DSAWM-Parents Google Group

Looking for a Family with Priority Health and a Child who's has had Heart Surgery at MOTTS

jeneer...@comcast.net (jeneeross@comcast.net) — Fri, 25 Sep 2009 16:25:57 UT

Our daughter Kaitlyn was born with a Complete AVSD and will require
heart surgery soon. We wish for her surgery to be done at U of M
(MOTTS). Priority Health is denying our request saying they are out
of network. We know other children have been approved previously and
that PH is diiscriminating. Due to HEPPA laws our cardiologist is

Handicap Accessible Home for Sale - $46,000

ds...@iserv.net (dsawm-administrator) — Fri, 18 Sep 2009 18:12:12 UT

This 960 square foot home is all on one floor and features 2 bedrooms
and 1 bathroom. There is a large utility, large living room, kitchen
with dining area and back storage area. A washer, dryer, stove and
refrigerator are included. This home was totally remodelled 6 years
ago, and features new electrical, new plumbing, a new furnace, a new

Home School Question

ds...@iserv.net (dsawm-administrator) — Fri, 18 Sep 2009 18:08:35 UT

Did you, or are you, home schooling your child with Down syndrome? We
have been contacted by several parents who home school their children
and have recently been given the gift of a baby with Down syndrome.
They would like to know what impact home school has on insurance and
therapy. If you have any experience with this, or know anyone who

Father Looking for Support

ds...@iserv.net (dsawm-administrator) — Fri, 21 Aug 2009 15:41:44 UT

We have been contacted by a father of a 6-year old girl who is looking
for some other dads to talk to about raising a child with Down
syndrome. If you would be willing to speak with him, whether over the
phone, by email or in-person, please contact the DSAWM at
ds...@iserv.net or 616-956-3488.

Parents of New Baby Looking for AVSD Support & Schools/Pediatricians in Muskegon Area

ds...@iserv.net (dsawm-administrator) — Fri, 21 Aug 2009 15:40:47 UT

We have been contacted by a new family who is looking for some help.
Their baby has a heart defect called a complete atrioventricular
septal defect (AVSD). They are looking to talk to some parents who
have a child who has had AVSD; they have some questions about surgery,
what to expect, etc. They are also looking for information on good

Doublewide Home Available

ds...@iserv.net (dsawm-administrator) — Fri, 26 Jun 2009 17:06:10 UT

A doublewide home is available in Eagle Park (Ex. 84 off I-96). If
you are interested in more information, please call Kay Wisinski at
517-582-0973. Details follow below:

1,580 square feet
2 ½ car width garage with ramp (attached)
36” wide doors throughout.
3 bedrooms & a 4th which can be either a bedroom or office

Habitat for Humanity Seeking Prospective Homebuyers for Ongoing Homeownership Application Process

ds...@iserv.net (dsawm-administrator) — Thu, 04 Jun 2009 21:13:52 UT

Habitat for Humanity of Kent County is welcoming people ready to
pursue homeownership, and is accepting applications for multiple homes
that will be available throughout Grand Rapids in 2009-2010. To get
started, pick up an application packet at the Habitat Office (539 New
Ave SW) or call to have one sent to you. If you have any questions,

Potty Training Problems

ds...@iserv.net (dsawm-administrator) — Mon, 18 May 2009 15:36:27 UT

My five-year-old daughter is giving me fits when it comes to potty
training. She knows exactly what to do on the potty and has control
for several hours at a time, but she will never tell me when she needs
to go. She relies on me to tell her that she needs to go potty and
will often put up a fight about going, but once we get there she goes

Accessible House Available for Rent

ds...@iserv.net (dsawm-administrator) — Fri, 15 May 2009 18:51:39 UT

This 2-bedroom home is located at 607 Valley Ave NW in Grand Rapids.
It features a roll-in shower, open vanity, low countertops and wide
halls. For more information, call Ray Amash at 616-723-2545.

