Sunday, October 11, 2009
2nd opinion (really a 4th), Halloween, Snow, and other various things
Ooops, looks like I've been slacking in the blogging department.
Matthew had his hearing test on his 4th b-day. Everything came back normal! What does that mean? It still doesn't explain anything to why he is "developmentally delayed."
So... I've went on without worrying about it too much, of course everyone that's around him says he's made great gains. Yes, good for him but can you tell me why he is the way he is. He's still not your normal little boy. He still doesn't tell mom he loves her without being asked to repeat what he's supposed to say. He still doesn't bring forth a conversation. He still can't answer the question, "how are you matthew," his response is: "I'm Matthew."
So basically no one knows. The dr. at Sanford doesn't, the teachers at school don't. Because no one has known him from a baby on.
I was talking to his Statewide Family Support Program's Coordinator the other day and she says they cannot keep calling him developmentally delayed, they are going to have to come up with a reason. And she said now that he's on the Medicaid (because of this program), he should really have a 2nd opinion (really a 4th opinion) done at CCHS or USD Center of Disabilies. Well USD won't have Medicaid pay, so it's parents full responsibility to cover it.
So we've got an appt. scheduled thru CCHS this time at the actual school in January. Hopefully I get enough of the paperwork done that whoever is on the team deems him worthy of their 2nd opinion.
So we will see.
Other than that, Matthew is looking forward to Halloween. He is a hand me down bat. (Pictures to come).
He's deathly afraid of skeletons and scary things when his cousin Phoenix comes running after him. Hopefully year 2 of trick or treating goes ok.
Other than that... we had a little bit of snow the other day and Matthew was pretty darn sure Santa Claus is coming.
We've been fighting the Influenza A. Both boys picked it up from school and suffered a few days with fevers. Not fun.
Matthew had his hearing test on his 4th b-day. Everything came back normal! What does that mean? It still doesn't explain anything to why he is "developmentally delayed."
So... I've went on without worrying about it too much, of course everyone that's around him says he's made great gains. Yes, good for him but can you tell me why he is the way he is. He's still not your normal little boy. He still doesn't tell mom he loves her without being asked to repeat what he's supposed to say. He still doesn't bring forth a conversation. He still can't answer the question, "how are you matthew," his response is: "I'm Matthew."
So basically no one knows. The dr. at Sanford doesn't, the teachers at school don't. Because no one has known him from a baby on.
I was talking to his Statewide Family Support Program's Coordinator the other day and she says they cannot keep calling him developmentally delayed, they are going to have to come up with a reason. And she said now that he's on the Medicaid (because of this program), he should really have a 2nd opinion (really a 4th opinion) done at CCHS or USD Center of Disabilies. Well USD won't have Medicaid pay, so it's parents full responsibility to cover it.
So we've got an appt. scheduled thru CCHS this time at the actual school in January. Hopefully I get enough of the paperwork done that whoever is on the team deems him worthy of their 2nd opinion.
So we will see.
Other than that, Matthew is looking forward to Halloween. He is a hand me down bat. (Pictures to come).
He's deathly afraid of skeletons and scary things when his cousin Phoenix comes running after him. Hopefully year 2 of trick or treating goes ok.
Other than that... we had a little bit of snow the other day and Matthew was pretty darn sure Santa Claus is coming.
We've been fighting the Influenza A. Both boys picked it up from school and suffered a few days with fevers. Not fun.
Monday, July 20, 2009
Uno, dos, tres, quatro, cinco
Holy Cow! Matthew can now count to 5 in Spanish! He's on the right track of mastering 6-10 as well. And no, he didn't learn this at school. He learned it by watching Dora or Diego. Amazing! My "developmentally delayed" child can speak another language. Wow.
Sunday, July 12, 2009
Mall of America Trip-- May 2009
I've been wanting to go somewhere for a mini-vacation and I decided on the Mall of America. So I took Matthew and his dad in May.
We had a great time. Matthew loved the Underground Aquarium, the escalators and swimming. We ate lots of great food and seen lots of things. It was a good trip for Matthew.
Horse Tire Swing (an early birthday present)
So back in June, I was shopping with mom at TSC. While entering the store, I noticed these 4 horse tire swings out front. So I was thinking, wow, these are pretty cool. Wouldn't mind getting one for Matthew's b-day.
So we left and I told her about my idea. Later that day I decided, why not, I might as well get one even though it's a ways before his b-day. So I get one and have had it in the back of my truck until this weekend.
Dad picked up some chain for it and he hung the chain yesterday on their big cataba tree in the backyard.
So we go get Matthew and he comes out to see it. He LOVES it. It has to be one of the best birthday presents ever.
Matthew has a hard time spending a lot of time outside, not sure if he's just over stimulated outside, but this swing will definitely help.
He loves his horse swing. He doesn't want to share it too much with Phoenix either.
crooks rodeo
So Matthew's underpants wearing adventure was going pretty good until the Crooks Rodeo, May 30 or 31st this year.
He gets to the Rodeo, and I have to go to the bathroom and they have porta-pottys in a moveable trailer, so Phoenix goes potty and so do I. I ask Matthew if he has to go, "no" he says. So we get ready to walk out of the trailer and Matthew shorts appear very wet all of sudden.
Poor guy. Peed all down his pants and legs, and shoes. So I took his shorts off and we walked all the way back to the truck in his underwear. He sure felt bad. Not bad though, accident #2 since March. I'm still so proud that he was able to be potty trained considering his delays, I really didn't want to see him wearing training pants at age 4-6+.
So then we go home and change and were able to go back to the rodeo and enjoy it.
Peace of Mind/Second Opinion
So I'm still not totally sold on Matthew's condition: developmentally delayed. Some doc's say he's in the Autism spectrum, the school says he's close to Autistic but won't label him that so he's stuck that way for life.
So I heard from my sister's neighbor that she's got some friends that also had a little kid that wasn't talking and whatnot, speech delayed. She took her child to Midwest Ear, Nose and Throat... to have him checked out. I think they put tubes in or something but in a week's time the child was a whole different person, talking and everything.
So for my peace of mind and really a second, third or 4th opinion, because I've seen a lot of people over the past couple of years, I'm going to take Matthew there in August, actually on his b-day to see what they have to say.
Wouldn't that be something if all he needed was something that had to do with his ears?
Sometimes you'd swear he can't hear you, which I know he can, but he tone of voice sounds like a deaf child's. His speech therapist doesn't think there's anything wrong in that aspect. I still have my doubts. The way he recites his ABC's, isn't very clear and it's not in a real song type, he just says them.
Oh well, maybe nothing will come of this appointment either, but doesn't hurt to try.
It's always was mind boggling to sit somewhere and watch 1 1/2- 2 year old little boys talk and then look at your own almost 4 year old son that has so much trouble.
There has GOT TO BE a reason for it other than developmentally delayed. That's just a reason for basically "we just don't really know why he is the way he is so we'll call him that."
So I heard from my sister's neighbor that she's got some friends that also had a little kid that wasn't talking and whatnot, speech delayed. She took her child to Midwest Ear, Nose and Throat... to have him checked out. I think they put tubes in or something but in a week's time the child was a whole different person, talking and everything.
So for my peace of mind and really a second, third or 4th opinion, because I've seen a lot of people over the past couple of years, I'm going to take Matthew there in August, actually on his b-day to see what they have to say.
Wouldn't that be something if all he needed was something that had to do with his ears?
Sometimes you'd swear he can't hear you, which I know he can, but he tone of voice sounds like a deaf child's. His speech therapist doesn't think there's anything wrong in that aspect. I still have my doubts. The way he recites his ABC's, isn't very clear and it's not in a real song type, he just says them.
Oh well, maybe nothing will come of this appointment either, but doesn't hurt to try.
It's always was mind boggling to sit somewhere and watch 1 1/2- 2 year old little boys talk and then look at your own almost 4 year old son that has so much trouble.
There has GOT TO BE a reason for it other than developmentally delayed. That's just a reason for basically "we just don't really know why he is the way he is so we'll call him that."
Bug Bites Galore
Ugh. Bugs. This is the start of a terrible thing for Matthew. On the 4th of July, Matthew got bit on the forehead. The next day the thing was 4 cm by 5 cm and looked like a goose knobber. So I took him in and they put him on an antibiotic and Zyrtec. Matthew almost has to go in for any little thing because he's a potential staph infection mishap. So the Dr. said if he gets better in a few days to stop the antibiotics on day 5. So I stopped on day 6, just in case. Well I dump the stuff and on the next day, Matthew gets a bug bite on his left cheek and on his right leg. He told me the one on his leg. So I'm watching it for a couple days and the cheek ends up getting really red around it, not really swollen, the leg one looks bad. It's swollen and it's pretty warm to the touch, obviously quite infected on the verge of being a nasty staph infection or MRSA. We know too well about MRSA's, and really don't want to spend another couple days in the hospital for that so I took him in today. He is on the same antibiotic for 10 days.
Tuesday, March 31, 2009
Day 1: Wear underpants to school
Well wearing the underpants to school today was an accomplishment. Keeping them dry, however, was not. Oh well, accidents happen. He came home with different underpants and pants but at least he will start to realize no more pull-ups, only on nights. :)
Sunday, March 29, 2009
Trip to the zoo
Got to visit the zoo a weekend ago because it was so nice out! It was a good time for the boys. They really liked seeing the turtles.
