I have learned a lot throughout my journey that may be able to help you:
Your child has just been diagnosed with a MECP2 Duplication Syndrome, what do I do now?
- Get a letter from your doctor stating the disability
- Ask doctor to refer you to a social worker, who can assist with what your child qualifies for in your state.
- Create a medical folder
- create tabs for each doctor/specialist
- put a print out of what was discussed at the appointment
- Create tabs for vaccination/lab work/MRI/EEG/CatScan, Etc
- create tabs for each doctor/specialist
- Create a Resume- Use a resume template and change titles to meet your needs
- Keep an updated copy in your medical folder and bring a copy to give to the doctor for their records.
- Childs name/Address/phone number/email address
- Short description of diagnosis
- List Specialty/Doctors name/phone number
- List place of therapy or therapy company/medical equipment providers/nursing care provider- with phone numbers
- Insurance Info- effective date/ID number/group number
- List current medications and vitamins/dosage amounts
- List past medications & vitamins
- List Surgeries/Hospital stays- dates/length of stay/reason
- List Allergies
- Recap of Dr. Appts for easy reference.
- Keep an updated copy in your medical folder and bring a copy to give to the doctor for their records.
- Contact your local ARC Chapter- www.thearc.org
- Have a team of doctors/specialists that LISTEN to your concerns and suggestions.
- Educate yourself with this disorder, you are your child's advocate
- www.mecp2duplication.com
- Visit www.401project.com for current research projects underway and join the fight!
- Join MECP2 Duplication Family Talk on Facebook- ask questions and get loving support from friends who understand.
- Research other medications, therapies, etc
- Surround yourself with family and friends who care. This is a must!
- Lean on them for support, but not so much that you knock them over.
- It's okay to cry and breakdown. It's normal!
- Enjoy every single moment.
- Don't let this disorder win!
My Final Advice:
NEVER LOSE HOPE!