[Dibleydowns]

Hi,

I'm not sure which way up 'normal' children go either as they are all different, special needs or not! I have my suspicions my 2 year old may be borderline ADHD as he becomes extremly hyperactive at times and sometimes unconrollable! I think a few of the males in my partners family (including him) have  a mild form of it, although I don't think they would ever admit it!

Perhaps Elsie has selective hearing like most children and likes to pretend she doesn't understand certain things! 

Perhaps Elsie's prognosis wasn't good because of the environment she came from. I'm guessing  she hadn't been given the opportunity to reach her full potential? I'm a great believer in 'you get out of your children what you put in' and it sounds like Elsie is thriving and with you as her loving and motivated mother. I find it hard to believe how anyone could put a child up for adoption? I look at Alex and I just couldn't imagine giving him aaway in a million years. Perhaps there are some people out there who just can't cope. Does she remember her parents? Forgive me if I am prying, just tell me if I am. What physical problems does Elsie have? I guess I'm asking because I'd like to get some idea of what to expect further down th line. Was she walking at 2? What could she do then?
It sounds like she is qute high functioning now and doing really well.
And like you say the emotional problems probably come from what she has been through. I was in care myself as a toddler and young child so I know the lasting effects that can have on a person.

Sarah

[Nikki]

Hi Sarah

Your life is turned upside down when you have a 'normal' baby, but to be told your new baby has special needs can be overwhelming.  My daughter is 4.  She was never diagnosed with any chromosomal disorder.  The specialist says 'global developmental delay', but this seems to be a blanket term for a variety of issues.  She is physically ok, but has only been walking about 8 months and is still very unsteady.  She has no speech and poor cognitive ability. 

I guess I'm asking because I'd like to get some idea of what to expect further down th line

Like you, I was searching for someone who was similar to perhaps get a wee glimpse into the future to see how things would be for us a little way down the road, but I have come to realise that all children are different and you can't really compare them.  I used to bombard Drs and therapists with questions about the future, but no one has a crystal ball.  For example - our physiotherapist told us repeatedly that N would never walk. 

I wondered if you have found out about any local support groups?  I go to a support group in our area and it was only after speaking to a worried new Mum who's daughter had similar probs as my child, but was much younger, that I realised how far down the road of acceptance that I'd come.  That doesn't mean to say that I still don't cry and feel low from time to time, especially when I am in contact with 'normal' little girls my daughter's age, but it does become easier.

Thought this link would be useful:

www.downs-syndrome.org.uk

I have my suspicions my 2 year old may be borderline ADHD as he becomes extremly hyperactive at times and sometimes unconrollable!

If you have real concerns about this I would definately get this checked out.  Bear in mind though - your family life has been turned upside down as you've just had a new baby and the Down's syndrome diagnosis would have been stressful for all.  I have a 7 month old and my older 2 kids really acted up when he was born because all of a sudden they had to share me with this new demanding little person!

Best Wishes

Nikki