A New Day

Well, the big storm is over, pretty much. We had a lot of rain and wind all night. On Sunday, Michael kept saying "Mommy and Michael are staying home another day". We also stayed in on Saturday while I got work done.

Spending so much time with him lately I've really had a chance to see how much he is improving and how well the chelation is working. And no side effects too. He likes going, his veins/arms look fine, he sleeps well, he's not in any pain- except for 5 seconds once a week. Giving a kid a vaccine is just as much pain, if not more. All his levels (kidney, liver, etc) are normal. And when we had him tested for metals 4 years ago (these results are not on the blog) he was very high in arsenic, alumimum and lead. So, there definitely was a reason to chelate a child with heavy metal problems- regardless of the autism.

So, I feel good about the whole process. I see my son getting better and better everyday. EVERYONE who knows him sees this- it's not just me, some "angry mom" trying to make myself feel better. MY kid is feeling better. My kid is happy. My kid can now express himself and share and make friends and ask for things he wants. It's changing every part of his life- for the better. And what is so great is that I live in a place, a country, a state, a world where I have the freedom to chose what my child is going to eat & drink, what religion my child is going to be, what baseball team we are going to support and I get to chose his medical treatments. I feel so blessed that the people who really matter- my family, Michael's dad, his family, my neighbors, my friends, Michael's school- they all support Michael in different ways and they are sooooo happy for him. They were there when he sat in a room for 2 hours and looked at a ceiling fan. They were there when we had to leave the Circus with him screaming bloody murder. They were there when he would line up cars and trains obsessively. Some were even there when he got up every night from 3am-6am for the first year and a half.

Go Michael & Go Yankees!!!

My photographs & videos

Needless to say that if ANYONE takes my photographs or videos from this blog, my myspace page or my youtube account WITHOUT my permission, you will be held accountable. Just because I post something online does not give you permission to publish it else where. Consider this a warning. I've already taken action.

Plus, any negative comments about me, my child and how we live our lives will NOT, I repeat will NOT stop me from doing anything. You are sad people with no lives who are the real victims. I feel sorry for YOU.

I only hope the hatred you feel for yourself is not projected onto innocent children anymore. God help you.

-Christine

Virginia Beach Trip - April 2007

Last week Michael and I drove down to Virginia Beach. We went last August a few weeks after starting chelation. It was nice to see people who hadn't seen Michael since then- because they all saw his progress. We visited with friends, ate out a lot, walked by the oceanfront, went on a ferry ride and took a nice walk on the farm where I use to work.

Michael handled himself pretty well. We just had one bad experience where I tried to give Michael a new food and he threw up. So, the sensory thing is still there :)

Another change we saw this week is Michael has been bringing books to me and asking me to read them. He never did that before. Books were things to stim off of or color with crayons. He even sat there and listened to the whole book. Today he brought a Dora book to me and where she says "help me by calling the tiger" Michael called the tiger. I've never seen him do that. He does it with the tv show once in a while- but never with a book.

Catching Up

Some days it's hard to figure out if Michael is progressing. Kinda of like- you can't see the forest for the trees. Today wasn't one of those days.

We missed last Friday's chelation session because of an ice storm. So, today I took Michael swimming at the gym. We used to go once a week before he started chelating. We haven't gone since August and that was his birthday party.

The pool is very big with 4 lanes. Many people do laps. Sometimes it's a challenge because Michael thinks it funny to go into other people's lanes. Of course today there was an aquafit class. Usually about 5-6 older, less active women jump around the pool with an instructor. In the past, Michael would distrupt the class- screaming and yelling. You won't believe what he did today.

Michael joined the class, followed the instructor and even counted down the exercises...5, 4, 3, 2, 1. When the girl said "keep going", Michael would yell "keep going". Everyone laughed. He did this for about 10 minutes. I just sat back and watched.

Then Michael comes over to me and wants me to do some laps. Ok. So I do some laps. Then he starts swimming (with a lifevest) next to me, in the next lane. We are having a race. And another. And another. We raced for about 30 minutes. He has NEVER wanted to race before. I can't believe we did it for so long. I talked him through it. "Michael is leading, Mommy is trying harder. Michael touched the blue first- he wins. Good job. Michael is in 1st. Mommy is 2nd. Michael is the winner."

I let him win a lot of times- trying to build his confidence. But, I also let him lose- so he learns to be a good loser. Or at least to not have a melt-down when you lose.

