as the tics increase

Still wearing the mouthsplints almost constantly, mornings seeeeem slighly calmer but difficult to say. Jury is out until we have consistently worn it for a few more weeks.  Jan - March will be the time when we can really see if it is helping as this is when the tics are at their worst.

Boys have missed a couple of days of school due to severe persistent tics. Joe has had a couple of very difficult mornings but we have baked cakes and cookies as a calmer and he has got to school later in the morning taking in some goodies with him. I think the LSAs are enjoying the homemade produce.
One day we had 5 trips to school ! A bit more time consuming than at primary which was just across the road !

Poor Ben strained his back last week having tics at school and the last two nights bedtime tic attacks have taken their toll. We ended up at A&E last night with him because he was very distressed and the tics 'attack' the area that is strained. We have seen this with Joes calf and ankle tic. Such a cruel disorder, its so awful to watch and there is absolutely nothing you can do except try to distract, try calming measures. The doctor said he had strained some muscles which he needs to rest. No lasting damage but he has been prescribed a stronger pain killer to use alongside Calpol in an attempt to control the pain and get the tics to LEAVE HIM ALONE !!!!

Only admiration for school, constant regular communication from tutors, LSAs, head of year. As a result of this the boys remain feeling safe and secure and have triumphed. They are managing to keep on top of homework which we though could be an issue. Ben had a high grade in a science assessment and Joe top of his class in maths.  This despite having missed so much school in the last 4 years. Proof that these boys are determined and want to learn despite so many difficulties.

I would like to give a mention to Jamie a TS friend of Joe and Ben who has had an extremely difficult time over the last few months. He has been in a wheelchair and now the tics are affecting his bladder. He is another bright, friendly positive smiley boy - well done Jamie keep smiling.  Lots of admiration to Rachel his mum whos time is taken up phoning all the professional services that somehow dont talk to each other and co-ordinate things. Such a stressful time, but admiration for Jamies school who are being extremely supportive.

We have examples here of two schools who are going the extra mile for these children. Thank you, thank you, thank you. :)