DownSyn Forum

Solveig · Posted: July 26 2001, 5:11 PM Post subject:

I don't know where to start my story to fill all of you in on what's been going on over here in Norway. "The system" of early intervention is very different over here, Norway being a socialdemocratic country. Basically, the state and counties provide everything withing healthcare, shooling, daycare and early intervention for free. Sounds great, huh? Well, think twice!!! A special office makes a statement on how much help every child needs. Then the county "gives" a number of hours with different therapists, in Bene's case, during her stay in daycare. In Bene's case, the county gave her half of what she was evaluated to need, in order to receive proper and sufficient training. Since april of this year, we've been sending letters back and forth to the county to appeal this descicion. Finally, it went to the regional office of education, which is above the county in the line of "command". Through this, we've spent thousands of Norwegian kroners on a lawyer to fight our case. Today the letter came in from the regional office. We've won on every single demand!!! The letter stated that the offer county gave us, was "neither justifiable nor of the same standard as the help children without special needs receive."
The pressure we've been under these months is undescribable. Neither is the attitude the county clerks have given us. In the heat of the moment, I actually told the School Office Director to keep in mind that it's my daughter who has DS, not me. And for him to underestimate the determination of a pissed off mother is a sure way to lose a case. Today I had the pleasure of calling him and rubbbing his face in it! Smile

THIS IS A GLORIOUS DAY!!
To all of you out there who fight for your children like we've been for Bene these last few months; hang in there!!! Even though everyone else thinks you'll lose or give up, justice might just prevale for you like it did for us.

KC · Posted: July 26 2001, 9:22 PM Post subject:

Hurray Solveig:
Isn't it wonderful when the good guys win one in the end? Congratulations Bene-for having a mom who loves you enough to fight for you!
I'll remember your victory next time I'm tempted to run instead of standing and fighting on. Thank you for inspiring me.

Karen

_________________
There is a joy in the journey...

BlessedbyHim · Posted: July 28 2001, 4:56 PM Post subject:

Way to go mom!

Congratulations on your success on behalf of Bene! I'm so glad you will be getting the help you should have gotten from the start.

What an awesome responsibility God has given us as parents. Some days it seems rather easy, but many days it's very difficult to fight the fight especially when it seem futile. So good to be able to celebrate along with you.

God bless you.

_________________
Diane - Russell (6-DS) I prayed for this child, and the Lord has granted me what I asked of Him. 1 Samuel 1:27

Ruth Murphy · Posted: August 01 2001, 8:39 AM Post subject:

Congratulations on your victory!

Makes you really think....there may be a lot wrong with the U.S....lots of problems...but, how blessed we are to have available so many things that are taken for granted. Thank you for your post to help but things in perspective.

So many blessings....so many.
Love,
Ruth