I called on Wednesday night because my 6-year-old son who has high functioning autism and responds to his anxieties by refusing to have a bowel movement and he doesn't like attention, so it can be frustrating and scary. Shannon Harper called me back and truly went above and beyond what she was required to do. I felt inadequate as a mom because he won't open up about his pain, anxiety, reasons behind this, etc. Shannon reassured me by simply stating how well I knew my son and acknowledging all of the information I could possibly give her. When I told her about his autism, she treated the situation in a way that no other doctor or nurse truly has treated it. She focused not on his age, but his ability level to help me create a relaxing environment by doing simple exercises. She told me how to speak to him and trigger him, so that he responds and wants to participate, and he has responded so well!
He's on Miralax daily and Shannon did not tell me to increase his dosage, rather she gave me incredibly resourceful information to read and assisted me with questions to ask his specialists. She didn't rush me (no one ever has when I've called Kids Healthline) but she was so calming, so informative and so resourceful.
Your nurses have always been amazing when I have called, and I appreciate them so much as they are the front lines, helping my children without even seeing them. Shannon truly went above, as I believe she heard the fear and frustration in my voice, knowing that this isn't only medical, it's also behavioral. I've been dealing with this for so many years and I hate to bother the nurses when I call. I couldn't be happier that I called that night and spoke with Shannon. She made such a difference on a medical and personal level for me. I hung up, no longer felt like a failure as a parent and I had a new focus as to how to help my son. Please thank her again for her time, patience, kindness and expertise. I am very grateful and relaxed knowing my children are in the best hands with you all. Thank for your time and I apologize for the long email, but I didn't want to leave out any details as she truly made a difference for me.