Author: Jessica Grono

I’m a very fortunate person despite having cerebral palsy.  Yes, I cannot walk, do daily tasks or other activities for daily living. But one extremely important and wonderful thing that I can do is to be a mother.  I love my children with all of my heart. From the moment that I found out I was pregnant with my daughter, I felt an instant need to protect, nourish, and take care of her the best possible way I can. I felt the same when I became pregnant with my son. The most incredible thing about being a parent is how…

Today is Jason’s fifth birthday! He is so excited to be five years old.  I remember everything about his birth like it was yesterday, and yet it was five years ago!!!  Jason was born 19 days early for a scheduled c section.  I woke up around one in the morning feeling not so good on February 20. After using the bathroom, I noticed some pain that came and went. I handle pain quite well so I didn’t realize I was actually in labor. I googled my symptoms on my iPad, and the more I read, the more I realized that Jason…

I hope your new year went well. We stayed home this year with the kids.  A few years ago, we went to a hotel party and it was people, unbeknownst to us, who were about 10 to 15 years older than us. We had a blast and one of my favorite experiences.  Last year Jeff had to work so I went dancing with my best friend. After midnight, my husband picked us up and we hung out together. This year was more calm. I helped Laura clean out her room and rearrange it. I’m very happy with the set up now,…

Jason went back to pre k today, and he couldn’t have been more excited. I’m so happy he loves his school. I’ll miss it next year because they are so nice to him and our family.  I hope he has the same positive experience next year. Shawn, my attendant, is sick today.  I knew from just being with her because we are so close.  I even feel bad she had to work today, but I found out after work she went to the doctor and can’t come back to work for at least three days.  Luckily, my other attendant, my…

Laura has always been academically inclined.  She was speaking before she turned one. Often people thought she was much older simply because of her speech development. As a new mom with cerebral palsy, I feared her speech would mimic mine.  However, both my children have very clear speech so I feel happy  about that! I emphasize to Laura that education is the key to many doors in life.  I’m glad she took my advice to heart. She is an avid reader, creative thinker and a perfectionist (which is good, but overwhelming sometimes.) I want her to have as many opportunities…

Holidays are arriving to us once again, and that means parties, decorating and family. Gifts are a big thing during the holidays, and as you make your list, you might have someone who has cerebral palsy to shop for. You might wonder what to give and what would be helpful. I compiled a list of ideas that I hope that someone would like or find of interest. Alexa or Google Home – Now someone who has a very bad speech impediment or difficult to understand might find these devices frustrating. I have a speech impediment, and Alexa doesn’t work perfectly,…

Finally a walking device exists to help parents and caregivers to help walk children with cerebral palsy and other mobility impairments. Walking is such a powerful exercise for children with cerebral palsy because it teaches patterns of walking and numerous other reasons. Especially when you consider the physical action of walking is an excellent way of exercising. The walking device, Firefly Upsee, makes walking the child so much easier and relief on the back of the parent or caregiver. Walking seemed common to me as a child and teenager. I didn’t always enjoy walking, but I knew that walking was…

People make me laugh sometimes about certain rigid rules in their mind. One of which is needing to wear jacket. My son doesn’t like to wear a jacket, and to me, it’s not that big of a deal if he decides. I remember being young and not wanting one and being forced into it.  My late husband and I shared the philosophy that if our children didn’t want to wear them, they will learn either they’re right or wrong in their decision. Now my son is at the age of being able to tell me what he wants and doesn’t. I…

You meet all kinds of people when you have cerebral palsy. Some people aren’t so nice, some make you feel uncomfortable and some are kind. Someone asked me recently what was the kindest thing someone did for me. Immediately, getting my wheelchair accessible van popped in my mind. It is not a secret that I’m a strong believer in God having an ultimate plan. However, the plan isn’t always easy or clear to me and I feel unsure. Sometimes when you least expect it and life looks bleak, something goes absolutely amazing. It can actually change your life forever. Back…

Thanksgiving brings to mind several thoughts. Many think about family, friends, traditions and food. Gratitude keeps us being optimistic. Having cerebral palsy tempts complaints. Despite  having cerebral palsy, there are reasons to be thankful. Give thanks for improved medical knowledge and advances. Medical conditions have improved for babies with disabilities. In the several decades, babies born with disabilities often died due to lack of medicine. Young children have physical, speech and occupational therapy to improve their quality of life. Be thankful for the amazing technology.  Cerebral palsy affects motor skills in both our hands and limbs. Lack of these motor skills…