ADOS

Here the conclusion to the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule Aisha had done back in February

"Aisha did score above the cut-off for Communication and Reciprocal Social Interactions, but throughout this report, I have explained many of these difficulties with Aisha's marked social anxiety and shyness. It therefore remains quite uncertain as to whether Aisha does have any Autism Spectrum Disorder, but the overall feeling, by the examiners is that her general use of facial expression, gesture and non-verbal communication would be inconsistent with autism Spectrum Disorder"

We received this back from the hospital this week, a three month wait!! Coincidentally Aisha had a routine school doctors appointment. Kim took the letter to show her, and she advised a definite conclusion would come from the Psychiatrists assessment. Also did we know there was a support group in Bridge of Don? Kim got the groups number and phoned that night. Speaking to the girl Karen was great for Kim, someone who understands what she has been through as a parent. She also told her that Scotstown primary school, a stones throw from our house, has a Autistic support group within the school and that she thought there was one place left in Aisha year. You could physically see the change in Kim after the conversation. First thing next day Kim was at Scotstown School meeting with the head. She advised there were 14 kids with Autism at the school and even with the ADOS report she would happily admit Aisha for next term. But we needed a Doctors referral. So Kim stomped home and Phoned Dr Daud, Aisha's paediatrician. He apologies for the slow process and happily agreed to write a referral for Aisha. She was in, starting August!! Finally Kim spoke to the Educational Psychologist, Mrs McGregor, who's attitude in the past has left a lot to be desired!! She told Kim there was no way she could just walk into a school and get her daughter admitted. Kim told her she could and she had. she said she needed a doctors referral. Kim assured her this was in place. she then backtracked and said oh well I will need to speak to the headmistress. Various calls from various people took place before Kim finally heard for definite she Aisha was moving school!!
The difference in Kim has been amazing. The difference in Aisha will be amazing. Maybe, just maybe this is the start of my family finding its way again!!