elun1

Hi everyone I've been gone for ages as Ive been struggling really, with O (age 7, severely autistic, SLD, epilepsy ...) W (age 9 AS) and my pt job as a teacher. Anyway those of you who know will be familiar with my moaning. I hope everyone here is well. Elun xxx

Well done Kathryn - I only just read all this. It all sounds wonderful Elun xxx

I'm very stressed - I went to tell doc - was in a real state - this was back in April. I was offered counselling and still waiting! Was never offred anti d's despite saying i felt desperate. I think because I look 'ok' and hold down my teaching job people think I'm OK and its not true Elun x

We have a key worker. I'd love to say it makes a difference to everyday life but it makes none whatsoever!!

Help with difficulties as they are actually happening rather than when it's too late Elun xx

Well done! You are very brave! Elun

<'> <'> My youngest ds sounds very similar to yours - he is 7 but mentally is around 2. His diagnosis is severe autism, epilepsy etc! I don't think you ever do really get over it personally. However it's certainly true that I'm more used to it and I cry less and laugh more (generally, although little things can start me off!) Life is difficult day to day as my eldest was recently diagnosed with Aspergers and the boys although both autistic could not be more different. Day to day I am coping better and less time worrying but I still get very anxious when I think about the future. I try not to but sometimes I can't help it. On the positive side I appreciate the small achievements more than I did - it is a massive thrill for me when little one says a new word or sleeps through the night. He is showing so much more pleasure in every day things lately and I genuinely enjoy his company (except when he is tantrumming!!) I'm a primary teacher and I'm sure I have a better insight into many of the children I teach now and have helped other staff learn about autism and aspergers which is so badly needed in our schools. Some days though I still feel sad. But maybe I would anyway - I'm the kind of person who's not happy unless I'm stressing about something!! Take care, Elun xx

<'> <'> Poor you - that sounds horrible. He probably couldnt cope with the unexpected change of plan and you ended up on the recieving end - one of my children is like that too - very very physical. Worker didn't sound at all helpful. Sending you <'> <'> Elun

Hi I just read your message, I can really relate to your holiday dilemma! My children are close in age too. My eldest is 8 and his younger brother is 7. Going out is difficult at times and I rarely use the major buggy now but sometimes I miss it! The holidays are not actually 'holidays' at all and the 6 weeks is the biggest challenge of all. Every day I have to try and strucure things so both the boys can cope (eldest has aspergers and youngest severe autism) but they don't like the same things and I often end up tearing my hair out! I was dreading the summer hols this year and I asked social services for extra respite which I got - an extra 6hrs a week - a very good friend is doing the respite and we often choose to go out together with the boys which I really enjoy. I'm still looking forward to getting back to work though! Take care, remember it will soon be over! Elun xx

Hello and welcome. My boys are aged 7 and 8. Youngest diagnosed with severe autism and eldest with Aspergers. Elun

Hello and welcome Elun x

<'> <'> Hev <'> <'>

That's really hard Carrie. My m and d do help out occasionally (once a yr also!!) with ds 2 but as he becomes stronger I know we wont be able to do this much longer. I really feel for you. You need to be stamping your foot at social services (I know it's hard!) You need and deserve a break. <'> Also to Mel Elun xx

Hello and welcome. My boys are aged 7 and 8. My 7yr old was diagnosed at 2 with severe autism and my 8yr old just a few months ago with Aspergers. Look forward to getting to know you Elun xx

<'> Hello and welcome Elun x