AnnMarie update...

Well, after 3 LONG, miserable years we have finally found out what is troubling AnnMarie. Many of you know about her troubles.... bad behavior, etc. And many of you know of the ridiculous treatment (or lack thereof) that we've been receiving for years.... Getting blown off by Pediatrician's, councilors, and psychologists.

I didn't give up. I couldn't really, if I didn't keep forcing someone to listen to her, and find out what is wrong, who would, right?

Things came to a head a few weeks ago. LONG story short she made up a few stories and told the police these lies. It was quite shocking to hear that all of this was a lie because it was a serious issue. Praise God that we live in a small town, otherwise the cops would have been jerks about it. The Chief of the Police and a Sgt. came over a few times, checking the story, asking her questions, etc. When they found out she lied, they came back over and discussed her options. A few days ago they both came over and talked to her for OVER 2 hours. They had the option of putting her in juv. hall because she showed no remorse or anything, it was horrible. ANYWAY, the Chief gave her another chance knowing we had a counciling appointment scheduled the next day.

We went to the councilor, described her symptoms and she talked to AnnMarie. She had NO DOUBT.... AnnMarie has a moderate case of Rapid Cycling BiPolar. DANG!! You'd think I'd be relieved hearing that - if someone has "something" it can be treated or cured. Part of me was glad someone finally found out what was going on, but then I thought -- HOLY CRUD, another one? How was I to deal with this?

She will go to that councilor every 2 weeks for therapy, which will be good. I REALLY like this woman. She's gentle but also knows when to be tough and knows when a kid is giving her crud, you know? She also has an appointment with a psychiatrist next Monday who specializes in BiPolar in children (praise God for that also!) Insurance covers it all -- PHEW!

I'll keep you updated, there is a lot of changes happening. We're both having trouble knowing what to do. Do we discipline her for things that she does, even though they're signs of the BiPolar? Meaning, punish her for things she cannot control? Do we ignore it??? Of course, Bryce is having trouble with all of this. He has compared himself to her A LOT -- "Well, I didn't do that so she must be able to control it..." and things like that. This situation has caused a lot of arguments over the past week. I feel that I'm more neutral and a little more fair about the whole thing since I've dealt with his BiPolar as well....

JUST PRAY !!!! Its all very overwhelming and scary. Another stressful situation on top of everything else going on....