Connecting With Your Son
It is very
hard to come to terms with the diagnosis of BMD in your family. It is likely
that your son, your family, friends and support system will have questions.
Tips for interacting with your son, family and friends
about BMD.
Although there is no right or wrong way to deal
with these interactions, the experts recommend the following:
·
When a child asks questions about BMD, answer them as
honestly as you can, in terms that will be easy for them to understand.
·
Never forget that your son is an individual, made up of
more than just a BMD diagnosis.
·
Do not blame yourself. The fact that your son has been
diagnosed with BMD is not your fault.
·
Lay heavy emphasis on activities and hobbies that the child
can do and encourage him to do the things he wants to do. Children with BMD
often find creative and alternate ways to participate in activities they're
interested in.
·
Treat your child the same as you would your other children,
by providing love, support, discipline, responsibility and love (it bears
mentioning twice).
·
Encourage him to maintain a level of independence by not
overprotecting him.
·
Create an open forum for discussions within your family so
no one is afraid to ask questions or talk about what's on their mind.
·
Plan family vacations and other normal and healthy family
activities. Remember 'where there's a will there's a way': you can do just
about anything.
·
Exercise patience when dealing with family issues related
to the disorder and respect one another's way of coping with these issues.
·
Try to break up the responsibilities of caring for your son
so you have some time for yourself.
·
Live for the day by not letting the future control your
lives.
·
Rely on friends, family and your support system. That's
what they're there for and they want to help. Realize that you are not alone in
this.
·
Don't be too hard on yourself. You should give yourself credit for being able to handle things as well as you do.
·
There
will be good days and bad days. Enjoy the good while it's happening and deal
with the bad as it comes up.
Carrie