I recently read “Not Just Spirited” a Mom’s Sensational Journey with Sensory Processing Disorder by Chynna T. Laird. The story chronicles Chynna’s journey toward a diagnoses and finding help for her daughter with Sensory Processing Disorder.From the time little Jamie is born, she is a very difficult child. As Chynna shares her concerns with her pediatrician and family she is constantly dismissed. It is only when Jamie’s difficulties become so pronounced that the pediatrician makes the recommendation Jamie needs for an evaluation.
When Jamie is finally diagnosed with SPD she is put on endless waiting lists. Since Jamie only has SPD she is not given the same priority for intervention as another child might receive. I wish this was a piece of fiction, but unfortunately this is happening all over the United States and Canada.
Its one thing to work with special needs children; it is quite another thing to live with one. I think every professional that works with special needs children should read this book. Chynna paints a poignant picture of the stress and desperation of raising a child with special needs. It’s not OK for parents to fight for years to have their concerns for their child addressed. It’s not OK when parents finally receive a diagnosis to watch their child struggle while they are put on endless waiting lists with no significant help!
SPD is still not in the DSM maybe we should send a copy of this book to the members of the committee.
1 comment:
Thank you so much, Bonnie. I waffled for a long time whether it was 'the right thing' to tell our story. Now, I'm just hoping it helps other families realize they aren't alone and that we are all fighting together for our kids.
Maybe, one day, we won't need to because professionals will finally 'get it'. Until then, we need to get our stories out there. =)
Thanks again. xo
Chynna
www.lilywolfwords.ca
www.the-gift-blog.com
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