Last November (2007), a note was sent home from preschool letting us know about the upcoming school picture day. Cordy had only been in school for a little over a month – placed there after making quite an impact at her developmental evaluation – and was still in the phase where she trusted no one and screamed whenever I dropped her off at school each day.
I knew Cordy didn’t like new experiences. The smallest sensory disturbance would set her off into epic meltdowns. She was fearful of bright lights, loud noises, and strange people. So when they announced picture day, I worried how she might react.
The report from her teacher that day was the story of a struggle. It took over an hour to even coax her into the darkened room with the bright flash. She had split her bottom lip that morning from a post-breakfast meltdown, leaving it slightly swollen and red. Long after the other kids flashed smiles and moved on, her teacher continued to work with her to preserve this moment.
Cordy, as she was at that point in time, was clearly displayed in the picture that resulted:
And now a year later, the new photo displays a different Cordy. A Cordy who has ever so gradually learned to cope with the sensory onslaught around her, tempered her emotions to avoid meltdowns most days, and occasionally does what is asked of her.
She still sees this world as a scary place, but she’s coming out of her own little world, ever so slowly, and reaching out to put trust in others. You can look at her face and see how these small changes over the past year have made a difference.
There’s still much work to do, but the progress so far has been impressive. I truly believe Cordy wants to free herself completely from that barrier surrounding her and keeping her from fully participating in the world around her. And our hands are firmly grasping hers, doing our best to lead her out of the fog and refusing to let go.
that is absolutely incredible.
way to go, cordy.
way to go, mom and dad!
The change in Cordy is amazing. Her sweet face looks so much more relaxed. I haven’t commented much this past yr. but I still read regularly and keep up on how she’s doing. I’m so happy for her that life is getting a wee bit easier.:)
Seriously… almost cried looking at those 2 pictures. Outstanding!!
The princess crowns just came in for the b-day party. I can’t wait to see Cordy and Mira running around in one! Stella is about to explode…
She is beautiful. Congratulations to both of you on an amazing year, and many more to come.
Amazing. And I’m crying. Crazy pregnancy hormones.
Wonderful! I also chronicle my son’s progress in those school photos. I dislike that photography company, btw. Their hirees that come to our school have NO understanding of children, let alone special-needs children or autism spectrum issues. They only know how to say Sit, Smile, and click.
Awww, that’s awesome! Good for Cordy. And good for all of you, too.
its amazing how far she has come… im so happy for you all! *hugs!*
Awww precious either way, only you know the whole story and I could see none of that from the photos….just a gorgeous little girl!
while I’m here, it’s easier to enter into the 12 Days of Christmas contest if you have time, pop over, you and your readers are all welcome!
Wow… she looks so much less worried, more at ease.
That’s amazing!
What an amazing juxtaposition. I hope you have them framed and right next to each other in your house as a reminder of incredible progress and hope. Thanks for sharing these.
fantastic. amazing how far she’s come in just a year!~
That is so awesome! Way to go Cordy!!
you have done such a good job with her-you should be very proud. Looking forward to next week!
HUGS!
So cute!
OMG she is so beautiful! And wow, what a change. Great strides!
Beautiful transition. You are all working so hard to make it come about. Congratulations.
She’s beautiful and obviously, come so far in just a year! Just imagine what the next year will bring!
I’ve nominated you for an award at my blog. Check it out! 🙂
I only know Cordy through your words, but I am so proud of her after this post.
Good work, Cordy! Keep it up – your momma is leading you down the right path!
She is incredible, as must be you.
Absolutely stunning…what a difference.