WELCOME TO JIM'S AUTISM BLOG





Hi everyone and thanks for visiting our blog. My wife and I created this blog to chronicle our experience while raising a son with Asperger's syndrome. Since our son was diagnosed with an ASD at age 5, we've had a lot of questions. Lucky for us we have a great support network in place. And our blog gives us an opportunity to share what we've learned with our readers. We hope you find our blog informative and interesting. Thanks again for visiting.


"It seems that for success in science and art, a dash of autism is essential." Dr Hans Asperger 1906-1980



Monday 13 May 2013

SNOW IN MAY?

It's hard to believe that it's already mid May, yet this morning while at work, there were enough snowflakes falling to make me don a toque and winter jacket.  Throughout my experience with ASDs, and in particular Asperger's, I've learned that Jacob's behaviour can change just as quick as the weather.

I can't wait to have some ice cream by the bay.
Last week Jacob did pretty well in school, despite only going for 2 days, due to a lengthy illness.  Then this morning it seemed that his behaviour plummeted much like the temperature.  Now, we have learned that Jacob's empathic ability is often through the roof as he can always sense our stress and anxiety.  On Wednesday, we have our first appointment with Jacob's new ASD doctor.

We don't know why, but this meeting seems even more dubious than any previous doctor visit, not because of Jacob's recent run of poor behaviour, but because we're, for the first time in our lives, are open to giving Jacob medication to help him keep his cool during pressure situations.  Nothing is for sure, but we can't help but have fear for our son.

Then today, we spoke to another mom who happens to be our friend, as well as a fellow aspie mother.  And wouldn't you know it, her son also has the same doctor.  And after speaking briefly with her, my wife was put at ease, because this new doctor isn't a big fan of medicating children with ASDs and only sees meds as a last resort.

I know meds aren't that big of a deal, as I'm sure many people just like us give their kids meds, but it's a gut wrenching decision for us.  We're hoping that with all of the ABA training that we're currently involved in, that we'll be able to continue without medicating our son.  On that note, we've also enrolled in a new therapy program that entails multiple in home visits, phone in sessions, one on one time with Jacob and in class workshops.

The sad thing is that we often enjoy our summer due to the relaxing nature of the season, but of course we're willing to do anything to help Jacob.  All we can do is stay positive and focused, and pray that things become easier for him as time goes by.  But the one thing we always say to our selves is that every grey cloud does have a silver lining.  And we're sure that this current cloud over us does too, even if it's a snow cloud in May.


2 comments:

  1. It seems like you guys are on the right track with Jacob. I agree that medication should be a last resort and shouldn't replace other things. It can be a life saver though. My son was in 4th grade before he went on meds and they did help but there were side effects.

    I hope it warms up soon up there!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Things always seem to get tougher before they get better right? The doctors appointment did reveal some new things and hopefully with some tweaks, things will get better at school.

      And on a positive note, the weather is a lot nicer. Thanks for always being supportive.

      Delete