Sunday, July 4, 2010

Lately people have started asking about Ryder's Cerebral Palsy...they are also kind of scared to ask....so On Facebook I wrote this...and wanted to post it on here, So people will know that we are ok with you asking us. We are not ashamed or scared about talking about it. So here's the post from facebook....

People also are curious yet scared to ask if Ruby will have cerebral palsy. When they finally get out the question....They are relieved to hear the answer that likely she will not. It is ... not genetic at all....The only reason Ryder has Cerebral Palsy is because he was born 3 1/2 months early. At that point the tiny baby's brain is at high risk for basically a stroke. (the simple explanation).
From being SO premature, Ryder had very severe "brain bleeds" (stroke) on both right and left side of the brain.Permanently damaging major nerves, and connections to the spine, and such.
Due to to the damage on both sides of his brain. Ryder physically is considered Severe Cerebral Palsy.
People wonder what Ryder can do physically??
Ryder can roll side to side and play with toys. He figured out months ago how to scoot around on his back. He scoots everywhere that way! He is getting quick at it too!
Ryder at this time can not sit on his own. His upper trunk control is very weak, due to the brain damage. He is working on it though!
Ryder can walk if someone holds him up. It takes him a while for his brain to telll his little legs and feet to move....but it's a great start!!!
Ryder has special chairs and equipment to help him be more independent. He has wheelchairs, special feeding and activity chairs, bath chairs....etc. that support his head, and body.
Ryder can feed himself. Soon he will get potty trained : )
The big question many fear to ask is if he will walk on his own. We do not know. That is up to his brain and body. The neurologist said maybe in early adulthood.
The best part is that Ryder IS there mentally. Since his physical disability is so severe, the mental part over compensates. He is a brilliant child... Very intelligent.He is a normal 2 going on 3 kiddo...in some cases even smarter. He speaks in full sentences. He can tell you many things...he can tell us when he needs help with this handicaps...
Like "mom help, Im stuck. Help me please"
He has a hard time getting out of corners, or away from a wall...or thru narrow doorways.
He is seriously a SWEET lil' guy. Constantly telling people thank you for helping him out. He always says I love you. He loves to cuddle with anyone.
We are just so blessed to have this amazing kiddo as our child. We are proud of him, and his great example of overcoming so much.

2 comments:

Shiloh McKinnon said...

Perfectly said! I remember people wondering the same thing when we were having Kassidy. Everyone was worried she would have CP too. We LOVE Ryder! He is for sure something special and will make the best big brother!

busch bunch said...

sounds like things are going great. i enjoyed reading that blog very much! and yay for ruby staying put :) love you and missed you this weekend. i hope we can see you next year!