I guess I can’t deny it any longer.
Moose has autism.
When we saw the doctor that gave us that terrible diagnosis, I really didn’t believe it. And the therapists that were working with him were pretty skeptical. So, I allowed myself to believe that she was wrong–she saw him on a bad day, she didn’t have all the information, she had the wrong information.
But, he’s been in school for five months now, and while he is making good progress, it’s not the progress you’d expect out of a simple delay. He’s also exhibiting a few more signs of autism, which could be imitation of something he’s seeing in school, but is more likely just proof that he has been affected by this.
It’s hard, because he doesn’t have a lot of the “traditional” symptoms of autism. But that’s the bitch of this thing–it manifests in so many ways, that “traditional” or “typical” don’t really mean anything, because it’s a disease (disorder? what is the right word for it?) that’s based on being atypical, even within itself.
A part of me still hopes that one day he’ll have a big breakthrough, and we’ll laugh at ever having thought he was autistic. But realistically, that’s probably not ever going to happen.
Lord, I ask that You will comfort Amanda. Give her peace and wisdom. Surround her with love and support in this difficult time. Amen.
I wish I had words, but I don't. Hang in there!
~Luke
God's peace be with you and your family. That is a hard road, but one which our Lord will travel with you every step of the way.
Amen, to what Pr. P. said. Getting news like this is very difficult. I'll keep you folks in my prayers.
My prayers are with you and with Moose. I wish I had words of comfort for you, but all I can offer is my prayer support. (((hugs)))
Amanda, before kids, would we have believed that parenting is an incredible mix of difficulty and reward? We watch with joy and sorrow as our kids uncover different abilties and weaknesses. We rejoice in their victories and sorrow at their difficulties, offering comfort and guidance as needed. Always, we love them and want the best for them. I have every confidence that our God, who gave you this wonderful gift of Moose, has big plans for him and you. And He'll lead and help you, day by day, minute by minute. May the Holy Spirit surround You with His presence and peace.