Autumn

Autumn passed out at a fireside about 3-4 weeks ago. She has not felt good since then. I took her to the Dr. last week and we did a full blood work-up on her. Her blood tests came back great. She has not wanted to go anywhere or do anything, this is unlike her. She ended up taking 2 of her finals after school was out because the week before both Hope and Autumn had the flu. The Dr. told us to push the liquids and make sure she eats, not feeling well has her not eating, she is dizzy and sick to her stomach all of the time. Plus she is afraid to go anywhere, passing out scared and embarrassed her. She will not drive. basically she just has not been herself. I am sure she is depressed and having mild panic attacks.

Monday she took her 2 tests and then left for Civitan in Pocatello until Friday. It was all I could do to get her to go, but I told her she had to go. Civitan is held on the ISU campus and is kind of like AFY but does not have the religious background. She really wanted to go to AFY but it is over $400.00 and Civitan was $25.00 for the whole week. This includes all their meals, staying in the dorms, and all activities.

This is what the web site says; What is Youth Seminar? – It is a five-day conference sponsored by Adult and Junior Civitan clubs of the Intermountain states that emphasizes team building and leadership in an exciting, fun, and meaningful format. Our seminar is an opportunity for high school students to learn more about topics relevant to today’s youth through interactive discussion groups led by professionals. We also provide recreational activities including a dance, talent show, and awesome games.

Why should you attend Youth Seminar? – It is a powerful experience that you will never forget. It also may inspire you to achieve your dreams or overcome barriers. At the very least you will meet new people, learn more about yourself and have fun. Certainly, you will leave with a phenomenal feeling having created and shared many special memories.

What about meals and housing? – Beginning with dinner on Monday, June 6, through lunch on Friday, June 10, 2011 all meals are served by University Food Services. Breakfast includes eggs, waffle bar, potatoes, cereals, juices, and milk. Hot sandwiches and a deli bar along with vegetable and side dishes are served for lunch. Dinners consist of two entrée selections, side dishes, and bread. Traditional double occupancy dormitory rooms are assigned to everyone. The senior staff determines roommate selections. All students are assigned to share a room with someone from a different high school. Thursday night activities include a formal dinner, talent show, and dance.

Why does Civitan sponsor Youth Seminar? – The Adult and Junior Civitan clubs recognize that many challenges face the youth of today and more importantly that the future of America lies in the strength of our youth. Our pledge is to provide students with an opportunity for personal growth and development. Leading our Seminar are session leaders, our senior staff, and most notably our Junior Counselors (JCs). The JCs are chosen from last year’s attendees. They are peer leaders devoted to assuring that Youth Seminar is successful and fun for everyone.

I dropped her off and she looked like a deer in the headlights, she was scared, but there were a few girls that she has been on group dates with so she at least knew someone. She called last night and said her roommate was nice and was having a good time. The weather is really, really crappy this week and all the activities were planned for outside.I have not heard from her today, but it is a bonus she hasn't called me to come get her. Hopefully this seminar will allow her to overcome the obstacles she is facing now and be the self-confident person I know she is!