Testimonial for Acupuncture from a Mother’s Perspective
My son was born with a brain injury which was mild to moderate. His brain injury affects every aspect of his life, including digestive issues (reflux), the ability to handle sensory input from his environment and his ability to speak. At 3 1/2 he has the speech ability of a 1 1/2 year old. The injury also affects other areas, such as his balance, walking, chronic pain issues, and ability to eat food.
Recommending Acupuncture. When we met Sheryl, my son was entirely dependent on his feeding tube and hadn’t taken anything by mouth for almost a year. He would gag or vomit if we tried to feed him orally. It was our pediatrician who suggested acupuncture as a way to help address his pain and his GERD (severe reflux). I immediately started doing some research and finally stumbled upon Sheryl. I was pleased that not only does she take insurance, but she works with children as a normal part of her practice.
Getting Started. Sheryl did a long intake phone call with us. On our first visit, we talked a little more to understand my son’s needs. She was very thorough, approachable, and interested in his needs and his story.
Working with Children. She makes sessions for little ones shorter – according to what they can handle, and she uses a number of modalities in addition to needles. She worked so gently with him and was respectful and understanding of his anxiety around healthcare providers (he has seen so many). Sheryl met him where he was and proceeded very carefully. After his first session, he asked me for food! This was remarkable, because it had been so long since he had shown any interest at all in feeding. It may not sound like much, but he went home and ate nearly a whole jar’s worth of baby food!
Continuing the Process. As we have continued to work together, Sheryl has addressed many different concerns. Among these concerns have been digestion, calmness, ability to handle sensory input and speech. She’s even helped him with recovery from viruses and other infections. My son is usually pretty tense because his brain doesn’t help him to relax. But after his sessions with Sheryl, he is curious, interested in the world, and his body feels soft and moveable – his resting tension goes away for a few hours and the next few days he is happier, easier-going, and can even learn more. This changed behavior and relaxed attitude helps so much as his chronic pain gets in the way of learning and the natural curiosity of a child.
Anticipation. Acupuncture is the only one, of many appointments, that he looks forward to – and he even asks for if it has been a while. He strides into her office ready to begin and is so excited and happy. He asks for needles and vibration at certain points and really loves Sheryl.
And the rest of us. In addition to caring for my son, Sheryl also treats me and my husband to help us manage the strain and stress of caring for a child with so many extra needs. The relief and calm I feel is unbelievable, and acupuncture has also spurred me to make lifestyle changes that have improved my health and wellness. My responses to stressful situations are generally better and my marriage has even improved because of the care I have gotten.
Appreciation beyond comprehension. I am not certain that I can even properly express what a blessing it has been to be in the care of such a compassionate, competent, out-of-the-box thinker as Sheryl. Her presence in our lives has been life-changing. It may seem like I am exaggerating but I truly cannot be thankful enough. Every aspect of my and my son’s life has improved. The wonderful thing about Sheryl is that she really meets you where you are, truly, and addresses your needs with care and respect.