The proposed changes to how health officials will diagnose autism actually may reduce the number of kids diagnosed. But changing autism is a big concern for parents fighting the disorder.

Lynda Chandler Capaccio's young son Valor, has autism, but he has a regressive kind that wasn't always there.

"It's interesting that I named him Valor because I didn't know he had autism when he was born. In fact, he developed pretty normally until the age of about three, and all those developmental milestones he reached before three, they stopped," said Lynda.

Since his diagnosis, Lynda has made it her hobby to learn more about the disorder including the possible changes to the definition of autism. If these changes are implemented, it may mean childred with autism now maybe be reclassified as not having it.

And that could change the care you get from insurance.

"It's alarming because as a parent you fight for what you need. When you do see those resources, and you do see your child making progress and getting the help you need, to think those may be taken away, that can be devastating to a family."

A local doctor said the change shouldn't matter as parents should look for three basic problems.

"Everybody is different. Every child is unique, but these are the three domains I said: communication, socialization, and incognition," said Dr Aamir Mahmood.

Lynda's biggest fear is that children that really are autistic like her son and others may not get the help they need.

"Unfortunately, those kids won't get the services they need early on. But they will still have a problem that will have to be addressed later on," said Lynda.

It is unclear whether or not Valor's treatment will be covered under insurance.

There are actually ways you can help. The Valley's Autism Partnership, which Lydia helps run, is holding a 5K run on April 21st. Proceeds will benefit the partnership: which helps families with autistic kids.

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