortly afterward, at Olive’s two-year check up, Olive’s doctor recommended a thorough evaluation to assess possible speech and language delays.

As the family worked through a lengthy referral and diagnosis process, Olive’s parents noticed she struggled with the challenge of transitions. Her delays and challenges were confirmed with a diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).

Fortunately, with support provided by Boyer Children’s Clinic, Olive’s parents gained instrumental knowledge and learned to give Olive more time and a fair warning before transitions, which helped enormously. After attending Boyer for speech and occupational therapy for 4 - 5 months, Stoltz was surprised to be notified of a refusal of payment for speech therapy by his insurance company.  

Olive, now age 4, maintained her speech and occupational therapy at Boyer until her third birthday. Meanwhile, Jeremy continued to work with Boyer to address insurance payment challenges. After a year of claim denials, Boyer suggested Jeremy connect with Trish Thrush, Health Law Advocate/Insurance Navigator at Washington Autism Alliance & Advocacy. Trish wrote an appeal letter to the insurance provider and coordinated with the human resources department at Jeremy’s employer.

As a result of Trish’s efforts, approximately half of Boyer’s back bills have been covered and the family is relieved to have never received any bills for Olive’s speech therapy.

Jeremy feels pretty optimistic these days. Olive is now receiving ABA therapy and attending school at the Experimental Education Unit (EEU), which is “amazing”. Although there’s some anxiety about kindergarten, Olive’s parents know what works for their daughter, they have an Individual Education Plan (IEP) in place, and are ready to advocate on Olive’s behalf.

“She’s a really good kid,” Jeremy enthuses, “I enjoy my time with her - she’s fun to hang out with.”

Artwork by Olive