Cerebral Palsy and the Meaning of Unconditional Love
This week’s featured caregiver story was written by Maribel G., who shares the rewards of caring for her son with Cerebral Palsy.
“The little things in life took on a whole new meaning when my son was born. The everyday things became foggy and our new way of life was a path to the unknown. My little one who I will call “V” was born unresponsive and took over 30 minutes to be brought back to life. With our entire future ahead of us and the love and strength of a caring family we pushed on. Our final diagnosis was given when my son was 1 week old. He suffered encephalopathy due to the lack of oxygen to the brain, Cerebral Palsy. We knew nothing about his condition or what it was to care for a special needs child.
My son is now 5 years old and my hope and belief that he would do more than the doctors had expected never fades away. The ultimate reward I have received from being my son’s caregiver is the ability to witness the Unbelievable. V was a fighter from the start. He pushes himself harder than any child I know. Where he lacks in mobility and function, he makes up for in drive, determination and pure will to please. V undergoes various sessions of therapy a week. His progress is slow and cannot be seen by many. I get to be one of the lucky few to witness “the little things” that are accomplished through his hard work and dedication.
Among the great things I have witnessed the most special has been a simple cry and a magical laugh that fills a quiet room and is contagious. When V was born he made no sound, it was not until a month later we heard the sound, the most greatest sound of all, his cry. We were gifted the first glance of a smile on his first Easter Sunday when he was 5 months old.
Time and time again I see the changes as he grows and the progress that he makes. I never knew the amount of love, passion and determination one person could have until I was blessed to be V’s mother. My son has forever changed the way I feel and the way I think. He has taught me what is really important in life. He shows and teaches me unconditional love and to not take things for granted. He has taught me to forget my own needs and desires and dreams, and gives me the gift of giving.
Most of all he has taught me to have hope…HOPE that will surpass all obstacles and odds.
V, I am forever grateful for the opportunity to be your mother and lucky to know the meaning of true unconditional love.”
Cerebral Palsy Resources for Parents:
Shield HealthCare recommends the UCP website for helpful resources and insight.
