November 25th-Dec 1st ADOS test (Brendan 18 months)

     

          After our crazy week last week I was really hoping for a little break mentally. Well first thing Monday morning we headed to the Melmed Center for Brendan to get the ADOS(Autism Diagnostic observation schedule) test done. He hasn't had this test done yet because when he was first diagnosed he showed significant signs of autism that they didn't feel the test was important. But most kids get this test before getting diagnosed. His doctor wanted him to take the test for 2 reasons one to provide the state with more evidence to help my case and then the other reason is to get a better idea of his level of autism. I was able to sit in and watch the test however I wasn't allowed to say or help in anyway. As she started the test she set up some problem solving games. Then of course he walks away because he was uninterested in what she was doing. So she tries to call his name a couple times and he doesn't even turn to look at her, it was like he couldn't hear her. She told me to try calling his name which I did and no response. The test went on for about 45 minutes and then she told me to give her a minute while she figured his score out. The scoring of the test was 0-28 and the higher the number the more severe of autism they have. I knew by watching the test that his score wasn't going to be good. He scored a 20, which puts him in the severe category. It crushed me when she told me his score because I had felt like he has been improving but when comes down to it he hasn't made much progress. So then I immediately when into thinking like is all this therapy and money we are spending going to be a waste, what kind of future does this mean for him. I kinda just went into freak out mode inside even though I was acting calm from the outside. His doctor said this is just more proof to the state that he needs all the services we are asking for. She is right but it still just hurts. After we left the Melmed Center he had just enough time to sleep in the car get home to eat before his next therapy session. Monday was a long day for him but he actually handled it really well.
           On Tuesday his aba therapist came over and I was catching her up on his ADOS test. She helped me feel better because I had told her what he did too even score the 8 points and she said that if he would have taken that test 3 months ago he wouldn't have even scored those points. She is right the points he did score is actual things he has learned with therapy. She felt positive that he is making progress so we are going to keep doing what we are doing. So since it is a holiday week he had lots of therapy packed together over 2 days. I am glad he will have a good 4 days of no therapy. My little boy really just needs a break right now. He has been through so much so its a break that is truly needed for him.
     Our tv segment is supposed to air on either Monday or tuesday night on channel 15 news. I will hopefully know by tomorrow. But if not they said it will be on their website if you miss it.
        I really hope that everyone had a fantastic Thanksgiving! I am just so grateful for my amazing and supportive family. I am thankful for my husband who works his butt off to support us and then for my healthily beautiful kids. I love every person who has reached out to help us!!!!!