Mayella’s story

Hello! I am Mayella and I’m 8 years old.

I’m told I am very special. I love playing, school and days out. My difference is that I have cerebral palsy, lung problems and growth problems. This all makes the things other children do a bit tricky for me.

“My Mummy and Daddy have told me that I have these problems because I was born very, very, very early and was so poorly the doctors thought I would not make it a few times. It has been difficult and I’ve given my parents lots to worry about!”

I was in hospital for a long time when I was born and I’ve had the odd trip to one since. I have to see lots of different doctors, nurses, physios and therapists at lots of different hospitals. Some I like and some I don’t! I’ve had different operations and lots of tests to see what’s wrong with me.­­­

“I try to be like everyone else, but it can be quite hard. I get upset and angry when I can’t do something and have to miss out or have to do things differently. I know that I have difficulties but it frustrates me that my difficulties stop me from being where I want to be.”

I go to a super special place called the Bobath Centre. They’ve done a lot for me. They have helped my left arm go from being my bad arm to my cheeky hand! I can help Mummy and Daddy with getting me dressed now, and can roll over and sit much better.

When I saw my physio in January, she asked me what I wanted to be able to do. I said I wanted to wash myself, and do a bit of standing. I told Mummy I really wanted to walk but I know I can’t because lots of doctors and people have said I can’t ever walk, I told Mummy and Daddy it was ok because I have my powered wheelchair.

When I went to the Bobath Centre they got me up on my feet with their walking frames and treadmill. I was so happy and they didn’t even know what I had said to Mummy and Daddy. They said I do have the potential to walk! The Bobath Centre have since then worked lots and lots on my walking. They surprised me with my very own special blue walking frame. I love my walker and I love walking.

“My legs make me happy now.”