From pull-ups to underwear
I've decided on Tuesday that I'm probably going to start sending Matthew to school in his little underwear. He wears underwear when he's at home for the most part on evening/weekends. I know he's not 100% ready, but he's close. He hasn't pee'd in a pull up for a long time. Well he did this weekend, but he woke up wet, and that happens. But usually he wakes up dry as can be. Usually when he has to go potty he'll pull his pants off and go. The pooping thing is a little trickier. He sometime tells me "poop" but then there's time where he tries to go and hide and starts pooping in his pants. So I have to catch him. He usually doesn't have to go at school because he goes before he goes to school and he's only there for 3 hours. So hopefully he can make it home and stuff instead of pottying in his pants, I'm sure he'll be ok. Just worried. He's even doing a good job out in public, I'll take him to the restroom and he'll go there. It's finally starting to click with him.
Thursday, March 19, 2009
Road Trip To Mitchell, SD
Well today I decided to roadtrip out to Mitchell. Matthew is off school today because of spring break and I happend to have the day off of work.
So off to Mitchell we went this morning with one place specifically in mind.... Hardee's! Sioux Falls used to have 3 hardee's back in the day, now they are Z'kota Grille's. Not exactly the same thing!
So we got there about a quarter to 11. I had the frisco burger, might I add, yum. The boys each had chicken strip kids meals with curly fries.
Then we went to Cabelas. That's always a neat place to see with all the stuffed wildlife. Then we of course had to visit the Corn Palace. The boys had a good time.
Friday, March 13, 2009
Play Therapy Etc.
A while back, Dr. Blake recommended play therapy for Matthew. I finally got around to getting it done these last couple months. Money is always tight when it comes to things like that. Fortunately, my life advocate person through my medical insurance did some digging and found a lady who has a sliding fee scale that charges $25/a half hour session. So we tried it out. Right from the get go I was apprehensive about this woman. Sean and I sat in on the first session. It really didn't impress me. So I figured I'd give her one more shot and sat in on the session again. Still not sure. The therapist seems a little nervous with other people around, and she shouldn't be. That's her job. So today we had session 3. She wouldn't let us go back. Hmm. That's fine. So I told her straight out that I'm not sold on play therapy and stuff yet. After his session she told me he doesn't need it anymore. I guess that's good, not like she's wasting money anymore. She was upfront.
So now I'll just wait and see what Dr. Blake thinks about all of this. Matthew has improved from school so that is good. I just had him into the doctor the other day (not his regular dr.) and he basically said he's on the Autism spectrum even though the other doc's won't committ to saying it.
Wow. I'm speechless. I think mainly nobody wants to label him so he's stuck with that label for the rest of his life.
Even in his medical records the Dr. was reading off that he's had RSV, MRSA, developmental delays and last but not least... being on the Autism spectrum.
I've had my gut feeling all along that he's a touch Autistic. I guess sometimes mom knows best. I think I even mentioned before that the school did their test and he was pretty close to showing up as Autistic on their evals but they just wouldn't label him either.
It's a broad spectrum, but he's definitely on it considering what he was like from baby on.
So now I'll just wait and see what Dr. Blake thinks about all of this. Matthew has improved from school so that is good. I just had him into the doctor the other day (not his regular dr.) and he basically said he's on the Autism spectrum even though the other doc's won't committ to saying it.
Wow. I'm speechless. I think mainly nobody wants to label him so he's stuck with that label for the rest of his life.
Even in his medical records the Dr. was reading off that he's had RSV, MRSA, developmental delays and last but not least... being on the Autism spectrum.
I've had my gut feeling all along that he's a touch Autistic. I guess sometimes mom knows best. I think I even mentioned before that the school did their test and he was pretty close to showing up as Autistic on their evals but they just wouldn't label him either.
It's a broad spectrum, but he's definitely on it considering what he was like from baby on.
Thursday, March 12, 2009
Naughty
Not sure what's been going on at school lately. But Matthew's been following a naughty trend. Last week he bit a kid and I got a call from the teacher. This week he's been "whiny" and not wanting to participate or acting like he's got a sore throat. I think Matthew has learned to Play The Game. He's turning into a faker or he likes to make things seem worse then then are. He gets an owie and I have to kiss it and he'll talk about that for awhile, his owies. Hmm. I know they've gotten a new Assistant at school and some new kids, wondering if he's overwhelmed. That's a lot of kids to 2 teachers. Tomorrow I'll have to call the school to talk to his teacher to see what's up.
Monday, March 2, 2009
Toy Story
Matthew has recently become obsessed with the movie "Toy Story." We just started watching it a few weeks ago. Needless to say, Buzz Lightyear is a big favorite. His cousin got a Buzz Lightyear for his b-day and Matthew's claimed it. Grandma went out to buy Matthew a Woody but Matthew likes Buzz a little bit more.
One of my favorite parts is in the beginning of the movie when Woody has some "bad news" about Andy's birthday party being that day. So he's looking for Slinky the dog and tells him he's got "bad news," in which the dog replies in a rough sounding voice, "bad news?" Matthew has copied this and it's so darn cute! He'll say, bad news, BAD NEWS? Just like the movie.
One of my favorite parts is in the beginning of the movie when Woody has some "bad news" about Andy's birthday party being that day. So he's looking for Slinky the dog and tells him he's got "bad news," in which the dog replies in a rough sounding voice, "bad news?" Matthew has copied this and it's so darn cute! He'll say, bad news, BAD NEWS? Just like the movie.
Sunday, February 22, 2009
Life's Lessons
Written by Regina Brett, 90 years old, of The Plain Dealer, Cleveland, Ohio
"To celebrate growing older, I once wrote the 45 lessons life taught me. It is the most-requested column I've ever written. My odometer rolled over to 90 in August, so here is the column once more:
1. Life isn't fair, but it's still good.
2. When in doubt, just take the next small step.
3. Life is too short to waste time hating anyone.
4. Your job won't take care of you when you are sick. Your friends and parents will. Stay in touch.
5. Pay off your credit cards every month.
6. You don't have to win every argument. Agree to disagree.
7. Cry with someone. It's more healing than crying alone.
8. It's OK to get angry with God. He can take it.
9. Save for retirement starting with your first paycheck.
10. When it comes to chocolate, resistance is futile.
11. Make peace with your past so it won't screw up the present.
12. It's OK to let your children see you cry.
13. Don't compare your life to others. You have no idea what their journey is all about.
14. If a relationship has to be a secret, you shouldn't be in it.
15. Everything can change in the blink of an eye. But don't worry; God never blinks.
16. Take a deep breath. It calms the mind.
17. Get rid of anything that isn't useful, beautiful or joyful.
18. Whatever doesn't kill you really does make you stronger.
19. It's never too late to have a happy childhood. But the second one is up to you and no one else.
20. When it comes to going after what you love in life, don't take no for an answer.
21. Burn the candles, use the nice sheets, wear the fancy lingerie. Don't save it for a special occasion. Today is special.
22. Over prepare, then go with the flow.
23. Be eccentric now. Don't wait for old age to wear purple.
24. The most important sex organ is the brain.
25. No one is in charge of your happiness but you.
26. Frame every so-called disaster with these words. 'In five years, will this matter?'
27. Always choose life.
28. Forgive everyone everything.
29. What other people think of you is none of your business.
30. Time heals almost everything. Give time, time.
31. However good or bad a situation is, it will change.
32. Don't take yourself so seriously. No one else does.
33. Believe in miracles.
34. God loves you because of who God is, not because of anything you did or didn't do.
35. Don't audit life. Show up and make the most of it now.
36. Growing old beats the alternative -- dying young.
37. Your children get only one childhood.
38. All that truly matters in the end is that you loved.
39. Get outside every day. Miracles are waiting everywhere.
40. If we all threw our problems in a pile and saw everyone else's, we'd grab ours back.
41. Envy is a waste of time. You already have all you need.
42. The best is yet to come.
43. No ma tter how you feel, get up, dress up and show up.
44. Yield.
45. Life isn't tied with a bow, but it's still a gift.
"To celebrate growing older, I once wrote the 45 lessons life taught me. It is the most-requested column I've ever written. My odometer rolled over to 90 in August, so here is the column once more:
1. Life isn't fair, but it's still good.
2. When in doubt, just take the next small step.
3. Life is too short to waste time hating anyone.
4. Your job won't take care of you when you are sick. Your friends and parents will. Stay in touch.
5. Pay off your credit cards every month.
6. You don't have to win every argument. Agree to disagree.
7. Cry with someone. It's more healing than crying alone.
8. It's OK to get angry with God. He can take it.
9. Save for retirement starting with your first paycheck.
10. When it comes to chocolate, resistance is futile.
11. Make peace with your past so it won't screw up the present.
12. It's OK to let your children see you cry.
13. Don't compare your life to others. You have no idea what their journey is all about.
14. If a relationship has to be a secret, you shouldn't be in it.
15. Everything can change in the blink of an eye. But don't worry; God never blinks.
16. Take a deep breath. It calms the mind.
17. Get rid of anything that isn't useful, beautiful or joyful.
18. Whatever doesn't kill you really does make you stronger.
19. It's never too late to have a happy childhood. But the second one is up to you and no one else.
20. When it comes to going after what you love in life, don't take no for an answer.
21. Burn the candles, use the nice sheets, wear the fancy lingerie. Don't save it for a special occasion. Today is special.
