From the article: Dear Dr. Bigman
Have you ever had one of those appointments, where some specialist you've waited six months to see and taken out a second mortgage to pay for glances at your child's records, interacts with your little one as little as possible, then delivers some devastating judgment? In her book Beyond Words, Diane Linder gives her rebuttal to "Dr. Bigman." Now it's your turn. Talk Back!
Dear Ms. A.
- I appreciate the time you took with my son, although I cannot understand how you managed to do a 6 page report on his disabilities as you spent less than 10 minutes with him as he put on his coat for the bus. Assumptions are not fact, altho' I am assuming that you are truely an uncaring person when it comes to helping children. Amazing how SOME assumptions are accurate!
- —Guest JaneSV
Dear Dr. General Practioner,
- Thank you for your insight into my life during my first appointment with you. When I told you I had prior infertility issues, I had imagined you would take note of that in relation to my autoimmune disease. I was surprised at your comment when I answered your questions about my family, that autism "wasn't what you bargained for." Indeed it was not, and once you start shaving, you might have children of your own and learn that parenthood pretty much never is. My neurotypical child is full of surprises too, and I don't make summary judgments of the "bargains" I make in life. I also appreciate your insistence that I *must* be depressed. While it's true that some might find my circumstances depressing, I actually think I'm doing okay. I asked my therapist, whom I see for support in parenting, and she agreed. Thanks for the offer of an SSRI all the same. Sincerely, Ms. Plans to Find a New Doctor When She Has a Break From Trying to Find Appropriate Care for Her Son
- —Guest mamacate
Have you all met?
- Dear Unhelpful Experts, How I wish I could introduce you to one another, in one room large enough for all of you. Perhaps I could mention something of how you know me and my family, and while your expert opinions carry you off in deep, involved conversation, I could slip out and lock the door. It may be better for all you have come into contact with if I misplaced the key. I couldn't do it, but sometimes it is a fond wish. You experts have caused me significant distress, and have maimed my faith in The System. I hope that you never have to meet one another in a client/professional sense. It just might shatter your spirits utterly.
- —sylrayj
