UC Davis Mind Institute

We have tried to pursue all medical treatment for Sarah.   Sarah's pediatrician asked me if we had been to the Mind Institute.   I told her we have not been there.  She said, "Wouldn't you want to go to the best place?"   I checked with our psychiatrist to see if it was something we should pursue and he agreed.   I made the appointment.

Traveling to Sacramento was difficult and Sarah had a meltdown (outburst) an hour before we arrived.   I found a Chevy's to eat at and that seemed to make her happy.   My cousin was supposed to meet us, but she ended up being sick.   Sarah had it in her brain that we were going to a big city, so we should go shopping.   We drove around a bit and tried to find a store.  We stopped and ran into what we thought was an art store, nope a print shop.  We were unsuccessful and Sarah was disappointed even though I never agreed to go shopping.   We finally headed over to the research hospital.

We arrived and checked-in and immediately Sarah was playing with the babyish toys.   I told her not to go outside and wait for her volunteer.   She ignored me and went outside.   I went to get her and a volunteer said she would play with her outside.   Sarah knows she can get away with more because she knows I will not want her too cause a scene.   She is definitely awesome at causing a scene to get her way. 

A social worker called me back and we started to discuss Sarah.   She asked why we were there and I stated that we were referred.   She asked why we were referred.   I kind of thought she should look at the referral.   We were at a research hospital and I personally want some research for Sarah.   She stated that Sarah already has a diagnosis for autism (ASD) and that is what they would do for her.   So, let me get this straight.... I drove all the way up here for you to tell me you can't do anything for Sarah.   I pursued the issue and asked if they had any studies, new medical treatment, or innovative treatment.   She said, "No it looks like you have done everything for Sarah."   We are supposedly, as per the pediatrician, at the best research hospital and they have nothing for Sarah.  She felt bad and said Sarah could have a genetic blood test.   I let her know Sarah had already had that test done.   She said we could be referred to a psychiatrist for a med check.   I agreed, but there is zero change of us driving up there for a med check.   Sarah already goes to an excellent psychiatrist. 

Yep, I cried most of the way home.   Sarah terrorized me in the car by beeping super loud in my hear, randomly clapping in the ear, and popping a bag in my ear.  All of these behaviors continued for three hours.

I guess we just keep doing what we are doing.   I'm pretty sure that I will be hesitant to go to anymore research hospitals or at least ask more questions before we go there.

Here is Sarah with a sweet foster puppy we babysat for the weekend.