22. Over prepare, then go with the flow.
23. Be eccentric now. Don't wait for old age to wear purple.
24. The most important sex organ is the brain.
25. No one is in charge of your happiness but you.
26. Frame every so-called disaster with these words. 'In five years, will this matter?'
27. Always choose life.
28. Forgive everyone everything.
29. What other people think of you is none of your business.
30. Time heals almost everything. Give time, time.
31. However good or bad a situation is, it will change.
32. Don't take yourself so seriously. No one else does.
33. Believe in miracles.
34. God loves you because of who God is, not because of anything you did or didn't do.
35. Don't audit life. Show up and make the most of it now.
36. Growing old beats the alternative -- dying young.
37. Your children get only one childhood.
38. All that truly matters in the end is that you loved.
39. Get outside every day. Miracles are waiting everywhere.
40. If we all threw our problems in a pile and saw everyone else's, we'd grab ours back.
41. Envy is a waste of time. You already have all you need.
42. The best is yet to come.
43. No ma tter how you feel, get up, dress up and show up.
44. Yield.
45. Life isn't tied with a bow, but it's still a gift.
Facebook Responded
Facebook finally responded to Matthew's account being disabled. They said they made a mistake and reinstated his facebook. Lol. I tried it and it still said it was disabled since he doesn't have a school name in there yet or something. Oh well. Forget it. I'm done with the hassle, I've switched to using this and it's a lot easier.
Matthew's Toys!
So after posting Matthew's picture with a couple of his dinosaurs, I've decided to take pictures of his "collection" of dinosaurs and other various animals he enjoys playing with.
So for your viewing pleasure, here you go:
Dinosaurs:
Other Animals:
Matthew's been spending the weekend with his dad so I had the time to round up a few of his toys for the picture. It'll be interesting to see how much more he collects by the time he goes to kindergarten. Yikes. Now that's a scary thought.
Wednesday, February 11, 2009
Valentine's Party
Matthew had his little Valentine's Day party at school today. I spent the day at school helping out with craft projects and stuff. Matthew was not a very good little boy today, he always seems to be like that when I am there. He didn't participate at anything well except for making cookies at one of that little stations today. Oh well, I still had a good time. I get a little carried away when it comes to stuff like that. I got to bring plates, napkins, paper sacks to decorate, stickers, and candy. I made up little boxes with candy in them. Matthew got to distribute his dinosaur Valentines to all the kids. The kids got to each take a book home about Valentine's Day from their teacher, that was pretty nice. Now Matthew' off a couple days from school for break then resumes on Tuesday. He is "star of the week" next week and gets to bring in pictures of his family and whatnot and tell about them. Which of course he won't tell anybody anything anyway! lol
Friday, February 6, 2009
Facebook Disabled Matthew's Accnt
Well facebook decided to disable Matthew's account after all this time. I'm sure they did their "routine maintenance" on it and figured out he isn't old enough to have one or something. It's too bad too, I had a few notes that I posted on there and they gave no warning for me to transfer them over here. I only kept close friends of his on there so they could follow his process. It was a lot easier posting it on there and having people comment or ask about him. But oh well... guess there's this.
Thursday, February 5, 2009
My very first conference
I had my first conference tonight at the school with Matthew's teacher. It was fun, I've been looking forward to it for awhile. Matthew's doing good. Making improvements. Learning a lot. He's Miss Kimberly's little buddy. :) Doesn't like to potty at school, but that's probably because he goes at home before he goes to school and holds it for a long time. So overall, a good conference. He's learned shapes, and counts orally, and a few colors and whatnot. Learning his last name and can start to identify his first name given 2 choices. :) Apparently he likes his dinosaurs at school as much as he likes them at home! ;) So I can't complain.-Tammy
Tuesday, January 27, 2009
Spontaneous Vocabulary Dec 28, 08
Well I thought I'd compile a new list of words Matthew now uses spontaneously since he's been a little scholar at early childhood education.
-diego
-dora
-nanu (yes he calls me nanu know like phoenix does)
-tree
-bee
-key
-What's that?
-stick
-pumpkin
-nose
-ears
-grandma
-grandpa
-chocolate
-chocolate milk
-horsey
-frog
-dragon
-elephant
-dinosaur
-go go go
-one, two, three, four, five
-patrick
-sandy
-spongebob
-plankton
-squidward
-jellyfish
-fish
-rock
-monkey
-nemo
-choo choo train
-kitty
-daddy
-mommy
-cup
-mister
-aah aah choo (from Cars... snotrod)
-Matthew
-shark
-that way
-watch this
-try again
-cookie
-drink
-birthday
-it tickles
-shoes
-transformers
-fire
-waterfall
-Phoenix
-baby
-pizza
-robot
-What happened?
-ice cream
-Happy Birthday
-Santa Claus
-Christmas
-reindeer
-Barnacle Boy
-Mermaid ManSure it's one thing for him to parrot me, but to use words spontaneously like this is a wonderful thing.
1st day of school Aug 26, 2008
Matthew's first day of early childhood education was today at WC.
It was tough for me and somewhat hard on him.
His van came and picked him up about 8, there was 2 other kids in the van already.
He left and cried so bad. I felt so horrible.
But we met up with him at the school and watched from inside the classroom as he got out of the van.
Matthew had to put his shoes and socks back on because he was so mad when he left, he took them off.
He got out of the van and with a little help, he put his backpack on. I couldn't even get him to do that at home.
He then preceeded with the 3 other kids into the classroom. He was happy to see me there. I didn't stay too long, none of the other parents did. So I left him to have his day with Kimberly.
I got a call about 11:35 that he had a GREAT day. That made me feel so much better. I guess he cried a little when I left, but other than that he did pretty well.
He isn't able to do a lot of things other kids do (like pick out his name), but he did drink from a cup today well. So that's good. It's about time he breaks that damn sippy cup habit anyway.
So I wasn't able to see him off the van today, even though I'd taken the day off of work for his 1st day because my grandma past away and her funeral was today.
So Sean waited for him and took him out to lunch. But he had a green apple colored in for his Tuesday day so he did good. They even sent home a picture of his traced hands and he colored a bit on it. That was pretty neat.
I feel better now. I just got to think of it as someone else taking him to and from school to a longer therapy session.
So I think I'll be ok.
Eventually he'll probably start looking forward to it because they have a fun little routine for them.
It was tough for me and somewhat hard on him.
His van came and picked him up about 8, there was 2 other kids in the van already.
He left and cried so bad. I felt so horrible.
But we met up with him at the school and watched from inside the classroom as he got out of the van.
Matthew had to put his shoes and socks back on because he was so mad when he left, he took them off.
He got out of the van and with a little help, he put his backpack on. I couldn't even get him to do that at home.
He then preceeded with the 3 other kids into the classroom. He was happy to see me there. I didn't stay too long, none of the other parents did. So I left him to have his day with Kimberly.
I got a call about 11:35 that he had a GREAT day. That made me feel so much better. I guess he cried a little when I left, but other than that he did pretty well.
He isn't able to do a lot of things other kids do (like pick out his name), but he did drink from a cup today well. So that's good. It's about time he breaks that damn sippy cup habit anyway.
So I wasn't able to see him off the van today, even though I'd taken the day off of work for his 1st day because my grandma past away and her funeral was today.
So Sean waited for him and took him out to lunch. But he had a green apple colored in for his Tuesday day so he did good. They even sent home a picture of his traced hands and he colored a bit on it. That was pretty neat.
I feel better now. I just got to think of it as someone else taking him to and from school to a longer therapy session.
So I think I'll be ok.
Eventually he'll probably start looking forward to it because they have a fun little routine for them.
Good News July 19,2008
Well I wasn't supposed to officially find out til next Friday. But I found out yesterday, Matthew's approved to be in Early Childhood Education. They had to do all their little tests just to be sure, at least that's what the state wants.
So that is really good news.
Matthew will go to school starting late August, 4 times a week. So I think it amounts to about 11 hours a week. He definitely needs that.
I've got a lot of support behind us on this.... from his family, friends, daycare and doctors.
I was even checking out the school supply lists at Walmart the other day and found out he needed a few things, so that was fun getting his 5 things he needs! Haha.
It'll be hard sending him that first day or so. I'm taking it off work so I can send him and then go to school his first day. Poor guy. Just turns 3 in the middle of August to.
But the good news is, he'll be in this program until he starts kindergarten. So he'll have a good 3 years of help because he'll be 6 when he starts kindergarten.
So he'll be stuck in school til 2024. Wow. Gosh that's along time. Here 13 years of school's a lot but his will be 16 years, eeeek...
So once he starts school, they'll have an Autism team check him for that too, it's not a bad idea to get a second opinion.
So that is really good news.
Matthew will go to school starting late August, 4 times a week. So I think it amounts to about 11 hours a week. He definitely needs that.
I've got a lot of support behind us on this.... from his family, friends, daycare and doctors.
I was even checking out the school supply lists at Walmart the other day and found out he needed a few things, so that was fun getting his 5 things he needs! Haha.
It'll be hard sending him that first day or so. I'm taking it off work so I can send him and then go to school his first day. Poor guy. Just turns 3 in the middle of August to.
But the good news is, he'll be in this program until he starts kindergarten. So he'll have a good 3 years of help because he'll be 6 when he starts kindergarten.
So he'll be stuck in school til 2024. Wow. Gosh that's along time. Here 13 years of school's a lot but his will be 16 years, eeeek...
So once he starts school, they'll have an Autism team check him for that too, it's not a bad idea to get a second opinion.
Simply A M A Z I N G July 9,08
Matthew and I went to visit someone at the hospital last night.
After we left we headed to the elevator. Matthew's still a little scared of those things.
We get on and I hit the button to the ground floor.
But then it stopped at 1, so I figured someone was getting on.
Sure enough, a couple girls and a kid gets on with us.
Then the strangest thing happened.
Matthew told them "hi" and they said "hi" back.
Wow, wasn't that cool. Mr. I don't care to talk actually said something.
But get this!!!
Matthew THEN SAID "what you doing?"
I was awe-struck!!
And they replied "going to the cafeteria!"
