Feels like a day for celebration!

[Maiki]

This is a 'hello again' from Maiki! I've been away from this community for a couple of years now. The big news is that today-- after 13 years of research, advocating, seeking assessments-- my 15 yo received a formal dx of ASD. Validation! I have believed this since she was 2 yo, but previous assessments were stuck on her intellectual giftedness, anxiety/ perfectionism, and low self worth. They couldn't see the cost to her --to succeed in life without the best tools, or much information about herself. She felt disconnected from everyone, self harmed and considered ending her life.
It was a surprise to get this diagnosis today, since we just thought we were going into her mental health treatment program to talk meds with the psychiatrist. Dtr's psychologist was also there, and we all talked together about what this will mean. Access to more appropriate resources, programs and funding. Best moment was my dtr's tentative smile. Later, she told me that she feels "hopeful". She thinks she might finally feel like she "belongs somewhere".
So... I'm back... and I'm feeling pretty hopeful too!

 

[Mia]

It sounds like it's been a long road for both you and her. Glad to hear it.

 

[Maiki]

It sounds like it's been a long road for both you and her. Glad to hear it.

Thank you so much Mia! I believe this will lead our family in a good direction.

 

[Thinx]

Welcome back, this sounds to be good progress for your daughter.

 

[Maiki]

Thank you! So happy to be here

 

[Aspychata]

As mothers and fathers, we only want the best for them, so they have a chance in life.

 

[Maiki]

I wholeheartedly agree! Maybe that is why I feel like celebrating. I remember very clearly holding my dtr's hand and telling her that I would never stop trying to help her. That was on an evening several years ago when she was in such despair that she wanted to end her life. At last, I feel like the professionals are pointing us in the right direction. I will never stop trying to advocate and do the best I can for all of my kids. Today feels like a win for us

 

[Giraffes]

Hi pleased the diagnosis has happened and might i say what a lovely Dad you are to have such concern and be so supportive, my difference at her age was put down to depression and i didn't get my diagnosis until i was 40yrs old.