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.
*******************************
Wednesday, May 26, 2010
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.
Tuesday, April 20, 2010
Inspiration Comes in Crazy Ways
Sometimes it takes a good book to inspire things in you that you didn't know existed. I have always planned on writing a book about my life experiences and thought it would be therapeutic for me. However, I am going to count this blog as that book for the time being.
I recently finished a book series that literally left me wanting more. I wrote an additional chapter for my own pleasure and shared it with a few people. During that process I realized that I haven't had that outlet in a very long time. I enjoy this blog, but my true passion lies in writing novels. I have written a few in my lifetime but never had the urge to get them published.
The only reason I am even sharing this with all of you reading this is because I am going to use some of my knowledge in genetics, autism, and biology to write my next novel. I think it is going to be so much fun writing it! I've always loved the saying, "when life gives you lemons, make lemonade." Well... in essence I am going to do just that. I am going to use my life experiences and knowledge to create a work that hopefully will inspire others just as the books I recently finished did for me.
********************************
The only limits you have to your
potential is YOU!
********************************
I recently finished a book series that literally left me wanting more. I wrote an additional chapter for my own pleasure and shared it with a few people. During that process I realized that I haven't had that outlet in a very long time. I enjoy this blog, but my true passion lies in writing novels. I have written a few in my lifetime but never had the urge to get them published.
The only reason I am even sharing this with all of you reading this is because I am going to use some of my knowledge in genetics, autism, and biology to write my next novel. I think it is going to be so much fun writing it! I've always loved the saying, "when life gives you lemons, make lemonade." Well... in essence I am going to do just that. I am going to use my life experiences and knowledge to create a work that hopefully will inspire others just as the books I recently finished did for me.
********************************
The only limits you have to your
potential is YOU!
********************************
Monday, April 12, 2010
Our Family Spring Camp Out
We finally did it!!! I couldn't believe it. The last time we tried to get away, I ended up with strep throat. This time, our daughter got bronchitis. However, she pleaded that we go and so we gave it a try. I told my husband that if she looked like she was getting ANY worse then we would pack our bags and cut our losses. We had already booked our cabin and we couldn't get our money back. I figured there was nothing to lose.
We arrived late Friday night and the weather was perfect. It was cool with low humidity. We didn't even have to turn on the AC the entire time we were there! (Yes, our cabin had all of the modern amenities such as AC, bathroom, and kitchen.) That evening was tough getting to sleep. ALL the kids were wired and just wanted to play. The bedroom had two full sized beds and so we divided up the sleeping arrangements right away. We had the younger two sleep in the other bed and the older two slept in the living room area. One slept on the couch and the other slept on the floor. Amazingly, they didn't fight over the couch!
The next morning we all woke up at about the same time. I made sure to bring LOTS of food and so we had a good breakfast. The kids could choose from waffles, oatmeal, poptarts, and other quick meals. Everyone ate very well. The dad took the older two on a hike, while the rest of us stayed and played around the cabin. The cabin was situated close to the lake and there were woods behind us. We walked around and went "exploring" to see what there was. I took lots of good pictures. The cabin itself reminded me a lot of Little House on the Prairie, except it had a screened in front porch with rocking chairs. According to the pamphlet, it was among the original cabins built in 1938. The doors had original hardware on them and the logs looked ancient! I caught myself laying on the bed and just admiring the craftsmanship of the place. It was truly amazing to think that this place was built so long ago.
When the guys returned from their hike we went to Callaway Gardens. It was the perfect time of year to walk among the beautiful gardens and flowers. The butterfly sanctuary was definitely our #4's favorite thing to do while we were there. We had to go back a second time because he was relentless. Our #2 also enjoyed it and tried very hard to stand still and encourage the butterflies to land on him. Unfortunately, there were masses of people there and they were rude and bumped into him and basically made it impossible to stay still. I was so proud of him for not giving up and for not getting frustrated. We did a lot of walking and looking at nature. I thought the kids were going to get bored, but they had a wonderful time. They kept spotting squirrels and wildlife around us. It is so much fun seeing things through a child's eyes.
