Early Intervention Gave Me Hope

When I first heard, "Your child has a global developmental delay," my heart shattered. At 22, a new and young mom, I knew something wasn't quite right the day my son was born. Though I hoped it would never be true, it was true.

My son was neurodivergent but, of course, so perfect. As each day passed, more signs of delays came to light, but my fight for my child continued. Even if I had no clue what I was doing, figuring it out was my only option. To me, anything was possible with dedication and love, and I was determined for my son to grow up happy and healthy and have minimal challenges in life.

Applying for early intervention services

Our journey began with a move back to my home state of New Jersey, relocating from the South, where my husband and I had been stationed in the military.

Upon our return home, we applied for early intervention (EI) services through our county. The team consisted of a physical therapist, speech therapist, occupational therapist, and direct interventionist. They became allies, educating me about my child's unique needs and strengths. They were not just there for my son; they supported me, too.

Benefits of early intervention therapies

At each in-home session, they brought a different perspective, which forced me to ask questions and form new strategies. They taught me how to support my son's development throughout our daily routine. It is because of them that I was able to become the best advocate for my son and his 24/7 therapist. Our team was there to educate; I was there to apply the tools in one way or another.

On the days my son was not giving to the sessions, they pushed him even harder. Physical therapy sessions started with tears but often ended with smiles. Occupational therapy sessions started with throwing toys but ended with grasping items for a few seconds. Speech sessions started with no eye contact and finished with small sounds forming while trying to form words.

Because of these therapists and their dedication to educating my son and myself, we have overcome many challenges. Each new victory is a miracle that we, as a family, will never take for granted.

Though most of our milestones did not get hit until after our early intervention services were complete, my son would not be where he is today without the love and support of our amazing team. These therapists came into our home weekly with patience and tough love.

Early intervention transformed our family

Early intervention and the therapists did more than just help my child. They transformed our entire family through education and support. They gave us hope when we felt hopeless, provided tools when we needed to try something new, and were there next to us through our unique journey as friends and mentors. They taught us that with the right village, perseverance, and love, a child can overcome so much.

This journey has not been easy, but to me, has been incredibly rewarding. Though my son still struggles with some of the skills we worked on years ago, he has overcome many other challenges. Early intervention therapies were a lifeline to me, guiding me through difficult times and leading me to a brighter future.

Supporting those who are neurodivergent

Today, I continue to fight for my son, what he is entitled to, and what he needs as a neurodivergent individual. I am not embarrassed and will raise him to never be afraid to be himself. With each day that passes, I am more inspired and determined than ever to support my son and all other members of the community who need it. Every step forward I take, I go back to those amazing therapists who contributed to me becoming who I am today.