Progress Report #2 - Christopher

The battle for Chris continues. We are very thankful for the institutions and professions that God has set up to help deal with these kinds of issues. We were advised by our Social Worker to take Christopher to our pediatrician. We did so and that resulted in a medication designed for helping children deal with aggression. We are starting to see that medication work in his body to bring down the intensity of his emotions.

We were able to get in to see the play therapist that worked with him a while ago at the Mental Health Center. She is a jewel and very helpful in assessing what needs to happen next. Through her efforts we were able to get a 'quick' psychiatric consult at the hospital. Small wheels are moving all over on his behalf. We have also received informaiton and names and numbers for other people who may lend a helping hand with all of this.

We continue to seek the Lord as to all the whys and whats of this learning experience. We assume that there are lessons that we need to learn that will make us all stronger in the end. We very much value your prayers and support as we continue to walk in this way.

Chris actually had a really good 6 days or so after his last MAJOR event which included breaking his window. He spent the weekend with Grandpa and Grandma with no problems. Church on Sunday evening was a struggle (a little over-stimulating). Our van was broken into which resulted in the loss of his scooter ( and 2 car seats - go figure) which he was very sad about. Later that evening he had a meltdown that we think may be related to the break-in. BUT we had 6 whole days without a major thing so we are once again hopeful that the time in between will become longer and longer and that he will employ the things he's learning to cope with his intense emotions.

Things to pray for:

1. Kelly and I - we're constantly vigilant watching for signs of trouble and trying to intervene before he get's too far down the rage road - this is VERY tiring, pray for strength and wisdom
2. The sibs - they are sometimes the target of his anger (particularly Abby because they're together the most), she is bearing the brunt of much of this as my attention is often spent on Chris and she feels left out.
3. Chris - that the Holy Spirit would come and heal the wounds in his spirit that are triggering these rages. We know and believe that He will be the most effective treatment for all that troubles Chris (and the rest of us), however, Chris' spirit needs to be open to that healing water, please 'fill up the bowls' with us.

Blessings to each of you...