Okay. I need to clarify a few things. The first, I have always loved my son. But, it has been very difficult. Especially when he was younger. I was trying to figure him out, trying to figure out what I was doing wrong. Trying, trying, trying. When at the same time he was trying to tell me something too but didn't know how to. SO, I think we are even. :)
Secondly, the sensory processing disorder. It is not exactly a diagnosis. It can't be--it is not in the big DSM book. Owen has symptoms of this, especially the vestibular sense. As far as getting help for him at school, there is not much more that can be done unless he is diagnosed with an autism spectrum disorder. Those tests are coming next week. But, it is a start and has helped me understand all the frustrations I have been feeling for nearly 6 years. Ultimately, it has given me peace of mind and a way to let go of a lot of guilt.
And, there is treatment. Therapy usually helps a ton with this disorder. I am optimistic. It is going to take a lot of time, commitment, and money.
My parents came for the weekend to babysit for us. Our friends eloped and had a reception in Greenville on Sat. When we got back, my Mom told me Owen missed me. I have hardly ever heard that before. Now, I don' t get away very often, but when I do, I don't get or hear the greeting I long to here. But yesterday was different. It was probably the first time that I felt really connected to Owen. I think he knows that I am starting to understand him. And, that feels good.
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Hi,
ReplyDeleteI just stumbled onto your blog and wanted to leave a note.
My oldest son has SPD--and although it isn't in the DSM, it is a diagnosis. The SPD Foundation is working tirelessly to get it into the next revision of the DSM with MUCH success.
Services are difficult to get, but they are NOT impossible! Therapy works--it actually works WONDERS. I just wrote a blog post about what the "first things to do" when you are newly diagnosed are--I highly suggest you check it out!
Thank you for sharing--you are NOT ALONE. : )
Hartley
www.hartleysboys.com