The pain experienced by the parents of children with various developmental disabilities like Down syndrome is something that I can only imagine. As a result of their undying love, they are able to love these children so much and sometimes more than a normal child and they still have to face the tremendous odds of struggling daily while administering to the needs of their special child, who may need many hours of therapy and attention. This most parent do while still taking care of the other children and performing their routine task.

It can be seen clearly that these families have an extraordinary courage and strength in showing their care for these children, in ensuring that they are never made to feel isolated or different from persons outside of their family.

The many sacrifices that they have to make from time to time without expressing regret is unbelievable. They don’t appear to miss outings and partings or even going out and having fun, which are some basic things that many persons take for granted. The activities these parents undergo from day to day involves cooking, cleaning and laundry which may be separate from the needs of the child with the developmental disabilities. Their needs may include, being taken to therapy classes, or special schools and various visits to the doctor. While the child is at home, parents always have to keep a close eye on the child, feed him, cuddle him, bathe him and spend many sleepless nights watching, worrying and wondering. It is just unbelievable when you think about the stress that these parents may have to go through having the knowledge that this is the way it will be until the end.

The family’s financial state is also another area that can be greatly affected when giving care to an individual that has developmental disabilities. The expenses that are associated with taking care of these individuals can be very overwhelming when you consider the many extras that the child might need, and in some cases the insurance may not be able to cover them all. In most cases these children suffer from periodic breakdown in their health, which then requires immediate medical attention, causing a greater financial burden on the parents who may be suffering from very limited funds.

Most of the times these parents may find it difficult to request help, because of the fear that may be embarrassed as a result of doing this. Some also believe that it is their problem and it should not be forced on another person, regardless of how close to the family they are. It therefore means that these other persons will now need to understand and try to find ways to help them and without making them feel obligated. IF a couple of friends or relatives were to contribute in an inconspicuous way, I am confident that the parents would appreciate it.

This method of helping can be done in many ways to not make it seem to obvious. Fund raising events could be done by the community, with help being supplied form the clergy and others. Persons could organize to give of themselves in other ways in addition to financially. They could also provide spiritual help or offer to spend some time with the child with the disabilities, so the parents could rest and have a day off. In whatever way the help is supplied, it would help to alleviate some of the burden these parents face.

Author Bio: Brent McNutt enjoys networking with healthcare professionals online. He also likes talking about Urbane Scrubs and Landau Shoes and also likes writing articles about various topics.

Category: Parenting
Keywords: parenting,developmental disabilities,down syndrome