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May Edition eSpecially Parents: Donna's Story

Hi,
 
I'd like to introduce you to Ben and tell you a few things about him.  He's a very happy child, nonverbal but makes lots of sounds to express his likes and dislikes.  We are continuously working on weight baring and strengthening his upper body.
 
A typical day for us is to wake up around 6am in order for Ben to ride the van to school.  I pick him up close to 2pm everyday, unless he has therapy, because he doesn't have much energy after 12:30pm.  I found that if I push his body too much, it weakens his immune system and he becomes sick.  Common sense really helps during times like these.
 
Once he's home, I keep him out of his wheelchair as much as possible and we play.  It's really physical therapy, but he thinks it's play time.  Good.  If he's too sick to lay on the floor because he has lots of drainage issues, I'll take him for a ride in the car.  He loves 18 wheelers, singing, people who talk loud, and going through the drive thru.  Even if it's only for a sweet tea.  I pretend I'm ordering for him.  He laughs so hard his body bounces.  It's hilarious.
 
Them comes his favorite part of the day, bath time.  OMG!  When I say favorite, I mean it. As soon as he hears the bath water running he starts squealing and kicking.  Once he's in the tub he makes sure there's more water on the floor than in the tub from kicking and splashing.  It's okay though, I figure it's the only thing he's been able to control all day.  Go Ben!
 
After his bath and a busy day, he's down for the count.  If he can start off sleeping on his belly, then he's out like a light.  If not, he'll hum a few courses of whatever he's singing then falls asleep.  He sleeps alone.  Always has.  I didn't want to start something I'd had have to undo later. 
 
Most of my friends are surprised, but if he were typical, I would have done the same thing. I have a monitor in my room and check on him often.  They are more than welcome to sleep with him and get a good nights rest.  Yeah, right.
 
That's my Ben in all his splendor.  He's awesome and I wouldn't change anything about him.  Need I say he's the love of my life?
 
Have an awesome week everyone and be blessed many times over.
 
 
eSpecially Parents is a monthly series featuring nine moms with amazing stories to tell. To catchup, read more here. 
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