Anxiety haunts little Isaac Egan
Written by Melodie Robinson. When my son, Isaac Egan, was diagnosed with Asperger’s Syndrome (a form of high-functioning autism) and Attention Deficit Disorder a year ago, the daily struggles we faced with him finally began to make sense.
Isaac deals with paralyzing anxiety and an inability to adjust to change.
Last year, when most children were excited about transitioning from school into summer, he was so overwhelmed, he couldn’t eat for three weeks.
He also has a tendency to become obsessed with a subject, and will rattle off every fact he’s memorized even as his audience is scowling or walking away.
Part of Asperger’s Syndrome is the inability to read social clues. He has no idea why other children don’t want to play with him. Adding to this problem, he will rock gently or make noises when he’s in a situation he isn’t prepared for.
When his sensory system becomes overloaded, by loud noises or unfamiliar touch, he will scream and sob uncontrollably.
Unfortunately these behaviors only further the rejection by his peers, and make him vulnerable to bullying. Thankfully, these are the symptoms that are addressed by Autism Service Dogs.
Having a loving and loyal companion will improve Isaac’s quality of life immensely; and maybe having a side-kick will help him gain back some of the confidence he’s lost. The dog will be able to help disrupt self-stimming behaviors like making loud noises or rocking, by putting a paw or a laying furry head on him.
I pray that the calming effect of the dog will help Isaac sleep, and the persistent dark circles under his eyes will finally disappear. We are so excited at the thought of watching Isaac learn and grow with his new best friend.
If you would like to help Isaac reach his fundraising goal please make a donation in his honor. Thanks!
Note: I highly endorse 4 Paws for Ability as a source for extremely well-trained service dogs. The organization is sound and its goals exceptional. Judy Vorfeld.