Hi,

  I was a toddler of the 50's, and my parents, although cognizant of the
importance of physical therapy to promote ambulation, were of the mind that
communication skills were the most important. I learned to read, write and type
well before walking efficiently.

  As we with cerebral palsy age, some of us are experience premature burnout;
this, because of the rigorous therapy we underwent as children. To counter the
adverse effects, many of us have returned to a more passive regimen of therapy -
gentle limb manipulation and massage. I believe that various insurance companies
or medicaid, as is the case for many, should support the costs of these and
similar services for the adult cp'er. Overall, in financing or subsidizing the
cost of a return to a limited therapy, we are ensured a healthier life and
ultimately less of a tax on the health care system in the end.

  The doctors here in New Brunswick are currently on strike, and ER waits are up
to 5 hours. I'd better not get a cold :)

  I have to agree with you, Michael ... walking is highly over-rated :) People are
far too fixated on the packaging and not on what's inside :)

  Sliding off my soap box now ..

Cheers!

Carla
http://www.brunnet.net/terrier

"Michael H. Collis" wrote:

> Like I said, Communication, not walking, is the most important thing.  Walking
> is vastly overrated.
> Mike
>
> "Bobby G. Greer" wrote:
>
> >
> > Parents should be aware of how important communication skills are for the
> > child. Many parents, especially parents of young CP's, put an emphasis on
> > walking. They do not realize that language development and communication
> > skills are the basis of social development and intelligence as well as being
> > most important in developing work skills.
> >
> > Good Luck on your presentation.
> >
> > Bobby Greer