Due to all the testings and evaluations he’s had completed, we were able to submit a (FULL!) packet of paperwork to the pediatrician, for her to read through before she even saw us. Today’s visit was time spent talking with Picasso, time spent asking us a wide variety of questions, and time spent observing him while we talked. The appointment, combined with all of the reports she had on him, led her to feel confident in discussing her decision with us.
As we discussed what we’re already doing to help him, she said that most of those (the therapies) were things she would suggest anyway, so we’re already ahead of the game. She did give us a few more suggestions, which we knew we needed to do, but just hadn’t had an opportunity to do so, yet.
Realistically, we have questioned Picasso’s quirks all his life, but especially since about 16 months old, and really, to as far back as 7 months old. We have always had Asperger’s in the back of our mind, but could not gain traction in getting a diagnosis until this point. We pursued the actual acquisition of a diagnosis to make sure that we are doing ALL we can for our son - we would do this for any of our children. This does not change much for us, or for him, but will require more focus as to how we specifically help him.
At the same time, there is a definite pause in our day as we greet our new reality, by name. We knew this was possible, even probable, and yet now that it’s here, it’s a little tough to face. There is momentary sadness, and we allow ourselves this small moment in time to grieve our reality, knowing that we are now one family out of many who struggle with a spectrum disorder.
But there is hope and there are ways to work through this with him. There is family, there are friends, and there is love! And today, there was ice cream - his request, after a 2-hour appointment. We couldn’t say no to him, not today.
I thank you for your honesty and for sharing this with the world. I hope this is the beginning of a new friendship.
Rebecca
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Becky Reply:
April 14th, 2012 at 5:49 pm
Thanks for stopping by; beginning to walk down this road can be scary and it helps to know you’re not alone!
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You’ve definitely been through a tough journey. Have the new “Autism Spectrum” criteria affected your son’s diagnosis or treatments?
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Becky Reply:
March 9th, 2013 at 4:07 pm
Thanks, Sylvia! We’ll find out for sure when we visit the developmental pediatrician again, probably August. She mentioned that changes would affect diagnosis, but even since the last time she saw him, he’s grown SO much! I’m grateful for this journey. It’s taught me things I wouldn’t have learned otherwise - I know that in my heart!
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