How One Family’s Autism Journey Sparked a Movement—And What It Means for Families Seeking ABA Therapy in NC

Sometimes, it takes one family’s courage to create change for hundreds more. That’s exactly what happened in Waxhaw, North Carolina, when the Thoms family faced an all-too-common challenge: accessing life-changing autism therapy for their young son, Landon—only to be told their insurance wouldn’t cover it.

What followed wasn’t just a personal fight—it sparked a mission. Their story is powerful, but it's also a reflection of what so many families in North Carolina go through when trying to get the help their children need. And it’s why ongoing access to effective, personalized ABA programs in North Carolina is so essential.

ABA Therapy Changed Their Son’s Life

Landon was just 18 months old when his parents noticed a sudden shift—he stopped making eye contact and seemed to retreat into a world of his own. Like many parents receiving an autism diagnosis for the first time, Becky and Rudy Thoms were left with more questions than answers. But once Landon began Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy, they saw an incredible transformation.

“We lost eye contact. We thought he was deaf,” Becky shared. “When he started ABA therapy, he started to look at us again, to notice us again.”

The results were immediate and meaningful—ABA helped Landon communicate through pictures and devices, giving his family renewed hope. But that hope was nearly dashed when their insurance unexpectedly pulled coverage.

The cost? Up to $60,000 a year. The emotional toll? Devastating.

From Personal Crisis to Community Impact

Rather than accept defeat, the Thoms family used their frustration as fuel. They founded Autism Strong—a nonprofit that now funds therapies for families facing the same impossible choices they once did: pay the electric bill or continue therapy for their child?

What started with $8,000 in donations has since grown into a multimillion-dollar movement, helping more than 600 families access the therapy their children need to thrive.

And yet, despite this incredible progress, stories like this highlight just how essential it is for families to have consistent, affordable access to ABA therapy—without the fear of unexpected setbacks.

ABA Programs in North Carolina Matter More Than Ever

As inspiring as the Thoms family’s journey is, it also underscores a deeper truth: ABA therapy works, but it’s often difficult to access without advocacy, persistence, or—too often—outside financial help.

That’s why, at Achieve Better, we provide personalized, data-driven ABA programs in North Carolina that are built around each child’s individual needs. Our team understands the frustration families face, and we’re committed to making support accessible, effective, and empowering.

From early intervention to skill-building and communication, ABA therapy is about giving children the tools to succeed—and giving families peace of mind that progress is possible.

Every Child Deserves a Fighting Chance

Families shouldn’t have to become legal experts or fundraisers just to access essential therapy. Landon’s story reminds us that advocacy can change lives—but so can reliable care that’s available from day one.

Get in touch today to find out how our ABA programs in North Carolina can support your child’s growth, confidence, and future. You don’t have to walk this journey alone—we’re here to help your family achieve better.

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