Extended School Year Services

ds...@iserv.net (dsawm-administrator) — Tue, 28 Apr 2009 18:13:31 UT

Our son's teacher has documented that, due to the amount he regresses
over the summer, he should receive extended school year services. The
program that is offered through our local school district is for
students in 2nd grade through high school (all together) and is more
of a social "life skills" program - not academic.

Baby with Constipation

ds...@iserv.net (dsawm-administrator) — Fri, 24 Apr 2009 19:04:41 UT

Our friends, who have no Internet access, have an 8 month old son with
Down syndrome who has recurring constipation. He had the barium enema
test at 4 months old; it was inconclusive. The GI doctor told them
that he may or may not have Hirchsprung’s, but at the time did not
have enough symptoms to warrant further testing. They have tried all

Wheelchair-Accessible House for Rent

ds...@iserv.net (dsawm-administrator) — Fri, 24 Apr 2009 18:10:59 UT

The house is located at 3680 Eastern NE in Grand Rapids. Click here
for a map of the location. The house has a 2-stall attached garage,
which is level with the main floor. The main floor has 2 bedrooms and
a roll-in shower with laundry. The lower level is finished with 2
bedrooms and a bathroom. The rent is $875 per month. If you are

Habitat for Humanity of Kent County

ds...@iserv.net (dsawm-administrator) — Fri, 24 Apr 2009 17:59:54 UT

Habitat for Humanity of Kent County is welcoming people ready to
pursue homeownership, and is accepting applications for multiple homes
that will be available throughout Grand Rapids in 2009-2010. If you
have any questions, please call Miriam Reyes at 616-774-2431 ext.
235.

Housing Available

ds...@iserv.net (dsawm-administrator) — Mon, 13 Apr 2009 20:39:23 UT

The Boston Home is looking for another semi-independent girl aged 27
to 39. She needs to be able to be on her own during the day or in a
program. A caregiver sleeps over and is responsible for getting the
housemates off in the morning and helps with laundry, cleaning,
cooking, shopping and some evening activities. She is also sometimes

Experience with Rotary Atlantoaxial Subluxation

ds...@iserv.net (dsawm-administrator) — Wed, 04 Feb 2009 18:27:13 UT

Our daughter, Rachel, has rotary atlantoaxial subluxation. She is
being seen by Dr. Skarli, a neurosurgeon at Helen DeVos Children's
Hospital. Has anyone heard of him or know anything about him? Has
anyone ever seen a different neurosurgeon for any reason?

We schedule surgery soon. Has anyone ever had a similar experience?

Video Profiling children with complex speech, language and communcation needs

ad...@videoprofiling.org (admin@videoprofiling.co.uk) — Tue, 30 Dec 2008 15:29:21 UT

Hi,

I am a Speech and Language Therapist working in NE London, UK. I have
experience working with a range of client groups including children
and adults on the Autistic Spectrum.

Both I and a colleague have been pilotting 'Video Profiling' in a
primary special school and mainstream schools in the London Borough of

Recommendations on Teachers/Instructors

ds...@iserv.net (dsawm-administrator) — Thu, 06 Nov 2008 16:24:30 UT

I have a twelve-year-old daughter with nonverbal learning disorders.
This means that she has global disabilities or problems with anything
that the right side of her brain is responsible for. She especially
struggles with social skills. I am looking for recommendations on
teachers or instructors that hold classes with “normal” children in

Pediatricians on Northwest Side of Grand Rapids

ds...@iserv.net (dsawm-administrator) — Wed, 05 Nov 2008 16:55:49 UT

We would like to know of any pediatricians located on the northwest
side of Grand Rapids who have experience with children who have Down
syndrome. Thank you!

