This is Calen's school picture. He is so handsome.
Today, we had to attend Occupational Therapy. His therapist's name is Britta. She is a lady in her 60's and is talking about retiring. Personally, I think she's ready. I respect her because she's dealt with all types of kids over the years, but I don't think she understands my son (or maybe autistic children in general). When we come into the therapy room, there is a big contraption that swings, and Calen LOVES to get on it and swing. He runs directly to it. When I have to make him get off the swing and sit in a chair, he gets upset because he can't do what he wants to do. That's any child. When the session starts, he may toss a puzzle piece onto the floor rather than put it where it should go. This went on pretty much the whose session because not only is his attention span short, he's distracted by the swing. I suggested that we make a minor adjustment to the environment so that he never sees the swing. Her response is that "he is just doing this to control the situation and get his way." I was bothered by this accusation. I quickly let her know about his cognitive level, volunteered to bring her a copy of his Sparks report to help her better understand my son, and told her that we have to change his environment or we will never get anywhere because of the distractions. She says "the whole point is to do this therapy no matter what is around." I told her it doesn't work that way with my son. She changed her mind, and totally agreed. She even showed me some places we can go for the next session. I hope she saw that I won't be argued down when it comes to Calen. I still resent the accusation of his trying to control the environment. She may be right, and I just don't get it. This is my first child, and she's got years of experience dealing with children. I'm going to speak to some parents about how they handle discipline. I don't want to be the type of parent that takes up for her child when the child has done wrong. I need to do more research. Will tell what I find later.
Today, I hugged him and called him sweetie. He actually tried to say it!! I was shocked. I repeated sweetie 3 times and he made attempts to say it all three times! I am so proud!!! Not only that, I'm overflowing with hope!! Tomorrow is our trip to TN to see Dr. Kalb. I can't hardly wait to see what happens. Please get the word out...Dr. Daniel Kalb in Franklin, TN now accepts Alabama Medicaid! He is a DAN! doctor (Defeat Autism Now). I called his office and did a little talking and finally convinced them. It wasn't hard. I just explained that there are no such doctors in the entire state of AL. I also contacted AL medicaid in Montgomery, and they said all the doc had to do is accept AL medicaid!!
And even more wonderful news.....House Bill 150 passed today in a special session. The Alabama Autism Support Act will establish a permanent Council that will allow for greater support for individuals with Autism and Asperger Syndrome. I look forward to Governor Riley signining this importnat piece of legislation into law.
GOD IS MOVING MOUNTAINS
