I just moved. It's not that big a deal, really. I've moved at least 10 times in my life, and that's not counting any of my various apartments in college, etc. I figured once we got settled, I'd contact the local support group and join the party. No big deal.
It was harder than I thought.
The group out here is pretty big, I guess, and very organized. Their website is amazing, and actually helped me choose the hospital where I want to deliver Lizard Loaf, which also led me to my new doctor (who I hope is amazing... she sure sounds like she will be). For contact info, there was a phone number and general email address, too. I tried the number first. Even just dialing it, I felt anxiety. What do I say? I got some sucky news this past summer, so will you guys be my friends? Everything I thought of sounded pretty much as bad. But even worse, no one answered. The contact number for this support group went to a voice mail. "We try to check these messages frequently," it hedged. Try?! So, if you're busy, my petrified call for help would be what? Over-looked? Misplaced? Out-dated? Forgotten? I started feeling like I already belonged in the 'round file' (aka-trash can). No one was going to listen to my message. There wasn't going to be anyone in my new town to help me. I was alone.
*sigh*
I cried a little. Then I sent a terse note to the email listed and left the computer. My daughter's preschool tries to use redirection as the primary response when children get upset or misbehave, and I thought I'd try the same thing. I don't remember what I did, but an hour later my husband happened to check my email. I had such a wonderful note from one of the board members of the local group, and she had responded to my email within 10 minutes. It was a few days before I responded, and I still haven't called to set up a time to meet her and her son, but hearing from her has been such a comfort, such a strength. I'm not in the 'round file'; I'm not alone. My new friend says that I'm part of a special club now and that 'we stick together'. I think I believe that.
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5 comments:
I vaguely remember you mentioning that you were moving soon....and I think it just gets harder and harder in many ways.
I am SO glad to know that you are not lost or alone or forgotten or misplaced. You're going to need a lot of support in the next few months.....and then some. Again, I am SO glad to hear that you've found some support (and a doctor and hospital already. That's really great.)
I'm so glad they were quick to write back. They are going to be some lucky ducks just to get to know you. I know not everybody believes God has a detailed plan for each of us, but I do. Not that there's not loads of flexibility in it, but that He really does send you who/what you need, when you need them/it. I'm glad there are people there for you and I know you are there for some people. Love you. I'm always here for you.
A blogger named loomi-loom tagged us and pointed us to your website. Not sure where you just moved to, but if we can offer any support even from a far we would love to assit in any way. We live in North Carolina. Our oldest child Bently (4yrs) has Down Syndrome, and we have had a lot of great learning experience (as I am sure you have). We moved to NC when he was just 2 months old and learned quickly that certain doctors, organizations, and schools need a little strong-arm nudging in order to get the support we felt is best for our son. We would be happy to share experiences anytime.
http://dakotaandcharlotte.blogspot.com/
I'm so happy you found a support group to help you through this new journey with your lizard loaf! Call when you get a chance.
I'm glad you're finding nurturers. I have some in my life too even though I haven't called any specific groups for families affected by Downs. It makes a difference.
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