Expert: James Michael Roan - 6/23/2006

Question
James,
I am not sure if you will remember me, but please read previous emails so that you can help me.  I just found out that my daughter is pregnant. I am soooo scared.  I want to be happy but I can't help but worry that this child could be autistic.  My grandson (the one I had previously emailed you about) had still not been diagnosed yet.  He is scheduled for an appointment in October with the Blue Bird Clinic at Texas Childrens Hospital with a developemental specialist. That is the soonest they could get him in. I beleive he is a high functioning autistic, but he is still going to need alot of attention from my daughter.  I want to be happy about this child, but I just can't. Do you have any advise on how to deal with all of this?

Worried Grandmother

Answer
Connie;

I do remember you. I hope all is well with you. Actually, your new grandchild has a good chance of not being on the spectrum. Rejoice in any case. Don't be robbed of this wonderful time in your life or theirs. Enjoy every minute of them, including shopping for those cute clothes! It doesn't sound like your grandson is severely affected either. He will do well also. Take care and let me know if it's a girl or a boy.

P.S. My daughter had spina bifida. We worried everyday throughout her whole life she would be paralyzed from the neck down by her teens. Currently, she's 24, happy, in New York on vacation and having a ball! Her daughter, my granddaughter, is here at home with me now. She's 6 and full of energy. Don't let the "what ifs" rob you of all those good times. I do understand though.

Kindest regards,
James