The Therapists who Become Family
They say it takes a village to raise a special needs child. Well, our village consists of three very special women.
My son Mason is six years old. He is non-verbal and non-ambulatory.
He was diagnosed with hypotonia, which is low muscle tone, not long after birth. We were in the NICI for 7.5 weeks.
He had surgery at four weeks old for a muscle biopsy and feeding tube placement. He has been thru more in his short six years of life than I have in my whole life.
He’s had surgeries, procedures and tons of blood draws to not even have an actual diagnosis. He’s a fighter and continues to fight every single day!
He’s my fighter!
These three women are very important to Mason and our family.
His Speech Therapist Jeri
She has been with us since Mason was about a year old. She goes above and beyond to help Mason learn to speak and use a communication device.
She’s always there to ask question too and will work after hours to find the answer. She loves her job and her patients.
She has become one of my best friends and apart of our family.
His PTA Jessica
She strives everyday to find ways to help Mason learn to walk independently. She always is researching different ways to help him.
She pushes him and doesn’t let him settle for less than what she knows he can do.
He loves her because as soon as she’s in the room his face lights up. She’ll be an amazing PT one day!
His OTA Kastley
She started working with Mason when she was doing her rotations in school.
She has helped Mason in so many ways to begin to use a utensil correctly and doesn’t let him just settle for being mediocre.
She loves my son like he’s her own and his love for her shows in his smile when you mention her name.
All three of these ladies have laughed with me, cried with me, celebrated every single milestone that we have met even though some of them are past when he should have.
They celebrate birthdays, holidays and even starting Kindergarten with me! They are more than just therapists, they are family!
They say it takes a village to raise a special needs child and these three amazing women are apart of OUR village!
Written by, Felicia Webster
(Editor’s Note: This article was provided by Felicia Webster and is part of Cooper’s, ‘I’m Thankful For You’ Campaign.)
Finding Cooper’s Voice is a safe, humorous, caring and honest place where you can celebrate the unique challenges of parenting a special needs child. Because you’re never alone in the struggles you face. And once you find your people, your allies, your village….all the challenges and struggles will seem just a little bit easier. Welcome to our journey. You can also follow us on Facebook and subscribe to our newsletter.
