Owen’s story #trans #suicidal ideation awareness

Hi, my name is, Amy, and I am the mother of a wonder child. He has juvenile idiopathic arthritis, Hashimotos, Anxiety, depression, adhd, a history of acute iritis, a history of osteomyelitis (one collapsed vertebrae and one fractured in the thoracic spine), a history of IBS, gender dysphoria (a well supported trans male on his path of transitioning from female to male) suspected childhood fibromyalgia and suspected autism (we have medi cal and are searching for an evaluation that is covered), sleep disorders and (at the surface of concern) suicidal ideation. He has been in and out of hospitals and has successfully completed a DBT IOP (dialectical behavioral therapy intensive outpatient program). He began his journey at a very young age (20 months old) and as he has grown, so have the diagnoses. He has wonderful Doctors and Specialist that are giving their all to support him/us. Throughout the years, I’ve had steady jobs with amazing insurance; only to utilize all my Intermittent family leave and suffer my own stresses that have led to the dissolution of my job as well as marriage. Throughout this journey, I have never stopped knowing just how lucky I am to have a child as full of magic as he is. The pandemic threw a wrench into all of our lives. For me, I went through my savings and had the blessing of becoming so poor: we are now at Lucille Packard for his care. Be that as it may, I am in the throes of reactivating the SSI disability insurance for his JIA and currently have all other government support available. Three weeks out of the DBT IOP led Owen back into a mental hospital for suicidal ideation (but this time they discharged him before he was ready). We are working on finding him a residential facility to address the multifaceted diagnoses; but in the meantime, he cannot be left alone and needs constant supervision (which he prefers from me). I am asking for help so that I may pay rent, bills, and gas to supplement what child support and food stamps we are getting. He should be placed within a three month time period (I pray), but it could take longer. I am guessing three months should allow me to be on a leave of absence (not covered by a employer, as I work for myself) so my own mental health and well being can be addressed to better care for my child. He is very important and necessary to our world. He has a lot to give and I could easily see him working as an advocate and mentor/therapist for other neurodivergent, disabled, and members of the LGBTQ+.

I know the world is full of hope and love and abundance. If you have the means to help us; I guarantee my son is the right investment.

if you already give to causes that are closer to your heart: I thank you.

This wasn’t an easy ask and I appreciate your time, kindness, and understanding.

sincerely,

Amy