Autism

[1-0-0-1-0-0-1]

^^^

 

Great pics! That last one is a keeper.

[Test4VitalSigns]

QUOTE (GhostGirl @ Jan 27 2009, 01:59 PM)

Stephen's wonderful teacher sent me some pics from the Special Olympics bowling activity. The people who work with him every day are like family to me. I love them so much for what they do for him. As I suspected, Stephen closed his ears up to block out some sensory input, but you can tell he's loving it! In the pics you can see the ramps they use for the kids to roll the bowling balls - and to my VERY great surprise, Stephen is even wearing bowling shoes!!! The last pic gets me, right in the heart. So, thanks for letting me share my baby boy's accomplishments: http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v297/RushBabe/Stephen/Picture011-1.jpg http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v297/RushBabe/Stephen/Picture012-1.jpg With his aide, Ms. Karen (Kay-Kay), cheering him on http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v297/RushBabe/Stephen/Picture018-1.jpg Check out that form! http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v297/RushBabe/Stephen/Picture028-1.jpg Getting his 2nd place ribbon...that's his teacher, Ms. Heather, behind him This one needs no words... http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v297/RushBabe/Stephen/Picture020-1.jpg

Awesome pics

[PassTheAmmunition]

he truly looks content in that last picture - that is so awesome.

[GhostGirl]

Thanks all.

[Mara]

QUOTE (Test4VitalSigns @ Jan 27 2009, 02:05 PM)

QUOTE (GhostGirl @ Jan 27 2009, 01:59 PM) Stephen's wonderful teacher sent me some pics from the Special Olympics bowling activity.  The people who work with him every day are like family to me.  I love them so much for what they do for him. As I suspected, Stephen closed his ears up to block out some sensory input, but you can tell he's loving it!  In the pics you can see the ramps they use for the kids to roll the bowling balls - and to my VERY great surprise, Stephen is even wearing bowling shoes!!!  The last pic gets me, right in the heart.  So, thanks for letting me share my baby boy's accomplishments: http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v297/RushBabe/Stephen/Picture018-1.jpg Check out that form!  This one needs no words... http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v297/RushBabe/Stephen/Picture020-1.jpg Awesome pics These are awesome.   He looks SOOO intent and focused stepping up to the line!

[GhostGirl]

Thanks Mara.

[owlswing]

QUOTE (Test4VitalSigns @ Jan 27 2009, 02:05 PM)

QUOTE (GhostGirl @ Jan 27 2009, 01:59 PM) Stephen's wonderful teacher sent me some pics from the Special Olympics bowling activity.  The people who work with him every day are like family to me.  I love them so much for what they do for him. As I suspected, Stephen closed his ears up to block out some sensory input, but you can tell he's loving it!  In the pics you can see the ramps they use for the kids to roll the bowling balls - and to my VERY great surprise, Stephen is even wearing bowling shoes!!!  The last pic gets me, right in the heart.  So, thanks for letting me share my baby boy's accomplishments: http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v297/RushBabe/Stephen/Picture011-1.jpg http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v297/RushBabe/Stephen/Picture012-1.jpg With his aide, Ms. Karen (Kay-Kay), cheering him on http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v297/RushBabe/Stephen/Picture018-1.jpg Check out that form!  http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v297/RushBabe/Stephen/Picture028-1.jpg Getting his 2nd place ribbon...that's his teacher, Ms. Heather, behind him This one needs no words... http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v297/RushBabe/Stephen/Picture020-1.jpg Awesome pics Awwww those picture get you right here

[GhostGirl]

Thanks, D.

[GhostGirl]

Our intake appointment at the developmental clinic went well. Not much to report except that Stephen participated well in the testing. More in my blog for anyone who's interested.

[Gompers]

QUOTE (GhostGirl @ Jan 27 2009, 02:59 PM)

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v297/RushBabe/Stephen/Picture011-1.jpg http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v297/RushBabe/Stephen/Picture012-1.jpg With his aide, Ms. Karen (Kay-Kay), cheering him on http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v297/RushBabe/Stephen/Picture018-1.jpg Check out that form! http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v297/RushBabe/Stephen/Picture028-1.jpg Getting his 2nd place ribbon...that's his teacher, Ms. Heather, behind him This one needs no words... http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v297/RushBabe/Stephen/Picture020-1.jpg

CUTE!

[Prime Mover and Shaker]

 

It's wonderful to see some positive developments. He looks so happy - that's great!

