Scott and I met with Samuel’s therapist at his autism school. She is a nice lady named Kathleen, and she was very encouraging. We discussed the targets that they are currently working on with Sam. Communication is one of the key elements. They are trying to at least have him sign the words that he recognizes and knows the meaning to. His receptive language (words he responds or shows the meaning of) is still lacking a great deal, but he is making more noises verbally. The charts that should have blue markings are all so empty, compared to the vacant spaces. He is basically about a year and 3 months behind in every area, except gross motor skills. His walking is so much better, as well as his balance. He is also starting to climb on some things, which makes him look more like a little boy than a baby. It makes me smile.  He is also imitating more actions now. That is reassuring. The thing I am happiest about is his eye contact, tracking, and discovery. He is looking in our eyes now, watching our movements, and discovering others’ movements. It really has grown him up a good deal. I am thankful for his school.

Today, Samuel had a follow up with the autism neurologist. She gave us the full report on his 23 hour eeg. There was no seizure activity during those hours, and we are beyond grateful for that. However, the test came back with abnormal “overlying fast Beta activity.” His brain waves are moving at a faster rate than is normal. His ammonia levels came back high, as well. Both of those things are indicators of a metabolic disorder.  And, it is common for children with Samuel’s chromosome duplication to have other issues like this arise.  So, they have ordered a repeat of labs, and then they will send us to a specialist for what will be next. It upset us, naturally, but if these fast waves are, in a sense, clouding his ability to develop appropriately, then we need to know what to do to help him. So, I am thankful for the report, as well. I have to admit, that we were really aggravated that it took so long for the doctors to realize they had not communicated this with us earlier, as we have called and asked. We are trying to stay on top of it all. 

Maggie came home with a fantastic progress report and reading report from school today. I am proud of how hard she works. She is ready for SUMMER!

I am having some issues right now with exhaustion and my depression. I am just so tired, and I am having trouble sleeping. Scott will be gone the entirety of next week, so I am praying for rest. I have a doctor’s appointment soon, so maybe he’ll prescribed the ocean. I’ve heard that does wonders.