I've had a recent revelation. So far at least half of my husband's siblings or close relatives have a child with a learning disability or in the autism spectrum. This definitely proves (at least in my family) that there is a genetic component.
I found this very interesting article. It was published June 9, 2010. VERY recent information about genetic research. Evidently, they have found dozens of gene mutations implicated in autism. However, if I may quote from the article: "Interestingly, not all the genetic defects were inherited from the child's parents. Rather, they seem to have arisen during fetal development or infancy." This is the part that I KNOW is the environmental "trigger" I have ALWAYS believed in!
Copy and paste the following link and you can read the entire article:
http://www.aolnews.com/health/article/latest-genetic-research-may-help-decode-autism/19509927
Tuesday, July 13, 2010
Saturday, July 3, 2010
After Rain Comes the Rainbow
It's only when you go through trials that you can appreciate the good things. For example, I have been through some tough times with my #2 and my daughter and so now I feel like I am reaping from all my hard work and dedication as a mother. I appreciate every little thing that I perceive as progress or moving forward.
I had a story to share that I thought was appropriate. You might actually find it inspirational. Yesterday we went to the pool. We usually live at the pool during the summer. It's our favorite place to hang out. The summer break is halfway over and so the kids are starting to fight a little bit more than usual. I guess they are getting tired of being with each other 24/7. I can totally relate.
My older two were playing at the pool with a new toy that I had purchased. It is shaped like a torpedo and you are supposed to pass it under the water. It is relatively heavy and made of a hard rubber. My oldest got the idea to try and skim it over the water so that it would go faster. Well... it definitely worked, but unfortunately it skimmed over the water at top speed right into my #2's nose! Poor guy screamed his head off and blood started to gush out his nose immediately. I panicked but tried to remain calm. The blood would not stop. Luckily for me, my dear friend was with me and she knew the trick to helping it stop. We put a rolled up piece of bandage under his upper lip to put pressure on the vessel. It worked! I also put pressure at the bridge of his nose. It finally stopped bleeding and after about thirty minutes I was able to remove it without worries.
The sweet part of the story was that although they had been fighting for days and morning was no exception... when it came down to it, my #1 was worried sick about his little brother. He would not stop apologizing and kept looking at him and asking if he was okay. Later after we left the pool, he told me in private that it would be okay to let his little brother play on his laptop. (That is a major deal in our household!) Even today... a day later he is still looking out for him. My younger two wanted to go swimming and my #1 said, "No.. we can't go swimming. His nose might bleed." He was genuinely concerned about his well being.
There are two lessons I leared from this:
#1) No matter how much you see your children fight and argue, deep inside they truly love each other. It's at times like this that you see it.
#2) The cautions on toys are there for a reason. On the side of the toy is written in bold: "CAUTION: Do not throw toy above the water or at another person."
****************************
I definitely prefer lessons
learned that don't involve
trips to the emergency room.
*****************************
I had a story to share that I thought was appropriate. You might actually find it inspirational. Yesterday we went to the pool. We usually live at the pool during the summer. It's our favorite place to hang out. The summer break is halfway over and so the kids are starting to fight a little bit more than usual. I guess they are getting tired of being with each other 24/7. I can totally relate.
My older two were playing at the pool with a new toy that I had purchased. It is shaped like a torpedo and you are supposed to pass it under the water. It is relatively heavy and made of a hard rubber. My oldest got the idea to try and skim it over the water so that it would go faster. Well... it definitely worked, but unfortunately it skimmed over the water at top speed right into my #2's nose! Poor guy screamed his head off and blood started to gush out his nose immediately. I panicked but tried to remain calm. The blood would not stop. Luckily for me, my dear friend was with me and she knew the trick to helping it stop. We put a rolled up piece of bandage under his upper lip to put pressure on the vessel. It worked! I also put pressure at the bridge of his nose. It finally stopped bleeding and after about thirty minutes I was able to remove it without worries.
The sweet part of the story was that although they had been fighting for days and morning was no exception... when it came down to it, my #1 was worried sick about his little brother. He would not stop apologizing and kept looking at him and asking if he was okay. Later after we left the pool, he told me in private that it would be okay to let his little brother play on his laptop. (That is a major deal in our household!) Even today... a day later he is still looking out for him. My younger two wanted to go swimming and my #1 said, "No.. we can't go swimming. His nose might bleed." He was genuinely concerned about his well being.
