It really began about a year ago when I noticed that Derek really wasn't doing the things that other kids his age do, mainly talking. He was three and a half and spoke a few words and phrases a day. I got the feeling this was more than late blooming. By late March/early April I had the diagnosis: Autism Spectrum Disorder. Since then we've been navigating maze after maze and plumbing mystery after mystery. Why does he do that? What should we do about it? How much money do you want for that? How can I get something like that, but for free?
I decided to start this blog to keep a record of Derek's progress. He improves day by day, but sometimes so incrementally it can be hard to notice. The memory of screaming before dinner may fade away and I'll need a reminder of how hideous it used to be. Or I'll wonder if he used to always burp over and over before bedtime. Plus, people who work with him can get to know him as more than a bundle of problems they get paid to solve, friends and relatives from far away can check in on his progress, or random strangers can think "Thank God I'm not her." Whatever does some good in the world, eh?
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The life and times of Derek at a young age.
Derek and me
About Me
- Mama-o-rama
- Derek's my son and I am his mama. Derek has autism. This is my blog to let people know what goes on in our world, our challenges, our joys, and our progress.
2 comments:
I love you Karen! (and Derek too.) I put your blog on my bookmarks bar, and I'm looking forward to reading more as you post it, to keeping up with the progress and the process: the adventure.
Love you guys!
-Yr Best Friend
I miss you and think it's great that you are starting a blog. It is a perfect progression from all the personal diaries you used to fill, and, while I'll clamor to hear about you and Derek because I know and love you, I think your experiences are important and sharing them with a wider audience is very valuable. Take care, sweeties!
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