[EveryNerveAware]

Rulings on autism-vaccination connection expected

 

http://www.cnn.com/2009/HEALTH/02/11/autis...ines/index.html

 

[iluvgeddy05]

This month's Glamour (the one with Jennifer Connelly on the cover) features a story about two adults living with autism that have fallen in love. They live together and it talks about their relationship and how they handle their autism similarities and differences. I gather these two individuals are higher functioning but it doesn't mention anything in regards to that. It's a pretty touching story, I thought, but then again, I only know so much..

[Janie]

QUOTE (EveryNerveAware @ Feb 12 2009, 05:32 AM)

Rulings on autism-vaccination connection expected http://www.cnn.com/2009/HEALTH/02/11/autis...ines/index.html

My biggest fear is that autism really can be linked to vaccinations. They do give kids way too much, too soon IMO. You want your child to be safe from these horrible viruses but if autism is the result, then what are parents to do? Children can't get into daycare or preschool (I believe) if they aren't vaccinated.

 

This is something that is just now hitting us as my son *may* be autistic. He would certainly qualify as high-functioning but we won't know exactly where he sits until the end of this month when he has an Autistic Spectrum Disorder Evaluation (I think that's what it's called). This is tearing me up. And of course the only thing I think of is, "What did I do wrong?" Here I am giving him all the vaccines that his pediatrician says I should give him but did that bring out or give my son autism?

[Queen of Megadon]

QUOTE (Janie @ Feb 12 2009, 09:30 AM)

QUOTE (EveryNerveAware @ Feb 12 2009, 05:32 AM) Rulings on autism-vaccination connection expected http://www.cnn.com/2009/HEALTH/02/11/autis...ines/index.html My biggest fear is that autism really can be linked to vaccinations. They do give kids way too much, too soon IMO. You want your child to be safe from these horrible viruses but if autism is the result, then what are parents to do? Children can't get into daycare or preschool (I believe) if they aren't vaccinated.   This is something that is just now hitting us as my son *may* be autistic. He would certainly qualify as high-functioning but we won't know exactly where he sits until the end of this month when he has an Autistic Spectrum Disorder Evaluation (I think that's what it's called). This is tearing me up. And of course the only thing I think of is, "What did I do wrong?" Here I am giving him all the vaccines that his pediatrician says I should give him but did that bring out or give my son autism? Janie...   First...relax. I'm sure your boy is fine. Whether he falls on the Spectrum or not, he's fine. He "may" be exhibiting signs, you say he'd be high functioning...dont worry yourself.   You must never say you are at fault...there is simply no connection...even if someday it (unlikely) turns out to be vaccines. You did what you were supposed to do.     Living with a child who has ASD is a challenge...but I am truly one of the lucky ones...he is strong and healthy, he can talk and do basic things for himself...there are challenges of course, and some that break my heart and some that make me, and him, so damn frustrated...but it could be so much worse.   relax...wait to see what the doctor says...keep us posted

[GhostGirl]

QUOTE (Janie @ Feb 12 2009, 08:30 AM)

QUOTE (EveryNerveAware @ Feb 12 2009, 05:32 AM) Rulings on autism-vaccination connection expected http://www.cnn.com/2009/HEALTH/02/11/autis...ines/index.html My biggest fear is that autism really can be linked to vaccinations. They do give kids way too much, too soon IMO. You want your child to be safe from these horrible viruses but if autism is the result, then what are parents to do? Children can't get into daycare or preschool (I believe) if they aren't vaccinated.   This is something that is just now hitting us as my son *may* be autistic. He would certainly qualify as high-functioning but we won't know exactly where he sits until the end of this month when he has an Autistic Spectrum Disorder Evaluation (I think that's what it's called). This is tearing me up. And of course the only thing I think of is, "What did I do wrong?" Here I am giving him all the vaccines that his pediatrician says I should give him but did that bring out or give my son autism? I've had those same worries for a long, long time. But it's pointless to look back and second-guess what we did then - ultimately we were doing what we thought was best for our babies. We WERE being good parents. Researchers have long thought that babies could handle all those vaccines at once...and many can, obviously. Kerry had all the same shots, at the same intervals, and he's absolutely fine. He's more than fine - he's gifted.   As I've told you, you're doing all the right things, and you will find a way to make life good, no matter what they tell you after he's evaluated. Life WILL be good - it'll just be different than you planned. The hardest part for me was giving up on certain dreams, and replacing those goals with different goals.   You can do it, and there's a lot of support here. I know this from experience.

