Pillow angel
March 12, 2008 by Abhishek
A poignant report about Ashley, the severely disabled child whose parents made the decision a year ago to keep her forever small in order to facilitate her care.
Her parents, who obviously love her deeply, took a decision that must have been very difficult, but in their eyes, correct. The issue of consent is irrelevant because Ashley’s mental development is equal to that of a six-month-old baby and she cannot talk. She will need the same amount of care her entire life and the two people giving it will be her parents. That is why I have no sympathy - or respect - for those who sit far away today and criticize them.
I agree - here’s my blog about it.
http://jessica1187.blogspot.com/
I’m raising a similarly disabled child, who is only 35 lbs at age 4. I’m 53 and constantly lifting, carrying and repositioning his weight is causing me excrutiating pain. There are no provisions in our country for adequate respite and personal care helpers. To criticise the only caretakers who really love and understand a child, for doing what enables them to continue providing her with that care is insane! They are her sole source of happiness, comfort and entertainment. Let those who judge them provide personal care, or forever hold their peace.
I disagree.
At age 6, the parents did not know if their child would always remain like that.
Medical technology is progressing so fast, what if in another 10 years there is a better option available for those with palsy?
I have seen a cousin suffer and succumb to the disease, and yes, it would have been easier to care for him had he been 4 feet 5 instead of 6 feet 2, but then is the easier option always the best option?