As a parent and therapist alike, one of the dreaded phrases I've heard from providers is "let's just wait and see." I know both sides of that comment and neither feel good. But why is it even a big deal?
When we wait and see- we react. We watch precious time slip through our fingers like grains of sand. Therapeutically, I see the long game of how critical even a few months can be. Maternally, I've felt that helplessness as I left with that comment and felt I was playing another game, taking a number to then come back. I felt I had to prove that my child waited long enough and finally deserved the referral.
But the reality is- there's no reason to wait and see when we request a change. There's no reason to prove our children or patients needed that referral. In my case, what did it really prove? My child DID need PE tubes placed and she DID have the hearing loss I suspected all along. Watching her recognize windchimes next door after her surgery validated me as a mom and therapist that my 6 months of pushing, being "that Mom", was worth it.
And that's my why. That's why I feel deeply convicted to share information I find or experiences I've had to assure parents and advocate rather than wait. Our children are always worth it. Even when people have the best intentions- we have to push for what we feel and learn on our journeys to support them. I wouldn't have the knowledge I do today if it weren't for my daughters because nothing has mattered as much to me as the health and safety I ensure for them.
I can't say that in anything I share or post, I'll do the work for you or give clarity to an answer you're seeking. But I may make you question, challenge or go against the grain of what you know. I may share new ideas you can try in your homes without me because you're incredibly capable- you just need the tools. I may also become someone you believe would be a good fit for your child as a therapist and we collaborate on how to support them. But consistently across the board, I strive to encourage you to question why we "wait and see" so often and to feel empowered to advocate for the holistic functional care your child deserves.
Comments