Well-Child Visit

This little guy and I just came from his 18-month well-child visit.

He’s 22 months actually so I was late. But only by four months. Not too bad if you ask me. I blame Covid. But really it’s because life is crazy and he’s healthy and we are all thankful to be able to avoid the doctor’s office right now.

I have two other boys too.

Cooper is 9. Sawyer is 7.

I don’t remember any of Sawyer’s baby visits. I think because they were easy. He was easy. He did everything on time. He ate and slept and walked and talked too. There were no red flags.

I remember Cooper’s appointments. Every one. They are burned in my memory. He was diagnosed with autism at 3 years old. My friend Joe likes to say his autism was discovered. I like that better.

His appointments were like going to war. And running a marathon. I would sweat. And swear under my breath. And cry in my car after. They were hard. Because he didn’t follow anyone’s timeline. He was on his own path.

Today, as I sat there in the exam room waiting for the doctor, while listening to my baby babble on about butterflies, I had flashbacks.

I was holding the M-Chat form in my hands. It was blue. The questions brought back so many memories.

I remember crying. I remember the feeling of dread and worry. I remember the fear. I remember justifying every answer. I remember rushing through the questions. I remember knowing I was circling the wrong answers. I felt dread. And desperation. I felt scared.

I even had thoughts of running away with him. Running away from the checklists and milestones.

I didn’t have to do that today. Today we breezed through. But I’ll never forget. I’ll never forget the feelings.

I want to give a huge, ginormous virtual hug to any parent out there who is going through their own child’s discovery.

I’ve been there. I understand. And good golly it is scary and worrisome and every other emotion mixed in.

There is nothing more isolating than discovering your child is different. But I’m here to tell you, and reassure you, and remind you…that it’s going to be okay. No matter what you find out, it will be great. Maybe not at first. Because beginnings are hard. Really hard. But soon, it will be amazing.

Hang on moms and dads. And find someone who understands. And remember that your child is exactly who they are supposed to be.

They may follow the typical path. And they may not. And either one is ok.

Hang on.

Finding Cooper’s Voice is a safe, humorous, caring and honest place where you can celebrate the unique challenges of parenting a special needs child. Because you’re never alone in the struggles you face. And once you find your people, your allies, your village….all the challenges and struggles will seem just a little bit easier. Welcome to our journey. You can also follow us on Facebook, subscribe for exclusive videos, and subscribe to our newsletter.