Then Michael started narrating for me. "Mommy is catching up!". It was so cute. One time we reached the wall and I won. I said "who's the winner?" and he said "Michael". I couldn't disagree with him. He is the winner- always!!!!

Oh another thing I noticed- he didn't run when out of the pool, he only tried to play with my hair once and he only tried to stim off the water drips once. He used to do those stims (hair and water drips) for most of the time he was in the pool.

You're Too Loud

Wow. What a week we had. Michael did a lot of things to surprise me. First of all chelation, got the needle on the first try this week and he sat still the whole time. He's been doing really well lately.

We had some visitors this week. First our old neighbor from Virginia, Joe. He's not my neighbor from Virginia, he's my neighbor from Virginia. OK. I need to be more specific. When I was a teenager Joe and his family lived across the street from my home in Rocky Point, NY. They escaped to Chesapeake, VA with their 3 small children around 1988. I went down to visit them a few times and liked it, so in 1993, I moved to Virginia Beach (next to Chesapeake). Then in 1999, I moved back to NY.

I guess I can credit them (among others) with the whole "autism experience" I had while living in Virginia. I worked with ASD kids as an aide, babysitter and therapist. That whole experience prepared me for my life with Michael.

Anyway, it's fun to visit Joe and his family in VA with Michael because everytime we go Michael is at a totally different stage. Last August we went and they saw such a difference in him (I think I posted about it back then). Well Joe spent a few hours with him Friday night (after the chelation appointment) and said that Michael seemed to be talking more. And he was impressed with his spontanious outbursts.

At one point we were all sitting around the table talking and Michael comes in the room with his finger in the air. He points to each of us and says "Mommy, Grandpa, Grandma, Joe- You are too loud". It was so funny.

Then on Saturday (the next day) Michael's Dad came from California to visit.

We were sitting down at the table (again) and Michael comes over and starts eating his food with a fork. He has NEVER done that- especially with a metal fork. He narrates the experience. "First you pick up the fork and then you poke the food like this...". He takes a bite and says "scrumpeous". don't know if I spelled that correctly- I never use that word.

There are just a few example of the things he has said this week. I'm finding he is really speaking full sentences and answering my questions very nicely. Oh ya- and he played dice for about 30 minutes with my family. He was keeping his own scare too.

Also, his behaviors have been better the past few weeks- thank god. It's always better when Spring comes along.

Overall- we are still very happy with the IV chelation treatments and overjoyed at the progress Michael has made since August.

Thanks everyone for reading our blog. :)

The Pledge

Michael, 7 1/2 years old, says the Pledge and sings a few songs on the loud speaker at Ridge Elem.

Recent Video

Michael is watching TV and seeing himself in the computer, which I had hooked up to the videocamera. Here are some things you should know. Chance is our cat. The K-Mart is closed and the road behind it has huge "do not enter" signs infront. We went for a walk that day and saw them. That's what Michael is talking about.

I've noticed an improvement is in speech the past 2-3 weeks and behaviors have gotten a little better.

Thank You for Sharing

We've been using organic French Fries as a reward for pooping for the last 2 years. Michael wasn't fully potty trained until he was about 6 1/2. I don't think he even peed in the toilet until he was 5. It just freaked him out. Anyway, the FF's worked- so we've stuck with it.

Tonight Michael did his duty (pun intended) and I gave him some FF's. I heated up some extras for me. Of course I couldn't let him see them- because he thinks that they are HIS and HIS alone. But, he snuck into the kitchen and saw the fries in the toaster oven. His eyes lit up.

I'm like "Michael, tonight Mommy & Michael are going to SHARE the fries". Share. Share. He probably knows that word. But, being an only child- there isn't a lot of opportunity for sharing. He's not bad at it, especially in school. But, he's not used to sharing FF's at all.

I give him some and put the rest in my plate. He's all confused. He finished his fries and comes over to me. "Mommy is going to share the fries". I say "well Michael, I did, but here are 3 more". He's happy, but still confused as to why I have more than him. He's probably also confused in general because I'm eating his fries.

He eats the three and hits me up for more. I give him the last one "This is how much I love you kid".

About 5 minutes later I'm writing an email on my laptop and Michael walks over, puts his hand on my shoulder and says "Thank you Mommy for sharing the french fries". He looked right at me and the way he said it- it was perfect. I actually FELT that he was thankful. The fact that emotion came thru in what he said- well that's rare for him.

