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To say it’s heartbreaking to learn your child has been diagnosed with cerebral palsy is an understatement. It hits like a truck that materialized out of nowhere and it is, without a sliver of doubt, a painful truth that’s difficult to swallow, let alone to come to terms with. The shock sets in, then the anger and the blaming. But don’t give in. Grit your teeth, clench your fists, and take it one deep breath at a time.
Cerebral Palsy is an incurable condition that is caused by brain trauma or physical injury. It is a condition that greatly impedes a child’s movement, muscle tone, and posture. Signs of Cerebral Palsy can often be detected during infancy up to early preschool years.
There are a plethora of symptoms for this condition and this article lists quite a few of them, if not all. A child who has been diagnosed with Cerebral Palsy is not a lost cause. With proper treatment and care, you can help your child develop the skills needed to function normally. But first:
Acceptance
Caring for a child who has this condition is no easy task. The first thing you need to do is fix is your outlook. The first step is to let go of your guilt and anger. It’s not your fault this happened. It’s a cruel thing to go through, but you have to set those feelings aside and focus on providing the care that your child needs and deserves. There’s no point in pointing fingers at this point.
You also need to accept the fact that you need help. We, humans, are empathic beings. We often rely on others for support, and that’s exactly what you need. Joining a cerebral palsy support group is going to help you a great deal. They are there to answer any questions you may have. They may also keep you updated on any developments in treatment, and well, they’re also there if you just need someone to talk to.
Perseverance
With intensive one-on-one work, you can help lessen the impact of your child’s condition on his or her daily life. Each child has unique needs when it comes to coping with this condition. Work with specialists, from your child’s doctor, to the respite caregiver. Take heed of the areas where your child is deficient and work to improve those areas.
Encouragement
It’s a disheartening thing to find out that you aren’t as physically capable as those around you. And that is exactly what your child could be going through. This can greatly diminish one’s self-esteem. Encourage your child to be gradually independent by rewarding small victories and by letting your child explore the environment. As a parent, it’s so easy to fall into the mistake of being overprotective of your child. Don’t.
These are the core principles of helping your child not only develop, but to learn to enjoy life as well, despite these limitations. It’s not an easy task. But be patient, friend. Steel yourself and your child. Never forget that every child is a blessing and they all deserve to be cared for. Good men don’t shy away from a chance to uplift and nurture.
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This content is sponsored by Costea Lestoc.
Photo: Getty Images