Tuesdays with Lissa

Tennessee's Early Intervention System (TEIS) is a voluntary educational program for families with children ages birth through two years of age with disabilities or developmental delays.  


When Laik was diagnosed with T12p, our pediatrician advised me to contact TEIS.  I was reluctant.  My opinion (which was obviously distorted) was that WE did not need help from the state!  I was in denial. (I realize that now.)  I often refer to those early months as my DARK TIME. Thankfully, I managed to crawl out of that hole!

Because, this state program has been a blessing for many reasons.  Not only is the program provided by the state of TN, but it is a FREE service.  And we have met incredibly good people that have Laik's best interest in mind. It was not until I needed such services that I realized the importance of these types of programs that our tax paying money supports! (thank you TN tax paying citizens)

Tuesdays 11:30....Laik's standing weekly appointment with Lissa, our Early Interventionist.

Lissa started with us on September 7, 2010....Laik was 10 weeks 4 days old.  

Are you serious?  We have a therapist for our newborn?  

I always say therapist and Lissa corrects me.  Well, she is MY therapist and Laik's Early Interventionist!  Lissa entered our house with a cheerful tone and an excitement to meet and interact with Laik.  She has shown compassion for Laik like she has known us forever. This woman knows what she is doing and she does it well.  

She has also provided the cutest little surprises for me.  At Christmas, I received a wreath ornament with Laik's picture in the center.  I also have a Santa ornament that is the outline of Laik's hand.  His hand will never be that small again!  And most recently, a Mother's Day card with little insects that were made from Laik's thumbprint!  These little jestures of kindness are momentos that I will keep always!

Looking back, I was nervous that we were admitting that something was wrong with Laik and we needed help. Again, that was fear poking it's ugly head out!  And denial too!  Now, after having Lissa with us weekly for eight months, we did need her.  We did need THAT program!  She, along with others from TEIS, has helped Laik progress and develop in a way that "research" had me convinced that he wouldn't. 

Thank you Lissa.  I wasn't sure in the beginning if we would really like this, but we do.  All of three of us! And thanks be to God for putting her in our path of development!  

Unfortunately, I don't have a picture of Lissa, but we will get one!

Because, next Tuesday....she'll be here at 11:30!

Laik sitting up with some of his favorite play toys!