There are two lessons I leared from this:
#1) No matter how much you see your children fight and argue, deep inside they truly love each other. It's at times like this that you see it.
#2) The cautions on toys are there for a reason. On the side of the toy is written in bold: "CAUTION: Do not throw toy above the water or at another person."
****************************
I definitely prefer lessons
learned that don't involve
trips to the emergency room.
*****************************
Tuesday, June 29, 2010
Finding the Right Kind of Help
When you have a child in the autism spectrum there are many issues that you have to face as a parent. The first, and most important, is the physical AND mental well-being of your child. The physical is probably the most apparent for most parents. However, it seems like the mental or emotional part is more challenging for most.
The fact is that sometimes we need the help from professionals. Not only does the child benefit, but the parents as well. I have a friend who has great health insurance and it covers her child's visits to a Psychologist once a week! I wish I were so lucky! She takes full advantage of it and is able to not only get help for her child, but also gets counseling for herself.
I am extremely lucky to have wonderful support from family and friends. I can pick up the phone right now and I know that they would understand and be a listening ear when I need it. There are many who are not so lucky. The stigma of going to a doctor for help is slowly changing. More and more people are talking openly about it. Maybe it's the media... maybe it's that we're more open-minded. I strongly believe that the main reason is that there are more people now who seek professional counseling. There is nothing wrong with it and it doesn't make you weak. On the contrary, it makes you stronger.
My hope is that whoever is out there struggling with the decision of whether to get help or not, will do so. Don't wait. Don't wait until all hope is gone or you feel like there is no other alternative. You CAN get the support you need. There ARE people out there who understand. I promise you that there is someone out there who has the same values and thought process as you. You just need to seek them out. My friend has to drive over an hour to seek help, but she does it. It definitely puts things in perspective for me.
If you end up with someone you don't like or who doesn't have the same value system you do, then look elsewhere. You don't have to give up. I have seen how persistence pays off. This is definitely something worth fighting for.
*****************************
I urge you to check this out:
http://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/autism-spectrum-disorders-pervasive-developmental-disorders/index.shtml
******************************
The fact is that sometimes we need the help from professionals. Not only does the child benefit, but the parents as well. I have a friend who has great health insurance and it covers her child's visits to a Psychologist once a week! I wish I were so lucky! She takes full advantage of it and is able to not only get help for her child, but also gets counseling for herself.
I am extremely lucky to have wonderful support from family and friends. I can pick up the phone right now and I know that they would understand and be a listening ear when I need it. There are many who are not so lucky. The stigma of going to a doctor for help is slowly changing. More and more people are talking openly about it. Maybe it's the media... maybe it's that we're more open-minded. I strongly believe that the main reason is that there are more people now who seek professional counseling. There is nothing wrong with it and it doesn't make you weak. On the contrary, it makes you stronger.
My hope is that whoever is out there struggling with the decision of whether to get help or not, will do so. Don't wait. Don't wait until all hope is gone or you feel like there is no other alternative. You CAN get the support you need. There ARE people out there who understand. I promise you that there is someone out there who has the same values and thought process as you. You just need to seek them out. My friend has to drive over an hour to seek help, but she does it. It definitely puts things in perspective for me.
If you end up with someone you don't like or who doesn't have the same value system you do, then look elsewhere. You don't have to give up. I have seen how persistence pays off. This is definitely something worth fighting for.
*****************************
I urge you to check this out:
http://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/autism-spectrum-disorders-pervasive-developmental-disorders/index.shtml
******************************
Tuesday, June 22, 2010
Wilson's Disease Miracle
I realized that it has been a long time since I wrote about Wilson's Disease. It comes in cycles since my daughter has to go to Children's Hospital every six months. Every time I go I am reminded about her condition and that her health is such a blessing. I am still optimistic, but unfortunately the doctors have a way of always reminding me that she is still young and that things could change once she is older. I try not to let it get to me.
I have concluded that my daughter is a Wilson's Disease miracle. Everywhere I read that people have all kinds of side effects on their meds and so far she hasn't... except for the occasional upset stomach which seems to be remedied by giving her morning dose with a little food. Her liver enzymes are getting better. They are still not "normal" but they keep going down and are at almost normal range, which is definitely something the doctors were not expecting but were hoping for.
I have concluded that miracles happen every day. However, we have to keep our minds open. God has a silent and reverent way of teaching us. If we would just take the time to get away from all the chaos and commotion in our lives, we can actually feel his presence in our lives. I believe that our daughter is a testament of what can be achieved when we pray and have faith. I have prayed for my daughter, for the doctors, and for myself. I honestly believe that my prayers were answered and that because I acted on my promptings that we are blessed today.
