Hi wmjsease.
I am so sorry to hear that your son's ill. I agree that you should have him tested, if only to rule out Lyme.
Its tough enough to be a kid nowadays but with illness on top of everything, its even tougher. And its hard on you too to be stressing about him.
My kids also love to be out and about. We usually go to a ton of places during the summers. We always went to a local beach here every weekend. Its our special place.
Last summer I was so sick, I couldn't get off the couch. I could barely walk upstairs to use the bathroom. I couldn't hold a conversation. I was in bad shape.
We didn't do anything during that time. I felt so guilty! My poor kids! The were really affected by my not being able to do anything.
My kids and I have come a long with this disease. At times they were very angry and acted out at me. Other times they cook and clean and do laundry.
When I did manage to go out (grocery shopping, etc) I tried to get treats, games, puzzles, etc, for them and I would hide them when I got home.
A few days/weeks later when they were bored or mad or sad, I would tell them to go to the hiding place and get a snack or a game that I bought.
Some of it was fun cheap stuff, like silly string. I didn't care if my lawn turned blue - my kids were laughing and not at each others throats.
Other things I got were water guns, a music CD, a movie, a board game or a junk food snack that they aren't usually allowed to have. I found this stuff in my grocery store.
I also encouraged them to spend time with their friends. They learned to pick up the phone and call a friend and ask to spend the day with them. The other parents did the driving 'cuz they knew I was sick and they didn't mind at all.
You'll get through. Try not to worry. Concentrate on health. The kids will be just fine.
I hope Dr. J can help your son. You're a good mom to take him there. Let us know what happens.
Peace and health to you and your family.
