Thursday, February 10, 2011

A Lot on My Mind

We got Aaron’s diagnosis. He has been disagosied with Autism Disorder. That’s the official diagnosis. They no longer say “Asperbergers” Or “High Functioning Autism.” I think that is the most frustrating as when you tell people that they don’t know where to place him. At first glance you think he is a happy normal child. It’s only upon close inspection you can note some things that are different.

This is a lot for Eric and me to process. It’s kind of like a cold slap on the face. You get a diagnosis and have all these questions and the team who diagnosed him are like “here’s a binder” to get the ball rolling. Like WTF? I have questions can you at least not answer them then and there?

I still don’t know all that is involved. The binder does lay it out pretty well. But I’d rather have a human tell me. I talked to Tara for a good long while last night as she has worked with ASD kids (Autistic Spectrum Disorder) she had a lot of useful info.

The first step is to get the funding needed and then to start interviewing service providers which will help with his therapy. I don’t know how much he will need or for how long. I still have yet to figure this out.

One thing I know is I don’t want ASD to define his life or who he is. I don’t even know if I will tell him as it may be who he becomes. My hope is by the time he is school aged and entering kindergarten this will be behind us and I don’t have to tell his school so he can start life fresh with no labels or for people to judge him before they know him

I can see how when this happens how other things can take a back burner. My volunteering as fallen behind, I don’t know what this bodes for school. And finding a job is probably out of the question as I will need to take him to therapy several times per week. Hopefully my 1 and soon to be 2 class schedule can be accommodated.

6 comments:

SciFi Dad said...

I have no experience or advice for you, except that Aunt Becky at http://www.mommywantsvodka.com/ has a son on the spectrum as well, and she seems to be a good resource for parents whose kids were recently diagnosed.

Ginger said...

I know it is all overwhelming. I hope that you find the answers and get the need he helps soon. I don't have any amazing words that will make it better...just that we are there...and I understand...

Siera said...

Thanks guys. As the child pysch who diagnosed him said they're "hopeful" he will have a bright future. I KNOW he will. We just need find service provider and get Aaron a Behavioral Consultant so we can figure out what were dealing with as noone has said what therapy will entail and how much will be needed. I have appointments set up for tomorrrow to get the ball rolling.

S.I.F. said...

I'm thinking of you friend. I know this is going to be hard, and not what you expected, but you can do this! I truly believe that lady... you are a phenomenal mother, and you are going to raise a phenomenal little boy!

Anonymous said...

You have a wonderful attitude and that will transfer to Aaron. Don't give up. I think he has a bright future with you and Eric as his parents. Hang in there...

Maundering mutterer said...

You've a big challenge ahead - I'm sure you'll rise to it. One of my colleagues' grown up sons is autistic and he has a perfectly 'normal' life. Wishing you strength for the journey!