We had the initial developmental assessment at the Waismen Center that we've waited months for, and the doc said that Julia is on the autism scale. This is no surprise to us but still, having the doc say it so emphatically takes the wind out of my sails. There will be a much more in depth assessment done now and recommendations for therapy and for the school. In a sense the work can finally, after 16 months home, begin.
Yesterday, was Julia's birthday. My glorious girl is 7. She was much more aware of how it was her day ,and the presents, and decorations, and cake, and special dumplings, than she was last year. It was good to see. I expect that next year, Julia will be anticipating the day. We counted 7 of everything from dinosaurs to candles to pillows in the living room. She loved her dinosaur cupcakes that she brought into class, and she loved the cupcakes that Cheshire made for her. She loved her new dress and the new bathing suit with goggles.
As part of her birthday, Julia went to a first ballet class. She has been dying to do ballet and just loved receiving a "real" leotard and tights as a present. She was in a class of 6 and tried very hard to get it all right, but she couldn't maintain the discipline or follow enough of the directions, and the teacher had to tell me at the end of the class that Julia could not be in the class. I could have burst into tears -- Julia had tried so hard and wanted to be in the class so much. The teacher was apologetic and even suggested that if Jula came before the class she would work with her some. I have no idea whether I should take her up on that.
Yes, I am sad. And scared. Time for research and advocacy and lots of work. I have to find out what so much of this means and what it will mean for Julia's life.
And it really is snowing.
4 comments:
Don't let the diagnosis get to you. It's just a label. Our son was diagnosed very young and had a much more severe case of autism. He's now 10 and fully mainstreamed in the regular classroom. If that ballet teacher said no, then find one who says yes. You will smile as you watch Julia dance...knowing that it is the other teacher's loss. :) Just keep on going and pushing her each and every day. She will do just fine.
Julie
Mom to a China guy and 2 homegrowns
Yes, dear. What Julie said. Julia has blossomed so much in the short time that she's been with you, I think she has more good surprises in store for you.
I love reading your blog btw. Makes me long for snow and cold and winter tights and a normal American life. Plus, I think you are a great mom.
Elaine
Hi Suzanne, it's Sharyn.
I remember the day when I was told that my son, age 6, was legally blind. He is now a systems analyst for the James Cancer Center and will be working towards his Master's. And he is still legally blind. He has inspired those around him to work harder and not take things for granted.
Mother Theresa used to call all life events "gifts", and she would say, "What can we do with this gift?" . . .
Hang in there and smile for your little girl. Maybe she'd like some unstructured movement classes for starters -- ballet is pretty disciplined. And she can still wear the leotard!
Suzanne,
Allow yourself a moment to be sad. I think that's normal and even okay. When you're done, get up and do what you do so well.....being Julia's Mommy, number one fan and advocate!
In China parents often here, "Lucky Baby!" Most of us don't like that and are quick to let everyone in earshot know that we are the lucky ones. I know that you feel this way about Julia, that you're the lucky ones and you're right. But may I just say that Miss Julia has been blessed big to have you and David and Cheshire as a family. Really...God was looking out big for this little one.
Happy Birthday, Julia!!
Watching and admiring as you go,
Traci & Family
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