That evening we decided to roast marshmallows over an open fire outside the cabin. We sent the kids out to look for wood and they had a blast. Our oldest was able to find a lot of smaller twigs (they were the ones to be used for the marshmallow roasting), while my #2 hunted for the larger pieces of wood. My younger two also contributed to the stash of wood. I had envisioned my eldest and husband starting the fire and then the boys basically keeping it alive. It worked out exactly like I planned. I never thought I would see the day when anyone in our family would actually get tired of roasted marshmallows! We went through a bag and a half before I could see everyone a bit lethargic and mellow. It was the perfect ending to a perfect day.
The following morning we had to be out by 11:00am. I thought we would wake up early and be able to do a couple things before heading out, but it didn't work out quite like I planned. We ended up sleeping in and did not get out of bed until almost 9:30am! It took us about an hour to pack up and clean out the cabin. I thought we did good. I woke up with a sore throat and sore back, but other than that I wasn't feeling too bad. Two adults and a four year-old don't fit very well on a double bed. However, somehow.. someway, we managed it and my back sure paid the price!
Our ride home was not too bad. It was an hour and a half drive. We are used to that since we visit grandparents about the same distance. We took the truck so the kids were in the "fun" car. They love the shiny new red extended cabin truck that their dad bought last year. I have to admit that it's a fun car to drive and to ride in. It sure beats my minivan. When we arrived at our house, I walked in and the first thing I noticed was the smell. My sense of smell hasn't been good lately, but there is nothing like the familiar smells of home. I went straight to my room and laid on the bed. The feeling of that familiar comfort and softness of my new pillow was almost enough to make me pass out right then and there. However, my moment was short lived when the "gang" stormed into the room and asked, "What's for lunch?" I took a deep breath and smiled and said, "Let's see what's in the freezer. If not, ya'll are eating PB & J sandwiches."
**************************************
A cabin in the woods at Pine Mountain,
Georgia...$100.00/night..........
A weekend without t.v. and nintendo
DS.... priceless!!!
**************************************
We arrived late Friday night and the weather was perfect. It was cool with low humidity. We didn't even have to turn on the AC the entire time we were there! (Yes, our cabin had all of the modern amenities such as AC, bathroom, and kitchen.) That evening was tough getting to sleep. ALL the kids were wired and just wanted to play. The bedroom had two full sized beds and so we divided up the sleeping arrangements right away. We had the younger two sleep in the other bed and the older two slept in the living room area. One slept on the couch and the other slept on the floor. Amazingly, they didn't fight over the couch!
The next morning we all woke up at about the same time. I made sure to bring LOTS of food and so we had a good breakfast. The kids could choose from waffles, oatmeal, poptarts, and other quick meals. Everyone ate very well. The dad took the older two on a hike, while the rest of us stayed and played around the cabin. The cabin was situated close to the lake and there were woods behind us. We walked around and went "exploring" to see what there was. I took lots of good pictures. The cabin itself reminded me a lot of Little House on the Prairie, except it had a screened in front porch with rocking chairs. According to the pamphlet, it was among the original cabins built in 1938. The doors had original hardware on them and the logs looked ancient! I caught myself laying on the bed and just admiring the craftsmanship of the place. It was truly amazing to think that this place was built so long ago.
When the guys returned from their hike we went to Callaway Gardens. It was the perfect time of year to walk among the beautiful gardens and flowers. The butterfly sanctuary was definitely our #4's favorite thing to do while we were there. We had to go back a second time because he was relentless. Our #2 also enjoyed it and tried very hard to stand still and encourage the butterflies to land on him. Unfortunately, there were masses of people there and they were rude and bumped into him and basically made it impossible to stay still. I was so proud of him for not giving up and for not getting frustrated. We did a lot of walking and looking at nature. I thought the kids were going to get bored, but they had a wonderful time. They kept spotting squirrels and wildlife around us. It is so much fun seeing things through a child's eyes.
That evening we decided to roast marshmallows over an open fire outside the cabin. We sent the kids out to look for wood and they had a blast. Our oldest was able to find a lot of smaller twigs (they were the ones to be used for the marshmallow roasting), while my #2 hunted for the larger pieces of wood. My younger two also contributed to the stash of wood. I had envisioned my eldest and husband starting the fire and then the boys basically keeping it alive. It worked out exactly like I planned. I never thought I would see the day when anyone in our family would actually get tired of roasted marshmallows! We went through a bag and a half before I could see everyone a bit lethargic and mellow. It was the perfect ending to a perfect day.
