Experience Journal: Growing up with cerebral palsy

Cerebral palsy (CP) is the most common physical disability of childhood. The term CP is an umbrella term for a group of disorders that affect body movement and posture as a result of damage to a baby’s developing brain. There are many causes for CP, but all occur either during pregnancy, birth or shortly after birth. Common causes include differences in brain development, infection or stroke. Oxygen deprivation is accountable for only a small percentage of cases of CP; often, the cause is unknown. Although CP is a lifelong condition that can’t be reversed, children with the diagnosis can lead rich, fulfilling lives with the right medical and surgical management. The Cerebral Palsy Experience Journal, created by the Boston Children’s Hospital Department of Psychiatry and the Cerebral Palsy Program,  represents the collective wisdom of patients and families living with Cerebral Palsy. Children, adolescents, young adults and parents were interviewed about their experiences with cerebral palsy from dealing with others’ questions to coping with physical and emotional challenges. Read their stories in their own words. Dealing with others’ reactions Molly, sister, 11 If they say, “What’s wrong with her,” we’ll say, “Sarah, is something wrong?” And then we’ll say, “She looks fine to us. Thanks for your concern, though.” They get the hint. Stephanie, 14 Cerebral palsy has affected the way people treat me. Kids at s...
Source: Thrive, Children's Hospital Boston - Category: Pediatrics Authors: Tags: Experience Journal Cerebral Palsy Program Source Type: news