Duathlon-Bobby's First One!

Two weeks ago Bobby decided to register for a local duathlon his dad was already signed-up for. The race was in one week. He is active but he had virtually no training for this event. He was also the only kid involved, competing against all adults. 2 1/2 mile run/15 mile mountain bike ride, then the second 2 1/2 mile run. It was a grueling event for our boy, with all but 3 ladies finishing ahead of him. But the president of the bike club, sponsors and his adoring family was all there to cheer the smiling boy across the finish line. He was tired but he was proud!

 

ADHD kids desperately need to be involved in things they excel in. So much of school life is difficult for many of them and the daily "beating down" of rigid academics makes student life hard to endure. Most parents of ADHD kids will admit this. So it is our duty as parents to aggressively seek out things our kids can do well in. This means trial and error. Just because Soccer isn't the "golden sport" for your child, does not mean there isn't one out there. Keep looking. Don't give up. If sports aren't it....hobbies, bikes, animals....you get the idea. A bored and discouraged ADHD child is not a good idea. Period.

 

CONGRATULATIONS Bobby, on your first Duathlon. Dad and I are excited to see how the next one goes...and how the Olympic Triathlon goes in June! You're the best!

 

So How's It Going Without Meds?

Thank you for asking. We're over 6 weeks post-medication and Bobby is thriving in his busy but able-to-control body. Let's say this from the start. I DO NOT believe we can "toss" all kids' meds and wait for a miracle. ADHD is a real disorder on a far-ranging spectrum. No two kids are identical. Bobby is functioning well now. He is no more impulsive than he was on Ritalin, Adderal or Stratera. Not one bit. He's still busy, active and inquisitive. He blurts & bolts like any active pre-teen boy. He's becoming more and more charged by hormones. None of what we see calls for medication at this point. Could this change? Are we open to a possible future need for treatment? Well, what parent really wants to see their child rely on a pill each day? I hope he never has to return but we will not deprive him of what he needs to be a success in his academic, athletic and life pursuits. We get that numerous problems arise when a young adult needs but doesn't take medication. Problems that affect learning and successful employment. Taking one day at a time here. Hoping all parents take one day at a time.