The following morning we had to be out by 11:00am. I thought we would wake up early and be able to do a couple things before heading out, but it didn't work out quite like I planned. We ended up sleeping in and did not get out of bed until almost 9:30am! It took us about an hour to pack up and clean out the cabin. I thought we did good. I woke up with a sore throat and sore back, but other than that I wasn't feeling too bad. Two adults and a four year-old don't fit very well on a double bed. However, somehow.. someway, we managed it and my back sure paid the price!
Our ride home was not too bad. It was an hour and a half drive. We are used to that since we visit grandparents about the same distance. We took the truck so the kids were in the "fun" car. They love the shiny new red extended cabin truck that their dad bought last year. I have to admit that it's a fun car to drive and to ride in. It sure beats my minivan. When we arrived at our house, I walked in and the first thing I noticed was the smell. My sense of smell hasn't been good lately, but there is nothing like the familiar smells of home. I went straight to my room and laid on the bed. The feeling of that familiar comfort and softness of my new pillow was almost enough to make me pass out right then and there. However, my moment was short lived when the "gang" stormed into the room and asked, "What's for lunch?" I took a deep breath and smiled and said, "Let's see what's in the freezer. If not, ya'll are eating PB & J sandwiches."
**************************************
A cabin in the woods at Pine Mountain,
Georgia...$100.00/night..........
A weekend without t.v. and nintendo
DS.... priceless!!!
**************************************
Wednesday, March 31, 2010
Good Neighbors
Today I was just thinking that we are truly blessed to have good neighbors. I know I can depend on them, and they know they can depend on me. Right now my #2 is playing baseball in my neighbor's backyard with a boy his own age and they are having a "ball"...pardon the pun. My daughter has tons of friends in the neighborhood who are in her class! That is really nice.
What makes a good neighbor? That is a good question. I believe a good neighbor is one who knows your name, is friendly, gives you enough space but also feels comfortable enough to approach you, and is not quick to judge. I have met some people who have been very judgemental. I remember one neighbor asking me if I was a member of the Junior League and then avoiding me once she found out I was not. I also recall a neighbor who judged me because of the church I attended. I think those people are missing out on a lot of wonderful experiences because of their narrow-minded thinking.
The most important thing, in my opinion, is to be a good neighbor yourself. I learned a lot after living in our first home about first impressions. There is no way to get that moment back. I also learned that sometimes people seem snobby but they are actually just shy or unsure about the situation. I have learned to step out of my comfort zone and reach out to those in my neighborhood. There are many needs in my street alone and I try to do the Christian thing and help when I can. Our church is good about taking care of our members, but other churches are not eager to help out. It is also important to educate others about my children. Having four children is an issue in itself because many don't want four additional children in their home at one time... which is understandable. I would never do that to anyone, but THEY don't know that. Also, I am not quick to let my children enter ANYONE'S home unless I know them. I guess I am just cautious that way.
Summer is around the corner and we need to reach out to our neighbors in friendship. Make it a point to get to know those with children. Don't hesitate to call them and invite the children over to your house. They don't have to come inside. They could just play outside and get some vitamin D. My point is that don't wait for people to come to you... go to them. I just received a call from my neighbor and they are having such a good time that she wants my #2 to stay over for pizza!!! We've lived here for over seven years and that is the first time he has been over there. Life can be so wonderful when you give it a chance.
What makes a good neighbor? That is a good question. I believe a good neighbor is one who knows your name, is friendly, gives you enough space but also feels comfortable enough to approach you, and is not quick to judge. I have met some people who have been very judgemental. I remember one neighbor asking me if I was a member of the Junior League and then avoiding me once she found out I was not. I also recall a neighbor who judged me because of the church I attended. I think those people are missing out on a lot of wonderful experiences because of their narrow-minded thinking.