J & BD

Speech Therapy One on One vs. Group

aiholwe...@gmail.com (aiholwerda@gmail.com) — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 17:10:11 UT

Our daughter Evelynn is 4 years old and although babbles, carries on
unrecognizable conversations and periodically says a word or two,
which usually are two or three syllables not the one syllable mom or
dad, we can't seem to get to talking. We are currently addressing
this concern at school and her speech therapist is very resistant to

surgery

leestmashe...@sbcglobal.net (sheryl) — Wed, 15 Oct 2008 01:11:13 UT

Our daughter had her surgery at 8 years. We requested that the Dr.
keep her overnight for observation. He agreed and she did very well
immediately after the surgery. About 4 or 5 days after, she had more
pain and refused to eat or drink much. In addition, she became very
constipated from the medication for pain and as a result of not

Atrioventricular Canal Defect

ds...@iserv.net (dsawm-administrator) — Wed, 08 Oct 2008 18:47:12 UT

Our little girl was discharged from the hospital on Sunday with a
confirmed Atrioventricular Canal Defect. Do you or anyone you know
have a child with this condition, who can help us understand it and
how to deal with it? Thank you.

Howard City Area Schools

ds...@iserv.net (dsawm-administrator) — Wed, 08 Oct 2008 18:22:12 UT

My son and his child with Down syndrome have recently relocated to the
Howard City area from Wyoming. My grandson is 4 1/2 years old and in
preschool. Which schools in the area would be the best for him to
attend?

SAC

Removal of Tonsils and Adenoids

ds...@iserv.net (dsawm-administrator) — Mon, 06 Oct 2008 16:23:29 UT

Our son, age 5, is having his tonsils and adenoids out next week. I
would like to hear from other parents whose children have gone through
this regarding what to expect, how long they had to stay in the
hospital, any complications, etc.

Thank you!

Love and Learning

ds...@iserv.net (dsawm-administrator) — Thu, 02 Oct 2008 18:38:06 UT

Have you or any family you know tried the "Love and Learning" kits?
What's your opinion? I stumbled upon them tonight and they have me
intrigued.

Thanks,
LC

Looking for Developmental Optometrist

ds...@iserv.net (dsawm-administrator) — Fri, 26 Sep 2008 18:56:23 UT

I would like to know if anyone has seen a developmental optometrist
who they would reccommend. Our son is 4 1/2 years old, and we are
having some concerns about his vision. He sees an opthamologist
yearly, and his vision has always checked out pretty well, but now he
is starting to turn his head to look at books, toys, etc. out of one

Music Lessons

jeffandsarahwo...@sbcglobal.net (wolfes) — Mon, 08 Sep 2008 00:58:02 UT

Can anyone recommend a music teacher/tutor with experience working
with kids with Down syndrome? Specifically, we would like to have
our son take guitar lessons.

need info on day care

mrsaprilya...@hotmail.com (AC) — Sun, 07 Sep 2008 03:43:03 UT

Hi,

I am in the process of getting my group day care license in holland.
I have 15 years life experience caring for children with special needs
as well as 4 1/2 years in the class room experience. I will strive to
cross cultural, socioeconomic and ability barriers.

My hope is to foster friendships and acceptance in children that will

Unintelligible Speech and Grinding Teeth

ds...@iserv.net (dsawm-administrator) — Fri, 22 Aug 2008 16:31:15 UT

I have a six-year-old daughter with Down syndrome. She is a very
bright, smart little girl. She knows everything you say. While she
babbles on quite a bit, she still has very unintelligible speech. She
can make individual sounds, but when it comes to putting actual words
together, that’s where the trouble comes. She does see a speech

Need for a barber

s...@ehoskinson.net (Landon's Mom) — Wed, 13 Aug 2008 02:50:59 UT

I am wondering if anyone knows of a barber or hairdresser who is able
to handle children with special needs and behavior issues. My 7 year
old son is having lots of trouble when he gets his hair cut. We've
gone to the same gentleman for a few years now, thinking familiarity
would help. As Landon gets bigger and stronger, it's getting harder

funding for school

mrsaprilya...@hotmail.com (AC) — Sat, 26 Jul 2008 19:15:19 UT

Hello all,

My husband's job was down sized 4 months ago. He has a bach. in
Psychology and feels it is time to go back for his masters so he can
become a lisc. counselor and help other families like ours. He is in
negotionations with a non-profit ministry center to be put on their
pay roll as soon as he has started classes.

hipster shorts

jmerritt...@sbcglobal.net (adysonsmom) — Thu, 26 Jun 2008 02:05:34 UT

Does any one know where I can buy the hipster shorts ( they are the
spandex type with the inseam sewn together). We recieved a pair form
easter seals but she has out grown them. Thanks for the help.

