It was going to be a tough circle meeting this month. There were a lot of issues which had to be brought up to Bryan and his team – all for his betterment.

We hated to bring it all up in one meeting, but the time was right for more positive change in Bryan’s life and we had to “strike while the iron was hot”.

Before we had a chance to delve into the various concerns we had, Bryan started the meeting with saying, ” I am feeling overwhelmed with forgetting about things. It is stressing me out”.

We knew his forgetfulness was part of the problem. Medication for ADHD only goes so far. Rather than reprimanding him harshly for losing his $500 new glasses, we calmly asked why he was constantly removing them from his face. He answered, “When I get hot, my head isn’t thinking right.” Apparently the new glasses were uncomfortable and made him sweat. The solution we came up with was to get him “Croakies” for his glasses to hang around his neck when he gets too warm.

Now to the lost Fitbit – we had thought that in suggesting he switch his watch to the left hand, the nondominant one, that would solve the problem. Well, apparently, the sweating discomfort didn’t just apply to the glasses. The plastic Fitbit band was also uncomfortable, hence him removing it constantly as well. This time we ordered him mesh watch bands which are more breathable. Hopefully that will solve the removal/loss problems at work and at home.

The major issues we wanted to address came third on the agenda. His bloodwork had come back with an increase in glucose and triglyceride levels. Now he was prediabetic and a candidate for cholesterol-lowering medication. Not wanting to add yet another medication to his regimen, we discussed how he would need to start to eat healthier and abandon all the processed foods he and others were purchasing for him. A plan would be implemented with many of his staff involved in seeing that a more healthful diet can be followed. There are around four staff members who will need to be on board in order for this to succeed. The good news is – Bryan has a new program specialist whom he respects and trusts. She will spearhead coordinating staff and help all to help Bryan who is totally onboard with more healthful eating habits.

The second major issue we had to discuss was the cleanliness of his bedroom. Having been asked for help a few weeks ago, I had gone to Bryan’s apartment to clean it before the state of Pennsylvania would come it for licensing. If it was not up to specific standards, Bryan could lose his apartment situation and have to come back home to live. Not wanting that, he helped me get his bedroom in ship-shape. He called me after he passed the licensing inspection, crying for joy on the phone. I suggested that perhaps he follow a simple cleaning regimen each day for his bedroom so that he can always have a sense of satisfaction at an orderly bedroom. Bryan liked this idea and, now, we are also coming up with a plan for daily tasks to keep things more tidy. He got very excited when we suggested a new vacuum cleaner – lighter weight and sleeker than what he already has, some Swiffer dusters and Clorox cleaning wipes. Whatever it takes to make cleaning a fun adventure!

There was a lot to digest at the meeting which took an hour and 45 minutes. But, though so many issues were brought up and overwhelmed poor Bryan, in the long run, his life will be made much easier and more productive. All a result of a wonderful new program specialist and a team that wants the very best life for my son. He is so blessed!