So, the special instructor came by on Saturday to meet with us and Dylan. We spent a lot more time with her than the pathologist, so we were able to get a clearer picture of their concerns. We got to see first hand the trouble he had interacting with her. He basically wanted to play on his own, and when she tried to get him to look at her, he became agitated. Now, he is not like that with me for the most part. He interacts with me, makes eye contact with me, and will play with me – sometimes. Since she left, I notice when I try to make him look me in the eye, and it’s not natural, he seems to get a little upset. The instructor said that she cannot diagnose him, only the psychologist can make that determination. But she said if he IS diagnosed with it, he will be provided with lots of services and about 10 hours of speech and behavioral therapy in our house each week. She said if he has PDD-NOS, that it looks to be more on the mild side.
PDD-NOS is the diagnosis given when a child has some symptoms of Autism, but not enough to classify them as having Autism. For instance, he loves to be cuddled and kissed and he WILL make eye contact, but on his terms. Also, he doesn’t seem to do self-stimulating behavior like rocking himself, etc. I don’t know if that will change as he grows older. He is only 20 months old, so it’s hard to predict how the future will be. But she told us that she has had kids who have gotten help early like Dylan progress so much that they no longer need services. Of course I hope he falls under that category, but no matter what he is my world, and I will do whatever it takes to help him. I’m not going to lie, this has been rough on me. It feels like it came out of left field, and my whole world was rocked. But if he is diagnosed, that will NOT define him. He is the most beautiful little boy, he is so intelligent, he is so loving and affectionate with us, and he always captivates strangers on the street when they see him. There is so much more to him than this. If I was a fierce, protective mama bear before – well, you ain’t seen nothing yet!
This only reinforces why I need to be healthy for him, because he needs me here. So I am going to continue getting as healthy as I can so my focus can be strictly on him!
Your son is beautiful Mina - I have thought so from the first moment I saw his photo. There is so much more to any of us than just one specific role. I will be thinking of him and you and praying for you both! :-)
ReplyDeleteWhen my neice was a baby, she would cross her legs and rock back and forth in front of the TV.. she didn't enjoy making eye contact.. we were all worried for a very long time. She's 13 now and an over-achiever in every way. :) I think you are doing everything right, you are great parents, everything will work out!
ReplyDeleteOh, Mina! I'm so sorry you are going through all of this. How scary & stressful this all must be.
ReplyDeleteIt sounds like whatever is going on with Dylan is very mild and will be rectified with services. It is AWESOME that he is starting so young. He will be at a huge advantage because of this.
You are an awesome mama and he is SO lucky that he has you fighting in his corner. Sending prayers of strength your way, friend. Keep the faith!
HUGS!! I can imagine how hard this is for you. You are doing the right thing. Getting him evaluated early and receiving services at a very young age can make a world of difference. Stay strong!
ReplyDeleteI understand how scary such a diagnosis can be. One of my foster kids who I raised for almost 2 years was diagnosed with PDD at a young age and there were so many professionals and services out there that he really excelled. You are are a great Mama and your baby couldn't ask for a better advocate. :-)
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