Yesterday was our first 6 month review of B's progress. Of course, he has only been in the program since September so it was really more of a 3 month review. It's premature at this point and there are absolutely no guarantees but it was a really, really good review. The data confirmed how we've been feeling all along... B is getting it and he is learning and progressing!! He has made some huge strides in a very short period of time. We were told that everything pretty much looks as good as it possibly could at this point. Plus, the staff was so full of praise for hubby and I that we felt like rockstars ourselves. It's good to know that the hard work is paying off. I'm proud of our family and full of hope for our future. Hope is a beautiful thing.
B was in rare form during the meeting too. He was in a therapy session downstairs. We heard laughter and all sorts of good noises (no crying) while we had our meeting. He came up to me at one point during the meeting and jabbered to the whole group, then sat on my lap and picked up my pen and scribbled on my paper. He seemed to be hamming it up. What a change from the kid they would've seen a few months ago. Later, we heard him belt out "That's Elmo's song" with some major gusto. The singing has totally taken off. We have a new program where he is to be given whatever he "requests" verbally no matter what so that he gets what a great thing language is. I don't know if he's on to us or if it's just a coincidence but the first session where that was implemented tallied THIRTY of these vocalizations. And he is just singing ALL THE TIME. Very cool.
Yesterday, we also said goodbye to our senior therapist who has become a dear friend and part of our family. I literally choked back tears every time I looked at her in the meeting and the waterworks were full on when we finally said our goodbyes. We will always be grateful to her and will not forget her contributions. The first couple of months are key and we couldn't have had a better leader to get us up and running. Our time together ended too soon and she will be sorely missed.
Because I should be packing...I decided to read your blog instead. I am invigorated by your story and so proud to have been a part of it. No matter what the outcome B is in such a good place because he's in the folds of YOUR family, the family that you and D have created for both of your boys. And though you know you're running a marathon it'll be worth every step because I know he has it in him, too, Wendy. I know it.
ReplyDeleteI miss you guys already but will keep track of you and carry you in my heart. You are a Warrior Mom and a Fabulous Woman. All Love and Respect. Gail