Category Archives: Fetal Alcohol Syndrome (FAS)

Articles about Fetal Alcohol Syndrome can be found here.

I am bored and this is fun.

Today, I had the rare opportunity to have a frank talk with David.  We talked about everything from sunshine to cats.  We talked about his favorite movie, Heaven is for Real. We talked about dogs, rain, basketball (though I am by no means knowledgeable) and we talked behaviors. We talked about how he likes being at home. When asked about being home, David candidly stated “I don’t think I am a home person, I don’t do very well here.” I asked him if he thought a facility would be better, and he stated “I don’t like facilities because I can’t get my permit at 14.” So we talked about behaviors and driving permits. I explained that sometimes, behaviors limit the extracurricular activities that we enjoy. He understands that. I gradually turned the conversation back to behaviors. I asked one very telling question, not expecting a response.  “Why do you do

read more

Happy One Year Placement Anniversary David

Ironically, the day after we receive notice of denial of coverage of services for our son, is the anniversary of his placement at the current facility.  It has been one year since we placed David in a facility 500 miles from home. Today, I am struggling with the stress of not knowing where we are at with my youngest son’s mental health treatment.  The denial of continued care is weighing heavily on my mind, and it will be Tuesday before I can file any appeals. He deserves better than this from the system that is responsible in part for his care.  When we adopted him, he was ordered by the court to have complete state sponsored medical coverage until he turns 18.  This is Medicaid. It isn’t safe for anyone for him to come home.  Even the staff that works with him day to day has said that.  A month

read more

update – positive news

Staff called tonight. David was in a good place to talk to me tonight.  When he is manic, it just isn’t a good idea.   David addressed his concerns. Doesn’t want to be there for another 6 months to a year. Thinks that he is being lied to. Doesn’t understand why we aren’t coming out for Christmas. Wants a Nintendo DS for Christmas.       In truth.  Before David can come home, not only does he need to work his treatment plan, but he also needs to avoid outbursts, and learn to identify when he is starting a manic episode if he can. In addition to that, before he can come home, there needs to exist, a residence that is similar to the facility he is in currently.  One that will provide him a step-down or transition to home.  A place from where we can stage home visits.  Where

read more