Wanting Some Answers

Although getting away from daily in-home therapy has been a refreshing change, it would be a stretch to say that things are progressing the way I had planned.

I was pretty confident that at her transition, I would know what was going on with Raquel, that she'd be given a diagnosis and then I'd be on my way searching for the best treatment program for her. Let's just say that isn't happening. I am no closer today than I was at the start of all of this. And I've been told so many conflicting things by so many people, it only makes the process more confusing. Yes, she has and continues to improve, and therapy is a HUGE part of this. I am so thankful that I had such wonderful people surrounding us and helping her grow. It's just frustrating because a year later, I still don't know what caused the delay in the first place.

I found out last week that the neurology appointment on the 25th is just an initial consultation. No tests will be performed at this visit. Raquel will basically have her first neurological exam and then the doctor will make recommendations on what tests should be done, and then I wait for an appointment. Kind of a bummer, but I guess that makes sense.

I am really looking forward to the allergist appointment on the 5th. Not that I'm looking forward to him doing the skin testing - I'm told that he can do it on me first so I'll know how it feels - but I'm so happy that I will finally have an ANSWER to something about Raquel. The skin test itself is supposed to take about an hour, and when I leave his office, I will know exactly what Raquel is allergic to. What wonderful news - especially considering this past week has been really hard dealing with her sinuses. I don't know what it is that is setting her off, but it's something and she has been very miserable at times. She will be playing and acting fine, then all of a sudden starts rubbing her nose and sneezing, her eyes start to water, and then she starts hitting her forehead while usually saying, "Owieee!" I'm assuming that must be a sinus headache, and from what I've heard from those suffering with them, they can be pretty excruciating. Antihistamines help, but also make her very groggy, and she can't take them five days prior to her allergy appointment.

I really feel that a big part of this has to do with her allergies. She just hasn't been the same since we had the fires out here and she developed croup. She has had sinus problems ever since. And to see her laying on the floor, holding her nose and in obvious pain, has been tough to watch. It will be a relief to finally know what she is allergic to and how to deal with it.

As far as the school district goes, I am still waiting for the current therapy schedule so I can have her sessions resumed. Hopefully I'll hear from them this week. If not, I'll find out who my new contact is at Regional and see about getting some in-home sessions again.