I couldn't believe they understood him, let alone the fact he actually said something comprised of a sentence AND a question!
Then we said our goodbyes, but I think Matthew was distracted by all the people and stuff to wave, but still!!!
Simply.... A M A Z I N G ! ! ! !
After we left we headed to the elevator. Matthew's still a little scared of those things.
We get on and I hit the button to the ground floor.
But then it stopped at 1, so I figured someone was getting on.
Sure enough, a couple girls and a kid gets on with us.
Then the strangest thing happened.
Matthew told them "hi" and they said "hi" back.
Wow, wasn't that cool. Mr. I don't care to talk actually said something.
But get this!!!
Matthew THEN SAID "what you doing?"
I was awe-struck!!
And they replied "going to the cafeteria!"
I couldn't believe they understood him, let alone the fact he actually said something comprised of a sentence AND a question!
Then we said our goodbyes, but I think Matthew was distracted by all the people and stuff to wave, but still!!!
Simply.... A M A Z I N G ! ! ! !
Nemo May 30,2008
Oh yah, update on Matthew.
He said Nemo spontaneously last weekend since he watched it and hadn't seen it in awhile. Now he says Nemo a lot just like he was saying Bee when he wanted to watch the bee movie.
He said Nemo spontaneously last weekend since he watched it and hadn't seen it in awhile. Now he says Nemo a lot just like he was saying Bee when he wanted to watch the bee movie.
I've been cheated and robbed May 24, 2008
It's funny. When you have a baby, you just expect everything to go right? Right? I mean, you of course hope and pray that everything is normal. Ten fingers and toes and stuff like that.
Then once you have a "normal" baby, you thank God for him or her. But what happens when months and years from that prescious day, your baby doesn't speak or connect to you like EVERY other baby/child you see that's about your baby's age.
That's what hurts me the most about Matthew. I had the most perfect pregnancy. Sure I had aches and pains and sometimes those uneasy queasy feelings, but overall, I loved every minute of it. Sure you hear those women who bitch and moan about every little thing or take every little emotion out on thier husband or boyfriend. That's just messed up.
I didn't have any of that. I did mine all by myself and I was cool with that. I was just happy for the little miracle growing inside my belly and I was very blessed with whole occassion. I worked up until the day I gave birth. Still a very physical job. None of that bed rest bullshit for me. I wouldn't take it. Lol.
So I have my sweet baby boy, didn't name him Tater Zane like I wanted, and Matthew Zane sounded just as good. His Apgar's were 10 and 10. Does that not mean a pretty normal baby? One would think so.
But like I said, I've been cheated and robbed. Matthew looked normal on the outside, but deep inside, he wasn't and still isn't quite right. It's sad too. I feel someone stole the child in him that I should have had. I mean, the way he's never come to me for comfort and of course everyone knows the lack of speech. The distance, and the no eye contact thing. How could someone possibly take these things away from him?
It's just sad. I mean, granted he's come along way, but who on Earth could take those things away from me? I would to have my son say, "mama" when he comes and the room and sees me, or "what's that?" or "why", or "no" cause I'm making him do something that he thinks is so terrible.
I pray to God, that somehow some way, these prescious things are returned to me so I can truly know what a real son is like.
Then once you have a "normal" baby, you thank God for him or her. But what happens when months and years from that prescious day, your baby doesn't speak or connect to you like EVERY other baby/child you see that's about your baby's age.
That's what hurts me the most about Matthew. I had the most perfect pregnancy. Sure I had aches and pains and sometimes those uneasy queasy feelings, but overall, I loved every minute of it. Sure you hear those women who bitch and moan about every little thing or take every little emotion out on thier husband or boyfriend. That's just messed up.
I didn't have any of that. I did mine all by myself and I was cool with that. I was just happy for the little miracle growing inside my belly and I was very blessed with whole occassion. I worked up until the day I gave birth. Still a very physical job. None of that bed rest bullshit for me. I wouldn't take it. Lol.
So I have my sweet baby boy, didn't name him Tater Zane like I wanted, and Matthew Zane sounded just as good. His Apgar's were 10 and 10. Does that not mean a pretty normal baby? One would think so.
But like I said, I've been cheated and robbed. Matthew looked normal on the outside, but deep inside, he wasn't and still isn't quite right. It's sad too. I feel someone stole the child in him that I should have had. I mean, the way he's never come to me for comfort and of course everyone knows the lack of speech. The distance, and the no eye contact thing. How could someone possibly take these things away from him?
It's just sad. I mean, granted he's come along way, but who on Earth could take those things away from me? I would to have my son say, "mama" when he comes and the room and sees me, or "what's that?" or "why", or "no" cause I'm making him do something that he thinks is so terrible.
I pray to God, that somehow some way, these prescious things are returned to me so I can truly know what a real son is like.
Matty Patty 5.19.8
I just got a call from Dr. Blake. Talked to him for 10 minutes. I was impressed. I was expecting to talk to his nurse!!! I have so much respect for him. Matthew's red blood cells are small and he's not storing enough iron so he needs to be put on iron drops. I need to have him see Dr. Blake in 6 months at CCHS. Then at his 3 year evaluation, he needs to start seeing Dr. Bauer. He's a cool Dr. as well. I guess when kids are iron deficient, they tend to be more irritable. Then I need to get him into the sensory therapy programs and what not.... just waiting for some paperwork to fill out to get that going.
Tough Love and a course of Action 5.15.8
There is a few things Matthew definitely needs help with in getting him back on track.
I wish I knew the reason why he was this way, but I'll probably never have an answer.
What I do know is, it's going to take a lot of Tough Love to get him there.
For starters...
I NEED to replace his sippy cup with ME. He is so in love with that damn thing, it breaks my heart, that it is more important than me. Granted, I'm probably to blame, but it did comfort him. As Dr. Blake said, he needs to get on an open cup routine, just at meals and stuff. This will be the hardest challenge of them all. I so want him to reach out to ME instead of that. I want to hold him and cuddle him when he's upset. He's just so frustrated and that seems to soothe him for some reason, so that is challege number one.
Next, because Matthew has an attention span the size of a gnat, unless I was Spongebob Squarepants or Barry B. Benson from the Bee Movie, Matthew doesn't want a thing to do with me. So somehow, some way, he'll be forced to sit with me and read stories. Read, read, read. The more he hears, the better.
Another thing is, without a doubt, Matthew needs to go to the Early Childhood Education Program at West Central. The challenge with that is the transportation. Sean's going to have to move and eventually I'll have to move next. It's for Matthew, I'll do anything for him to make him better... So that'll help out tremendously.
He also needs more therapy. A lot more. Almost 2-3 times a week, just for speech. Granted once he gets into WC, he'll be there from 8:15-11:15 or something, so he'll have that 4 times a week, and they can always pull him out to do speech indepently with him. But, in the meantime, it's all in the works.
He also suggested some play therapy with a male therapist. Either Sean or I get to be heavily involved with that.
So now at least the ball is back rolling again, and it's a start. We've definitely got a long, hard road a head of us. But it'll all be so worth it when I can have little conversations with my son. I can't wait for him to constantly ask me, what's that? or Why? Or to say I love you Mommy without me making him say it and mean it.
I wish I knew the reason why he was this way, but I'll probably never have an answer.
What I do know is, it's going to take a lot of Tough Love to get him there.
For starters...
I NEED to replace his sippy cup with ME. He is so in love with that damn thing, it breaks my heart, that it is more important than me. Granted, I'm probably to blame, but it did comfort him. As Dr. Blake said, he needs to get on an open cup routine, just at meals and stuff. This will be the hardest challenge of them all. I so want him to reach out to ME instead of that. I want to hold him and cuddle him when he's upset. He's just so frustrated and that seems to soothe him for some reason, so that is challege number one.
Next, because Matthew has an attention span the size of a gnat, unless I was Spongebob Squarepants or Barry B. Benson from the Bee Movie, Matthew doesn't want a thing to do with me. So somehow, some way, he'll be forced to sit with me and read stories. Read, read, read. The more he hears, the better.
Another thing is, without a doubt, Matthew needs to go to the Early Childhood Education Program at West Central. The challenge with that is the transportation. Sean's going to have to move and eventually I'll have to move next. It's for Matthew, I'll do anything for him to make him better... So that'll help out tremendously.
He also needs more therapy. A lot more. Almost 2-3 times a week, just for speech. Granted once he gets into WC, he'll be there from 8:15-11:15 or something, so he'll have that 4 times a week, and they can always pull him out to do speech indepently with him. But, in the meantime, it's all in the works.
He also suggested some play therapy with a male therapist. Either Sean or I get to be heavily involved with that.
So now at least the ball is back rolling again, and it's a start. We've definitely got a long, hard road a head of us. But it'll all be so worth it when I can have little conversations with my son. I can't wait for him to constantly ask me, what's that? or Why? Or to say I love you Mommy without me making him say it and mean it.
To My True Friends: The Moment You’ve Been Waiting For 5.15.08
Well here it goes...
As you may know, the ones of you who've been following Matthew and I on our little journey, we had our "special" appointment today. I never dreamed it would come up this quick.
As most of you know, I've been struggling for over a year now with clinic visits and doctors and specialists trying to figure out what is going on with Matthew. And no I don't really have the cause of his being the he is, but I do have something ruled out.
Matthew, Sean and I headed into the Childrens Care Hospital and School this morning for our 8:00 appointment with Dr. Blake (Sanford Hospital's ONLY developmental peditrician specialist) along with a couple other members on the team at CCHS.
I knew coming into this appointment it probably isn't going to be a cheap little deal but I also know that the other doctors I have talked to have many good words of praise and speak very highly of Dr. Blake, and so therefore I was really just needing to hear what he had to say. Sure I could have done the same appointment with his CNP, but that just wasn't the same as hearing it from here.
