Fun Friday Blog Party

For the past 1 1/2 years or so I have been following a blog about a girl named Lucy who was diagnosed with cancer. She has gone through a lot for such a young girl. I am amazed at the strength that her family shows. Her mom started a Fun Friday blog party and each week has a topic that people can write about if it relates to them. This week is about children with special needs.

Most of the people who follow my blog know that Brandon was born at 26 weeks, 1 day. He turned 4 in July and is doing remarkably well considering how he started his life and has come such a long way. He was only 1 pound, 14 ounces and 13 inches long when he was born. Today he weighs 30 pounds and is 38 1/2 inches long.

When Brandon was almost 3 we had him tested through the public school to see if he would qualify for the preschool program. He had been in early intervention since he was 1 but in NJ when children turn 3 they age out. Brandon qualified for speech at the public school since he wasn't talking a lot or talking clear. He started going to preschool at the public school in September, 5 days a week for 2 1/2 hours every day. He rode the bus to and from school. Starting in December he was tested and qualified for occupational therapy as well. School has made such a difference for Brandon. He is now talking full sentences and his vocabulary is unbelievable. He is a very determined child. He still has articulation issues but hopefully that will continue to improve. This year he will be in the 4 year old class at school and will continue to receive speech and occupational therapy.