Wednesday, May 30, 2012

Filling in The Rest

By Little Hugger Tuesday, September 30, 2008

When I read the other posts I realize how blessed we are, as there is quite a range of behaviors involved. Our boys were, and are, mainly loud and active. They get along very well together and enjoy each others company. They are not violent or aggressive towards each other or other children. Being around them gives the impression of chaos, but they are quite well behaved most of the time. When we take them out, they behave in the car, stay in their child seats, and do not carry on when we arrive.

 We shop a favorite local thrift store often, and the clerks there never fail to bludgeon us regarding our children, but they never misbehave. They do not grab things off the shelves, knock things down, bother customers or break anything. They are just lively and noisy.

 Both of my affected boys have shown remarkable improvement, and have become a lot easier to live with, without medicating them. There were times we thought it would never happen.

 My oldest is ADHD, and a very bright, friendly, likeable boy. He is very friendly, and not shy. He is also quite capable physically. He might end up a professional athlete, or failing that, a politician. Given how things are in DC, I think I would rather he find more honest work than politics. Such as grave robber.

 His enthusiasm for everything is remarkable.

 My middle son is Autism Spectrum Disorder. He is the opposite of his big brother, as he is passive and quiet. He shows more independence, and has a thoughtful streak.

 I think part of his problem was his older brother, who was so good at getting attention, and dominated him. Now they are both in school, and he is coming out of his shell.

 Blessedly, our baby is not just "normal" but a total sweetie. He is just over two, but almost never exhibits the behavior that got that age named "The Terrible Two's" He adores his older brothers, and they love him in return. They are the three amigos.

 I had despaired they would ever be normal, or would always be a burden. Now, I have hope. 

 I had serious medical problems as a child, (still do) and was put on powerful meds that had long term effects on me. Thats why I hesitated to medicate my boys. I did not want them paying for it their whole lives.

 No one could give me useful info on the various meds available. I believe they feared liability. Our case evaluators said ask their doctor, their doctor said ask their teacher, their teacher said ask the doctor!

 Still, I would really like to hear real world stories of what the condition was, the medication used and the results.

 Thanks all, and God bless

Eileen Bailey, Health Guide
9/30/08 6:41pm

I added a comment to your other post as well. Thanks again for sharing your story. It is wonderful to hear how positively you talk about your sons and how involved you seem in their lives.

 

As far as medication, you are right to look for information before deciding whether it is right for your children. Teachers are not medical professionals and should never provide information on medication or a medical diagnosis. It is your doctor's responsibility to talk to you about medications, if your doctor failed to provide you with enough information, you may want to ask for a referral to a specialist that would be able to explain medications to you and what would be best for your situation, should you require it in the future.

 

Eileen

10/ 2/08 12:47pm

Eileen,

 I do intend to delve into the medication business when I become a bit more comfortable here. I still want to know as much as possible.

 I had to deal with serious illness as a child, and was put on high doses of Cortisone/Prednisone, and still take them.

 These meds have profound effects and side effects that I still live with, and always will. 

 My growth was stunted, and it has always been an issue. Its not so bad that I cannot function normally in day to day living, but the societal rejection is near universal. No other group suffers as much prejudice. I did not want that for my sons.

 My eldest is also showing signs of exceptional physical capabilities, and I do not want to deprive him of the chance of a professional athletic career. The chances may be slim, but the wrong decision on my part makes it impossible.

 i

 

Eileen Bailey, Health Guide
10/10/08 2:17pm

Although medication can play an important part in treatment, there are also many people who manage very well without medication. (Read Debbie Phelps interview - Michael Phelps took medication only for a short time). Behavioral strategies and providing structure can help improve behaviors and help children succeed.

 

Please keep us posted and let us know how everything is going. Let us know the good and the bad, we can celebrate together the successes and provide support for the harder moments.

 

Eileen

Ask a Question

Get answers from our experts and community members.

Btn_ask_question_med
View all questions (2141) >
By Little Hugger— Last Modified: 10/14/10, First Published: 09/30/08