Anyway, back to the appt. We get there and fill out our information and they get Matthew's weight and height and whatnot, we go in and do the "baby clinic". It's a team of Dr. Blake, Robin (an OT), and Tanya (a speech therapist).... all the while I'm talking to Dr. Blake, discussing some medical history and concerns and whatnot, the two ladies are playing with Matthew, doing their little tests and things on him. Same kind of thing as the LEND clinic we did in May 07, just not as extensive.
Matthew showed his true colors too. He was happy and wanted to do some things, but then he was really pissy and showed that side of him to them as well. He gave him his emotional meltdowns complete with his new trick of hitting himself in the head.
Now you guys know all along I (along with my mom) have been thinking Autism. You know, the triangle type thing: poor communication, poor social skills, and the repetitive nature (which I naturally assumed was the hitting thing because he doesn't flap his hands, spin or line up anything).
Sure Matthew's made some improvements... but he doesn't mean it when he kisses me or hugs me. I make him do these things. He's told to immitate words. I'm sure he doesn't understand what he's saying.
So during the course of the eval, Matthew was playing pretty good with the ladies, he even stacked 7 blocks. I was quite impressed.
So after Dr. Blake was done speaking with Sean and I... he did a small physical evaluation. He did get him to imitate him (Dr. Blake) blowing out a flashlight on and off, it was cute, but Matthew didn't quite form his lips right, checked his eyes, ears, nose, listened to his heart and breathing and whatnot.
So that was about it of the evaluation.
Here comes the part which still totally sucks.
Ok, I better tell you now, Dr. Blake says he doesn't have Autism. Yes, a big sigh of relief..... But there's more... he said ONLY because Matthew does have some sort of connection, even though it's not much of a connection to ME. Matthew has never been cuddly, or things like that... he actually prefers his sippy cup for comfort over me. Which is really hard for me to deal with. And Autistic kids at Matt's age would have NOTHING to do with other people socially.
Basically, Matthew's motor skills are great. Right on track. He'll spike into a 36 month old range, so it's Normal there for his age. He might have a few fine motor skills a little behind but nothing major.
Onto his speech/language skills. This is the sad part again, which I always hate hearing. Matthew speech is at a 6 month level. Makes me cry just writing that. In different parts, it'll spike to a 15 month level. Ok how old is Matthew? Well he's 33 months old. That's tough you know. You have this almost 3 year old kid, that's back in the infant to just starting to walk area. It's like he's improved a little from the LEND evaluation. Some of those were only 1-6 month old sounds and things.
Some of the other things Dr. Blake asked was about how Matt chews and what he eats. I was thinking what on earth does this have to do with anything, but it does make sense. Matthew is quite irritable and whatnot, of course you know he is 2, terrible 2's they say..... but, the fact that Matt doesn't care for meat made Dr. Blake want to pull some blood today to see if he is iron deficient. Could be the cause of some of the irritibility. So I'll let you know on that. Oh yah, and the fragile X was negative. But maybe it's something with his oral motor skills, for the fact he doesn't like hard things to chew and sticks to only soft things.
So that was pretty much it for evaluation.
Oh I forgot to tell you guys, this guy from CCHS came to see Matt at daycare last week and didn't really seem to red flag him for Autism or whatnot... then I get a call today after this evaluation that they'd do a FREE autism screening for me. Talk about timing. Lol. So I told them what Dr. Blake said but I'd think it just because it is free maybe 6 months down the road just to have it done.
Anyway, sorry for the lengthy-ness of this. I'm going to write one more blog just to let you know what needs to be done now.
As you may know, the ones of you who've been following Matthew and I on our little journey, we had our "special" appointment today. I never dreamed it would come up this quick.
As most of you know, I've been struggling for over a year now with clinic visits and doctors and specialists trying to figure out what is going on with Matthew. And no I don't really have the cause of his being the he is, but I do have something ruled out.
Matthew, Sean and I headed into the Childrens Care Hospital and School this morning for our 8:00 appointment with Dr. Blake (Sanford Hospital's ONLY developmental peditrician specialist) along with a couple other members on the team at CCHS.
I knew coming into this appointment it probably isn't going to be a cheap little deal but I also know that the other doctors I have talked to have many good words of praise and speak very highly of Dr. Blake, and so therefore I was really just needing to hear what he had to say. Sure I could have done the same appointment with his CNP, but that just wasn't the same as hearing it from here.
Anyway, back to the appt. We get there and fill out our information and they get Matthew's weight and height and whatnot, we go in and do the "baby clinic". It's a team of Dr. Blake, Robin (an OT), and Tanya (a speech therapist).... all the while I'm talking to Dr. Blake, discussing some medical history and concerns and whatnot, the two ladies are playing with Matthew, doing their little tests and things on him. Same kind of thing as the LEND clinic we did in May 07, just not as extensive.
Matthew showed his true colors too. He was happy and wanted to do some things, but then he was really pissy and showed that side of him to them as well. He gave him his emotional meltdowns complete with his new trick of hitting himself in the head.
Now you guys know all along I (along with my mom) have been thinking Autism. You know, the triangle type thing: poor communication, poor social skills, and the repetitive nature (which I naturally assumed was the hitting thing because he doesn't flap his hands, spin or line up anything).
Sure Matthew's made some improvements... but he doesn't mean it when he kisses me or hugs me. I make him do these things. He's told to immitate words. I'm sure he doesn't understand what he's saying.
So during the course of the eval, Matthew was playing pretty good with the ladies, he even stacked 7 blocks. I was quite impressed.
So after Dr. Blake was done speaking with Sean and I... he did a small physical evaluation. He did get him to imitate him (Dr. Blake) blowing out a flashlight on and off, it was cute, but Matthew didn't quite form his lips right, checked his eyes, ears, nose, listened to his heart and breathing and whatnot.
So that was about it of the evaluation.
Here comes the part which still totally sucks.
Ok, I better tell you now, Dr. Blake says he doesn't have Autism. Yes, a big sigh of relief..... But there's more... he said ONLY because Matthew does have some sort of connection, even though it's not much of a connection to ME. Matthew has never been cuddly, or things like that... he actually prefers his sippy cup for comfort over me. Which is really hard for me to deal with. And Autistic kids at Matt's age would have NOTHING to do with other people socially.
Basically, Matthew's motor skills are great. Right on track. He'll spike into a 36 month old range, so it's Normal there for his age. He might have a few fine motor skills a little behind but nothing major.
Onto his speech/language skills. This is the sad part again, which I always hate hearing. Matthew speech is at a 6 month level. Makes me cry just writing that. In different parts, it'll spike to a 15 month level. Ok how old is Matthew? Well he's 33 months old. That's tough you know. You have this almost 3 year old kid, that's back in the infant to just starting to walk area. It's like he's improved a little from the LEND evaluation. Some of those were only 1-6 month old sounds and things.
Some of the other things Dr. Blake asked was about how Matt chews and what he eats. I was thinking what on earth does this have to do with anything, but it does make sense. Matthew is quite irritable and whatnot, of course you know he is 2, terrible 2's they say..... but, the fact that Matt doesn't care for meat made Dr. Blake want to pull some blood today to see if he is iron deficient. Could be the cause of some of the irritibility. So I'll let you know on that. Oh yah, and the fragile X was negative. But maybe it's something with his oral motor skills, for the fact he doesn't like hard things to chew and sticks to only soft things.
So that was pretty much it for evaluation.
Oh I forgot to tell you guys, this guy from CCHS came to see Matt at daycare last week and didn't really seem to red flag him for Autism or whatnot... then I get a call today after this evaluation that they'd do a FREE autism screening for me. Talk about timing. Lol. So I told them what Dr. Blake said but I'd think it just because it is free maybe 6 months down the road just to have it done.
Anyway, sorry for the lengthy-ness of this. I'm going to write one more blog just to let you know what needs to be done now.
Matthew's Appt. Has been moved up... Way Up. 5.15.08
Matthew’s Appt. has been Moved Up..... Way up!!!
Got a call earlier this week from the lady that schedules the Dr. Blake appointment for that special "baby clinic" he'll be doing. Originally we were scheduled for August 23rd.
She called and moved him up to July 10th. That was on Tuesday. Yesterday, she called and moved him up to TODAY!!!!!!
It'll be an hour and a half deal and hopefully we'll get some sort of diagonosis.
Wish us luck.
Got a call earlier this week from the lady that schedules the Dr. Blake appointment for that special "baby clinic" he'll be doing. Originally we were scheduled for August 23rd.
She called and moved him up to July 10th. That was on Tuesday. Yesterday, she called and moved him up to TODAY!!!!!!
It'll be an hour and a half deal and hopefully we'll get some sort of diagonosis.
Wish us luck.
The Results Are In... 5.15.08
For Matthew's Fragile X testing....
NEGATIVE
Not sure what happens from here on out....
NEGATIVE
Not sure what happens from here on out....
The Positives May 10,2008
Well as much as I tend to focus on the negatives, here are some positives I'm going to share with you all about Matthew and his process. I always appreciate the messages from you guys through all this. Thanks for you that respond and have a little something to say. It really means a lot to me.
+ Better eye contact
+ Kisses and hugs me and other people
+ Says things if you tell him to say "I want something"...
+ Does simple commands, will throw something away if I ask him too, sometimes goes and gets his cup
+ Lets people touch him more, has come a long way with therapy
+ Points to things all the time now
+ Has opened up to new people a little better now
+ Will say I love you Mommy or I love you when I say it to him first
+ Says "mama" out of the blue sometimes
+ Loves to scribble
That's just a few for now. Most people take these for granted, but they mean a lot to me as we've struggled for awhile trying to get him to do these simple things.
