Jill’s Daughter Bri
Posted May 14, 2008
Hi my name is Jill and I wanted to share my story about my 16 year old daughter Bri who was recently diagnosed with BPD I.
It’s been a scary road. Started several years ago when she was 11 and we had just moved. Thought she was blue from moving away from all her good friends. Was really depressed and admitted to being suicidal. Had her journal. Grades were good, seemed to get over it. Teachers always thought she was delightful, never gave us problems at home. Did complain of headaches daily and muscle cramping.
When she was 14 diagnosed with Essential Idiopathic Myoclonus (muscle jerking/twitches/cramps) still having headaches and now having excruciating nerve pain. Neurologists not finding anything wrong. In Jan. Neuro suggested psychosomatic cause. Bri then became very depressed, grades falling. Talking with psychologist for depression when Bri asked about being Bipolar.
We had told Neuro that Bri heard voices and saw ghosts trying to be honest hoping that that would help him diagnose the reason for the myoclonus, so we had told the psychologist also. She asked about seeing shadows out of Bri’s peripheral vision and Bri said yes. So she had us fill out a questionaire for BP. We then were sent to a Child Psychiatrist who specializes in BP children thank goodness.
It’s been difficult finding the right medications because Bri doesn’t tolerate some of them. She still isn’t up to therapeutic levels yet. I have been reading everything I can get my hands on to educate myself. It’s been difficult watching her go from an AP/honor student to a struggling student trying to keep her head above water and just get up in the morning but she’s amazing and strong. We are looking at this disorder and trying to find ways to bring out the assets.
Thank you for your support and suggestions. Blessings to all of you!