diagnosis - sort of

I've been keeping something from most of you for awhile. In July, at the boys' well-baby check-ups, our doctor made the observation that Moose shows/showed signs of autism. I wasn't totally shocked but the words tore to my heart. I knew Moose had delays, I knew some of them pointed toward the spectrum...it still took me by surprise to hear a professional utter the words. A few days later I made an appointment at the Munroe-Meyer Institute - for 6 months later right smack dab at nap time.

For 6 months, we've basically been at a stand still as far as information. We've worked on speech for about 4 months. We've worked on skills like cutting with scissors and other small things like that. And we've waited.

On Monday, Big A, Squirt, Moose, & I headed to MMI to get Moose's evaluation done. Squirt wasn't going to go with us but he was sick the day before & we didn't want to get our niece and nephew sick just in case. After a stop at Walmart (because who can't stop and grocery shop when they're in the "big city"?), we ate some lunch. Then we got to MMI.

The boys played in the lobby, then we went to one room where he got weighed & measured. Then we headed into this small observation room. It was crowded with 5 chairs, a clinic bed, and a few small tables. There were toys for the boys and Squirt made the room stink with his diaper (gross). Then Dr. Matthews and 3 students came in to talk with us. We talked about his medical history, our family history, his MDT/IFSP/IEPs. They asked developmental questions and watched him play. They mostly asked questions...and questions and questions.

They went out and deliberated amongst themselves.

When they came back, the doctor said that Moose definitely shows signs of autism or something on the spectrum. We will have to go back January 3 to have a diagnostic test done to show just where he falls on the spectrum, although she's fairly certain he either falls under autism or PDDNOS (pervasive developmental disorder not otherwise specified). I learned that autism, Asperger's, PDDNOS, Rett's syndrome, and another disorder all fall under the umbrella term Pervasive Developmental Disorder. And then each child is individually diagnosed with autism, Asperger's, etc. And autism and PDDNOS are really close to one another to where kids sometimes go between diagnoses of the two.

The hardest part for me was not hearing that he's on the spectrum. I've been expecting that or at least able to accept that it was possible. It was hearing that they highly suggest he go to preschool. I know that seems silly, but I've been planning on homeschooling the boys. Big A & I have talked and we know that I can't provide the social setting that he needs with peers here at home. Of course, not all of that has been worked out, it's only been a few days, but I'm thinking that we would like to do 3 days a week and only 1/2 days for him. Then the other 2 days I can do 1/2 days of homeschooling for him, too. Best of both worlds and perhaps he'll develop the social skills where I would feel comfortable homeschooling next year or the next. I just have to play that by ear for now.

Anyway, so I apologize for all the reviews lately, I just didn't really have much to say lately... well, I had a lot to say but not many words to say it. I'm still sort of in shock and don't necessarily know how to process all of the information that I've gotten, but I'm on my way. I'm learning and sorting and reading. It's just a lot to take on.
Moose thinks he's Mr. Incredible with a shirt he can un-button like this

If you want to learn more about PDD-NOS, here is a link from the Autism Speaks website and one about autism. I'm also very open to any information you would like to provide me with (and if you don't have any, don't worry, neither did I until yesterday).

Comments

We're in this with you, sweetie!
Meredith said…
*hugs*
I will be praying for you guys. In one way, nothing really changes except that he has a really long label. The good news is that with the label comes educational help and tips, and resources.

He is still your baby big boy, and always will be!!
Stacey said…
Hang in there! You know you love him, no matter what, and that's what he will need more than anything.
Mariah said…
I'm here. I love that Moose boy, autism or no autism
Im so sorry you've been dealing with this. I hope they can get this squared away for you ASAP and I will be praying for you all.

I am so sorry about the homeschooling aspect too. But I'm sure as you continue meeting other moms esecially through this blogsphere you will find comfort and maybe even find homeschooling to work out for you.
Kara said…
What great words Randi- you spoke so well even though I'm sure it was hard to put into words what you wanted to say and how to say it.
You are such a wonderful Mom and Moose is so BLESSED to have you!
Unknown said…
Praying that you are given the answer you are looking for quickly. I also pray that God will give you the guidance that you need. God made you the Mom to your boys cause he knew you could do the best by them. Keep up the good work being your child's voice and trust in God to show you the next steps...
Erin said…
When I went through all this with Christopher a friend of mine told me "You are not a victim, this is a way of life, embrace it"
And it's a blessing you are finding out this early, he'll be up with his peers in no time!
Anonymous said…
Hi... reading your blog about receiving the "diagnosis" took me back 15 years. If you feel led to homeschool, and God has given you peace, follow Him. My 17 yo did not get any real socialization at school. He was the one no one spoke to, played with, etc, becauser he was different. He bloomed after we brought him home to home school. Pray, pray, pray... seek godly advice!

Ellen @ eclectichomeschool4life.blogspot.com
Etzkorn Family said…
You are in my prayers! Sorry you are going through this!

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