[livingwith]

I am 15 years old and I am currently going to high school, where I often help to take care of a boy named nathan who has ataxic (I think) cerebral palsy. He has a very wide gait, limited speech, and motor skills, and has very little muscle mass in his legs and arms. Nathan for some unknown reason *really* likes teeth, and weird noises.
I usually help him eat his lunch, walk around the school with him, or just simply keep an eye on him. Although the special ed. teachers at my school are all very...Read the full article

[Sylvee]

I am really impressed and encouraged by your story. My son has CP. He's only 4 so, no, he's not in high school, of course. But he'll be starting school very soon. And it's really nice that you're so supportive of your friend. I hope that my son will have the same support. My son has a slight 'stubborn' streak inside of him, which can be frustrating at times when trying to teach him something new. So, I understand completely where you're coming from. My son has been getting therapy since he was a few months old. So, we've always been in contact with therapist and the like. Whenever we have questions or concerns, I call one of them. I don't know what kind of therapies your friend is receiving, but I would imagine that you could talk to one of his therapists (or any therapist, even if they aren't working with your friend). If you're in class when they are available, just write a note to one or more of them and leave your email or phone number where you can be reached. But they should be more than happy to give you some ideas. I don't know if you are going to college, but if you are, you should really consider (if you haven't already) going to become a therapist yourself. (Physical Therapist/Occupational Therapist, Speech Pathologist, etc.) That's what I'm planning to do, just because I feel that once I have educated myself in this area, I can help my son so much more. I think you have a really good heart and you would be really useful in this field. Good Luck! And tell you friend I said hi, and as I do with everyone with special needs, I'll keep you two in my prayers.