Hi,

I have to say as an adult with CP, I look at the parents as being in the same
boat that I am in. I try to help people find better things and ways to help
their kids with disabilities. People ask me all the time what it was like for
me to grow up with CP.
I can tell them how to explain to others who don't have disabilities what it
is like.

A few parents have asked me for example, how to explain to a group of young
children in nursery, kindergarten level how their child is the same and not
to be so afraid of them. I basically tell them to be honest with them and
tell them that something went wrong at the time their child was a baby that
damaged their brain but that they are just like you. Some kids wear glasses,
others look different, others have different color skin, but we all like the
same things and do the same things.

Yes, I have very strong feelings about certain treatments because I am a
person who has been through a lot and knows what it is like to be on the
"receiving end" of these treatments. So, my basic thing is to help people
prevent a lot of experiences that hurt more than they help for their children
in the long run. Those that appreciate my help, appreciate it. Those that
don't, don't. However, time will tell who is helped by what treatments out
there and those that aren't.

Hey, if I can help a young child avoid a painful experience, GREAT. If not,
fine. At least I am willing to share my experiences and feelings and not hide
behind them and pretend that I don't hurt from what I went through.

Hope this helps,

Dina