Doing Well

N had a great day today. He's busy doing his homework and practicing his guitar -- all in anticipation of getting to play some video games. It's the end of the school term. His grades look like they'll all be As. We've really come a long way!

I don't think I'll have to worry about class order (because of perpetual lateness) or unmanageable stress for next year. He has done well, for the most part, with the stressful moments of school this year and he's not really been late at all. Class change was a small challenge, but he has settled in now.

I will have to meet with his teacher in preparation for his health class next year. He will likely need to be excused for the curriculum portion on eating disorders -- not because he can't handle the discussion -- but because it may put him in the precarious position of feeling like he needs to correct the teacher (who may not have current information about anorexia). We also don't want to "out" him by revealing that he is an expert about eating disorders. It's not that we are embarrassed about his being sick -- though it has been an unexpected trial -- but too many people still don't understand the medical origins of anorexia and judge him and our family unfairly. We've been more open about the disease generally, but I don't think a Junior High Health class is the place for full disclosure.

I hope I can educate his teacher about anorexia. I also hope his teacher will be willing to proceed cautiously, especially when addressing any topics about weight and diet. I really wish our kids would be taught more about eating well and being active, instead of the need to be a certain weight.