Report back from the Occupational Therapist

It is unbelievable to think that the year is almost over and as I look back on 2011, I am honestly amazed at what my little ones have been able to achieve this year. It is so easy to be proud of them and the love I have for each one grows more and more every time I work with them. From my little 6 year olds going to school all the way in George, which is an hour away, to my really little ones learning to crawl and ALMOST learning to walk! Then there are my brave little ones who have undergone major surgeries this year and yet when you go and visit them, their smiles lead you to believe that nothing ever happened. My case load has increased to 25 children. Therapy ranges from child to child as each child is different and unique and so are their needs. Therapy is done either- twice a week, once a week, every second week or once a month. At the moment all therapy is done at each child’s home which has its pro’s and con’s. Working for an NGO means that I often do ‘things’ I wouldn’t normal have to do as an OT, like handle petty cash!!! But I really do believe that it makes me a better therapist because I learn to truly advocate and support each child and in turn each family completely. There are definitely challenges which are tricky to overcome but when I’m working (playing) with one of my little ones a  parent looks me in the eyes and from the bottom of their heart, thanks me for the little things I do- I can hardly call my work a job. I look forward to the milestones my children will achieve, despite their disabilities and special needs, proving always that they are strong, determined and happy and through that they continuously teach and remind me that life is beautiful!