I’m Thankful For You: My Mother
(Editor’s Note: This article was provided by Ashley Mohesky and is part of Cooper’s, ‘I’m Thankful For You’ Campaign.)
This November I would like to nominate and honor my mother, Shawnda.
My mother, Shawnda, has been my rock since the day I was born. At birth, I weighed two pounds, ten ounces. I lost oxygen to the cerebellum (part of the brain that controls the muscles), and doctors said I would either be in a vegetative state, or die. I was diagnosed with cerebral palsy (CP) shortly after. My amazing mother knew that she was going to have to raise a child with extensive needs, but that didn’t matter to her. She saw the potential I had in this world, and pushed me to strive in whatever I do.
At three years old, I was put in a program called Preschool Program for Children with Disabilities (PPCD), which is basically special education for children at the preschool age. One day, someone came into my classroom, cracked a joke to my teacher, and I was the only student that laughed. So, the school loaned me a Dynavox to see if I could use it, and I started spelling words immediately. It was then decided that I did not need to be in special education, so I was transferred to general education and excelled ever since.
P.S. Don’t let Cooper attempt to program his device, because I tried that and it had to be sent off for repairs!
I received my associates degree in general studies in 2015, and will graduate in December with my bachelor’s degree in psychology. I will then start graduate school in January in counseling psychology in order to become a counselor. When I chose to go into the counseling field, my mother supported me 100%, and never doubted my capabilities, despite communicating differently. She fought hard to get me the services and technology I needed to be successful in life, and I am forever grateful.
When I am given the opportunity, I give speeches about myself living with cerebral palsy, as well as telling audiences that people with disabilities are just like everyone else, and that we should be treated as such.
I am also in a bowling league for people with disabilities, and I kick ass. Haha!
Cerebral palsy is not easy, but my mom understands my limits and is patient with me. I am glad God chose her to be my mother.
You can still nominate the doctors, therapists, teachers, friends and family that make a difference in your special needs world. Click HERE to learn how!
