Fifty years ago in Puerto Rico a 33 year old American Lieutenant and his 40 year old island beauty begot a little boy with Spastic CP, with hemiplegia. He was exercised, pushed, embarassed, deprived and beaten through a College degree in Physics. The boy got married, had two children, retired, and now sits at home broken and in pain because his most powerful tool for making it was always satisfying others and playing the role. Now, he sits alone in pain from years of physical abuse to his body from pushing too hard, wondering if parents have the right to demand so much. On the other hand, would there have been anything to look back on if they hadn’t pushed?
For more detail, to chat, or to add your view on the role of parents, contact the author at aneill@smart.net
This article submitted by Art Neill on 8/7/96
A Speech Pathologist has expertise in treating swallowing disorders. I would recommend that you check with your local hospital for one. They would be able to make recommendations regarding position changes, or diet changes to make swallowing easier for you. Good Luck!
Swallowing for me is sometimes difficult and embarrassing. I’m a 29 year old male with Cerebral Palsy. I sometimes have a real hard time swallowing, and this can be anything from meat to a small pill, and in all kinds of situations; from at home, alone, to out at restaurants (real embarrassing, especially on a date). Is this just a fact of life of having CP or can something be done about this?
Any help is great. Rob Tittle (rtittle@pacbell.com)
I have an 8 year old daughter that was 2 months premature and on oxygen for over a month. She was diagnosed with Spacic Depligia Double Hemiplegia. I can relate to the pushing too hard because sometimes I feel that I am pushing her too hard. I also know from past experience with her that if I didn’t push she would not have progressed at the rate she has.
She is currently in a Catholic school and has been mainstreamed since 3 years old. She had heel cord and hamstring lengthenings on July 2. She had her cast completly removed 3 days ago. I can see the difference and she wants to get better. She pushes herself to try new things and excercises herself. I don’t know if I am hurting but I do know that physically I am helping. I hope that when she grows up she realizes that it was my job to get the best out of her. Isn’t that what all parents want for their children????