It was like one of those non-autism moments. I get these flashes of.... don't want to use that word normal.... typical behavior. It's like he can't say it any better. I see that in him once in a while. More recently than 1-2 years ago.

It's little things- like going to a birthday party and not having to follow him around. Or going to a movie and making it to the end. Sometimes it's just me asking him to get a pair of socks- and he does it.

The other morning the neighbor, who is Michael's age, ran across the grass- which was a sheet of ice and fell right on his face. I ran over to him to make sure he was ok and he was crying. What was Michael doing? laughing.

I just don't see that connection- that compassion most of the time. Fact is- I rarely see it. So, tonight, when he truly thanked me for sharing- it was amazing and perfect and the reason why everyone works so hard with him.

On a side note; We got his latest Urine test back. All his metal went down, except for Mercury- it went up, just alittle. I've seen 3-4 other kids and their tests and Michael has the lowest numbers (least amount of metals being excreted). But, it's doing well- so I'm not going to stress over it. He behaviors have been A LITTLE better this week and with vacation here (10 days off) we'll see how he is on the first day back.

Also: I rescheduled his CSE meeting so I can get together the information on the laws regarding Michael's summer program. I'm working with an advocate. The next meeting should be at the end of April. Again, I'll keep everyone updated.

Thanks!

Why & Willie Wonka

I'm glad I'm not posting on Myspace where I have to say what mood I'm in- because I just don't know. One second I'm happy because Michael said something new like "The buses are leaving soon" when we left school today. And he sat so nice for chelation today- no problems at all. But then he wouldn't leave the office. He was laying on the chairs and refused to leave. Part of the problem was probably because he woke up 800 times the night before, scratching himself. No, not like a baseball player. He has these dry patches on his skin.

He also had a tandrum (again) at school. I really hate hearing about that. Months would go by between negative notes from his teacher- and now I'm getting them daily. The question of the day-- WHY?

I got a test kit for something called the Organic Oat Test. I send in his urine and it tells me if he has a yeast problem. You see many children with autism have yeast problems- and it makes them... uh... alittle.... "off". Sometimes they laugh too much. Other times they don't sleep. Sometimes they have bad gas and poops. But, it's a common problem. We give Michael probiotics- good bacteria- which I think has stopped yeast from being a problem the last 4 years. But, sometimes their bodies become immune from the good bacteria and you have to change formulas. That might be the solution. Again, I just don't know. And as with everything in the autism world- you just don't know until you try.

It's just so hard to hear about your kid misbehaving. Plus, it's time for his yearly review and decision by the school about where to place him next year. Come to think of it- once before he had some behaviors and then the week before the meeting he was ok and it was like nothing bad ever happened. That's one thing that sucks about these meetings. It's "what have you done for me lately". If Michael was 100 percent for 5 months and the week before the meeting hits a kid- that's all they remember.

I'm not sure what we are going to do for the summer. I want to send him to camp, but the school doesn't want to pay for an aide. They just don't get that they are saving money and I'm spending $1500 because THEY don't have a proper placement. So, now I have to fight that. I'm not going to post all the details here so anyone can read them- but I'll keep you up to date after everything is settled- just wish me luck.

Oh, btw- that Oat test costs $220. So, I'm trying to figure out if my insurance will pay for it. This drives me crazy. I can't just get a test that my son needs. I have to see if I can afford it first. I just did another urine test last week- that was only $55, but we do it every two months. I don't even want to tell you what the chelation costs in general- but it's been thousands of dollars so far. Most parents take trips to Disney. I take trips to Center Moriches for chelation. Hey- I'm not complaining. I'm very grateful for Dr. Imam's office and this opportunity. But, I wish the insurance would cover more of it. We sent some paperwork in recently and waiting to hear back. Again- wish me luck.

This past week Michael and I watched alittle of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. He really likes it. Which surprised me because most of what he watches is preschool stuff- Dora, Backyardigans, Diego, etc. Little things like that really show me his progress.

So where are we? Michael has dry skin, he's not sleeping well, he's having tantrums, the summer is up in the air... but his speech is still improving, he sat well for his IV's lately, he's being bumped up to a bigger class next year (progress).

On Tuesday we are having the meeting with the school. So, soon I'll have a lot to report- hopefully it will be all good news.

