Pregnancy, Breastfeeding, and Developmental Disabilities

There is no greater disability in society, than the inability to see a person as more. ~Robert M. Hensel 

Occupational therapy is my first love in health care. When I was in high school, I wanted to be an accountant, just like my father. On Easter Sunday of my junior year, my oldest brother was in a tragic accident, that left him paralyzed. Throughout his recovery, I learned about his physical therapist, who had the charge of helping him to achieve his highest ambulatory abilities. Unfortunately, the prognosis for my brother was grim, and his providers knew early on that he would never walk again. This was a somber reality for our family, including his wife and young children. He then began to tell me about his occupational therapy. I had never heard of occupational therapy. He told me about a woman who helped him to bathe, dress, and use the bathroom independently. I was intrigued by this career, that helped people to be their best selves, in spite of differences; and in a single telephone conversation, I knew that accounting was no longer for me. I pursued the field of occupational therapy, and have loved the many facets of it ever since. 

The easy assumption was that is would specialize in helping those with spinal cord injuries, but my foyer into occupational therapy was working with children with special needs. From neonatal intensive care units (NICU) to early intervention programs, in homes and day cares, to schools and outpatient clinics,15 years later, these children and their families continue to hold a very special place in my heart. I have also worked with adults with developmental differences, in their homes and work places, and I am a witness to the limitless abilities of these individuals. It was as if I were able to get a sneak peek at what was to become of my little patients. 

Photos of Kids Born Prematurely, Now Holding Their Own Baby Pictures 

In the 1970s and 1980s, there was a movement to deinstitutionalize facilities that housed and cared for children and adults with special needs, which laid the foundation for social change, acceptance, accessibility, and supportive legislation. In 1987 President Ronald 
Reagan declared March “Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month.” This proclamation called upon Americans to provide the “encouragement and opportunities” necessary for people with developmental disabilities to reach their potential. 

Today, as a maternal wellness consultant, I still enjoy working with families, either by helping a new mother breastfeed her with special needs, as a lactation counselor, or helping a family adjust to life at home, with this same  child as a postpartum doula. Much love, miracles, and blessings to all of the families, teachers, employers, and individuals  who have the good fortune of being touched by an individual with developmental disabilities.

Pregnancy And Disability 

Children's Books About Inclusion 

Genetic Testing During Pregnancy

Breastfeeding A Child With Special Needs