Right now the biggest question for us is should we be looking at a long-term residential treatment center, where she would stay for up to a year. That isn't our desire, but we are seeing more and more that Caroline is just so far behind academically, emotionally, socially and that what we have for her here may not be enough. She is at a critical junction and we want to give her the best we can so that she can function in life.
A blog for anyone who needs to know they are not alone in raising a bipolar child.
Thursday, March 12, 2009
Yet more hoops to go through
We are a Navy family, and there is a program for military families called EFMP, which spells Exceptional Family Member Program. Enrolling in this would allow Bill to only be assigned to places that have the necessary treatment facilities for Caroline, and not overseas. If you can get your child qualified for that(more paperwork for school system, doctors, us) then we may be able to get qualified for ECHO which is Exceptional Child something or other, through which we may be able to obtain free services or extra services for a small fee for Caroline, such as an in-home helper, occupational, speech therapy, etc. Just one more thing to fill out and wait on. Oh, and our insurance company wants to us to get her qualified for Medicaid so that she would again receive more service, that they wouldn't have to pay for. More paperwork.
I recently stumbled across your blog and have read every post.
ReplyDeleteI was diagnosed with bipolar when I was 17. I am now 21 and thriving happily. Though it is still a daily struggle, God has been my ever present source of strength, and He cares for His little ones continually.
Reading your blog has helped me see some of what my family has gone through and is still going through with my condition. Through all the pain, misunderstandings, stigma, blame and despair love is the strong cord that keeps a family together. Do not despair, you are not alone.
If I can be of help in anyway, let me know. I'd be happy to share my experiences and coping techniques with you if that could help. My email is on my profile page.
This SO makes my heart ache. I will be praying for you big time - ALL of you.
ReplyDeleteI need to give you a hug...AND some serious chocolate. Not that either will make the situation better, but anyway...