Mason is 4 years-old. His mother, Fiona, reflects on their journey navigating through his diagnosis and early childhood.
“Mason spent five weeks in the NICU,” she says. “He was born with breathing difficulties and experienced seizures shortly after birth. The doctors suspected he had suffered from a lack of oxygen just before delivery.” Despite these early struggles, Mason showed resilience, responding well to treatments over the weeks that followed.
By July 2021, Mason was formally diagnosed with cerebral palsy. While the diagnosis confirmed their concerns, Fiona reflects on the clarity it brought: “Having a name for it helped us move forward. We could begin to explain Mason’s condition and start seeking support.”
Early Intervention and the Power of Community
The early months were marked by both challenges and milestones. The COVID-19 pandemic meant that many of Mason’s therapies, such as physiotherapy and speech and language sessions, began online. Fiona describes these as a lifeline during a difficult time. When Mason turned 18 months old, Fiona started exploring private therapy options alongside NHS support. This led her to C Potential, a nearby therapy centre that offered more intensive and tailored interventions. “C Potential not only provided therapy but also created a sense of community,” Fiona says. “We met other families, joined parent groups, and attended activities that made us feel supported.”
Navigating a Non-Verbal World
One of the unique challenges Mason faces is being non-verbal. Fiona shares that this has shaped how people interact with him. “Children are often better at adapting—they include him, show him what to do, and communicate in ways that work for him,” she says. Adults, on the other hand, sometimes struggle. “They don’t always know how to interact with him, and I often find myself stepping in to translate or explain.”
Despite these challenges, Mason is thriving. He attends nursery, where he has made friends and participates fully in activities, supported by his EHCP (Education, Health, and Care Plan).
Lessons in Resilience
When asked what advice she would give to other parents, Fiona emphasizes the importance of balance. “Early intervention is critical, but it’s just as important to let your child enjoy being a child,” she says. “For a while, I was so focused on therapy that Mason missed out on socializing and just having fun. Now, I make sure he has time for both.” She also cautions against comparing yourself to others. “Social media can make you feel like you’re not doing enough, but every family’s situation is different. Do what works for your child and your circumstances.”
Looking Ahead
As Mason grows, Fiona is optimistic yet realistic about the future. One of her biggest concerns is what happens when Mason turns 18. “Government and healthcare support often drop off for adults with cerebral palsy. There’s a huge gap in the system,” she says.
For now, Fiona is taking it one step at a time, focusing on Mason’s present needs and celebrating his milestones.
A Message for Fellow Parents
Reflecting on their journey, Fiona shares a poignant piece of advice: “When Mason was born, his diagnosis felt overwhelming. But as he’s grown, his personality has blossomed, and his diagnosis has become just one part of who he is. He’s a little boy first – his resilience, curiosity, and joy are what define him.”