Rx For Parenting Today

Pregnant Teenagers

In watching the confirmation hears of Judge Jackson, I was impressed with what an outstanding job she did. In contrast, were people like Senator Marsha Blackburn. She made the statement that 63 million abortions had taken place because of Roe versus Wade. I wonder where she got those figures? I wonder also if she had any idea why those abortions were necessary? Did she understand or care that some were because the mothers or parents could not afford to feed or raise another child, teenagers who had been raped or become pregnant because no one had taught them about where babies came from?  As a pediatrician, I have talked to many high school classes about sex education and have been amazed at what little many girls knew about sex. Some children who are not wanted are given to foster parents to raise and many are abused or treated as servants. Some run away, some commit suicide. I have cared for many pregnant teenagers and know the toll it takes. Only one was not able to get an an abortion and that was because her mother wanted a baby to raise! I do not have a long-term follow-up on that family. I was appalled. Let us hope that Roe versus Wade is never overturned. It would be a disaster.

Babies with Special Needs

It is heartbreaking for parents and family members when an infant is born with a problem, such as spina bifida or cerebral palsy. I have been impressed with the strength that some parents have shown and been dismayed at some who did not want anything to do with a child with a disability. 

One of the first two things that needs to be done is find a physician who is caring and and willing to take on the task of caring for a baby with problems. The doctor who delivers the baby could  have a good suggestion or an agency taht cares for similar babies. Other parents who  have a special needs child can be helpful also.

The second thing that is MOST important is to connect with your state's agency  that handles children with disabilities. Most states can help financially. You can find the state agency on the Internet or a good social worker at the hospital should know this resource.  Even if you have good insurance, you may need some financial help because hospital bills can be very large.

Another work of advice is taht mothers in particular should not spend most of their time at the hospital but be sure they take time for themselves and their own needs. Caring for a baby with a disability can take a great deal out of a person and if a parent does not take care of themselves.

Birthday Celebrations

I know several people who never had a birthday celebration as a child.  One had two parents who were professionals,  another came from a poor family. Others came from middle-class families. Even poor families can  have a celebration without spending a lot of money. Just having  a cupcake and lighting a candle can make a difference.

I think a birthday should be a special day, so the individual knows the family was or is glad they were born. I realize that many pregnancies are not planned, but if you have a child, I firmly believe the parents deserve to give that child the best parenting possible. Yes, there are lots of ways to parent, but a child being abused or ignored is  unacceptable. I have seen far too much abuse and the children being ignored. Also when parents have a great deal of money a birthday celebration can turn into an opportunity for the  parents to show how much money they have. The birthday child can feel the celebration is really not for them but for their parents' friends. Money can do very bad things for parents or it can offer great opportunities.