February 23, 2010

thirty seconds

I have never believed that medicine is the answer for everything. But once my daughter was diagnosed with ADD, I had to take a chance. A wise and wonderful friend explained it this way... when the doctor told you your daughter needed glasses, you got them for her. It seemed to make sense from that perspective... and we gave it a try. And I was thankful... for her words and for the change in Laura. It made the next experience much easier. I could see the same signs in Camden. But Camden... he was not a medicine-taker. He gagged on every liquid variety and wasn't able to swallow pills... but I so wanted him to have the benefits that ADD medication was giving Laura. And so I researched... and found a medication delivered by a patch. And it was just the thing... for this boy who gave his all and could not get ahead. He excels through his ADD, and we are so thankful... for this little clear square of science. Each morning we stick the patch on his hip and he knows... that it will help him get the most out of his effort. He is probably at an age where he could apply it himself... but it has become a ritual for us. He trims the package with the scissors and I peel and stick... for thirty seconds. And for those thirty seconds, we put our arms around each other for a good morning hug. And it is just one more reason to be thankful...

Even in the midst of my mess... there are gifts to unwrap and cherish. Thanks, Emily... for providing a place for my soul to breathe.

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12 comments :

Anonymous said...

dawn, I'm so grateful for your perspective on this. My younger son, in my opinion, exhibits signs of ADD, and I have worried about school and medicine and all that stuff for the last few months. Don't be surprised if I come picking your brain once school starts for him.

And your morning routine sounds truly delightful. :)

Corinne Cunningham said...

What a wonderful gift to be given - those few seconds together, helping (and how fantastic! I had no idea they made meds like that in a patch form!)

dawn said...

That's wonderful Dawn. That something that could be tempting to skip or grumble through has become a practice of love.

As you know, ADD is in our home too--hubby takes meds. He wasn't diagnosed until his thirties...so it's so wonderful for your kids to be getting help sooner.

I am trying to have the same attitude toward my medication and if I end up needed to go back to it...and be thankful that sometimes God rescues us through science.

Happy Tuesday.

Loui♥ said...

Dawn..
simply beautiful..
and ever so eloquent..
just imagine the hope..
and inspiration..
and the unlocking key..
your message has delivered..
to those who like you..
were also searching for an answer!
warmest hugs..
laughing smiles..
Loui♥

Richella Parham said...

Oh, Dawn. Thirty seconds? Really?

What good could come from hugging someone for a full half-minute? Even without an important drug to administer, I think there might be good medicine just in that hug. For Camden and for Dawn.

I never really believed all the ADD stuff until we struggled with it personally. It's not just a bunch of hype. I'm glad you've found ways to help your kids battle through it.

I think I could use some of their medicine, for some days I have ADD, myself. I KNOW I could use some of the hug therapy.

Love you!

Busy Bee Suz said...

Any excuse for a hug...I'd do it for him as well.
Great thoughts today...glad both your kids are doing well!!

Kelli said...

I love how you are able to find the treasure in everything!! Especially hugs!!

Dale said...

Thought I may never comment, I love your blog! And I've selected you for a Beautiful Blogger Award. http://firefeet4him.blogspot.com/2010/02/beautiful-blogger-award.html

Jami said...

Dawn - I had to come and check out your blog now. What a great story. I love the thirty second hug. You are a good mama! :)

Jami said...

by the way - I would love to add you to my blog roll - do you mind? i love making new friends too! :)

Anonymous said...

Definitely, the gift of medicine is something to be thankful for, especially for our little ones.

Thanks for stopping by my blog and saying hi today!

Beth said...

Thank the Lord for friends who say what we need to hear! I've met so many people whose lives have truly been blessed by ADD medication- I'm thinking that my husband actually should look into it. Isn't it incredible the marvels of modern science that your little boy can get a patch with the meds? Wow. Enjoy those hugs!

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