Last weeks therapy appointment was very difficult. We discussed Bryant needing to be checked by our Pediatrician and/or an ENT to rule out tubes for his ears. We discussed that it would be in Bryant's best interest if we started Occupational Therapy ASAP and we also discussed the potential that Bryant has a condition called, Strabismus which will need to be determined by a Pediatric ophthalmologist. Very emotional day for me, but that emotion quickly turned into a plan of attack.
We got a appointment to see our Pediatrician, Dr. Gadea, on Monday. We looked at Bryant's medical history, specifically his ear infections, and ruled out that he was a candidate for tubes. Hallelujah!!! We also discussed all that has taken place in Bryant's development, his speech therapy and what issues have arisen. Based on our conversation and her professional opinion, Dr. Gadea feels that Occupational Therapy is a good idea for Bryant. Totally fine.
Because of our affiliation with Babies Can't Wait for his Speech Therapy, BCW can also provide an Occupational Therapist, but the therapist in our group only does in home visits and based on Bryant's needs we feel it necessary and more beneficial for him to experience OT in a clinical environment. They'll have all the right equipment. So, today, I called two therapy centers and was able to get an appointment with one for Bryant to be evaluated on Wednesday afternoon at 3:00. Once evaluated, I'm 100% confident they will say that OT therapy is necessary so he will continue to go weekly on Wednesdays at 3:00.
Based on what we know right now, Bryant's OT concentration will be related to Sensory Integration therapy, specifically relating to Tactile Processing. This is just based on the sensory profile we completed a week ago with BCW. I'll know more on Wednesday, 9/7.
During our appointment with Dr. Gadea she also recommended we seek the services of a Developmental Pediatrician. What is this you ask...well, this is from one website:
Developmental pediatricians focus on developmental, behavioral and learning issues in children from infancy through young adulthood. Developmental pediatric training allows a broad approach towards children's health and development that encompasses knowledge from general pediatrics and child development along with child psychology, pediatric neurology and child psychiatry. General pediatricians typically have limited training in developmental disorders such as learning disabilities, attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) or autism spectrum disorders. They do not always have the time or the qualifications to treat these conditions, or to evaluate for common ‘comorbid’ issues (problems that often occur along with these diagnoses). Developmental pediatricians are highly trained and experienced in identifying a range of developmental and behavioral differences. They can evaluate your child's overall development, provide a diagnosis, and recommend specific treatment plans. Developmental pediatricians also can coordinate medical evaluations or prescribe medications when appropriate. They often act as an advocate during school planning, providing documentation and support to make sure your child receives needed services.
Too bad we can't find one that takes private insurance. We need some prayer for this one.
I can't talk about the above and not mention what progress Bryant is making with his therapy to date. We have just hit a wall and are hopeful that once he begins OT then the speech and language will begin to develop. Bryant is showing us that he is ready to communicate and find his independence, we just need to work the kinks out first.
Seriously, please continue to pray for Bryant as well as Nick and me.
Oh yeah, and HAPPY 22 Months to our precious Bryant!
Ready for MMO on Tuesday...He went down the garage steps all by himself without holding on. Great job B!
2 comments:
We will be praying for you all, Mandy!
We are praying as well. Thanks for the update!
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