Has anyone had any problems with absences in school?  My 10 year old daughter has had a positivley horrible year.  She has had a port implant for IV injections, her veins are just "shot" from all of the bloodwork, IV’s, etc.  Anyway, she has an IEP and MRDD referral...usually the teachers are understanding.  This year however, I’m dealing with "My sister is a nurse and she says NO one can be on steroids for life!"  UGH!!  Does anyone have any idea about printable info that excluses info on ambiguous genitalia (I feel that is not thier business).  The Endo has written a letter every year trying to sum it up.  That never seems to be enough.  Samantha also receives Home Instruction (tutor) for missed days...this goes with the IEP.  Also, she has had panic attacks during "big" tests...not that she isn’t smart (she is highest honors, high IQ, in a gifted program)..she just cannot handle emotional stress like she used to.  Last hospitalization, she had such a huge anxiety attack after they accessed her port when the numbing cream wore off. They pushed Ativan...now she is on Zoloft. Anyone have similar problems?  I know I’ve brought a lot to the table...I’m just at a crossorads into puberty, and it’s getting difficult to keep her self esteem high. School is getting to be a hassle.  They want me to home school, but she LOVES school and her friends so much, I can’t do it to her.  Any info or answers helpful

Gretchen, CAH mom, Ohio