About Doug Flutie Jr. and our History

Dougie Jr., Our Inspiration, His Legacy

Dougie Jr. was diagnosed with childhood disintegrative disorder (CDD), a very rare autism spectrum disorder, when he was three years old.

Dougie was typically developing until he started to lose his language, motor and social skills at age three. At the time, there were no services offered for people and families with autism. Doug and Laurie started the Doug Flutie Jr. Foundation for Autism to help other people and families with autism have access to the same opportunities, therapies and programs to live life to the fullest. Twenty-two years later, Dougie continues to inspire everyone around him with his infectious smile and passion for all thing’s sports. During the day, Dougie attends the Scott Center for Autism in Florida, where he resides with his mom and dad, and his two dogs, Lou Lou and Elsa. Dougie’s favorite activities include swimming in the pool, horseback riding and spending time with his friends and family. “People really connect with him,” says his proud dad. “We give comfort to families so they feel like they’re not alone.”

Q & A with Doug Flutie about Dougie, Jr

Favorite thing your child likes to do

Dougie loves to swim, whether its in a pool or in the ocean. He actually taught himself how to swim in our family pool. He figured out in the deep end that if he kicks his feet and moves his hands he will stay above the water and he can now swim in the deep end without a vest on in any pool. He used to be nervous to go in the ocean but now that he swims very well in the pool I think it built up his confidence for the ocean and he now goes in the ocean with his family and body surfs. He loves swimming and I love the fact that he can do this on his own and feel independent (with supervision of course). We are very proud of Dougie for teaching himself how to swim.

Favorite Food

Best lesson your child has taught you

Your favorite activity to do with your child

I love Dougie because

Dougie's favorite saying

Diagnosis

Best lesson Dougie teaches the world

Help others! No matter what your situation is you can use it in a positive way and help others through your experience.. Things happen for a reason and we feel that Dougie’s calling was to help those affected by autism and we are so proud of Dougie and the Doug Flutie Jr Foundation for Autism. We want all those dealing with autism to know that they are not alone, this can happen to anyone. Dougie inspires us to help him help others dealing with autism and we will continue to do so for many years to come.

Our History