At the start of the assesment I was asked what I hoped to get out of it. While I would have loved to say "I want you to tell me I have a normal child" I gave my true answer: "I want you to tell me the truth. I want to know what the future holds for her." At the end of the assesment I got my answer. By the time she reaches adulthood, her intellectual abilities will be that of a 11 or 12 year old girl.
I really thought I was prepared for the worst but I guess we never really are. I guess we all push our doubts to the back of our minds and keep hope at the forefront. As parents we truly want to believe anything is possible for our children. I'm not sure I will ever lose hope but I have to accept that she will never be "normal".
She has another, more autism-focased, assesment in a couple of weeks but I think that's just to confirm what already know now and I'm not getting my hopes up for a better prognosis.
I used to joke that she was my baby and she's not allowed to grow up, she'll always be my baby doll. What can I say? Be careful what you wish for!
7 comments:
wow. that's a lot to process. i'm glad she has a mom like you who will love her & support her no matter what the docs say.
Thank you Tracey <3
Hi there Smauge.
It sounds like it may have been something you were thinking about - now you have it confirmed.
You have special children and they have a very special mum.
I know the road is going to be rough my friend, but I also know that you can do it.
And you know another thing - you don't have to be strong ALL the time.
You are doing a great job.
Luv ya........Sandie
Steph,
Sandie is so right, your children are so special and they have such a special Mummy who will love them and watch over them and care for them the best she can.
You also need to know as Sandie said it's ok to let it all out every know and then and we are all human and here to support you along the way.
Big hugs sweetie
MElxx
Thanks so much ladies - your support means alot to me
I'm an educator and with 25+ years experience and I have taught many children with autism. They currently are grown adults physically and intellectually. It's finding her learning path. Hang in there & don't settle for what services you get - DEMAND progress.
If I can be of any help on ideas and suggestion on how to reach her in teaching her anything, please don't hesitate to ask. My best friend asked me to tutor her daughter who is also diagnosis & I feared her high expectations in my abilities and what if I can't help her...the doubt talk. My friend's little girl was in the 2nd grade at the time & had not learned her letters, sounds or to read so accepted the challenge. It took many trial and error techniques but I finally found her/reached her through teaching her piano and using that to teach her the letters, sound and she is now reading! I will be more than happy to answer any questions or make any suggestions. I certainly don't know everything and many ideas may not work but it never hurts to try. I am praying for you and your family.
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