Ups & Downs

Today Michael and I went to the gym around 5pm. I dropped him off at the nursery and then pretended to work out (well, i did 15 min on the elliptical). When I got back, Michael was playing with another kid. REALLY playing. They were running around with big cars in their hands and Michael was repeating what the other kid was saying. They were laughing and smiling. It felt so good- because sometimes he just stims off the toys (like the my pretty pony hair).

Then on the way to Trader Joe's, Michael is in the back of the car singing "Waiting on the World to Change" by John Mayer (we both love him). I'm so happy and feeling so lucky and then BAMB....

we get to Trader Joe's and Michael is running around like an animal. I can't see him. He thinks it's a game. So, i'm thinking- it's small store and he always come back to me. I just need 10 min. I'll let him run around a bit.

Well, one of the employees comes up to me "do you have a son?". I just wanted to die. He continues "he's standing by the door, almost going out".

Michael would not stay with me. I had to finally hold him down by the cash register so he wouldn't run out the door. I also had to pretend I wasn't mad. Which is NOT easy- trust me. He was rolling on the dirty floor, screaming.... all the fun stuff.

Then he wouldn't LEAVE the store. Again, I was like "Michael, we are leaving and have to go home and take a bath." Then it was "fine- we'll wait until you are ready to leave" (as I stand in the cold). Then it was "GET OUT HERE NOW!" and I grabbed him. It's 30* out and I gave him a solid minute to decide what to do. I think he would have sat in that window for 5 days watching people come in and out.

So, basically, today was a roller coaster. Not one those fun-gotta do it again- rides. But those sick to your stomach, I want to go home rides.

I guess sometimes he is just doing so well that I forget that he has autism. And that he has limits. I REALLY need to always have reinforcers with me or set up a reward. Which I don't like to do- because at this point- he should do it because I ask or say so- not because he gets french fries.

I don't know how parents do it. The ones who have kids like this all the time. Michael acts up about 30 min a week- I can take that.

While getting in the car I was thinking about how I just want Michael to get better. I want him to be able to deal with life. I want him to be able to help me shop and someday shop for himself. I think it's going to take a while.....

The Long Winter

Here is a picture of Michael with his cousin, who is the same age. They don't see each other much, but recently they have been playing together when they play together.

Man, February is a long month, even though it's the shortest month. If you don't know Long Island well, it's pretty cold and grey during February. We don't get a lot of snow, which really is god's way of saying "sorry" for winter. I lived in upstate NY for 5 winters and that is when I learned the purpose of snow. It covers the ugly, muddy ground. It's hard to drive in, but it's sooo beautiful. Like I've mentioned before, Michael understands winter and snow this year. He keeps saying that he wants it to snow, because he wants to make snow angels. We did get some flurries this past week- but nothing than stayed around for more than 12 hours.

Michael is getting obsessed with the weather. Everynight he wants to check wunderground.com on my laptop. He also likes to look at the radar- "blue means snow, green means rain". The only thing I'm worried about is that he's becoming alittle TOO obsessed. The past couple of weeks, he's also had some tantrums at school. Most of the time he freaks out because the schedule is different or because he misses out on something.

Sometimes I think it's good. I know- that sounds crazy. But, most people who do chelation with their kids say that they have bad side affects. You know the chelation is working because they get rashes or don't sleep or something else negative. This is the first time since August that we have seen something negative on a regular basis. Do I know it's a product of chelation? Not really. It could be the cold he had for about 3-4 weeks. It's almost gone. Michael doesn't get sick very often. I don't like to medicate him either. So, it really could be anything. I guess time will tell.

Michael has enjoyed going to the gym with me in the evenings. He plays with the big room of toys and sometimes even one of the kids. It's great because he's starting to see the same kids over and over. They are getting used to him. Plus, the girl who works there is very understand and good with him.

We are going to do a challenge on Friday- that means we are going to collect his urine after the IV's and check for metals. Last week it took 3 tries to get the IV in. Wasn't really Michael's fault. It helps to bring my laptop and let him play games.

Here are some other pictures I had. Thanks for reading my blog and sending me emails.

Waiting for the Snow

It's mid January in NY and Michael is waiting for the snow. He wants to make a snowman and snow angels. A lot of the kid's shows that are running right now show the characters playing in the snow. So, Michael is alittle confused. It might snow this week- fingers crossed. I'll definately take pictures- maybe even video.

