I have been dealing with doctors, practioners, psychologists, therapists, etc... for many years now. It never ceases to amaze me how laid back they are about autism. Even to this day, I see so many doctors take their time in intervention. Why is that?
Anyone who has a child with special needs knows that the earlier you intervene the better. The outcome is better. There might be special circumstances where this might not make a difference, but for the most part it is true.
The reason for this post is that I am beginning to understand the system a little better. The fact is, parents need to do whatever possible to speed up the process. Testing takes time. Therapy takes time. Diet changes take time. We have to be patient, but we also need to start as soon as possible. There is only a very small window of opportunity when it comes to certain things. I have seen it.
When someone has a vested interest in something they are more likely to take the time to learn more about it. That is why you can speak to anyone who has a child with any kind of medical challenge or disease and they can tell you more than any doctor out there! The best doctors, in my opinion, are those who have children with the same issue you are faced with. They can relate to you better. They have been through it themselves.
I'm not trying to say that there aren't doctors out there who take it upon themselves to continue their education. I know of such doctors and I applaud them. I am just trying to state the fact that parents have a lot to offer. If doctors would take the time to listen and implement suggestions from parents then things might get better.
In the meantime, don't forget that you have been entrusted with a special spirit who relies on you for his/her every need. This is a big burden, but as I always say: You don't have to do it alone!
