CLEVELAND -- Autism is a mysterious disease. But the disorder is becoming more common.

NewsChannel5's Tonya Strong reported that parents need to be the voice for children who need treatment for the disease.

Jayson Dudik, 3, communicates through pictures. Jayson is autistic.

His parents, Michelle and David Dudik, are both teachers. The North Ridgeville couple is fighting to keep public school services in place for autistic children.

"Because continuity is so crucial to children with autism," Michelle said.

Dr. Sherri Tenpenny, founder of Osteomed in Middleburgh Heights, where Jayson goes for therapy, specializes in the treatment of autistic children.

"They need teaching assistants. They need smaller classrooms. They need more facilities," Tenpenny said.

Her approach to treating autism includes a strictly monitored diet without wheat or dairy. A wide array of supplements and acupressure are also used to help rid the body of what Tenpenny believes are problems induced by excessive vaccinations.

Statistics show a dramatic rise in autism cases for Michigan, Indiana and Ohio. Back in the early 1990s, there were only 22 documented cases of autism, now their are more than 2,000. Overall, there has been a 544 percent increase nationwide.

The Dudik home is testament to the fact that they are committed to finding a solution to this disorder. In the meantime, the Dudik's feel fortunate that Jayson was diagnosed early.

"If you acknowledge it early, that will make the quality of life for your child so much higher," Michelle said.