Anyway, Michael is doing well. He did catch a cold 2 weeks ago- so he's not 100%. He had a couple of episodes at school where he got very upset. I think one day he started throwing chairs around. What's up with that? I just have to think of it as a phase and know he will stop soon. Some parents talk about their kids banging their heads. I remember Michael doing it for 1-2 days (when he was around 2 years old). We totally ignored it and it stopped right away.

In a way, I think this is showing his progress. He is learning everyone's schedules. He wants to participate. So, when someone doesn't follow the schedule- he gets upset. I'm trying to teach him the word "maybe". This is the conversation we had tonight.

Me: "Michael, Maybe tomorrow you will go to school. Maybe you will stay home. We'll see how you feel".
Michael: "Michael will go to school on Thursday".
Me: "If you feel better".
Michael: "Michael will feel better Thursday".
Me: "If you don't, you can stay home with Mommy".
Michael "Michael will go to school on Thursday".
Me: "We'll see how you feel"
Michael "Mommy will drive Michael to school in the morning".
Me: "Dream on kiddo"....

They sent him home early today and he missed SAIL (social skills after school program). I'm surprised he didn't come off the bus crying. He was saying something like "Michael will go to SAIL next time when he's feeling better". He was repeated what the teachers told him. It worked. He was pretty calm. He just has this thing where he doesn't want to miss out.

Last night we went shopping. We stopped at Target and Michael had a gift card from his cousins Steve & Annette. I let him pick out whatever he wanted. I explained to him when we were driving there that he had $25 he could spend on anything. He was sooo good in the store, walking along side the cart. Usually he runs around like a mad man. He picked this board- magnet on one side- chalk board on the other. He played with it two nights in a row. It was a good choice. I've been trying to let him make his own choices- like clothes and toys. I think he gets a kick out of it. The trick is teaching him that he can't always get what he wants.

Chelation has been going well. We started this thing were we would get French Fries on the way and eat them after Nick put in the IV. This works well- but after he eats them- it's like the reward is given and now it's "fun time". Michael jumped up last week and pulled the IV out of his arm. He was trying to turn the lights off. It's this game to him. He did NOT like getting the IV back in his arm- so I think he learned his lesson. That's the first time he did something like that. So, no more FF before.

Last week we went to the lab and did blood and urine tests. I'm guessing the results will take about another week. Michael did pretty good with the needles. It took the staffer 25 min to get all the vials together. It took 10 min. to get the blood. Michael was running around the place (yes- turning the lights on and off). He was so bored. I don't blame him- he hadn't had anything to eat or drink in 10 hours too. We tested liver & kidney functions, as well as vitamin and mineral levels.

Well, that's about it for the latest update. The next 3 months are going to be long. Winters are pretty boring around here. Thankfully this winter we can go to the gym- Michael loves the nursery. After he is done with chelation, we'll hit the pool again.

Happy New Year

So, it's 2007. I have to admit, 2006 was a pretty good year. Michael improved so much. I really think it's a combination of his great school program, chelation and suppliments.

We went back to Queens for Christmas Eve. Michael went upstairs by himself and came downstairs with a present labeled "daddy". He handed it to his father who was visiting from California. Of course the present wasn't for him- it was for my cousin's father. But, it was such a cute moment. Michael had this look on his face like "look what I found- open it".

Christmas day we opened a few presents at home. Then we went to my parents for dinner. Michael loved his aquadoodle. He played with his cousins and at dinner time he wanted to sit at the table with everyone. This is a kid who wouldn't sit for a meal 2 years ago.

We added extra glutathione the past two weeks and I've definately seen a difference in his speech. I notice other things too- like sometimes Michael says something softly or in a deep voice or with an accent. It's like he's doing voices.

The day before his father left, Michael was saying "last day with Daddy". He also said that he was sad and would be happy again on Tuesday at school. I really see him expressing himself more- being able to tell us how he feels. It will be interesting to see what his teacher says today in his communication book.

Four Month Update

So, it's been at least 4 months since we started doing IV chelation with Michael. Still no visible bad side effects- unless you consider talking too much bad. Last Friday we had a typical visit. Michael sat great, Nick got the needle in on the first try, I got to sit and talk with other Moms... We are going to do some blood work in the next 2 weeks. We keep on testing his levels, vitamins & minerals, liver function, etc. These tests are done about every 2 months. Last test was done on Halloween and everything was fine.

