Matters of the heart pertains to our family's growth and adventures, growing up with a child diagnosed with PDDNOS. It is a form of autism that is not severe and not Asperger's. At an early age of 4 months old, my Matthew couldn't use the left side of his body, mostly I noticed a limp arm. At first I thought the doctor may have pulled it out of the socket during the C-Section but I wondered why he never cried. I also realized that this baby just gazed at things and had little eye contact. He was very late in talking, the experts told me he may never speak more than 20 words (age 4). At this time, we were knee deep into therapy. I did 4.5 yrs of speech, 1 yr occupational and physical therapies. I also tried claybaths to remove toxins and vitamins (greens, B complex, multi, probiotics). All of which really helped. However, I changed my mindset dramatically and noticed dramatic results!!
At age 6.5, I now participate in his schooling, and met with his IEP dept, Principal and teacher to discuss getting him integrated into regular classes. I also pulled him out of therapy. I hired a NUN, friend of the family who is now 80 yrs old and his Godmother to do things with him. She takes him to his favorite restaurants, on the AMTRAX train, to the playground, to church, etc. All of the things that I am too chicken to try. I now have the confidence to try some of these activities. I am willing to accept that some people may stare or question my choices. To that, I say, God please let them see that he is a person. I also have encouraged myself and kids to laugh along with funny things Matthew does. Instead of yelling at him and almost losing my composure, we just shrub it off as "silly Matthew doing silly things". Change your attitude and mindset, and I promise life will get better...Also, I encourage you to read as much as possible! Get educated. The answers will come.
Celebration, FL