What is a Myth? A myth by definition is, "A widely held but false belief or idea" (Oxford Languages) Are you a Special Needs Parent or family member? If you are then you will know exactly what I'm going to discuss today. Myths. Things people think they understand about you and your family but are completely wrong. Do you try to correct people's inaccurate statements or beliefs? If not, it's ok because this is what I'm aiming to do with this blog post.
MYTH #1
Parents must have everything under control since they make taking care of a special needs child look so easy when they are out of the home.
When a parent of a special needs child leaves the house they have many bags with medicines and supplies, equipment, a stroller and or wheelchair and backups of everything!! It all looks so organized and it is for the most part. But this takes a lot of planning, ordering, restocking and remembering. These parents have to constantly be thinking or what their child needs now and for the amount of time their child will be out of the home. They must be able to prepare for any unforeseen emergency as well. It may look easy but it actually takes a lot of work.
MYTH #2
The families know everything about all of the community support, medical help and resources that are available for their household.
Since some parents may have home nursing, physical therapy, occupational therapy or even speech therapy. People may think that they know about every resource available to them. I'm speaking to everyone here. The medical profession, social workers, other special needs parents or anyone who may have heard of services for special needs children. Don't assume that these parents know everything. There are so many programs and resources that become available every day. Never be afraid to give out any information that you may know or have heard of somewhere. It might just be what a family needs or has needed for a long time.
MYTH #3
Children with special needs can't improve their situations or get healthier.
Most people don't understand the many different diagnoses of children who are medically fragile or have special needs. There are so many genetic diseases that the general public just has never heard of in their lifetime. These children have various communication skills. But because people may not understand how they communicate they may not realize just how smart special needs children can be. Even with the limitations of physical and mental disabilities. There are so many surgeries and therapies that have made miracles happen for special needs families. Special needs children shock people every day with how much they can overcome.
People deal with myths on so many topics every day. But for special needs parents it can be more frustrating. It helps to be open and honest about struggles and triumphs. I think it would be great for the general public to become more educated on medically fragile and special needs children. This is what I hope to have partly achieved with this blog post.
If you are a parent or family member of a child who is medically fragile or has special needs I'd appreciate the opportunity to help you break these myths. I have also developed a program centered around the Life Balance Wheel. I would be honored to help you and your family find more balance in your life. Please email or message me for a free 30min Consultation Call to see if there is any way I can be of service to you and your family.
Your Nurse Life Coach,
Nadege
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