[Janie]

QUOTE (Queen of Megadon @ Feb 12 2009, 07:00 AM)

QUOTE (Janie @ Feb 12 2009, 09:30 AM) QUOTE (EveryNerveAware @ Feb 12 2009, 05:32 AM) Rulings on autism-vaccination connection expected http://www.cnn.com/2009/HEALTH/02/11/autis...ines/index.html My biggest fear is that autism really can be linked to vaccinations. They do give kids way too much, too soon IMO. You want your child to be safe from these horrible viruses but if autism is the result, then what are parents to do? Children can't get into daycare or preschool (I believe) if they aren't vaccinated.   This is something that is just now hitting us as my son *may* be autistic. He would certainly qualify as high-functioning but we won't know exactly where he sits until the end of this month when he has an Autistic Spectrum Disorder Evaluation (I think that's what it's called). This is tearing me up. And of course the only thing I think of is, "What did I do wrong?" Here I am giving him all the vaccines that his pediatrician says I should give him but did that bring out or give my son autism? Janie...   First...relax. I'm sure your boy is fine. Whether he falls on the Spectrum or not, he's fine. He "may" be exhibiting signs, you say he'd be high functioning...dont worry yourself.   You must never say you are at fault...there is simply no connection...even if someday it (unlikely) turns out to be vaccines. You did what you were supposed to do.     Living with a child who has ASD is a challenge...but I am truly one of the lucky ones...he is strong and healthy, he can talk and do basic things for himself...there are challenges of course, and some that break my heart and some that make me, and him, so damn frustrated...but it could be so much worse.   relax...wait to see what the doctor says...keep us posted Thanks. So much is out of our hands at this point and we are playing the waiting game. Since he was three months old, we've had to see a physical therapist, occupational therapist and speech therapist. He's had assessments and evaluations his whole little life so because of that, we get to jump through many hoops. Instead of waiting 8+ months for the autism evaluation, we only have to wait three weeks. This all came down last Friday so I am trying to get up to speed on everything autism. He has some "red flags" (not talking, sensory sensitivity and hyperactivity). He can follow quite complex requests though and clearly understands everything said to him and can help dress and feed himself. He'll be three this April. We have three upcoming evaluations (one through Seattle Children's Hospital, one through a special needs organization and one through our school system). I am anxious to get these done and out of the way so we can proceed and do what's right for him. I spent a few days there feeling pretty sorry for myself and cried a LOT but now I just want to get moving in the right direction.

[Janie]

QUOTE (GhostGirl @ Feb 12 2009, 07:08 AM)

QUOTE (Janie @ Feb 12 2009, 08:30 AM) QUOTE (EveryNerveAware @ Feb 12 2009, 05:32 AM) Rulings on autism-vaccination connection expected http://www.cnn.com/2009/HEALTH/02/11/autis...ines/index.html My biggest fear is that autism really can be linked to vaccinations. They do give kids way too much, too soon IMO. You want your child to be safe from these horrible viruses but if autism is the result, then what are parents to do? Children can't get into daycare or preschool (I believe) if they aren't vaccinated.   This is something that is just now hitting us as my son *may* be autistic. He would certainly qualify as high-functioning but we won't know exactly where he sits until the end of this month when he has an Autistic Spectrum Disorder Evaluation (I think that's what it's called). This is tearing me up. And of course the only thing I think of is, "What did I do wrong?" Here I am giving him all the vaccines that his pediatrician says I should give him but did that bring out or give my son autism? I've had those same worries for a long, long time. But it's pointless to look back and second-guess what we did then - ultimately we were doing what we thought was best for our babies. We WERE being good parents. Researchers have long thought that babies could handle all those vaccines at once...and many can, obviously. Kerry had all the same shots, at the same intervals, and he's absolutely fine. He's more than fine - he's gifted.   As I've told you, you're doing all the right things, and you will find a way to make life good, no matter what they tell you after he's evaluated. Life WILL be good - it'll just be different than you planned. The hardest part for me was giving up on certain dreams, and replacing those goals with different goals.   You can do it, and there's a lot of support here. I know this from experience.   I think this will be a good support system. It's important to keep communication open with others who know exactly what you're feeling. When we visit doctors, I always ask if they have other parents who are willing to meet with us or any organization or support group to be a part of. I'm a firm believer in never going through something alone. But at the same time, that seals the reality and I'm having a hard time with that. Only because this is new. I know that. And as you said, GG, I'm understanding that dreams and goals may have to change. My biggest fear right now is that he'll have many obstacles. I want to make sure that I do the best job I can so that he can hurdle those obstacles. Already we're aware that what comes so natural and easy to some babies and toddlers, he really has to work hard at.

