My twin Cassidy Hope has cerebral palsy. What does that mean? When was she diagnosed? Did/does it affect me because we are twins? These are all examples of questions that my family and I get on a daily basis.
At three months of age Cassidy was seen by a neurologist and my parents were told only that she had brain calcifications which would significantly impede her mobility and her speech. In search of answers my parents Explored therapeutic options and input from numerous doctors. It was our wonderful pediatrician That told my parents to overstimulate with every possible therapeutic option and activity out there. My parents followed this advice to the letter pursuing every available therapy and activity and continue to do so to this day.
Cassidy was not officially diagnosed with cerebral palsy until age 2 years by her Physiatrist, A Doctor specializing in physical medicine and rehab, treating the musculoskeletal system.
Cerebral pPalsy is a neurological disorder that hinders the brain and nervous system. It affects body movement, balance/coordination, speech patterns, learning and thinking abilities. Cassidy is considered a right hemi. Cassidy is affected on her right side. The calcifications on the left side of her brain affect the function of the right side of her body.
Many of the therapies that Cassidy has received over the years include physical therapy, Hyperbaric oxygen therapy, aqua therapy, therapeutic horseback riding, speech therapy, biofeedback, music therapy and art therapy. Cassidy also had eye muscle surgeries and a heel cord lengthening. In elementary school Cassidy and I participated in soccer and dance class together. We always included Cassidy in typical activities whenever possible. In school she was able to remain in regular classes with some academic modifications and a unique aid through high school. One of the most memorable experiences my family and I have is watching Cassidy walk across the stage to receive her diploma!
Cassidy was not able to attend college but she completed a vocational program for four years after High School. This program taught her daily independent living skills. She learned to write a résumé, go on job interviews and received Hands on job experience.
Cassidy now works for Home Depot 20 hours a week. She has a job coach that checks in on her monthly. Cassidy is very well respected at her workplace and treated like an equal. Cassidy continues her extracurricular activities to this day she receives physical therapy participates in special Olympic swimming and bowling and rides competitively for Equine Assisted Therapies of South Florida.
Cassidy and I are fraternal twins. Growing up together I went through all the ups and downs with Cassidy. I was with her at every doctor appointment and every therapy appointment even before I understood the challenges she faced. Over the years I’ve watched her perform all of her therapies and I’ve celebrated all her accomplishments. In high school and on my summer breaks from college I would volunteer at many of her extracurricular activities and sporting events. I found my passion and my career path through my twin sister. She is the ultimate reason why I do what I do she is the reason why I majored in exercise science and occupational therapy, why I got my certifications in yoga and why I started my business Yogabilityfit. My twin sister Cassidy is not only my sister but she is my best friend and my hero.
