Nick is the author's first-born child. He was born healthy in 1993. Within days, however, there would be medical complications resulting in brain damage, seizures, medical issues, a diagnosis of cerebral palsy at four months of age, and later, a diagnosis of bi-lateral progressive hearing loss at eight years of age. Nick's parents have been told…

Many parents say that when they are told that their child has some condition, it is almost as shocking as hearing the child had died. Some parents go into a state of grieving because their perception of that child's life is changed dramatically. Their hopes and dreams for their baby being successful in the way that they envisioned success to be…

Accepting the limitations of a child whose life was supposed to be imbued with endless possibilities requires parents to come to terms with expectations of themselves and the world around them. In this article, the author offers some helpful strategies for fostering acceptance and strengthening family relationships: (1) Remember that parenting is…

A cerebral palsied adult recounts his own healthy education into sexuality by his parents and offers parents suggestions, such as making a candid assessment of their own feelings and ideas regarding sexuality. Parents are encouraged to be informative, realistic, open, and affirmative with all children, whether disabled or not. (DB)