Again, thank you all for your support and encouragement through all of this.
I'm still waiting on the Fragile X results. I'm going to hold off with a test through Center of Disabilities, and that guy through CCHS didn't really act like he seen any red flags, so I may just wait for the Dr. Blake appt. Then again, we may not even need that done. I really don't want to spend a ton of money for those guys to say, it's inconclusive or something. Or basically that they don't really know what's wrong.
+ Better eye contact
+ Kisses and hugs me and other people
+ Says things if you tell him to say "I want something"...
+ Does simple commands, will throw something away if I ask him too, sometimes goes and gets his cup
+ Lets people touch him more, has come a long way with therapy
+ Points to things all the time now
+ Has opened up to new people a little better now
+ Will say I love you Mommy or I love you when I say it to him first
+ Says "mama" out of the blue sometimes
+ Loves to scribble
That's just a few for now. Most people take these for granted, but they mean a lot to me as we've struggled for awhile trying to get him to do these simple things.
Again, thank you all for your support and encouragement through all of this.
I'm still waiting on the Fragile X results. I'm going to hold off with a test through Center of Disabilities, and that guy through CCHS didn't really act like he seen any red flags, so I may just wait for the Dr. Blake appt. Then again, we may not even need that done. I really don't want to spend a ton of money for those guys to say, it's inconclusive or something. Or basically that they don't really know what's wrong.
Not Much To Tell 5.09.08
Had a guy at CCHS come observe Matthew at daycare this week for about an hour. Didn't really point me in the direction of saying, hey, get him evaluated for Autism. So I just don't know anymore.
He said he seen a few negative aspects about him but also a lot of positive things. It's just hard to explain to everyone the way he is, and how unaffectionate and unplayful he is to certain people... especially since he's grown up with them from day one.
That is all for now....
He said he seen a few negative aspects about him but also a lot of positive things. It's just hard to explain to everyone the way he is, and how unaffectionate and unplayful he is to certain people... especially since he's grown up with them from day one.
That is all for now....
A little light reading 4.27.08
It drives me NUTS not knowing what's wrong with Matthew... so deep down inside, even though the doctors won't give me a straight answer, I think it's Autism. So I sat at Barnes and Noble last night going through some books and decided to purchase a book about Autism. Sure I could do my research on the internet, but that usually makes me pretty upset, watching the little videos and stuff on youtube. Not like the book will help either but it looks like a pretty good one to read.
Still impatiently waiting for the big Eval. coming in August. He better give me some diagnosis after all I've been through. Oh and then there's that Fragile X bloodwork results I still have to wait for as well.
Basically this is a book to overcome Autism. Seems like a very good approach to breaking down each symptom and coming up with good interventions. So I hope it helps Matthew no matter if he has it or not.
Still impatiently waiting for the big Eval. coming in August. He better give me some diagnosis after all I've been through. Oh and then there's that Fragile X bloodwork results I still have to wait for as well.
Basically this is a book to overcome Autism. Seems like a very good approach to breaking down each symptom and coming up with good interventions. So I hope it helps Matthew no matter if he has it or not.
Off to the Lab.... 4.22.08
Matthew had his blood drawn yesterday for that Fragile X syndrome. It's now being sent off to a genetics lab. It'll take about a month to find out the results.
Fragile x???? April 20, 2008
After spending the weekend trying to decipher what actual blood test Dr. Bauer wants done, I've concluded it's a Fragile X test on Matthew. The nurse left me a voicemail about it and she said it so fast I was having a hard time understanding it.
I don't know much about it. I actually tried to get the lab drawn today at the acute care clinic and apparently you can only do that Mon-Thurs as it is a room temperature sample that expires in 48 hours.
Hmm... so I guess after I get off work tomorrow that is what we'll be doing.
So anyway, I did my usual search on Yahoo! to find out what this is.... this Fragile X sydrome. Apparently it's a mutation in the X chromosome. Hmm... on one hand it could lead to the mental retardation and on the other hand it is a leading cause of Autism. Imagine that.
Makes sense I guess. http://www.fragilex.org/html/autism_and_fragile_x_syndrome.htm
http://www.fragilex.org/html/autism.htm
Well those are the sites I've found a little information about this on.
What exactly is Fragile x?
fragile X syndrome (FXS), the most common cause of inherited mental impairment. This impairment can range from learning disabilities to more severe cognitive or intellectual disabilities. (Sometimes referred to as mental retardation.) FXS is the most common known cause of autism or "autistic-like" behaviors. Symptoms also can include characteristic physical and behavioral features and delays in speech and language development.
Hmm.... so I'm very curious to find out the lab results of this test. Makes me wonder if Matthew has this Fragile X thing... who knows. But I'll keep ya posted when I find out, hopefully by the end of this week. At least Dr. Bauer's on a good path with Matt, I think I won't be taking him to the Hartford clinic when it comes to anything like this anymore.... they never really thought he had anything wrong with him.
I don't know much about it. I actually tried to get the lab drawn today at the acute care clinic and apparently you can only do that Mon-Thurs as it is a room temperature sample that expires in 48 hours.
Hmm... so I guess after I get off work tomorrow that is what we'll be doing.
So anyway, I did my usual search on Yahoo! to find out what this is.... this Fragile X sydrome. Apparently it's a mutation in the X chromosome. Hmm... on one hand it could lead to the mental retardation and on the other hand it is a leading cause of Autism. Imagine that.
Makes sense I guess. http://www.fragilex.org/html/autism_and_fragile_x_syndrome.htm
http://www.fragilex.org/html/autism.htm
Well those are the sites I've found a little information about this on.
What exactly is Fragile x?
fragile X syndrome (FXS), the most common cause of inherited mental impairment. This impairment can range from learning disabilities to more severe cognitive or intellectual disabilities. (Sometimes referred to as mental retardation.) FXS is the most common known cause of autism or "autistic-like" behaviors. Symptoms also can include characteristic physical and behavioral features and delays in speech and language development.
Hmm.... so I'm very curious to find out the lab results of this test. Makes me wonder if Matthew has this Fragile X thing... who knows. But I'll keep ya posted when I find out, hopefully by the end of this week. At least Dr. Bauer's on a good path with Matt, I think I won't be taking him to the Hartford clinic when it comes to anything like this anymore.... they never really thought he had anything wrong with him.
Still Waiting.... April 19,2008
Well I'm still in the process of going through the testings with Matthew. It is Autism Awareness month and yesterday they did their ring around Autism by everyone holding hands at CCHS. I should have gone, but I still don't know if my baby is Autistic or not.
I took him to therapy at WC yesterday. This time I lost it. Got to talk to Julie and Angie about somethings that'll be coming up when he turns 3.
It's just so hard to talk about your little man when you feel like you can't get a straight answer from anyone. They say 1 in 150 kids has autism. Ok that's fine, but why can't I know about my kid? That's all I want, is just to know. It's not going to change how I feel about him.
I wonder if someday he'll be able to find a nice girl and get married. Who knows. I just don't know. I know if he is in the spectrum, he's on the higher functioning end. You don't even want to know what else goes on in my mind. I would hate for something to happen to me for him to struggle through life on his own.
He's made great improvements. He doesn't give my mom that look of death look, which you should never see coming from a 2 year old. It was scary. He's starting to kiss me now. I love that. He also tells me he loves me when I tell him to repeat my words. He's been doing a good job immitating words now... still extrememly hard to understand him.
He had a good time showing off in therapy yesterday because I stayed to watch after my little talk. He was all over the place, writing on the markerboard, taking tacks out of the board and trying to stab the big bouncy balls, playing on the scooters putting rings on the right colored sticks, playing with a puzzle, made a kite.... it was kinda fun to watch him, but yes he was showing off, if I wasn't there he'd be working well with them.
I asked Jule the OT he works with what her honest opinion is... is he just slow or is it something else. She said she though it was something else. Wow. Anyway, they do an Autism test at the school when he starts early childhood development, they have an educational team doing the criteria for it, and I think Julie's on it.
So, so far, Julie's made that comment "I think it's something more", and Dr. Bauer thought he could be in the spectrum from that visit to him a couple months ago.
Dr Bauer also suggested some immune bloodwork be done and some "fr...." I don't know how to say that test... because Matthew gets sick a lot. Anyway, his nurse ordered the bloodwork for the "frag...." test, so we just need to get him to a lab to pull blood for that. Just something to rule out. I can't rememeber if he said that had to do with Mental Retardation in that sense. Not sure.
He said we didn't need to do the immune bloodwork, although we probably should have, he had that rectal strep, and now is getting a cold again, I'll have to start his nebulizer treatments.
So that's about all.... it's quite a process, that's all I know.
Until I hear more again.....
I took him to therapy at WC yesterday. This time I lost it. Got to talk to Julie and Angie about somethings that'll be coming up when he turns 3.
It's just so hard to talk about your little man when you feel like you can't get a straight answer from anyone. They say 1 in 150 kids has autism. Ok that's fine, but why can't I know about my kid? That's all I want, is just to know. It's not going to change how I feel about him.
I wonder if someday he'll be able to find a nice girl and get married. Who knows. I just don't know. I know if he is in the spectrum, he's on the higher functioning end. You don't even want to know what else goes on in my mind. I would hate for something to happen to me for him to struggle through life on his own.
He's made great improvements. He doesn't give my mom that look of death look, which you should never see coming from a 2 year old. It was scary. He's starting to kiss me now. I love that. He also tells me he loves me when I tell him to repeat my words. He's been doing a good job immitating words now... still extrememly hard to understand him.