*********************
God answers prayers.
*********************
I have concluded that my daughter is a Wilson's Disease miracle. Everywhere I read that people have all kinds of side effects on their meds and so far she hasn't... except for the occasional upset stomach which seems to be remedied by giving her morning dose with a little food. Her liver enzymes are getting better. They are still not "normal" but they keep going down and are at almost normal range, which is definitely something the doctors were not expecting but were hoping for.
I have concluded that miracles happen every day. However, we have to keep our minds open. God has a silent and reverent way of teaching us. If we would just take the time to get away from all the chaos and commotion in our lives, we can actually feel his presence in our lives. I believe that our daughter is a testament of what can be achieved when we pray and have faith. I have prayed for my daughter, for the doctors, and for myself. I honestly believe that my prayers were answered and that because I acted on my promptings that we are blessed today.
*********************
God answers prayers.
*********************
Wednesday, May 26, 2010
Do You Have Autism... Or Does Autism Have You?
There is a consensus among the medical community that since there is no "known cause" for autism then we just need to treat the symptoms. I challenge the medical community to look at it this way: perhaps if we could diagnose a child EARLY on with autism then there could be less symptoms to treat!! Imagine that.... early intervention making a difference. Makes so much sense to parents.... why not the doctors?
When I found out that my child was delayed in speech I took the "bull by the horns" and got therapy. Guess what happened? He learned to speak and communicate better. His social skills improved and there was less issues with behavior.
When I found out that my daughter had Wilson's Disease I took the "bull by the horns" and got treatment. If we would have waited for her to "get sick" then we would have had a totally different prognosis.
I want to challenge all of you out there who have a child with unique circumstances to fight for treatment and services! We have to find out why the symptoms are there and what the triggers are. Don't rely on doctors giving you all the answers. You MUST do the research and do whatever necessary to give your child a fighting chance. There is a reason why you're the parent. There is a reason why your child was sent to you.
The consensus among parents is that they often feel alone and abandoned once they reach the diagnosis stage for their child. That's such a tragedy! There are tons of books, support groups, and blogs out there. Find the ones that best fit your needs. The possibilities are endless.
*******************************
When you get the chance, read
about Temple Grandin.
*******************************
When I found out that my child was delayed in speech I took the "bull by the horns" and got therapy. Guess what happened? He learned to speak and communicate better. His social skills improved and there was less issues with behavior.
When I found out that my daughter had Wilson's Disease I took the "bull by the horns" and got treatment. If we would have waited for her to "get sick" then we would have had a totally different prognosis.
I want to challenge all of you out there who have a child with unique circumstances to fight for treatment and services! We have to find out why the symptoms are there and what the triggers are. Don't rely on doctors giving you all the answers. You MUST do the research and do whatever necessary to give your child a fighting chance. There is a reason why you're the parent. There is a reason why your child was sent to you.
The consensus among parents is that they often feel alone and abandoned once they reach the diagnosis stage for their child. That's such a tragedy! There are tons of books, support groups, and blogs out there. Find the ones that best fit your needs. The possibilities are endless.
*******************************
When you get the chance, read
about Temple Grandin.
*******************************
Wednesday, May 19, 2010
Alternative Therapies for Autism
I spoke with my mom today and she mentioned something about an alternative therapy for Autism she heard about on the news. It was the hyperbaric chamber. I found this article online: http://abcnews.go.com/Health/AutismNews/story?id=7070353&page=1 (just copy and paste to view). The results sound very promising!
Another treatment option that I have recently discovered is the ENLISTEN PROGRAM. Although I am not endorsing it, I know of many parents who have used it and have seen results! Here is their official website for more information: http://www.progresscenter.us/home/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=15&Itemid=15
There is not a "magic pill" or treatment that will cure autism, but there are numerous treatment options out there. You must have an open mind. Doctors will not tell you about these options because of fear that they will get sued or that they will be seen as "quacks" by their peers. However, more and more medical professionals are seeing the benefits of some of these unconventional treatments.
Take the time and do your own research. You might be surprised at what you find.
***************************
Unfortunately, right now we
can only treat the symptoms
of autism. Perhaps one day
we will find the cause or
the cure. In the meantime
let's join forces and share
what we find. It's a matter
of necessity.