Issues with biting - need help

jrgk...@power-net.net (Nicholas' mom) — Mon, 23 Jun 2008 14:33:54 UT

My son, Nicholas, has taken to biting. He isn't doing it out of anger
or frustration, but love. He has drawn blood on his victims a few
times now with those jagged little teeth. He will go a few days
without attacking then he'll bite repeatedly. He is delayed more than
most for his age (he is 2 1/2, but is functioning at a 9-12 month

Behavioral Issues

ds...@iserv.net (dsawm-administrator) — Tue, 27 May 2008 16:12:06 UT

My son who is 5 has some behavioral issues, such as pulling hair,
scratching, etc. that we are trying to deal with and change,
especially now that he is out of school for the summer and I do
daycare. It has gotten to the point where we can't leave the room for
two minutes because he will do something to someone. I'm wondering who

AC bike

tremin...@netzero.net (treminder@netzero.net) — Tue, 06 May 2008 12:46:41 UT

Our PT recently contacted AMBUCS on our behalf and was able to get our daughter a tricycle that would have originally cost 700 to 800 dollars at no cost. They have a huge assortment of bicycles that range in size and can accomodate all ages. Ask your PT about it and you can view the bikes yourself at ambucs.com Good Luck!!

Help the sleepless/ sleep arangement suggestions needed

mrsaprilya...@hotmail.com (AC) — Mon, 05 May 2008 20:04:34 UT

Hello,

We are a family of 6. We have 2 boys ages 14, 12 (has downs), 5 year
old girl and 5 week old girl. My 2 boys have always shared a room and
many nights a bed until last summer. We built a house last summer
that allowed the 2 boys to have their own rooms. My 2 girls will now
share a room. My 12 year old has had a very difficult time adjusting

adaptive bikes/need trike

mrsaprilya...@hotmail.com (AC) — Mon, 05 May 2008 19:04:32 UT

Hello,
I have a 12year old with downs. He has been to bike camp twice and
has been the bike camp for special needs kids twice and still has not
accomplished the balance needed to ride. I am looking for a trike for
him. He really wants to ride and we really want to be able to ride as
a family. We dont just have to over come his limitations for this we

Looking for Pediatrician in Plainwell Area

ds...@iserv.net (dsawm-administrator) — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 17:11:58 UT

I am a parent living in Plainwell looking for a pediatrician in my
area who specializes in special needs. I've tried one office, but
they are not taking new patients at the moment. If you know any great
doctors in area, I would appreciate any recommendations.

Insurance Coverage

ds...@iserv.net (dsawm-administrator) — Fri, 28 Mar 2008 18:27:00 UT

We are in the midst of working with our medical insurance to try and
get hospital and anesthesia charges covered for dental work that our
son needs. He needs six fillings plus they would like to apply
flouride; he is so afraid of anything related to dentistry (including
just brushing his teeth!) that there is no way this could be done in

doctor for one year old

jmerritt...@sbcglobal.net (adysonsmom) — Thu, 17 Jan 2008 16:45:52 UT

I am looking for a doctor for our one year old daughter in the
northern grand rapids-rockford area. She currently sees a family
practice doctor who is great for our other kids but has left me
feeling a little lost. Any suggestions would be helpful, thank you.

