Past Contest Entries

Hope On A Leash

List date(s) this work was published or aired.

22-Sep-11

Provide a brief synopsis of the story or stories, including any significant findings.

The Okerstrom family has 3 young children. Two of them have autism. This story documents their efforts over 3 years to help their youngest son Kadin, break the chains of severe autism. After trying numerous treatments they found their greatest hope on a leash.

Explain types of documents, data or Internet resources used. Were FOI or public records act requests required? How did this affect the work?

CDC information about autism

Explain types of human sources used.

Family members, doctors, therapists.

Results:

Great viewer response. Story continues to be popular on the station’s website.

Follow-up (if any). Have you run a correction or clarification on the report or has anyone come forward to challenge its accuracy? If so, please explain.

None

Advice to other journalists planning a similar story or project.

This project was shot over a long period. Take time, if you have it, to let moments happen on camera. Instead of shooting for a half hour, try an hour if you can. The results can be golden.

Place:

No Award

Year:

  • 2011

Category:

  • Consumer/Feature (large)

Affiliation:

KMSP-TV

Reporter:

Jeff Baillon, Bradley Swagger

Links: