HARRIS – The Center for Discovery (TCFD) was featured on CBS Saturday morning on December 7, offering viewers an inside look at its model for helping individuals with autism and other complex disabilities live healthier and more independent lives.

CBS News Chief Medical Correspondent, Dr. Jon LaPook, narrated the segment, focusing on the journey of 20-year-old Tommy Bove. Diagnosed with autism and is nonverbal, Tommy struggled with significant challenges during the pandemic, including severe weight gain. After a three-year wait, he was accepted into TCFD’s pediatric residential program, where he has since made life-changing progress.

“This is the best place for him. This is the best thing that’s ever happened to him,” said Tommy’s parents, Scott and Kelly Bove, during the CBS interview.

Holistic Model

TCFD serves over 1,200 children and adults annually through a model that combines therapy, education, and health-focused initiatives. Residents take part in various programs, including farm work, equine therapy, and personalized nutrition plans, all designed to address their physical, emotional, and developmental needs.

Dr. Terry Hamlin, TCFD’s President and CEO, described the Center’s approach. “We are true to our mission in that we care for individuals with really complex disabilities,” she said. “When parents come here, we describe it as a program that looks at your whole child, appreciating them inside and out.”

The CBS segment highlighted how TCFD stands out from other programs across the country by taking a comprehensive approach to care. “Too often, autism is treated as a behavioral problem,” Dr. Hamlin said. “We’ve missed the bigger picture.”

Dr. Hamlin told the Democrat the value of the CBS feature. “We are incredibly proud that The Center’s work was highlighted on CBS News and seen by a national audience,” she said. “This added exposure is crucial in raising awareness of the impactful programs we provide, helping us extend our reach and ultimately, connecting with more families and helping their children with complex disabilities.”

Tommy’s Progress

For Tommy Bove, TCFD has been transformative. At the height of the pandemic, Tommy lived at home, struggling with obesity and behavioral challenges. He weighed 360 pounds and needed extensive support for daily tasks. Today, he has made significant improvements, losing weight and developing greater independence.

“He’s dressing himself now,” Kelly Bove shared. “It’s something we always just did for him. Seeing him do it on his own—it’s huge.”

The CBS segment showed Tommy participating in activities on TCFD’s farm, where residents harvest vegetables that are later used in meals. His parents described the changes they’ve seen as “shocking” and “remarkable.”

Food as Medicine

Nutrition plays a central role in the Center’s success. Through its “seed-to-belly” program, meals are made with whole, organic foods grown on-site, and ultra-processed foods are eliminated entirely. Jennifer Franck, Chief of the Department of Nourishment Arts, explained the importance of this approach.

“Food has amazing power,” she said. “It can either support or undermine your health.”

Sixty percent of TCFD’s adult residents maintain ideal body weight, and rates of high blood pressure and diabetes are significantly lower than the national average.

Looking Ahead

While Tommy’s progress has been a major victory, his family is now preparing for what comes next. At 22, he will age out of TCFD’s pediatric program, and adult placements are limited. This transition weighs heavily on his parents and sister, Courtney, who may eventually take on more responsibility for his care.

“It’s always there, the worry,” Kelly Bove said. Courtney added, “I know one day I’ll be in charge of him.”

National Model

Dr. LaPook closed the CBS segment by discussing the potential for TCFD to serve as a blueprint for other facilities nationwide. However, scaling the model to reach more families will require significant resources and planning.

The Center for Discovery serves as a resource for families like the Boves, focusing on helping individuals with complex disabilities build independence while addressing the challenges their families face.