Nick mentioned that he was going to up Michael's glutathione next week. I'm totally guessing here, but I think it will increase his speech. I still hear Michael saying more complex sentences, but honestly at this point- i've lost track. I can't remember because he keep saying new things all the time. I remember back when Michael was 3 and he said the word "cookie" for the first time. Actually, it was the first functional word he ever said. My neighbor asked him if he wanted a cookie and he said "cookie". I wasn't in the room and didn't believe my neighbor when she told me. Then, in typical fashion, Michael says "cookie" to me 2 days later and I had to call my neighbor and apologize. We had a good laugh.

Anyway, now he's saying things like "Excuse me Mommy, you need to close the door". "Excuse Me" is his favorite term right now. He says it to strangers in the store. They are like "yes?". But he doesn't have anything else to say. I'm also working with him on being polite. He screams out commands sometimes and it's rude. I need to start thinking of him as a typical kid and not let him get away with stuff. You know?

Another thing I wanted to mention is that Michael likes going to the doctors. When I mention going to Dr. Imam's, he is calm and accepting of it. When we get to the office, he runs in the front door and says "time to get weighed". He likes picking out a seat (he can chose from 4). I really think he likes to see the other 2 children that do chelation at the same time. He's getting to the point where having other kids around helps. Like the They Might Be Giants concert.

Speaking of concerts, Next week Michael is singing in the holiday concert, again. It will be his 3rd year. The 1st year (K) he sang about 30 seconds. Last year (1st grade) he sang about 5 minutes. This year (2nd grade)-- who knows? Of course I'll be videotaping it and I'll post the video on YouTube and put the link here. I'm very excited, because like the basketball- this is an event that one can compare, year after year. It's a great measure of his progress. I'm so proud of Michael. But the best thing is he is having fun.

My Giants

Parents always talk about how they had "dreams" for their children. Like getting married or playing professional sports. And then when autism hits, the dreams are gone. It's very hard for parents to deal with.

I guess for me, I had a few dreams too. Things I wanted to do with my own children (after babysitting for 20 years). One dream was taking my kid to Yankee Stadium (we did that in August). Another was to take my son to a concert. When I was younger I went to concerts with my older sister and they were so much fun. I always wanted to be that "fun mom" and experience life.

Back in the late 80's, I was a dj at my college radio station and fell in love with a band called They Might Be Giants. Don't even ask me to describe them. They are kinda new wave, popish, alternative, etc. I don't know. You just have to hear them. But, they are fun and silly- which describes Michael. I started playing TMBG's cds after buying tickets to see them. Just like the Yankee Game, I didn't know if we would last 2 min or 2 hours. But, I had to be willing to drive all the way to Brooklyn (2 hr trip) and turn around and go home.

A year ago we had a surprise Birthday Party for my Dad's 70th. We had a dj and percussionist. Michael did NOT like the noise. Most of the party actually he played outside. So, the concert was a total crap shoot.

I tried to prepare Michael- showing him YouTube videos of past TMBG concerts and reminding him everyday of the date. The day before I asked Michael "who are we going to see tomorrow?". He said "my giants". close enough :)

We got to the place about 20 min before the doors opened. Michael stood very nicely online. There were many kids there. Actually, it was a kids show. A benefit for a local school. One of the lead members has a son in that school. I think a lot of people attending the concert were there more for the school then for their love of the band.

Regardless, Michael and I were ready to rock. The band comes out and starts playing- the moment of truth.

MIchael's eyes are wide. He's interested. He puts two and two together. Ohhhh- that's the band on the cd.

We spent the next 90 minutes singing, dancing, clapping our hands. It was great. His favorite song is "Dr. Worm". When the band started playing the song, Michael had the biggest smile. We lasted the whole concert and listened to the band on the way home. I really think he had fun.

I also had the chance to talk to 2 of the band members after the concert. I had Michael go up and say thanks. I told one of the guys how important this concert was- because it was a dream come true!

Basketball Video

Ms. Hinton the gym teacher said before giving Michael his MVP award "This award goes to the student that I feel embodies the spirit that we display during this tournament- excellent attitude, perserverance- perseverance means they kept trying no matter what, no matter how hard it got and great skills. And this goes to Michael Heeren."

