The Robin Williams in my Head
I mentioned Dana Blankenhorn’s blog yesterday. In that entry I referred to his entry on his son’s problems with schools. I got started reading the rest of his entries on ADHD and found this one.
In The Robin Williams in my Head, Dana compares having ADHD to having Robin Williams stuck in the back of your mind., always there, always talking, always being the mischief maker that he is.
I’ve got to admit that this is one of the best comparisons on ADHD I’ve ever heard. Personally, I can relate to Robin Williams. My sense of humor is just as explosive, just as spontanious, and just as nearly uncontrollable. I find things funny when no one else does. My anger works the same way. Certain things that don’t strike me as being logical set me off on rants, and politics, (which I nearly never discuss), is one of those issues.
Take the time to read this post. It’s well worth it. And do as I did, Add Dana’s blog to your RSS reader. He’s a bright guy, as many of us with ADHD are. He’s also the father of a kid with ADHD. In that respect he and I are very much alike. I passed that gift on to three of my children at least.
Did you say gift???
Yes, because that’s what I consider ADHD to be, but I’ll go in to that in my next few entries.
3 Comments, Comment or Ping
Lori
I love the statement “signs of extraordinary people” What a beautifully true statement. I have one of these extraordinary sons, and he is wonderful, funny, imaginative. It is so nice to hear someone with ,what I consider, an accurate view of these highly intelligent wonderful people. I can’t wait to read more.
Apr 22nd, 2008
Dana Blankenhorn
Thanks for the shout-out.
John continues to do well in his studies and poorly in his socialization. He was blackballed by teachers from the National Honor Society because they didn’t know he now has an IEP which calls the ADHD symptoms “Asperger’s Syndrome.”
If you have a kid who has ADHD, or dyslexia (which is how it often displays in girls) check out getting an Individualized Education Plan from your school. It will protect you in times of trouble, under Section 504 of the IDEA.
It kept John in school, where he’s still on track to graduate with the grades and test scores needed for him to reach a school filled with kids just like him.
Stay in touch.
Apr 22nd, 2008
Jerry
Dana,
It’s good to hear that John is doing well! I understand the frustrations involved with schools. Even with an IEP and a 504 in place there can still be issues, but they tend to be more manageable.
My stepson has ADHD, Bipolar disorder and OCD. For him every day at school is a challenge, but from what I hear he’s till on track as well. (his mother and I are separated, so I have to stay on top of his progress over the phone… One of the sad facts of life.)
Keep pumping out the commentary and we’ll keep reading! (Even though I am on the other side of the political fence from you.)
Apr 23rd, 2008
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