Dr Phil,
I watched the show about the mother with the Prader-Willie child and yes I found her behavior as frightening as you and the others watching, I do think that a major issue was not mentioned and needs to be addressed by you and the other health care professionals who see this kind of behavior.
I am the mother of a 20 year old son who has autism, mental retardation, aggressive behavior and he keeps growing and growing. As a the mother of 3 year old Chad I remember the feeling of fear and dread when I saw adults who had similar diagnoses. You feel overwhelmed, angry at the world and at God at times for putting you in this position with this strange child. You long for normalcy and think of life in "what if" terms. Life seems very lonely most of the time. These early years are so hard for parents and dealing with their own emotional issues as well as the physical and mental disability of a child .
I watched this mother today, she was so lost and became so frighted when she saw an adult with the same disorder.. although I do not agree with her actions with her daughter I did want to reach out and hug her. She has a long road to travel down and it will not be an easy one. Most people she meets along the way will not understand what it takes to get through a single day, every one is quick to either criticize or over praise every single action.
The last 20 years of my life have been both terrifying and joyous. Chad is the purest soul I know and has been my greatest teacher. Although my life will never be normal in the most common terms... who wants normal?? I prefer interesting.. its been a lesson learned.
Chandra