He Shoots, He Scores

We had our first round of IV chelation in 2 weeks. The office was closed over Thanksgiving. Michael did well today. We did another challenge test. That is where we give him a certain amount and then test his urine. After we were done I was talking to some people in the office and Michael went to the bathroom himself. We have to collect his urine for 12 hours. So, of course I yelled a bad word. The nurse said it was ok, because it was too soon to have any metals in his urine at that point anyway. We collected the next two rounds at bath time. I think Michael actually liked peeing in the big orange thing. We have to mail it out on Monday.

When one of the moms got there, I told Michael to say hello to "Susan". He said "hello, Susan. How was your Thanksgiving?". It was so natural. I was really surprised.

Another surprise today was the basketball tournament at his school. Michael did well last year- but never scored a basket. Not even in practice. You see Michael's father and I are pretty into sports. We even met playing volleyball in Virginia. We both have a lot of natural talent and good hand/eye coordination. With Michael, it has seemed to skip a generation.

So, last night the 1st grade class he mainstreamed with had their first round game. They won by about 6 points (each basket is 2 points). On the second try, Michael got a basket. It was such a glorious moment. And a total shock to me. I know that Michael is doing well, but this was a perfect example of his success.

Then this morning they had the championship game. Michael's team lost by 2 points, but he got the MVP!!!!! They called his name and he walked up to the gym teacher and got his certificate. Last year Michael's friend and classmate got the award (for helping Michael out so well). This year HE got it.

I'm always so amazed how much the teachers and staff at this school love him. They are so proud. His classroom teacher was crying before he even got a basket. I'm so lucky that he is in a school that gives him a chance.

I'll never know for sure if it's the biomed treatments or school- but I really think it's a combo of both. You can gave the fastest, best car in the world- but if you put in cheap gas.... I was just so proud of Michael, again. I keep seeing more and more improvements and now actually believe his future will be glorious. People always say "anything is possible". It's such an overused term. But, in this case, it's true. Michael is always surprising me.

I'm looking forward to the They Might Be Giants concert in 8 days. Michael has been learning all of their songs. I think we are going to have an awesome time and I better bring tissues cause I'll probably be crying while he dances and sings with one of my favorite bands.

Here is Michael at the end of the basketball tournament with his teachers- Jackie and Gina. He is holding his MVP certificate.

Turkey Day

For Thanksgiving we visited our extended family in Queens. I told Michael all week that we were "going to Queens". Of course at school he told the teachers he was "going to see the Queen". Ok. Understand that mistake.

On the way into the city, I played a bunch of They Might Be Giants songs from my ipod thru the car speakers. TMBG is a group from Brooklyn who has been around for about 25 years. I used to play them at my college radio station (when I was a dj). They are this quirky, new wave band that came out with a kid's album recently. They even do "kids" concerts. I got tickets for me and Michael for December. I know if I play their music, Michael will enjoy the concert better. It will be his first, offical "rock concert". He saw the women from "The Magic Garden"- but that doesn't really count. Anyway, the 2 hour ride in was a good opportunity to learn some TMBG songs.

Michael was great at Thanksgiving, sitting at the table with everyone. Right before we said "grace", I had Michael stand up on his chair and read the card he made in school. "Dear Family, I am very thankful for my family. I love you all. Happy Thanksgiving. Love, Michael". It was so cute. He had this big smile on his face while the 20 people around the table clapped.

Here is Michael helping his cousin blow out her birthday cake. He likes to get close to the action.

Another successful holiday. Boy that felt good. Oh, Michael did fall down the stairs at the end of the night, but jumped right up and didn't cry or even get upset. I can't tell if the kid doesn't feel pain- or is made of steele. Oh ya- A few family members (who see Michael about 3-4 times a year) said they REALLY see a difference in his progress. I keep getting these looks of surprise from everyone. Just wait until he is recovered- ha.

For the next week Michael requested TMBG songs in the car and the bathtub. He likes this one song "Dr. Worm". I'm really getting excited about the concert. He is actually walking around our home humming their songs. There is some footage on YouTube of their concerts too- so Michael and I sat today and watched them. I'm hoping he gets used to them as much as possible so the loud noise doesn't bother him- sometimes it does.

Also- I haven't been posting that much lately. I guess because Michael has been doing so many new things, I've lost track. We did miss a week of chelation (for the first time). The office was closed for 4 days.

Still no big side effects from the chelation. Michael has been alittle stimmy lately, but that might have to do with the weather and it getting dark so early. He's always been affected by the seasons.