He had a good time showing off in therapy yesterday because I stayed to watch after my little talk. He was all over the place, writing on the markerboard, taking tacks out of the board and trying to stab the big bouncy balls, playing on the scooters putting rings on the right colored sticks, playing with a puzzle, made a kite.... it was kinda fun to watch him, but yes he was showing off, if I wasn't there he'd be working well with them.
I asked Jule the OT he works with what her honest opinion is... is he just slow or is it something else. She said she though it was something else. Wow. Anyway, they do an Autism test at the school when he starts early childhood development, they have an educational team doing the criteria for it, and I think Julie's on it.
So, so far, Julie's made that comment "I think it's something more", and Dr. Bauer thought he could be in the spectrum from that visit to him a couple months ago.
Dr Bauer also suggested some immune bloodwork be done and some "fr...." I don't know how to say that test... because Matthew gets sick a lot. Anyway, his nurse ordered the bloodwork for the "frag...." test, so we just need to get him to a lab to pull blood for that. Just something to rule out. I can't rememeber if he said that had to do with Mental Retardation in that sense. Not sure.
He said we didn't need to do the immune bloodwork, although we probably should have, he had that rectal strep, and now is getting a cold again, I'll have to start his nebulizer treatments.
So that's about all.... it's quite a process, that's all I know.
Until I hear more again.....
Could This be a Problem? April 2, 2008
Could this be a problem?
Here I am trying to diagnosis Matthew again, lol.
I’m not a doctor/dentist, lol, but I noticed how normal people have like this tendon thing that connects your top lip to your gum, ya know?
On Matthew, that tendon thing almost connects into his two front teeth. Maybe this has something to do with his speech?
Anyway, I’m taking Matthew in to his first dentist appointment this Friday.
It’s a free visit called a Happy Visit, lol. Oh it won’t be happy, I can’t assure you. But they’ll count his teeth and whatnot.
I guess if he was to have that deal cut, they wait til 5-7 years old. Just another thing I’m wondering about with my adventures of Matthew’s weirdness.
Update:
Did some more research, it’s called: labial frenum (it’s possible it’s too tight or something, but it extends down into his 2 front teeth, and causes the gap...)... hmm weird.
Here I am trying to diagnosis Matthew again, lol.
I’m not a doctor/dentist, lol, but I noticed how normal people have like this tendon thing that connects your top lip to your gum, ya know?
On Matthew, that tendon thing almost connects into his two front teeth. Maybe this has something to do with his speech?
Anyway, I’m taking Matthew in to his first dentist appointment this Friday.
It’s a free visit called a Happy Visit, lol. Oh it won’t be happy, I can’t assure you. But they’ll count his teeth and whatnot.
I guess if he was to have that deal cut, they wait til 5-7 years old. Just another thing I’m wondering about with my adventures of Matthew’s weirdness.
Update:
Did some more research, it’s called: labial frenum (it’s possible it’s too tight or something, but it extends down into his 2 front teeth, and causes the gap...)... hmm weird.
Autism Spectrum Evaluation... Originally Posted: March 29,2008
Well I sent off my Autism Spectrum Screeing info today for Matthew. Not sure how much evaluation I’ll do... there’s anything from an eval to a 2 day clinic, but insurance doesn’t cover any of it. So we will see. They would even go into his daycare setting to observe him. I think the paperwork said something about the cost not being over $1900 bucks... so thats not too bad, but they expect the payment in full in 90 days if I go that route.
He’s had a rough day today... not sure if he’s just not feeling well or what.
I was reading over the pamphlet that came with the packet and Matthew shows many characteristics...
-the little or odd eye contact
-not like to be cuddled (matthew’s ALWAYS hated this)
-social interaction
-withdrawn, very independent
-lacks speech development (has never said mama, dada) says very few things unless coached
-throws himself on the floor in fits of anger
-"looks through" people
-doesn’t like to sit with other kids at lunch at daycare, has to sit by himself
-seems hearing impared, takes a lot to get him to come or get his attention when his name is called repeatidly
just to name a few....
I just want to know what it is, to research it more. I am so frustrated at how difficult it is to get him the help he needs and get evaluations and things like that done.
I feel like I’m all alone trying to accomplish what a fricken doctor should be doing. Like they don’t want to help and I’m hanging in the wings waiting to figure out the next step.
I guess that’s all I have to say now.
He’s had a rough day today... not sure if he’s just not feeling well or what.
I was reading over the pamphlet that came with the packet and Matthew shows many characteristics...
-the little or odd eye contact
-not like to be cuddled (matthew’s ALWAYS hated this)
-social interaction
-withdrawn, very independent
-lacks speech development (has never said mama, dada) says very few things unless coached
-throws himself on the floor in fits of anger
-"looks through" people
-doesn’t like to sit with other kids at lunch at daycare, has to sit by himself
-seems hearing impared, takes a lot to get him to come or get his attention when his name is called repeatidly
just to name a few....
I just want to know what it is, to research it more. I am so frustrated at how difficult it is to get him the help he needs and get evaluations and things like that done.
I feel like I’m all alone trying to accomplish what a fricken doctor should be doing. Like they don’t want to help and I’m hanging in the wings waiting to figure out the next step.
I guess that’s all I have to say now.
March 25, 2008
Took Matthew into Acute care on Sunday, the little turd has RECTAL STREP. That’s odd enough, that Doc only sees about 2 or 3 cases a year.
Anyway, I happen to like that Dr. and we see him often when Matthew has various problems and needs to go to Acute.
Anyway, he noticed as well how developmentally behind Matthew is. He’s over 2 and a half and isn’t talking. Physically he’s on track. He just lacks the speech department.
He mentioned we should check out the Children’s hospital in Minneapolis or try to get into Dr. Blake again at Sanford. I’ve kinda been there done that with Dr. Blake. I had him into that LEND clinic last year May and they recommended he have a BAER hearing test, (which we did, it was normal), that he see a peditrician (we did that a few weeks ago when I started getting frustrated that he hasn’t gotten much better), and that he enrolls in Birth to Three. He actually does quite well in Birth to Three.
But............ he still doesn’t say mama, he doesn’t talk, he babbles and what not, he sort of counts to 3, he doesn’t spontaneously put 2 words together, it’s very very frustrating.
So here I am trying to get him into a MN specialist, boy talk about all the pre-authorization and shit that needs. I’m still working on it. I’ve talked to my HR dept and she’s checking... I’ve asked for a referral from Dr. Bauer (the peditrician).... I’m checking with my case worker nurse at work, I’m checking with his Birth to Three coordinator, I’ll probably have to call insurance, I also got to bug the hell out of Dr. Blake’s office and she what the hell is going on.
Why on earth do we have ONE specialist that deals in this category of development, it’s crazy... that’s good old Sanford Insurance for ya. And of course that damn castle hospital won’t be built for another year at least and I want Matthew course of action started now. I’m tired of waiting... I don’t want him to be 6 or 7 years old and be so behind in school where he’s frustrated. I don’t want him to go through that.
I’m so overwhelmed over this whole deal, and talking about it in person makes me an emotional wreck.
I tend to wonder if he’s autistic or what. Whatever it may be, I just want to know so I can get him the tools he needs to make him the best little Matthew he can be. I just don’t want to see him struggle.
That’s pretty much it, my struggle in life as of right now.
update... doubt we’ll make it to MN, because of insurance reasons.... oh well. it was worth a shot.
Anyway, I happen to like that Dr. and we see him often when Matthew has various problems and needs to go to Acute.
Anyway, he noticed as well how developmentally behind Matthew is. He’s over 2 and a half and isn’t talking. Physically he’s on track. He just lacks the speech department.
He mentioned we should check out the Children’s hospital in Minneapolis or try to get into Dr. Blake again at Sanford. I’ve kinda been there done that with Dr. Blake. I had him into that LEND clinic last year May and they recommended he have a BAER hearing test, (which we did, it was normal), that he see a peditrician (we did that a few weeks ago when I started getting frustrated that he hasn’t gotten much better), and that he enrolls in Birth to Three. He actually does quite well in Birth to Three.
But............ he still doesn’t say mama, he doesn’t talk, he babbles and what not, he sort of counts to 3, he doesn’t spontaneously put 2 words together, it’s very very frustrating.
So here I am trying to get him into a MN specialist, boy talk about all the pre-authorization and shit that needs. I’m still working on it. I’ve talked to my HR dept and she’s checking... I’ve asked for a referral from Dr. Bauer (the peditrician).... I’m checking with my case worker nurse at work, I’m checking with his Birth to Three coordinator, I’ll probably have to call insurance, I also got to bug the hell out of Dr. Blake’s office and she what the hell is going on.
Why on earth do we have ONE specialist that deals in this category of development, it’s crazy... that’s good old Sanford Insurance for ya. And of course that damn castle hospital won’t be built for another year at least and I want Matthew course of action started now. I’m tired of waiting... I don’t want him to be 6 or 7 years old and be so behind in school where he’s frustrated. I don’t want him to go through that.
I’m so overwhelmed over this whole deal, and talking about it in person makes me an emotional wreck.
I tend to wonder if he’s autistic or what. Whatever it may be, I just want to know so I can get him the tools he needs to make him the best little Matthew he can be. I just don’t want to see him struggle.
That’s pretty much it, my struggle in life as of right now.
update... doubt we’ll make it to MN, because of insurance reasons.... oh well. it was worth a shot.
Febuary 24, 2008
One Two Three!
Matthew went to therapy as usual on Friday, and he now says ONE, TWO, THREE!!!
