a condition marked by impaired muscle coordination (spastic paralysis) and/or other disabilities, typically caused by damage to the brain.
This diagnosis was the byproduct of Ian’s hydrocephalus.
Cerebral palsy looks very differently for anyone who suffers with it. It could be as mild as a less functioning hand, or it can put someone in a wheelchair for life.
For the most basic definition, it is the lack of or miscommunication of the brain to the rest of the body. One could say that the brain is less functioning, but I’ve found in observing Ian and talking with others with CP that their brain knows exactly what it wants but their body will not cooperate.
“I want to pick up that pen but I… just… cant”
How frustrating would that be? You are trapped in a broken body.
Cerebral palsy can cause a lack of muscle control; giving the appearance of limited muscle strength. Just slumped over, no posture in the body. Or the muscles can be stiff, in other words spasticity – abnormal muscle tightness due to prolonged muscle contraction. Someone can also have a combination of both.
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I see how hard life is for Ian. Who wanted to live so badly and yet, life is so difficult for him. For months his arms and legs stuck straight out because of his cerebral palsy. At two years old he is just now able to reach out and touch a toy. A simple task of reaching out a hand requires so much concentration; and he may not even be able to complete this task.
And yet he joyfully keeps trying; even though his success rate would discourage us from trying any activity. Ian is exhilarated to achieve even the smallest of goals. And what I have learned from Ian is that people with cerebral palsy may look different, may look incapable, but they are the hardest working and disciplined individuals. Next time you see someone that may walk a little abnormal or hold themselves in an awkward way – see their strength. Be mindful of what that person had to overcome just to have the ability they have. We judge someone’s intelligence by what they physically look like, and it blinds us to see what outstanding character they may have.