The Development
The physical developments and consequences the child
with Progeria faces are foreseeable and inevitable. There is no treatment
for Progeria. Only some of the physical complaints can be alleviated.
The average life expectancy of the children is thirteen years. Approximately
half of the children die before their thirteenth birthday of heart failure
or stroke.
The development of the disease, however, can differ slightly depending
on the individual constitution of the child and his or her environment.
Intelligence and the mental development of the children with 'Progeria'
run completely normally, many are above average intelligence. In schools
they become known as wise pupils eager to learn, and are admired and respected.
The diagnosis of Progeria, as with other fatal child illnesses, is shocking
to the family. Often there is a long period of denial before the families
find the courage to accept this diagnosis and to enjoy their children
with this new 'life with Progeria'.
However, the affected child and his or her family must learn to love each
other in his or her uniqueness and to accept the diagnosis. The child
must learn to persist in spite of all the physical problems and the strange
reactions of others, and to do so cheerfully and with courage.
The child learns what it is like to be loved unconditionally. On account
of their unusual appearance, children with Progeria are often stared at
by those outside of their close circles. The children, their families
and their friends must learn to handle these situations without becoming
upset.
Regarding the thoughtless comments of others, many witty and humorous
reactions are known to have been given by children with Progeria. When
Jason was once asked, when he was going to die, he responded with a smile
and asked the person:
"When are YOU going to die? "
The souls of the children with Progeria are strong and full of
joy and life!
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