Let's talk about CP...

A very nice lady in our CP group made all of the kids in the group these cute awareness banners. So I wanted to share Blaze's on my blog. March is CP awareness month. 

First, I want to tell you what CP is NOT. It is not a disease or sickness (like I once thought) and no you can't catch it. It is a brain injury. It could happen during pregnancy from an infection (as Blaze's did), during delivery, or shortly after birth. It is a group of disorders that affect the way the body functions and moves. It is one of the most common causes of lasting disability in children. The problems it causes can be from mild to severe.

It wasn't until last month on Feb 29th that we found out the exact kind that he has. On his Medical DX list it was always "CP unspecified". After having a study done at Emory last month, they finally gave us the specific kind that Blaze has. His is the Extrapyramidal type which is nonspastic CP and when you break that down further he has the Ataxic kind. 

Ataxic CP what Does that Mean For My Child?

Ataxic cerebral palsy is rare, occurring in less than 10% of cerebral palsy cases. Those with ataxia have damage to their cerebellum that affects balance and depth perception.

Ataxic children will often have poor coordination and walk unsteadily with a wide-based gait, placing their feet unusually far apart. They have difficulty with quick or precise movements, such as writing or buttoning a shirt. Ataxic CP usually affects all four limbs and the trunk. It is also common to have low muscle tone and difficulty with visual or auditory processing.

 Despite Blaze's CP diagnosis, he is one of the happiest kids that I know. He doesn't let anything hold him back from doing what he wants to do. Yes, it may take him a little longer, but he doesn't let that stop him. Every day he amazes us more. Blaze is for sure one of the most amazing kids that I've ever met. I love my little boy! 

 Trust in the LORD with all thine heart;and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him,and he will direct thy paths. ~Proverbs 3:5-6