We Chose This Life

We have a child who has special needs, and we chose this life.  S was adopted at the age of 4, and we knew that he had Cerebral Palsy.  It was a choice we made.  We had a checklist we had to fill out as part of the process.  

What does that mean?

Because we chose this life, we had months to learn about CP.  We had time to talk to professionals and the school to get their input.  We could prepare others for his arrival.  We had doctor’s appointments scheduled for him prior to bringing him home.  

We had to visit S in Bulgaria prior to his adoption being finalized.  This allowed us to see what he could do and take video to bring back to the professionals who were going to work with him. He received PT 5 days/week in his orphanage.  

Even so,

we have pulled every trick out of our bag and then some to parent this child - not because of his disabilities.  He is a strong-willed child!  We have always said if we can channel that energy into him advocating for himself then he will be just fine.  

As S is approaching graduation, we can see that he is there.  He is still strong-willed, but he uses that strong-willed personality to help himself be successful.  Don’t ever tell him that he CAN’T do something.  

Through the years, we have added a few more labels to his medical diagnosis (ADD, Scoliosis, Low Vision). He likes to tell us, “I am the enigma you call S.”  To this I say, “Amen!”  He is an enigma.  He is a very unique shape that society wants to place in a standard shape opening. That doesn’t work!

You will not hear us complain about his disabilities.  Because we knew.  We chose this.  We might complain about his teenage behavior and attitude.  Did we know everything we were getting into?  Absolutely not!  Would we have it any other way?  No!

I will be on the couch with chocolate appreciating all the blessings I have in my life.