Disconnection

So I have been introduced to a book called Disconnected Kids by a guy named Dr. Melilo. I have been enjoying this book and the insight he gives on neurological disorders. His claim is that many neurological disorders that we see rising today; such as Autism, ADHD, Tourette's and Dyslexia to name a few, are all caused by the same thing. He generalizes all of them into one category he calls Functional Disconnect Syndrome. He claims that as children our brains and bodies grow and develop, but that sometimes the two sides of the brain don't always grow at the same speed. When one side grows faster than the other, a disconnect happens. This disconnect causes the various symptoms of the neurological disorders. He claims that rather than treating the symptoms, there is a way to treat the cause.

In the 20 years he has worked with children in strengthening the weaker side of the brain, he has seen symptoms decrease and even disappear. Children can say, "I used to be autistic." Quite a breakthrough in looking at this kind of stuff! The thing is, the brain affects so much of how we function. The more I read about what this disconnect does, the more I am saying, "Hey, I do that. Hey, I have that. That is SO me!" Things I used to do as a kid are coming back. It is possible that it is the power of suggestion, but at the same time, it's not things that are just happening... I did them as a kid, too. I just thought I was weird, and made myself stop. My TS, or disconnect is after all a lot more mild than many cases.

One example that I found intriguing was food sensitivities. Most kids are picky eaters. Kids with FDS are picky in a different way. We don't necessarily judge by taste, but rather other senses. I don't like cold water. I prefer it to be room temperature. I always figured it was because of sensitive teeth or something. Maybe it is, maybe it isn't. Sensitivities due to temperature, or texture, etc. can cause pickiness in kids. I totally do this. Another crazy example was that I am knock-kneed with bad posture. Remember, his claim is about the development of the brain in children. The brain controls the growth of the body as well. As a kid, I spent so much time reading that my muscles didn't develop the strength they needed. My motor-sensory skills are terrible, and I will be the first to admit it!

Now I understand there are MANY stories and theories about Tourette Syndrome and other neurological disorders as well, and that this is simply one among many. I have read many of them, too. I did my senior research on the different stories and theories about TS and how that affects the identity of those who have it. This is by far my favorite story and one I am inclined to believe. Not only do so many of the things he talks about in his book describe my life, but I love the way he describes it as well. That is is something we can still function in society with, that there is another option if we so choose. He doesn't even discredit the use of medication to control symptoms, but claims there is another way to decrease symptoms without them. I have not yet finished the book, but as I continue to read about how this can be changed, I do intend to see what I can change in my life and see if anything changes. In all honesty, I hope not my squeaks. I love them. But if I can fix other things in my life that are amiss due to this brain imbalance, it might not be such a bad idea. That is a whole different blog post that I will try to get up this week.

I never expected this blog to take such a serious turn. I intended it for the sole purpose of recording and sharing my funny stories, but hey, I can't complain. I am learning so much about myself in the process, and maybe it can help someone else, too. Life is funny like that, and the best part is, we can't help it. :)