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Spot the difference
Wednesday, 26 August 2009
I was reflecting earlier at the difference of Deion going on to secondary school as opposed to Jordan and Robyn going.
When it was their turn, I stressed about making sure we had all the right uniform and stationary,and I worried about the size of the school and them getting lost because they were used to such a small primary school, but it struck me how different it was this time, how different the things I am scared of are!
While we were in the school outfitters and we were trying on Blazers, we had to consider different things, after all, Deion's going to be sitting in a wheelchair, the blazer has to be comfy for that, not too stiff, a bit longer so he can sit on it so it doesn't bunch up around him. We tried on 12 before we found a suitable one. It took me about a year to explain to the salesman that the trousers had to be slightly longer, as he sits down all day, therefore come up short, (he hates his socks showing).
The bag needs to be bigger and sit right on the wheelchair handles, he has to fit so much stuff in, his shoes need to be easy to take off and on so that his toileting care wont take longer than necessary.
I'll have to make a big pad delivery out of school hours so that he has all he needs and his school friends don't see and tease about 'nappies.'
I need to pick up the months menu to make sure he's eating what is manageable for him.
Of course, Deion wont have the option of taking the shortest route to each class as he has to go the accessible way, or via the elevator. We have to pick up his lift key
We have met the 4 people who will be responsible for all of Deion's personal care and toileting needs. We have met his one to one classroom assistant
The school have ordered the height adjustable tables for his wheelchair to sit under, re arranged every class so Deion can manoeuvre, ordered the hoists, changing beds, cabinets e.t.c
We even have the whole school to ourselves the day before everyone else starts so Deion and all the workers involved can get used to each other.
Then theres Jordan and Robyn's preparation
We walked into the school outfitters, said 'we'll have that, that, that and two of them and left!
26 August 2009 at 13:58
You know Sally, we just go through our own lives thinking everything's such a big deal and then we read something like this and the word, perspective, springs to mind. The fact that you're Deion's mum will, (of course) make the transition to secondary school a much easier one for him. I remember starting secondary school with such fear that I had a nose bleed on the way, had to stop at a hospital 'cos I couldn't get it to stop, vomited when I was within earshot of the school and then of course I was late and had to endure the stares of all the classmates when I arrived with blood on my blouse!!! (I sound like I was such a wuss. Is that how you spell wuss?) Should've been my Mum Sal . . then I would have conquered the world!!!!!
26 August 2009 at 16:03
but.. as gloria said above.. you being his mother will make this so much better for him i'm sure... i think he's awesomely blessed to have you!!
26 August 2009 at 18:01
Wow Sally, and I was complaining about 10 hours of shopping for 3 kids!!
I've been getting a small taste of what you go thru having to haul my Mom everywhere after her hip surgery.
You truly are supermom!
At least it sounds like the school is ready for Deion. Maybe that battle is over.
Good luck and hope he has an awesome year.
Hugs - XXXX
Carrie
26 August 2009 at 18:36
Gloria, thank you so much, that means alot, and i don't think anyone would ever describe you as a wuss (yep, i think thats how you spell it lol!)
I also think that despite everything, you've conquered a fair bit of the world anyway!!!
God, I hope secondary is okay, he's excited...I'm pooping myself!
Randi, thank you, i think i am very blessed too.
Hi Carrie yes, thats the way to look at it, the battle is over, the school is ready, we got what we needed....
xxx
26 August 2009 at 18:40
Wow. Very eye opening. I know he is going to love it all! Because you are there for him;)
26 August 2009 at 18:45
Bless you for being such a great mom!!! I have no doubt that no matter what comes Deions way...he will get thru it with you by his side!! (HUGZ)
26 August 2009 at 21:23
great post showing the concerns of a parent sending her special needs child to secondary school. Does make you pause and think about the things we often take for granted. I hope Dieon start is a positive experience. Keep us posted!
26 August 2009 at 21:38
Oh gosh! I will have to remember this post when it comes time for my girls to start school and I am stressing because I can't find the right supplies and what not!
Best of wishes to him during the school year! I hope it is great! He is one blessed little guy to have such a great momma!
26 August 2009 at 21:41
Awwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww. I am so excited for him. So excited. I am so glad he has a Mom like you. You make me thankful! I love your attitude and your outlook. And most of all, I love how you love him : ). What a wonderful son you have! And what a fantastic Mom he has : )
27 August 2009 at 22:42
Wow, crazy perperations. Good luck to your kids on their first day! Hope they enjoy it!