By MAELEI CASLER
Sheridan High School Student
This column is brought to readers by Sheridan High School dual-credit program students and Human Services teacher Abby Williams.
As a senior in high school, I am often asked about my future plans. I will be attending Purdue University to achieve a Bachelor’s degree in Special Education: Mild and Intense Intervention (K-6). To prepare myself for this journey to college, I attend school part time and have an internship at Monon Trail Elementary School (MTES) in the Life Skills classrooms.
Photo provided
At MTES, I have learned about many different disabilities, genetic conditions, and other learning factors. Some of the conditions I have learned about are Down Syndrome, Guillain-Barre Syndrome, Autism, and Cerebral Palsy. Additionally, I have been a babysitter for three years and really enjoy it. I have babysat for multiple kids aged 0 to 12, but one kid stands out: my best friend Ian, a five-year-old boy with Cerebral Palsy.
Mayo Clinic defines Cerebral Palsy (CP) as “a congenital disorder of movement, muscle tone, or posture.” Common symptoms of Cerebral Palsy are floppy or rigid limbs, swallowing problems, lack of muscle coordination, learning disabilities, and drooling. Every person with Cerebral Palsy experiences different combinations of symptoms, and no two people are the same. Some people with CP can walk unassisted while others may need help or use a wheelchair. Some people with CP can talk, while other people can’t.
Ian uses a wheelchair, walks with assistance, and walks with a gait trainer. Ian cannot talk verbally but uses an augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) device. Despite these challenges, he is one of the happiest kids I know, and I enjoy every moment with him. I have learned so many things about Cerebral Palsy that will be super helpful when I become a teacher.
Ian loves to be outdoors and go on walks. He is a super outgoing kid and we always stop to wave at people on our walks. He also loves going to the store, especially Target. He always says hi to the cashier and sometimes asks, “how is your day?”
I am so grateful that Ian has become a part of my life as he shows me to live with joy each day. One of Ian’s favorite activities is dancing to music from the movie Frozen 2, which is just us spinning around in circles while I loudly and dramatically reenact the characters singing. He thinks it is the funniest thing ever! Since I started taking care of Ian, I have felt so much more joy in my life. Ian and I are always laughing and I wouldn’t trade it for the world.