We have been given the opportunity to enter Brody into a sibling study in St.Louis. We just made our first trip. I am beyond excited about this study. This is a huge study that could lead to earlier diagnoses for millions of children. Over the past year, this is something that I have become passionate about. Liz had a late diagnosis. I can't help but wonder if our road would have been easier had she gotten that dx earlier. It has been proven that the earlier you are able to seek intervention services and therapies, the better chance that child has at being successful. What if we could diagnose a child with ASD at 6 months? Think of the possibilities and advantages. Parents could begin seeking treatments before the child was a year! I am excited to begin a 3 year journey with these people. I am excited to make a difference in the future of other children and families.
Tuesday, October 21, 2014
Wednesday, October 15, 2014
The Minutes That Lasted A Lifetime
It's been over a year since our diagnosis, and I still remember sitting in the waiting area after Liz's test. We sat there waiting while a group of professionals determined whether or not our child had autism, whether or not our lives would change forever. That was the longest half hour of my life.
I recall walking over and grabbing a few brochures to read. Brochures about new studies, support groups, and genetic testing. I paced the floor and wrung my hands.
In those moments, I knew deep down what the results would be. Over the past 3 months, I had read every piece of literature available to me. By this point, I had battled the school, myself, and God. I knew what I didn't want to believe.
Then, they called us in. You know that feeling you get on a roller coaster when your stomach drops? That's what I felt. I wish I had realized then that this diagnoses was not some doomsday event for my family. This diagnosis would lead me forward. It would teach me to advocate for my child and for others like her. It would lead me to begin a support group in my area. It would lead me to an amazing group of women who have become some of my greatest friends. It would teach me hope. It would teach me patience. But most of all it would teach me love.