MICHAEL
Michael has been diagnosed with Attention Deficit Disorder
with Hyperactivity (ADHD), which is very common these days.
Now in his 20's *gag* he is working and do well.
I began to notice differences in Michaels development at a fairly early age but, when I
brought my concerns to his Pediatrician, he claimed he was just a "slow starter".
Well, time went by and more and more "classic" ADHD characteristic began
to show. By this time, ADHD had become EXTREMELY controversial, not only within normal society but within the medical society as well. There were so many children being diagnosed with it at that time, all thought it was just a cop-out, of not only parents but Doctors, as well. No one wanted to take
responsibility for diagnosing my son.
Well, as Michael failed and was in the middle of repeating the fourth grade, his teacher came to me with the same concerns of ADHA that I had. So, in working together, we managed to get an evaluation scheduled through the school system. At the same time Michael was currently in one-on-one
counseling and his counselor was very aware of what was going on and was in full support and agreement..
The evaluation was very short and full of contradictions. The Committee on Special Education (CSE) attempted to convince me that my son had absolutely no problems what so ever. To say the least, I found this totally unacceptable and refused to leave that meeting without receiving help for my son and informed them,
that seeing they did not find it fitting to supply me with a copy of his
test reports and findings before the meeting, which I might add (and did add) is required by New York State law, that I insisted on
receiving those reports immediately and I would therefore take matters into my own hands. I did end up receiving help for him that day, as little as it was.
Four weeks later, I received those reports and presented them to Michaels counselor. We were very angered by what we read.
It stated within those reports that possibilities of ADHA should
be further explored in Michael. So, instead of going though the whole evaluation process, we took the reports to her staff
psychiatrist and with that AND some of her own tests, Michael was diagnosed.
Michael was then placed on the contravsal medication, Ritalin. What was so amazing is that it took effect on him so quickly. He went from carrying straight D's and, as well, F's, to A and B averages in all courses, within a matter of a TWO WEEK time span. Pretty amazing for a drug that is believed to be of no help to children, wouldn't you say? OH and along with
carrying that A and B average Michael became extremely active in extra activities such as: Basketball team, reading club (went to the Pre-K and
Kindergarten classes and read stories to the children), Art Club and Band!
Michael has had his shares of ups and downs since being diagnosed and placed on medication but all and all I have to say that he has over come many of his short comings and has done very well for himself.
Michael was mainstreamed into regents classes and and graduated from High
School.
He has turned into a young man before my eyes. As I fight back tears from loosing my little boy each and every day I can not help but to be overwhelmed with pride over the young man he has blossomed into.
Mom is very proud of you and what you have been able to do for yourself! Love you! *Kisses & Hugs*
