Making a Difference

I saw an 8 year old autistic child earlier this week for a first time visit. He had been to a pediatric dentist previously and because of his uneasiness and fear, they had strapped him in a papoose board and proceeded to force him to complete treatment, very much against his will. His mother had come in to talk to me a few weeks ago, saying she’d read the article in the newspaper last year written about me and a girl similar to her son that I had been treating successfully for years.

She explained his previous treatment and how scared he was but that she had talked to him and he was willing to try… if she could find someone that wouldn’t strap him down or use sharp things. I told her I would see him, but no promises on what would happen first visit – that sometimes it took a few trips before there was enough trust between us for  him to allow me to work on him. I was willing to give it a whirl.

He was a very high functioning boy, smart as a tack (reciting lines from movies in response to my questions, instead of just answering). I worked slowly, talking to him about everything I was going to do before I did it. He was terrified of the “sharp” things (because of last time) but was fine with me using a mirror and the rubber cup to polish his teeth…. although he was terribly texture-sensitive so that if my gloved finger touched his tongue, he freaked out. (And I couldn’t use toothpaste of any type because of the flavor/texture.) Overall, it was a very positive experience for him, despite the tears he shed from time to time.

At the end of the appointment, as he was leaving, I put out my hand to shake his, saying, “It was a pleasure meeting you. Come back and see me in 6 months.” He shook my hand and then…. rushed me in a big bear hug, so quick and tight that his cheek smashed against my boobs. I was startled at first but then, gently hugged him back. My eyes caught his moms’ over the top of his head and I saw her tear up, mouth dropping open in shock to see him hugging me.

There may be days when I question my profession, my abilities, my skills, etc. but…..somehow, but some sheer miracle,  I made a difference to that child.

It sure made me feel good.

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Comments

[jason shaw]

What a lovely story, taking time to make a real difference is such a powerful thing, inspirational.

[Susie @ A Slice of my Life]

This is wonderful. All it takes is a little time and patience to make such a difference in someone's life. Dory, you're a treasure.