We had three assessments this week, on Monday we saw a 5 year old little girl for her fourth assessment. She has 'Phelan McDermid' syndrome, which is basically where a chunk is taken from chromosome 22, - it is quite rare and can produce all sorts of problems, but commonly comes through with autism type issues. I was overjoyed today when for the first time she walked into the room, looked me straight in the eyes, flung her arms around me and gave me a cuddle. Other improvements were both hands working cooperatively for the first time, spontaneous interaction, - she was constantly trying to involve me in her play. It was also good to see her and her little sister 'tussling' over possession of a toy, - a very natural, normal scene. we have a little girl who is beginning to emerge out of her bubble, - we have 'chinks in the armour.' Now to prize them open!
On Tuesday we saw a 3 year old little girl who does not have a diagnosis. She does have severe neurodevelopmental problems however and she was returning with her mum and dad for their first reassessment and what a stunning difference there was. Visually she has moved from the 12 month level to the 24 month level, with similar surges forward in auditory development where she is understanding much more language. She even produced independent forward movement when I placed her on her tummy. In fact there were improvements in every area of development. Yes, she still has problems, but is she moving in the right direction, - definitely! She is a concealed intelligence, but I can see her! Well done to all!
On Thursday we received a two year old little boy who has developmental delay, for his third assessment and my, how he is coming along. When he first started the Snowdrop programme 10 months ago, his vision which is affected by optic nerve dysplasia was at the 12 month level. Now however, he is much more visually 'switched on' and is operating at more like the 30 month level. His auditory abilities which were at the very basic levels of a 3 month old baby are now at the 24 month level where he is understanding simple sentences, listening to stories and understanding what some parts of his body are called. His tactile processing problems are much improved and we are just starting to work on developing a standing balance, where before, he wasn't even sitting. He has made huge gains in every area since we first met. He is a delightful little chap with a great family around him.
Another very satisfying week!
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