Alfredo Said:

Ataxic cerebral palsy and occupational therapy?

We Answered:

If I were in your shoes I would take your case to the school board, it sounds like an OT is needed in your case and could do some good for your daughter. If that fails I would try to get her evaluated by a doc so he can write you a referral to occupational therapy or a note of "medical necessity" and maybe bring that to the school board.

As far as an assessment goes, it would more than likely be a series of tests to see which areas of occupation need to be addressed, and which areas need the most work. Of course, you already listed many of them, but it would have to be documented.

An occupational therapist would generally do active and passive ROM activities, positioning and handling to increase postural tone, and orthotics may be used to increase functional independence. Therapists can also help to educate parents on handling and positioning techniques for their child during routine activities such as sleeping, dressing, feeding, toileting, bathing, and carrying. The book, “Handling the Young Child with Cerebral Palsy at Home,” by Nancie R. Finnie describes in detail many handling techniques that can be utilized during these activities.

I wish I could answer your question deeper, but I am still an occupational therapy student and I do not want to give you any wrong info. Try this site, it contains information on CP and there is a # at the bottom of the page, they may be able to give you some definitive answers on how to get the ball rolling for you. http://www.ucp.org/index.cfm

June Said:

Are online schools a good choice?

We Answered:

Online education is a fairly good option considering that online colleges and universities offer grants, loans etc and you can even transfer previous credits. Online institutions are worthy, speaking from experience. You can find a list of affordable online colleges and universities at http://www.onlineedublog.com/

hope it helps!

Jordan Said:

I want to volunteer somewhere for a year, where do I start the search?

We Answered:

First off, peace corps does not require a degree for all of their volunteer work abroad. I would definitely try them first as they are the largest and most organized organization that places volunteers abroad.

Another resource I found on the internet was the global volunteer network. It appears as though they have positions throughout the world in various trades. Their website address is listed below.

Thomas Said:

I dont even know how to ask this question.?

We Answered:

It sounds like you are suffering from some type of depression or more likely an anxiety disorder which isn't anything to hide or be ashamed about, it is a chemical imbalance in your head. If you say your life is going great but you still feel sad it may be time to go see a psychiatrist about it. You may not need medicine but just a couple of sessions to get to the bottom of what's wrong. Your mental health is just as or more important then your physical health don't neglect it

Joshua Said:

Are there any schools for physically disabled children anywhere in the US?

We Answered:

Matheny
www.Matheny.org ?

There are also day schools---many children are accommodated in the local public school and live at home

Children's Specialized hospital in NJ has a residential componant--the kids are usually bussed to a school for teh day and come back to teh hospital at night

Megan Said:

preoccupational therapy?

We Answered:

It really sounds like you have things under control. Letters of recommendation from both your professors and professionals would be good.

The one thing that you could possible do is a research project. They usually offer them as electives and they look good on transcripts.

Don't get so overloaded that your grades suffer, though.