Kindergarten Graduate!

Michael completed his first year of school.  Had his recent IEP meeting and he is staying right where he is with all his services and 1:1 aid.  The meeting was fantastic.  His school is very supportive and adore him.  Sometimes traversing the issues that come with a child that has a medical IEP can be very difficult.  It was in Roseburg.  Such a relief that they didn't question any of his needs or supports and agreed. 

Michael has discovered girls in a way.  His sister Adrianna is 16.  She has friends over a lot.  One came over named Kimberly and Michael absolutely went head over heels in "I want your attention".  He told her she was cute and beautiful and had to sit right next to her while she was here.  Other people tried to talk to him and he only had eyes for her.  It was quite comical to watch.  

Michael at school recently needed a break and went into the Special Ed room to nap.  He was on the floor when another little boy was brought in due to not being able to control his anger.  The little boy was yelling and in tears.  Michael, instead of getting upset, got up from floor and went to the boy and put his hands on him and said, "It is going to be OK." 3 times.  He then told the boy, "Just breathe, deep breath."  The boy calmed right down.  They did not share the child's name but I am going to assume it was Michael's close friend that begins with a K.  This is the little boy, when I visited the class,that told me he was Michael's best friend.  When people sit next to Michael, he looks at them and sighs, "Not K"  He then will interact once that displeasure is sighed.    It shows that he is connecting at that deeper level.  Recently on a field trip I watched him interact with a girl playing a teasing game and copying what she was doing.  He still is pretty much in his own space and doing what he wants without involving others BUT he can if he wants to. 

Went for the last IN PERSON interview for Michael's service dog.  We passed.  I understand why it is so rigorous.  They invest a lot of money and time into these dogs  given  out to help those with disabilities.  Even when we have the dog, the dog is still technically their property and can be removed from home if they find the standard of care is not met and other things.  They follow-up through the years.  I cannot remember how many years they are technically in service before being retired.  We can keep our dog in retirement and they do become ours and we ask for a new service dog to replace.  It is the only time you are allowed to have another dog besides your service dog.  Cats do not matter, good thing. 

The study for the drug for cognition has still not started.  His MD from Utah is moving to Virginia.  Not sure if we will stay with him or transfer to California now.  Talked with the California team and gave them our info and they will communicate when things all worked out.  We shall see.  Still hoping for a medication to come up that cures the disease as a whole.  Nashville in September for MDF and hoping to hear good news.  

Michael has new leg braces and they work wonderfully!  Yay!!!!!!!  Finally!!!  

Michael is a very happy and loving boy and just thriving.