[GhostGirl]

All very understandable feelings. I watch Stephen struggle in the same way. The reality is, it's really hard to find true closure with something like this, because it's not a static thing. It changes. But you adapt, and you cry some, and you laugh some, and your heart grows more than you thought possible.

 

I am always here for you. I've been through a lot with Stephen, and if nothing else, I can understand...

[Janie]

QUOTE (GhostGirl @ Feb 12 2009, 07:24 AM)

All very understandable feelings. I watch Stephen struggle in the same way. The reality is, it's really hard to find true closure with something like this, because it's not a static thing. It changes. But you adapt, and you cry some, and you laugh some, and your heart grows more than you thought possible. I am always here for you. I've been through a lot with Stephen, and if nothing else, I can understand...

Thanks GG. Thank you a lot. I really appreciate that.

[GhostGirl]

QUOTE (Janie @ Feb 12 2009, 09:25 AM)

QUOTE (GhostGirl @ Feb 12 2009, 07:24 AM) All very understandable feelings.  I watch Stephen struggle in the same way.  The reality is, it's really hard to find true closure with something like this, because it's not a static thing.  It changes.  But you adapt, and you cry some, and you laugh some, and your heart grows more than you thought possible. I am always here for you.  I've been through a lot with Stephen, and if nothing else, I can understand... Thanks GG. Thank you a lot. I really appreciate that.

[GhostGirl]

Vaccines Didn't Cause Autism, Court Rules

 

After a lot of research, I'm not sure I disagree with this. I'm starting to think that the vaccines themselves don't cause the autism, but that a child with a genetic predisposition to a faulty immune system (maybe?) can't take the onslaught of 4 or 5 shots in a day.

[Prime Mover and Shaker]

QUOTE (GhostGirl @ Feb 12 2009, 10:50 AM)

Vaccines Didn't Cause Autism, Court Rules After a lot of research, I'm not sure I disagree with this. I'm starting to think that the vaccines themselves don't cause the autism, but that a child with a genetic predisposition to a faulty immune system (maybe?) can't take the onslaught of 4 or 5 shots in a day.

 

 

I really admire your ability to be objective about this.

 

It must be very emotionally tempting to latch on to something - anything - and make it the bad guy here.

 

You're doing your son and the rest of your family a great service by keeping your eyes on the truth, no matter how elusive it may be.

 

Good job.

 

 

[GhostGirl]

QUOTE (Prime Mover and Shaker @ Feb 12 2009, 12:04 PM)

QUOTE (GhostGirl @ Feb 12 2009, 10:50 AM) Vaccines Didn't Cause Autism, Court Rules After a lot of research, I'm not sure I disagree with this.  I'm starting to think that the vaccines themselves don't cause the autism, but that a child with a genetic predisposition to a faulty immune system (maybe?) can't take the onslaught of 4 or 5 shots in a day.     I really admire your ability to be objective about this.   It must be very emotionally tempting to latch on to something - anything - and make it the bad guy here.   You're doing your son and the rest of your family a great service by keeping your eyes on the truth, no matter how elusive it may be.   Good job.   Well...thank you.   I should probably say that I still don't think that jabbing a kid with 5 shots at a time is really a good idea, but I'm not anti-vaccine. I just think it could be done more safely, to give kids who might not be able to stand it all a chance.   So sometimes I DO still get mad at "THEM," whoever they are. Sometimes I have to get mad at something or I'll explode, you know?

[EveryNerveAware]

QUOTE (GhostGirl @ Feb 12 2009, 01:50 PM)

Vaccines Didn't Cause Autism, Court Rules After a lot of research, I'm not sure I disagree with this.  I'm starting to think that the vaccines themselves don't cause the autism, but that a child with a genetic predisposition to a faulty immune system (maybe?) can't take the onslaught of 4 or 5 shots in a day.

Thanks for posting this update, was just about to post it as well.

 

I am still undecided because there are many things we just cannot "prove" through research. I'm not saying it is the source, but I still think it cannot be ruled out either.

 

Just like cell phones and tumors. No proof positive but there are some instances that seem very suspect as well. Sometimes it can take decades to finally realize the truth about things humans develop. Asbestos anyone?