Worry

As I began researching hydrocephalus more, I became increasingly worried about the diagnosis. Everything I read showed that the prognosis for an individual diagnosed with hydrocephalus could range from fantastic to grim. That it was not unheard of for someone to live a full and happy life with hydrocephalus, and just as likely that major brain damage could occur in utero and an individual could have difficulty with motor skills and could experience from mild to severe mental retardation.

While I knew that no matter what the outcome was I would love my child unconditionally, it took some time to get used to. This wasn't the story I had written for myself and I was terrified. What surprised me even more was that I was so worried that this diagnosis would lead to a more difficult life for my son. Even though it's cliché to say, every parent truly wishes for a better life for their child than they've led themselves. I just wanted my son to live a worry-free and uncomplicated life. This wish suddenly seemed to potentially be threatened.

What my worry motivated me to do was get involved and learn. I sought out the Hydrocephalus Association and started researching on their website. I looked up the local chapter of the Association and followed their Facebook page. I joined an online forum for parents of children with hydrocephalus and I started researching on medical websites about the disorder. If my child had to live with this, the best thing I could do for him as his parent is to be prepared to help him overcome any obstacles that might stand in his way.