Next, forget about the Oprah and all the other publicity/TV stuff for now, that is stuff is strictly entertainment, and for every hard luck story that gets covered, there are literally thousands that donÕt--you canÕt afford to invest time in long shot stuff when there is other, necessary work to be done--
Next, follow up with your congressman and Senators, make phone contact with the person from their office that responded to you, and keep them up to date on what is happening--donÕt expect too much, too fast, from them--but keep in mind that, when you have all your ducks in a row, a letter or other inquiry from them can make the difference--
Next, go back and read every letter that everyone sent to you--there may be some information or offers of help that you missed on the first reading--
Next, hunker down and get ready for the long haul, because these things often take a while to resolve--get your daughter into the programs that she needs and is entitled to for her special needs--and forget this kind of thinking:
ÒRussell's continued absence is likely to be so devastating to Jessica that she will be institutionalized where she would be cared for by strangers, and not her parents. The effect of this would be permanent, and it would certainly seal her fate.Ó
It isnÕt true, and it isnÕt going to happen unless you make it happen--I know the situation is difficult, and not the one that you want, but kids have a greater capacity to adjust to difficult situations than we give them credit for (they are actually a lot better at it than adults)--just hand in there yourself, and sheÕll be right there with you--
And, by the way, donÕt let the fact that nothing has happened yet discourage you--the wheels move very slowly, but eventually, they move, and in time, you will win---