Three years...we've hit the mark

It's crazy to think we've had Mason for three years this Wednesday.  With this comes some new and exciting news for Mason.

Before I begin, I want to recount some of the milestones Mason has reached in the past years. Garrett and I both looked at many sites about Down syndrome during our pregnancy. We knew he would probably need therapies and we were on it. One month after he was born, we were in contact with the Child Development Services of Mecklenburg County.  Through them, we were able to get physical therapy, occupational therapy and speech therapy.  Mason learned to walk early for those with Down Syndrome and pretty much keep up with other kids his age. 

For the first two years our insurance was great and hardly any cost came out of pocket, but this last year we have had to pay for these services. This is when the CDSA comes in and helps pay a small percentage, but we have to still come out of pocket a lot. We've been told numerous times he should be able to get medicaid.  Apparently the county dropped the ball when he was born in the hospital.  I decided back in July I would try. Big mistake!!  DSS is not the place to be.  I applied for Medicaid and then applied for disability for Mason. As of right now, he was denied medicaid and was originally denied disability.  Someone called the other day and they are still trying to get him disability.  So much for he should get it right away, but there is still a chance. 

As we wait on hearing back, Mason will turn three and finally can enter the school system. When people think school, they think it begins at kindergarten. Really, it begins at three. The other week we began the process of an IEP for students with learning disabilities. Mason was evaluated and a plan put in place. After his evaluation, they placed him at a 30% delay (approximate age 24 months) for motor skills and psychological. As for speech and communication, which is our main concern, he has a 50-60% delay (15-18 months).

Last week I met and the school system has determined that we would keep him in his daycare environment instead of placing him in a preschool in the system. Also, a special education teacher will come two times a week for 45 minutes each time to work with him and the teacher. A speech therapist will come two times a week for thirty minutes each time and an occupational therapist will come once a week for thirty minutes. 

It's great and refreshing to know he is eligible for these services and they are all free. It is also great that they are able to serve him at daycare. Garrett and I are able to continue to work our jobs.  

Summer, School, Celebrations

Wow, June 30th, it's been a while. Since then, I've finished up summer school, we went to the beach, school started back, soccer began and all the kids had birthday parties. It's safe to say, we've been busy around here. 

Jay so wanted a party at Chuck E Cheese this year. Garrett and I aren't big on places like that, but we caved and decided that is what he wanted so we would do it.  After looking for the best deal and time, we met some of his church and school friends there for some fun on a Saturday at 10:00 in the mornings. Definitely the best time to be there. We beat the chaos of tons of kids. 

It was definitely a sixth birthday he couldn't forget. Since then, Jay started first grade at Bain. He is in the new building and seems to have picked up where he left off in June. He is reading well, knows how to add and somewhat subtract, and seems to be enjoying his friends. He has a real interest in everything Pokemon.  I think Garrett and I are Pokemoned out.

Jay also started his third season of soccer.  He has really improved and become a great defensive player. 

Our next birthday was little Taylor's first birthday. I know I could have gone all out making sure I had all the bells and whistles and everything to the tee, but really it is just a party. Parties nowadays we try to be easy on ourselves.  Pizza is the staple along with of course cake. Taylor seemed excited about the cake and enjoyed every minute of it. She was too cute the entire time. 

Our last party was this weekend, Mason. He turns three on Wednesday. He is such a funny kid, but don't let him fool you, he doesn't listen that well.  We are still potty training and most of the time we put him in underwear. He will have accidents, but we are really proud of him holding it and telling us when he needs to go. We still have a ways to go.

I think he is the only kid who has cheered for himself at their own party after Happy Birthday was sung. It was too funny.  He was so excited. 

Another year has gone and we have three older kids.  The last year with Taylor has flown by.  We are definitely staying busy with everything and look forward to what's ahead.