Pregnancy and childbirth is a beautiful thing, and while many children are born healthy and strong every single day, there are many who experience complications during delivery that can lead to birth injuries, which leaves the newly born child open to a slew of issues as they grow older. If you are a parent of a child who experienced a birth injury and as a result received a diagnosis of Cerebral Palsy, Erb’s Palsy, or another debilitating condition, you are not alone; and we have advice to help you cope.
Breathe
Conditions caused as a result of a birth injury are widely varied in severity. The words, “Your child has Cerebral Palsy” are not a death sentence for you, or your child. There are plenty of children who grow up to be highly productive members of society, with few issues. The children who fall into a special needs category will need a bit more help from caregivers and medical professionals, but this does not have to reduce their overall quality of life. You and your child will be okay!
Don’t panic.
It’s perfectly normal to have an array of emotions. Let yourself take time to feel and work through each one. Join a Support Group If you are having trouble coping with the news, find other parents and children in situations like yours. Get together and share stresses, tips, and other information to help each other get through daily life. You may know of a resource another parent in your shoes needs, but isn’t aware of. Talking to friends and family can help, yes, but talking to others who understand what you are going through can provide a different sense of comfort.
Get Involved
There are many organizations dedicated to the betterment of children with these conditions, as well as researching and finding ways to prevent and possibly cure them. Get out there and get involved to spread the word and improve education. The most important thing to remember is that you are your child’s number one advocate, and that child is beautiful no matter what. Feel no guilt. Things are how they are supposed to be, and it will all work out.