My oldest son was dx'd first with Tourette's, then BP at around age 8.  His tics were awful, his moods rapid cycling.  We removed him from school in October of 5th grade, and I homeschooled him for the next 4 years.  He was hospitalized twice during that time, but through perseverance he managed to learn and retain enough knowledge to allow him to return to "regular" school.  He also started playing piano during that time, which has been very therapeutic for him.  And he earned his 3rd degree black belt in taekwondo.  Last year he attended a very small private school for kids with learning disabilities.  It was a transition year for him, as he was finally starting to get through puberty and stabilize a little bit.  This year he has been in a small alternative public high school, and made the honor roll for the year as well as receiving an award for perfect attendance!  Things aren't perfect, but he sure has come a long way and is learning the skills he needs to succeed in his education in the future.

My second son was dx'd with BP around age 7, after many difficult years in school and at home.  The meds for BP made all the difference, and allowed him to thrive in school.  He still struggled with anxiety and some language issues, probably related to the AS he was eventually dx'd with.  But with the help of caring teachers and the right meds, he has managed to graduate from 8th grade at the Episcopal school he has attended since pre-K with a straight A average!  He even won a special Bishop's award at the graduation ceremony.  I was so proud of him.   He continues to participate in competitive gymnastics despite the difficulties caused by meds over the years, as well as overcoming injuries that would have made most kids give up and quit.

I am so proud of both of them.   And 5 years ago I never would have believed they'd be doing so well.  All those moms who told me to hang in there were right, and I am grateful to them for encouraging me when times were dark.  We all need to hold onto hope for the future.

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Brenda,50, The Balanced Mind Foundation Parent to Parent Volunteer
Mom to Andrew, 15 1/2, BP, Tourette's, OCD, ADHD: Eskalith CR, Trilafon, Lamictal, Seroquel, Cytomel
Eric, 14, BP,AS, hypothyroidism: Seroquel, Eskalith CR, levothyroxin, inositol
Brian, 12 1/2 & Helen, 10
Married 16 years to DH, 49
Tallahassee, FL

FROM The Balanced Mind Foundation: Do not start, stop, or change medications or other treatments for yourself or your child based on what you read on this Website or elsewhere on the Internet. Information presented here should not replace the considered judgement of a doctor who knows you or your child.