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| Letter to Doctors Dear Doctors, For a parent of a child receiving a diagnosis of ADHD, the diagnosis can bring about an entire range of emotions - denial, fear, confusion, and in some case, relief. In the first few days and weeks following a diagnosis, sorting through these feelings can be difficult; and it is important for people to know they aren’t alone. This is where we can help. The Centre for ADHD Awareness, Canada, (CADDAC) is a national not for profit organization providing leadership in education and advocacy for those living with ADHD. As parents of children with ADHD and professionals who work in the field of ADHD, we understand the lack of services and resources available to parents of children with ADHD. In recognition of this problem, CADDAC dedicates much of its time to help lighten the load for parents by offering an easily accessible source of information and support via our website: www.caddac.ca, providing information for parents, children, adolescents, adults and educators. What sets our site apart is how we deliver the information, giving parents with the tools they need to become an advocate for their child. We provide them with information about what to look for in a proper medical and psychological assessment, help them navigate through the education system, and let them know what is happening on the political front. The site also offers information on possible financial aid and a list of ADHD support groups, coaches and tutors across the country. Most importantly, however, we offer parents a way to connect with other parents of ADHD children. Our website includes a section for physicians, and I encourage you to access our “Request for Accommodations” template letters. These templates can be easily downloaded as a word document and used to request educational accommodations for your patients. You can customize these letters by adding appropriate information on your findings and testing procedures, and choosing the accommodations your patient requires. There are two templates, one for your patients in elementary and high school and another for those entering or currently in postsecondary institutions. We know that a diagnosis of ADHD can be overwhelming, both for the parents as well as frustrated physicians who have limited access to good resources. We also know that this disorder is not something that simply gets better, or goes away after a few years. It is a lifetime challenge, and CADDAC believes that offering support to parents as early as possible is the first step to helping them understand and accept ADHD. Please help us help those touched by ADHD by circulating the attached letter to parents at the time of diagnosis. Together we can make a difference in the lives of your patients and their families. Thank you,  Heidi Bernhardt National Director CADDAC |