The other day we were standing outside waiting for the bus and Michael is running his finger along my car window. You know how it gets wet in the morning and you can write words or draw pictures? I asked Michael to stop and he wouldn't. So, I wrote the word "no". He laughed. I couldn't believe he laughed. Then he wrote "yes" next to it and circled it.

Another first on Saturday. I had to videotape a wedding and hired a new babysitter (everyone else was busy). She's the aunt of a good friend and has family members with autism. Michael went to the indoor playground and the movies with her. The next day he said "Ann Marie is fun". This was the first time in 7 years he was with someone who wasn't a family member or friend. And he did great- I was so proud. I'm glad they both had fun.

Michael has his basketball tournament on Thursday. 8:45pm (right before bedtime- nice). I'll take plently of photos and video (like last year). I hope he gets a basket. Last year he wasn't even close.

Christine

"I like to _____"

Sunday, Nov. 12th, I'm sitting with Michael at my parent's kitchen table and I make up a "worksheet". I write down a bunch of math problems or fill in the blanks- like school work. Michael actually loves things like this. So, tonight I write these sentences:

1. My name is _____
2. I like to _____
3. Grandma is _____

For number one he writes "Michael" (excellent). For number two he writes "talk". TALK? WTF. And he came up with the answer so quickly. Here is a kid who didn't call me "mommy" until he was six. Unbelievable. Oh and for the last one, I read "Grandma is blank" and he wrote "blik". LOL. He was trying to write the word "blank". He didn't understand I wanted him to fill in a word. But, the best part he is tries to sound out the words and write them.

Anyway, Chelation went great last Friday and it only took one try. Michael sat so well. It was Veterans Day and Nick, the nurse who does the IV's is a Vietnam Vet- so Happy Vets day to you Nick!

I've seen a big difference in talking the last few days. I was thinking recently that he hasn't surprised us much in the last 2 weeks or so, but the last couple of days- I see it. We went shopping at the mall on Saturday and then visited friends (who have 3 boys with autism) and Michael did soooo well.

The other day I came home and Michael screamed "Mommy's home. I love you" and opened up his arms for a hug. I tell you honestly, it was like a dream. A real dream. I wish I had it on video because I would loop it on this website and watch it all day long.

Final note- we got Michael's blood work back from the lab and everything was perfect. His liver and kidneys are working fine. We should be doing another challenge soon.

The Dunkin' Donuts Mystery

Michael's latest thing is reading signs. We drive down the street and I hear him saying "Wal-Mart, McDonalds, Burger King...". Then one day he says "We have to go to Dunkin' Donuts". I ask everyone who babysits him "have you taken Michael to Dunkin' Donuts?". No one admits to it.

Does he pick things up from TV? from other people? could he be reading on his own? I hear him sounding out words all the time. Which is a really great sign. I love to see him progress. I tell him a word, he thinks about it, and then he says it a few times.

On Friday, I picked him up from school, so we can drive directly to Dr. Imam's for chelation. He wouldn't leave. He wanted to say goodbye to EVERY child that was being picked up. There were about 20 of them. As the parents came up to the desk, they would say "i'm here to pick up Sally". Michael would then yell (across the hallway) "Goodbye Sally, have a nice weekend, see you on Monday". Some of the kids turned around and responded. It was just so weird. But, in a good way. In a great way actually.

Sometimes we go to the park and Michael sees a kid from school. Many times he knows their names. There have even been times when we go to a store and an adult comes up to me and says "I know Michael". He always remembers their name and then has this total look of confusion. Like "why aren't you in school?".

Little things like these fill my days now. I see them as progress. As part of the bigger miracle. Last week we went for a blood test (chelation thing) and he sat soooo well- best ever. Then on Friday he sat really well for Nick (Dr. Imam's nurse). I didn't even have to sit with him when he got the needle.

Tomorrow is election day- no school! Michael has been telling me about it all week. I'm really enjoying the time we have together. Don't get me wrong- I always have. Since the day the kid was born he was by my side. He's my only child. And I'm his only Mom. But, the reason why i'm enjoying him more is because we're understanding each other better. We are able to enjoy typical activities- going to Yankee games and movies. We going to a They Might Be Giants concert in December. I'm really looking forward to all the things we'll do in the future. Possibilites seem unless these days.

I really think the reason why both of our lives are better is because of the all the biomedical treatments in combination with his staff at school. I know they are both important parts of his progress.

I posted a video on youtube of Michael, if you would like to see him talking & singing in the bath.