A Journey Of Their Own...Continued

Dear Addie,

A few weeks ago, we had a fantastic visit at the dentist—words that an autism parent rarely utters - I promise you. Now having said that, it did however result in needing a minor surgery to remove a baby tooth that was holding on for dear life. With surgery now in the near future, it seemed like a good opportunity to finally get some X-rays and take a deeper look into your oral health. Kind of a one stop shop if you will. Last week, you finally had that surgery, and like with any new experience, we went in hoping for the best but prepared for any other outcome.

Here's how it went...

Your surgery was scheduled for 1:30 PM, which meant you couldn't eat beforehand. It wasn't an easy task, but we face many challenges in life, so we managed! I tried every trick I knew—running errands, going to the car wash, and giving the car an extra thorough vacuuming. I even took you to the park, despite the sweltering heat, and let you swing for an hour before we headed to the surgery. You best believe we showed up hot, sweaty and a wee bit hangry - mommy not you. Big brother and I didn't want to eat in front of you so we fasted right along with you, but I digress.

Once we arrived, everything fell into place. They were running a little behind on the surgery scheduled before yours, so we had to wait a bit longer. However, this delay allowed us ample time to talk in depth with anesthesia team and the dental surgeon about the procedure. I kid you not, this was the most knowledgeable team I have ever encountered regarding autism and sensory issues! They had considered everything and remained unbelievably calm, which is incredibly helpful in any situation involving you (and me).

When it was finally our turn, we were all allowed to go back to ensure you were comfortable. You sat down and casually presented your arm for the IV. Everyone giggled, perhaps they didn't believe me when I said that we have a lot of challenges, but needles are not one of them. Getting the IV was easy peasy; you were soon ready for a little snooze, and off to the waiting room we went.

Not too long after, someone came to show me your X-rays—your first set of X-rays ever of your teeth, mind you. My girl, they were perfection! For someone who has a deep love for "pink squares" (strawberry Starburst), who only used nature's toothbrush (apples) for the first few years of your life due to sensory issues of the toothbrush, and who once loved to chew on metal and rocks due to PICA, you only had two small cavities and a baby tooth with some extraordinary roots. Not gonna lie; I was pleasantly surprised by this outcome and gladly took this win.

After everything was finished, they wheeled you out in a wheelchair because you were likely to feel a bit woozy on your feet. However, once we reached the sidewalk outside, you jumped up and walked straight over to the car as if nothing had happened. I think it's safe to say you were ready to go and by this point it was nearly 4pm and we were all hungry! We were told to follow your cues on eating and that we did as you immediately asked for "one, two, free...free cheesburgers please" Side note: we are still working on that "th" sound. A quick trip through Mcdonalds, settling on two cheesburgers you devoured them within minutes - again like nothing happened.

Addie this past week you had some minor dental surgery done and other than the lack of food it was an amzing experience from start to finish! We are forever thankful for everyone that was involved in making this experience as calming and successful as it was. One can only hope that getting your wisdom teeth out in the next few years will be just as great of an experience.

We are so very proud of you Addie. You, baby girl, are a rock star! Great job!

Love you always,

Mom