October 25, 2014

How Occupational Therapy is working out for Sensory Processing Disorder

KJ has successfully completed three OT visits.  She says that it's the most fun she's ever had in her "whole life!".  :)

The first visit, I quietly observed.  My eyes constantly filled up with tears, with each new activity.  There was something so extremely different about watching KJ accomplish tasks that would/could normally cause major meltdowns and major tears of frustration.  She was so relaxed.  She, for the first time in a very long time, looked like a happy, joyful, kid again!  I couldn't help but be overwhelmed with emotion as I watched her balance, climb, zip-line, problem solve, and push herself to reach her goals --all with such a great sense of pride and self-control (she's normally way too tough on herself and constantly overwhelmed or frustrated, especially when trying new things or trying to do something she's uncomfortable with).

October 18, 2014

October 2014: Sensory Awareness Month (and what it means to my family now)

It's 3:11am and I just can't sleep.  I"ve been awake since 7am, yesterday morning.  I just can't turn my mind off tonight... so much to sift through...

Last week, KJ was diagnosed with Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD).

M y   K J   h a s   S P D.  (and "highly suspected Aspergers")


I'm pretty sure none of this has sunk in, for me, yet.  Because if it had, I wouldn't still feel light headed, nervous, anxious, sad, and very confused every time I'm reminded of the realities we are facing . . . would I?  I mean, having the "official diagnoses", of SPD, doesn't change much around here.  Life still goes on as it did before the diagnoses (with major modifications on the parental side).  Our KJ is still "our little KJ".  It did, however, bring a huge sense of relief.  Really.  It confirmed my 'mommy intuitions'.