"Finally feel seen"

I wanted to share my story because it’s been a long road getting support for my little boy. He’s five now and ever since he was a toddler, I knew something was different. He didn’t talk much, had big meltdowns, and didn’t like being around other kids. I brought it up with the GP a few times, but I felt like no one really listened. Sometimes I wondered if I was just being a worrier or if I wasn’t explaining things the right way.

It took us a really long time to get into the kids doctor at Hudson Road in Bunbury and I felt really nervous before the appointment. I struggle sometimes with understanding medical stuff and I get overwhelmed in big meetings. But when we met Dr Lana there, I felt something I hadn’t felt before — like someone finally saw my son and understood him and me.

Dr Lana spoke in a way that was clear and kind. She didn’t use too many big words and checked if I was following along. She explained what might be going on with my son and that it wasn’t my fault. That meant a lot to me because I’ve blamed myself many times.

Now we’re waiting on some assessments, and I know there’s still a way to go. But I finally feel like we’re on the right track. I just wanted to say thank you to her for listening, for not making me feel small, and for helping my boy be seen.