People are classified with a range of forms of cerebral palsy and each form is graded in terms of severity.
One thing is very important to us. We don't want to see Dexter as 'just' his cerebral palsy diagnosis. We don't want those medical terms to tell us what Dexter can and can't do.
We've found that some professionals have read Dexter's classifications and made assumptions about what he can do, based on his diagnosis. This sets limits on him. Typically, they underestimate Dexter, because of his classifications. They act as though they don't believe us, when we mention things he can do.
Dexter hears their doubt and stops trying to show what he can do.
(Dexter also hates to 'perform' for other people and we are teaching him that this is a good form of showing off; that he is showing how clever he is.)
Instead of letting classifications tell us what someone can do, we should let the person show us what they can do.
Dexter's best therapists are the ones who believe in Dexter and continue to raise their expectations of what he can do.
During Cerebral Palsy Awareness Month, we have shared many posts in an attempt to raise awareness of life with cerebral palsy.
We'd like to say this:
Please see the person first, See their strengths and effort. See their ability. See their character and personality. Understand their disability, and how much they work, but don't ever set limits on what they can do.
With the right support and a positive environment, who knows what can be achieved. Science is amazing and technological advancements are making so many more things possible. Equipment is being designed and being inclusive is more and more possible.
This is the video we made, to help people understand Dexter's medical history and his cerebral palsy. This is the long video - just under 18 minutes.
If you haven't watched it, grab a drink and get comfortable.
The last five years have been full of adventures; some good and some a little scary.
Thanks for believing in Dexter.