DS-ASD Summer Updates
It’s been awhile since my last post. It’s been difficult trying to concentrate and write. My son Nick is 26 years old and has a dual diagnosis of DS-ASD. The Covid-19 pandemic has been one of the most challenging times for us. In particular individuals like my son, fail to understand what is going on, why masks are needed and personally what happened to his adult day program? Nick needs structure and scheduled activities to stay regulated. The earliest that his program might open up is September. I am not even sure he could go back and wear a mask, much less stay socially distant. The line is moveable, and for all of us the uncertainty is mind-bending.
Regression of behaviors is real and scary right now. There are hints some of the experiences that occurred in the chapter titled “Waves of Fury” in my book A New Course: A Mother’s Journey Navigating Down Syndrome and Autism. Lack of understanding what is going on=frustration leading to more meltdowns since March. The only difference is that we know how to sense the buildup and cut things off at the pass or re-direct him before the behaviors escalate. I fear for both our family and others in the same boat who have a child with special needs and no school or day programs now or for the foreseeable future. So all I can do is take it day by day…. sometimes hour by hour… and breathe.
Here is a link to an article I wrote about this experience:
@ https://themighty.com/2020/05/supporting-person-down-syndrome-autism-covid-19/? tm_source=engagement_bar&utm_medium=link&utm_campaign=story_page.engagement_bar/
Not everything is doom and gloom this summer. My book A New Course is being well received with 49 five star Amazon reviews, order a copy @ https://amzn.to/2W3Un6X My goal is 59+ to commemorate my upcoming birthday. Amazon and Goodreads reviews are critical to help move a book up in rankings and reach more readers. If you have read A New Course, the best gift you could give me for my 59th birthday is a review!
Here is a stellar testimonial I just received from the author of the gold standard book “When Down Syndrome and Autism Intersect:
“Teresa Unnerstall’s book, A New Course: A Mother’s Journey Navigating Down Syndrome and Autism, captured my heart as she relays her family’s journey which mirrored my own in so many ways. Teresa poignantly shares the challenges and joys that come with parenting a child with DS-ASD. Her book is a true treasure that offers hope, acceptance, and kinship to other like-families and to those who love, support and care for them”.
—Margaret M. Froehlke RN, BSN Author of When Down Syndrome and Autism Intersect, A Guide for Parents Guide for Parents and Professionals
Click here to order your copy of my book: @ https://amzn.to/2W3Un6X
We are on summer vacation break and today is my son Hank’s 28th birthday! You can keep up with Nick’s world and our birthday celebrations on social media! I am posting a bunch of fun pictures. Media sites are listed below with direct access and on my website @ https://teresaunnerstall.com/ Keep your eye open for some fun giveaways including copies of my book to celebrate my birthday. Thank you for following and supporting Nick’s world and my new book. Take care, be well find ways to enjoy your summer and the beauty in each day.
That’s what is in my noggin this week 🙂
~Teresa
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Down Syndrome with a Slice of Autism 