As a parent, you want the absolute best for your children. That’s why it’s completely natural to deal with a mix of emotions after your child is diagnosed with cerebral palsy (CP), such as fear, anxiety, or stress.
In any case, remember that CP affects each person differently, so there is no “one-size-fits-all” approach when it comes to the care of children with this diagnosis. Each family will experience it differently! However, we can offer you 8 tips that can help you and your family cope and move forward = after your child receives a cerebral palsy diagnosis.
Let the Child Be Themselves.
It can be easy to get wrapped up in your child’s physical or mental. Especially as a youngster, it’s important for your child to still have fun and be encouraged to participate in all activities that their siblings or children their age get to do.
Educate the Entire Family.
The whole family should understand what a CP diagnosis means, not just mom and dad. Do your research and break down information to all family members in a way that is easy to understand and answer any questions family members may have, especially siblings.
Always Be an Advocate For Your Child.
As a parent, you are your child’s advocate from day one. This involves supporting them through their endeavors and advocating for what they want, need, and deserve.
Find a Doctor Who Listens and Who You Trust.
Early intervention is crucial to mitigate the symptoms of cerebral palsy and help your child live develop as much as possible. Therefore, one of your top priorities should be finding physical, occupational, speech, or alternative forms of therapy for your child. These people should listen to your concerns and make you and your child feel comfortable and reassured.
Help Them Stay Active.
Your child may not be able to play the same sports or do the same exact activities as their peers, but there are still ways that you can help them stay active and healthy! Aside from ensuring they receive the right forms of physical therapy, you can help them walk (if they are physically able), play, and move as much as they can. Teach them new skills and encourage anything that gets their muscles moving in new ways.
Ask for Help.
Caring for someone with cerebral palsy is hard work and can take a toll on your mental health, your marriage, your job, and your relationships with other people. But, please remember that you don’t have to do it all on your own—it’s okay to ask for help. Having a support system of friends and family around you can take off some of your stress and make you feel less alone. There are also support groups, organizations, and online resources you may benefit from.
Take Care of Yourself.
It’s natural for parents to prioritize their children over their own health, wellbeing, and happiness. But always remember that if you don’t take care of yourself, no one benefits. Ensure that you make time for yourself, even if it’s simply a few minutes each day when you read, work out, meditate, go for a walk, or watch your favorite television show.
Enjoy Every Moment.
Children grow up fast, so ensure that you are making the most of each moment and looking for opportunities to learn from your child and grow with them.
If your child was recently diagnosed with cerebral palsy due to medical malpractice or negligence, you and your family deserve compensation you need to move forward together. You love your child and want the best for them, which may mean getting the compensation necessary to pay for your child’s medical expenses and improve their quality of life.
At The Law Firm of Michael H. Bereston, Inc., our team has been assisting families who have been injured or harmed by negligent doctors or medical providers for over 30 years. Our primary mission is to advocate for justice and a hopeful future for each client that comes through our doors.
Contact our team at (410) 220-6581 to speak with head trial attorney, Michael Bereston, at your earliest convenience. We are located in Annapolis and serve clients in the D.C. area as well as nationwide on a case-by-case basis.