That's quite an accomplishment for him since he lacks so much in vocabulary. We've been working on it over the weekend. Sometimes after I say One, he'll just say the two and three, and he's so excited when he says three.
I've also got him to say More, Please, Mommy when he wants more milk or juice... More and Please he says and also does sign language, but it's so great to hear him say Mommy.
He's never said mama when from little on, and it almost makes me cry that he's finally starting to catch on.
I have another appointment scheduled for him in April. He just seen a peditrician a couple weeks ago... he's definitely not a full-blown case of Autism, although he could be borderline or he could be something totally else. We're still in the process of finding that out.
Matthew has always been very restistant to being held or anything, you have to force him to do it. He's not very loving or a cuddler or anything... he's very stubborn and whatnot. It's really hard to explain how he actually is to people. It's weird.
But I'll keep posting more when I know more.
Matthew went to therapy as usual on Friday, and he now says ONE, TWO, THREE!!!
That's quite an accomplishment for him since he lacks so much in vocabulary. We've been working on it over the weekend. Sometimes after I say One, he'll just say the two and three, and he's so excited when he says three.
I've also got him to say More, Please, Mommy when he wants more milk or juice... More and Please he says and also does sign language, but it's so great to hear him say Mommy.
He's never said mama when from little on, and it almost makes me cry that he's finally starting to catch on.
I have another appointment scheduled for him in April. He just seen a peditrician a couple weeks ago... he's definitely not a full-blown case of Autism, although he could be borderline or he could be something totally else. We're still in the process of finding that out.
Matthew has always been very restistant to being held or anything, you have to force him to do it. He's not very loving or a cuddler or anything... he's very stubborn and whatnot. It's really hard to explain how he actually is to people. It's weird.
But I'll keep posting more when I know more.
A Little bit of history
Matthew was born on Aug 14, 2005. I came 2 weeks early, but everything appeared to be normal. His apgar score was 10's at the 1 minute and 5 minute mark. He weighed in at 6lbs 11 oz and was 19 inches. I enjoyed the whole birthing process. No epidural. I like pain. The most painful part of the experience was my woman doc not being there. I had to be substitutued an old man.
Matthew was a difficult baby from little on. He just seemed different. He didn't care to be held whatsoever. Trying to get him to sleep at night was almost impossible. He had the strangest cry too. I actually put him in bed to sleep with me for the longest time, mind you, I didn't "cuddle" him. He hated that.
Around Christmas 05, I had to have him hospitalized for RSV. He was pretty dehydrated. That was so hard on me, at the time, his father and I weren't together, so I'd been raising him on my own since day 1. Anway, they needed to put an IV in him. Gosh that was awful, they had talked about sticking him in the head but ended up using his hand instead. So we made it through that, wasn't long after that, I had to purchase a nebulizer. Nebbing him came pretty routine in our lives. He had restricted airway problems so he was always needing it. He had pneumonia on several occassions. None severe enough to hospitalize him.
We get to Memorial 06, and I find out Matthew has a MRSA. A very bad staph infection. My daycare lady had actually circled what appeared to be a bug bite on his thigh, I didn't think too much of it until his little "spot" got to be the size of a grapefruit on his fat little leg. So off to actue we go and when they did the culture on it (it was full of nasty, reddish, pinkish pus type stuff), it wasn't long and they said get straight up to the hospital.
I believe we stayed 2 days for that one. It was bad. Trying to figure out what antibiotic to give the poor little guy. He was more at that crawling age and we were isolated to his his room. Finally we were able to go home. No more crazy hospital stays like that for awhile.
Coming up to May 07....
Matthew had been in quite a few daycares before the age of 2. Four to be exact. I work an early morning shift and not many daycares are open at 5 Am. It's quite sad that it's like that. So onto my 4th daycare.... Matthew isn't quite talking or anything yet. He did start walking a little ways after turning 1.
At this daycare, a therapist would come to work with a little boy with downs. She noticed how socially withdrawn Matthew was. Matthew spent the majority of his time in his playpen. If they had him outside of it, he literally would try to rip a hole in it to get back in. I was always repairing it.
The therapist suggested I might want to take him in to do a Lend Evaluation, so I did. It was free. Why not? They did all kinds of tests and whatnot. They determined he was quite developmentally delayed. They couldn't get a very good audiology test so I had to have a BAER hearing test done. Basically they knew he could hear, but they weren't sure if the little trasmitters were transmitting things correctly to his brain. Insurance didn't cover this test, it was $1200, but at least it ruled that problem out. It was normal. That was a hard day though putting him to sleep to do this test.
From then out out, I had a lot to deal with.... Developmentally delayed. WHY?? What caused him to be that way? All the while, my family doctor thought nothing was wrong with him. A few months down the road, I start thinking, maybe he's Autistic. I decided to switch to a Peditrician named Dr. Bauer. I actually made an appt. and wanted to know if he was autistic or not. Dr. Bauer thought the way Matthew was acting that he could be borderline, he then referred me to Dr. Blake (developmental peditrician)... Since the referral, I've had a couple Baby Clinics where Dr. Blake along with an OT and Speech Therapist do an eval for Matthew. It's hard when you're baby has never said "mama". Dr. Blake ruled out the Autism. I still find it somewhat possible that he is Autistic, but I'll never get a straight answer.
After the LEND Eval, Matthew got into the Birth to 3 program. This past August, after he turned 3, he was screen for Early Child Education in which he is now enrolled. Matthew has come a long way through all of this and now says a lot of words. Finally. He still doesn't talk like a normal kid would, but its a start. Physically you wouldn't think there's anything wrong at all...
So here starts my journey... of the life of a developmentally delayed child, who is actually considered "disabled" by SSI. Although at this point, they do not fund him. Matthew does get a little help though SD's Family Support Program.
The next few posts will be of things I've written about Matthew through the course of all of this...
Matthew was a difficult baby from little on. He just seemed different. He didn't care to be held whatsoever. Trying to get him to sleep at night was almost impossible. He had the strangest cry too. I actually put him in bed to sleep with me for the longest time, mind you, I didn't "cuddle" him. He hated that.
Around Christmas 05, I had to have him hospitalized for RSV. He was pretty dehydrated. That was so hard on me, at the time, his father and I weren't together, so I'd been raising him on my own since day 1. Anway, they needed to put an IV in him. Gosh that was awful, they had talked about sticking him in the head but ended up using his hand instead. So we made it through that, wasn't long after that, I had to purchase a nebulizer. Nebbing him came pretty routine in our lives. He had restricted airway problems so he was always needing it. He had pneumonia on several occassions. None severe enough to hospitalize him.
We get to Memorial 06, and I find out Matthew has a MRSA. A very bad staph infection. My daycare lady had actually circled what appeared to be a bug bite on his thigh, I didn't think too much of it until his little "spot" got to be the size of a grapefruit on his fat little leg. So off to actue we go and when they did the culture on it (it was full of nasty, reddish, pinkish pus type stuff), it wasn't long and they said get straight up to the hospital.
I believe we stayed 2 days for that one. It was bad. Trying to figure out what antibiotic to give the poor little guy. He was more at that crawling age and we were isolated to his his room. Finally we were able to go home. No more crazy hospital stays like that for awhile.
Coming up to May 07....
Matthew had been in quite a few daycares before the age of 2. Four to be exact. I work an early morning shift and not many daycares are open at 5 Am. It's quite sad that it's like that. So onto my 4th daycare.... Matthew isn't quite talking or anything yet. He did start walking a little ways after turning 1.
At this daycare, a therapist would come to work with a little boy with downs. She noticed how socially withdrawn Matthew was. Matthew spent the majority of his time in his playpen. If they had him outside of it, he literally would try to rip a hole in it to get back in. I was always repairing it.
The therapist suggested I might want to take him in to do a Lend Evaluation, so I did. It was free. Why not? They did all kinds of tests and whatnot. They determined he was quite developmentally delayed. They couldn't get a very good audiology test so I had to have a BAER hearing test done. Basically they knew he could hear, but they weren't sure if the little trasmitters were transmitting things correctly to his brain. Insurance didn't cover this test, it was $1200, but at least it ruled that problem out. It was normal. That was a hard day though putting him to sleep to do this test.
From then out out, I had a lot to deal with.... Developmentally delayed. WHY?? What caused him to be that way? All the while, my family doctor thought nothing was wrong with him. A few months down the road, I start thinking, maybe he's Autistic. I decided to switch to a Peditrician named Dr. Bauer. I actually made an appt. and wanted to know if he was autistic or not. Dr. Bauer thought the way Matthew was acting that he could be borderline, he then referred me to Dr. Blake (developmental peditrician)... Since the referral, I've had a couple Baby Clinics where Dr. Blake along with an OT and Speech Therapist do an eval for Matthew. It's hard when you're baby has never said "mama". Dr. Blake ruled out the Autism. I still find it somewhat possible that he is Autistic, but I'll never get a straight answer.
After the LEND Eval, Matthew got into the Birth to 3 program. This past August, after he turned 3, he was screen for Early Child Education in which he is now enrolled. Matthew has come a long way through all of this and now says a lot of words. Finally. He still doesn't talk like a normal kid would, but its a start. Physically you wouldn't think there's anything wrong at all...
So here starts my journey... of the life of a developmentally delayed child, who is actually considered "disabled" by SSI. Although at this point, they do not fund him. Matthew does get a little help though SD's Family Support Program.
The next few posts will be of things I've written about Matthew through the course of all of this...
Getting Started
I've decided to create an actual blog and share some information about my 3 year old son, Matthew Zane. I have used Myspace and Facebook to do this before and am now going to compile it all on to here in the next coming weeks to keep it organized on one blog.
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