***************************
Another treatment option that I have recently discovered is the ENLISTEN PROGRAM. Although I am not endorsing it, I know of many parents who have used it and have seen results! Here is their official website for more information: http://www.progresscenter.us/home/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=15&Itemid=15
There is not a "magic pill" or treatment that will cure autism, but there are numerous treatment options out there. You must have an open mind. Doctors will not tell you about these options because of fear that they will get sued or that they will be seen as "quacks" by their peers. However, more and more medical professionals are seeing the benefits of some of these unconventional treatments.
Take the time and do your own research. You might be surprised at what you find.
***************************
Unfortunately, right now we
can only treat the symptoms
of autism. Perhaps one day
we will find the cause or
the cure. In the meantime
let's join forces and share
what we find. It's a matter
of necessity.
***************************
Saturday, May 1, 2010
Let Me Count My Blessings
Kudos go out to all the single moms and dads out there who do the parenting thing every day by themselves. I honestly don't know how they do it! It's enough to drive me insane having to do it for a few days or a week. I've had friends whose husbands went overseas for deployment in the military, and they had to do it alone for MONTHS! They are among the strongest individuals I know.
Its truly amazing to see how much you are capable of when tested. You have no idea what your limits are until they are tested. Patience, frugality, organizational skills, and ingenuity are among some of the things that I have personally gleaned from having to do things on my own. Sometimes I take it for granted that my husband will do certain things. We truly make a good team. However, when he's gone I am reminded of all the ways he makes things easier for me and the family. The biggest thing I miss when he's gone is the moral support. It can be mentally exhausting raising four busy kids. My oldest is finally calming down and is able to help more, but he still demands a lot of attention and still needs me for validation. He still likes for me to go to the school and never hesitates to give me a hug. I am so glad that the transition into the teenage years has gone so smoothly.
I love my husband more than words can say. He's truly my soul mate. I can't imagine my life any other way.... even with all the crazy things I have to deal with. He has a way of calming me down when I want to lose it. He has a way of helping me put things in perspective. He is truly an example to me of what a humble servant of God should be like. Last, but not least, he makes me feel like the best mom and wife in the world. That's a feat in itself because (as many of you probably can relate) I don't often feel that way.
It is humbling to know that I am among the minority in the world. All around me I see so many couples getting divorced or having difficulty. It often stems from having to deal with different issues associated with having children with special needs. They say that it either brings a couple closer together or else tears them apart. Every obstacle we've had has only brought us closer together and I feel truly blessed for that. I think all couples need time together and we make time for dates and time away from the children. We're blessed to have a built-in babysitter now who does a great job. We also try and make time to pursue our own interests either with other people or on our own. We don't have a secret formula, but we do try to keep a Christ-centered home and marriage. With all the chaos in the world, we've created a safe haven where we can get away from it all and get a head start on eternity.
Its truly amazing to see how much you are capable of when tested. You have no idea what your limits are until they are tested. Patience, frugality, organizational skills, and ingenuity are among some of the things that I have personally gleaned from having to do things on my own. Sometimes I take it for granted that my husband will do certain things. We truly make a good team. However, when he's gone I am reminded of all the ways he makes things easier for me and the family. The biggest thing I miss when he's gone is the moral support. It can be mentally exhausting raising four busy kids. My oldest is finally calming down and is able to help more, but he still demands a lot of attention and still needs me for validation. He still likes for me to go to the school and never hesitates to give me a hug. I am so glad that the transition into the teenage years has gone so smoothly.
I love my husband more than words can say. He's truly my soul mate. I can't imagine my life any other way.... even with all the crazy things I have to deal with. He has a way of calming me down when I want to lose it. He has a way of helping me put things in perspective. He is truly an example to me of what a humble servant of God should be like. Last, but not least, he makes me feel like the best mom and wife in the world. That's a feat in itself because (as many of you probably can relate) I don't often feel that way.
It is humbling to know that I am among the minority in the world. All around me I see so many couples getting divorced or having difficulty. It often stems from having to deal with different issues associated with having children with special needs. They say that it either brings a couple closer together or else tears them apart. Every obstacle we've had has only brought us closer together and I feel truly blessed for that. I think all couples need time together and we make time for dates and time away from the children. We're blessed to have a built-in babysitter now who does a great job. We also try and make time to pursue our own interests either with other people or on our own. We don't have a secret formula, but we do try to keep a Christ-centered home and marriage. With all the chaos in the world, we've created a safe haven where we can get away from it all and get a head start on eternity.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)