January Happenings

January was full of appointments and worries.  Both Ella and John had their endoscopies done to biopsy their intestines.  Maybe we can get to the bottom of these stomach problems once and for all!  We'll find out Friday if the Dr. has answers.  We were very blessed when the facility didn't charge us for the surgery.  We'll still have Dr. bills, but that saved us about $3,000.

Kids cuddling with Adam early morning before the proceedures.

Ella was very worried before going to sleep.  I had to hold her little arms down so she could breath the gas and she was very angry about that.  "I dont like it!" she cried.  But in about 3 breaths she dozed off still holding onto my finger.  The proceedure was very quick and she was silly waking up.  She's gone through a lot recently with medical problems and chronic pain.  We just want her to feel better soon. 

Adam stayed with John (who didn't put up any fuss).  John just wanted to get it over with so he told the Dr. he already knows how to have surgery.  His proceedure took a little longer and then he woke up wanting to hold hands with Ella who was right nearby.  He said he wanted to go to HipHop after for breakfast (Ihop).

Great Grandma and Great Grandpa Gerber came for a visit and it was a blessing to see them.

We are also looking for a new school for the kids.  It's been a very difficult battle, trying to get John support in his education.  We really lost confidence in the school the kids are at currently.  We have been touring schools, calling them by the dozens, applying in differrent districts, etc.  We're trying to avoid charters and private schools because they discriminate so badly.  We're on a few wait lists at some charter schools but only one has impressed me.  Until then, we will be working with the current school to meet his needs.

We hired educational advocate Kim Yamamoto who also has a son diagnosed with autism.  She's been a great help and we feel like some of our concerns are finally being heard.

We are also helping my dad find placement in a group home because his bipolar disorder/schizoid personality disorder is becoming a cause for concern.  After speaking with his psychologist, we realized can no longer fully care for himself and we want to be sure he is in a good environment where he will have the support he desperately needs.  It's a very busy time for our family but we keep moving forward.

The future is bright even though we all seem to be going through a bit of turbulence.