Special Needs Program in Church

mmshar0...@charter.net (lee) — Tue, 13 Nov 2007 19:58:42 UT

We have a medium sized, rural church, which so far has no special
needs programs. I am hoping to first get my boys into the children's
programs at church, then possibly get a more comprehensive special
needs program up and running. My older son has behavioral problems,
and the younger son has hearing impairment, so currently,

Becoming Less Independent

ds...@iserv.net (dsawm-administrator) — Mon, 12 Nov 2007 19:18:51 UT

Our son is in preschool and has taken steps back on being independent
- wanting more help, wanting us to feed him, etc. He has also been
more whinier and argumenative. He and his brother have been fighting
a lot - more than usual :) - and we just are not certain what is
happening. School has been trying everything from extra OT/sensory to

Flying with Small Ear Canals

ds...@iserv.net (dsawm-administrator) — Fri, 09 Nov 2007 20:20:19 UT

Our family going to Disney in December. My daughter has only had one
ear infection in her life (knock on wood!). Since she has small ear
canals, should I do anything different or have anything in advance if
she should start having problems with the flight? This will be her
first time flying. Any suggestions or advice would be helpful.

Great site for kids with speech delay

luvmyasd...@yahoo.com (luvmyasdkid@gmail.com) — Fri, 09 Nov 2007 03:51:49 UT

I found a really great game online called Pecs Place
( [link] ) It was developed by a dad for kids with autism
and speech delays, and my son is having so much fun with it I wanted
to share, especially if any of you who also have kids that are
learning to talk.
Marie

Looking for a orthodontist

tmc...@comcast.net — Wed, 07 Nov 2007 23:44:22 UT

I have a 15 year and is need of braces. I took him to one ortho and had a bad experience. I'm look for a orthodontist that has with other Down's patients.
Thanks
-Tina

Seeking Pediatric Dentist

ds...@iserv.net (dsawm-administrator) — Tue, 06 Nov 2007 19:09:23 UT

Hi. I am trying to find a pediatric dentist for my 4 year-old
daughter. I took her to a regular dentist, but it was not a success.
I'm looking for a doctor who will accept Medicaid/Priority Health
Medicaid, or is not too expensive.
Thank you.
AH

Potty Training

quadeau...@hotmail.com (AZ) — Thu, 18 Oct 2007 14:11:25 UT

My daughter is just over 3 years old and she is now talking about the
"potty" and sitting on it (with her pants on). I don't believe she
actually grasps the concept of what she is supposed to be doing in the
potty, but we have her sit on it to at least get her used to it. Do
you have any pointers on what a good system would be with her? I've

Looking for Doctor in Lakeshore Area

ds...@iserv.net (dsawm-administrator) — Wed, 10 Oct 2007 16:24:19 UT

My husband and I are not happy with our son's primary doctor. He has
expressed his disappointment in our decision to have physical and
occupational therapists come to our house. He believes that we should
not do anything until our son shows that he is unable to do
something. He is also not familiar with Down syndrome; we have to

ADHD and DS

todabirdho...@gmail.com (songbird) — Tue, 02 Oct 2007 22:02:56 UT

I have a 6 year old daughter with DS and possibly ADHD. I have talked
with our doctor and her special ed teacher and her aids at school.
They all have stated that they aren't sure about being diagnosed with
both. And that they would have to "check into it".Are there any
helpful books or references for us to read to gain more info on these

Searching for Doctor for Young Adult

ds...@iserv.net (dsawm-administrator) — Fri, 14 Sep 2007 16:51:55 UT

Interested to know if anyone knows of a good doctor - We have a 24-
year-old son and are in need of a doctor for him who will help us with
his weight control and general health issues. He is nonverbal, so
we're trying to find a doctor who is knowledgable when it comes to
some of the DS metabolism and health issues in general.

searching for physical therapist

nspan...@casair.net (Nancy) — Thu, 06 Sep 2007 13:42:04 UT

Hi,
Looking for referrals to physical therapists in West Michigan area.
Our 2 1/2 year old daughter is on track for nearly all gross motor
benchmarks, physically active and very healthy. I have some concerns
about her gait and would like a second opinion to the one provided by
our ISD PT.
Thanks in advance for your help.