A new diagnosis

The appointment we have waited for over the last few months finally arrived, our follow-up at the neurodevelopmental pediatrician. She decided that Maddy had a lot of characteristics and met the basic criteria for Autism Spectrum Disorder, although it is what she called a "working diagnosis". She explained that it meant that Maddy would benefit from the treatment and therapy that a child with Autism has, but that it may not always be her diagnosis. It will help to open up some services to her that would benefit her. Although Autism is usually diagnosed at a later age (after the age of 2), and typically there is a more in depth exam or test, the doctor feels early intervention is the best treatment and therefore thought it would be best to give her this diagnosis now.

The doctor provided us with some local resources to contact and recommended a few new things. We will be looking into a play group for social skills and communication, and going to out-patient therapy for Occupational Therapy and Sensory Integration Therapy. The doctor felt Maddy's sensory issues are getting in the way or her learning, and that she can't seem to get past them to learn new things.

All we can do from here is to search out resources in our community and keep going with therapy. I am looking forward to finally seeing an occupational therapist who has specialized knowledge in this area, and I know it will make a world of difference.

After all the specialists, therapy, and worry, I come home to my little girl and she looks up at me and reaches out to hug me, and I know everything will be alright.