A Change of Events

Remember earlier how I wrote that the Autism screening was probably ruled out? Well, it was ruled in this morning. Once Elizabeth arrived and observed/played with Raquel, she told me that she would recommend the screening at the end of the month. I told her to do it now - why wait? - and she made the call. I'm hoping to hear from the Regional Center within the next day or two to schedule the screening. And you know how I feel about the Regional Center...

Then I cried. As a pregnant Mom, you do everything right to make sure your baby is fine. Elizabeth kept assuring me that this isn't my fault, that I did nothing wrong. I still struggle with the shots given to her at the 18-month check-up. Could this have triggered something? I just don't know but I'm reading a lot about it and it is a strong possibility. I did notice a change in her around that time.

Today Elizabeth came at 9am. Raquel greeted her with a big smile and then Elizabeth started therapy. Her therapy is different than the others because she deals with the behavior aspect and tries to make Raquel slightly out of her comfort zone to show me how to handle the behavior. Again, Elizabeth ROCKS.

The new occupational therapist came today and overlapped with Elizabeth. Her name is Karin (Kar-rhen) and I was very hesitant about a new OT because I absolutely LOVED Becky. Let me tell you that Karin had some big shoes to fill and she totally filled them. She gave me some great input and Raquel took to her immediately. Elizabeth told her that she submitted the info for the

Autism screen, and Karin said, "Oh, because of this and this and this?" and brought stuff to my attention that I never noticed. Sigh...

Mary came at her regular time for speech, but today Raquel didn't really want to participate much and wasn't very vocal. It was actually the quietest I've ever seen her. She played well, just didn't want a whole lot of new stuff. Mary is still so encouraged by her and brought me a book to read about bringing out communication.

The truth of the matter is this: Raquel is extremely difficult. She goes into serious tantrums without warning and if you aren't prepared to deal with them (like I'm being trained to) then serious harm can happen to her. The last thing we need right now is a concussion. Elizabeth has recommended that she not be alone with anyone if Mike and I aren't present - atleast until the Autistic Screening is done - because of possible harm. I haven't even mentioned the pillow scene today...