The most important thing, in my opinion, is to be a good neighbor yourself. I learned a lot after living in our first home about first impressions. There is no way to get that moment back. I also learned that sometimes people seem snobby but they are actually just shy or unsure about the situation. I have learned to step out of my comfort zone and reach out to those in my neighborhood. There are many needs in my street alone and I try to do the Christian thing and help when I can. Our church is good about taking care of our members, but other churches are not eager to help out. It is also important to educate others about my children. Having four children is an issue in itself because many don't want four additional children in their home at one time... which is understandable. I would never do that to anyone, but THEY don't know that. Also, I am not quick to let my children enter ANYONE'S home unless I know them. I guess I am just cautious that way.
Summer is around the corner and we need to reach out to our neighbors in friendship. Make it a point to get to know those with children. Don't hesitate to call them and invite the children over to your house. They don't have to come inside. They could just play outside and get some vitamin D. My point is that don't wait for people to come to you... go to them. I just received a call from my neighbor and they are having such a good time that she wants my #2 to stay over for pizza!!! We've lived here for over seven years and that is the first time he has been over there. Life can be so wonderful when you give it a chance.
Friday, March 19, 2010
Surviving Spring Break In Sickness And In Health
This Spring Break was definitely a challenging one for me. My husband had to work and so we didn't get a chance to go out of town. However, in hindsight I believe it was probably a blessing because I spent most of the time cleaning up vomit, diarrhea, and taking care of fevers. I can't imagine being on vacation with sick kids. That would be a total nightmare!
We basically had a "staycation" and made the best of it. My oldest, who is thirteen, was the one who was sick most of the time. In a way, that made it easier for me. I took the younger three to places like Pump It Up (an indoor inflatable playground for kids and adults), bowling, and was able to leave my oldest at home to rest. The weather was so nice and we definitely spent some time outside. Getting that Vitamin D sure does something for the soul.
The children actually enjoyed relaxing while watching television and/or playing on their Nintendo DS. They loved not having to go to school and did not complain too much. I guess I must have kept them busy enough that they didn't even notice that we didn't go out of town like most of their friends. Sometimes we parents forget that time is usually what they want. If we fill our time during a vacation with traveling and schedules then it's not TRULY a vacation.
Although it would have been nice to get away this week, I am not going to complain too much. I am going to count my blessings that MY health was fine, and that I was able to handle the sick kids. I am also thankful for being able to spend some quality time with my children. They are growing up before my eyes and one day I won't have my sweet babies at home anymore. My oldest is about to pass me in height and that is surreal.
We are planning on going camping as a family and trying out our new three bedroom tent! It's going to be so fun and the weather should be nice. We are so lucky to live in an area where the cold winters don't last very long. Our Springs are mild and wonderful. They are the perfect camping weather. There is an area that my husband found for us that is only about forty minutes from where we live that should be perfect. I can't wait for my oldest to show off his camping skills with all of his siblings. Plus, I just love smores and burnt marshmallows... YUM!!!
*************************
Our family vacation to be
continued.....
*************************
We basically had a "staycation" and made the best of it. My oldest, who is thirteen, was the one who was sick most of the time. In a way, that made it easier for me. I took the younger three to places like Pump It Up (an indoor inflatable playground for kids and adults), bowling, and was able to leave my oldest at home to rest. The weather was so nice and we definitely spent some time outside. Getting that Vitamin D sure does something for the soul.
The children actually enjoyed relaxing while watching television and/or playing on their Nintendo DS. They loved not having to go to school and did not complain too much. I guess I must have kept them busy enough that they didn't even notice that we didn't go out of town like most of their friends. Sometimes we parents forget that time is usually what they want. If we fill our time during a vacation with traveling and schedules then it's not TRULY a vacation.
Although it would have been nice to get away this week, I am not going to complain too much. I am going to count my blessings that MY health was fine, and that I was able to handle the sick kids. I am also thankful for being able to spend some quality time with my children. They are growing up before my eyes and one day I won't have my sweet babies at home anymore. My oldest is about to pass me in height and that is surreal.
We are planning on going camping as a family and trying out our new three bedroom tent! It's going to be so fun and the weather should be nice. We are so lucky to live in an area where the cold winters don't last very long. Our Springs are mild and wonderful. They are the perfect camping weather. There is an area that my husband found for us that is only about forty minutes from where we live that should be perfect. I can't wait for my oldest to show off his camping skills with all of his siblings. Plus, I just love smores and burnt marshmallows... YUM!!!
*************************
Our family vacation to be
continued.....
*************************
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