What is Mental Retardation

Mental retardation is a term for a pattern of persistently slow learning of basic motor and language skills ("milestones") during childhood, and a significantly below-normal global...

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sibling of mentally challenged girl
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I must say I'm inspired but a bit overwhelmed right now. I am 25 and live at home to help take care of my sisters, one 14 and unruly bc she is the baby and does not get disciplined. The other a 28 yr old girl with cerebral palsy. I feel torn bc I think I should move out, but I know that A LOT of responsibility would fall back on my mother and that my younger sister would not help her enough, but it seems that I'm the only one she relies on for my sister. I just want my own life at times and I'm tired of being the one that everyone comes to for everything. I know my mother is tired too, and another issue is that we just don't have money and don't trust local babysitters out there. I know I'm very blessed but I'm just looking for someone to say that it's okay for me to want my own life I guess. I don't want to move out, but I don't want to be the person everyone throws there crap on as well. My mother never disciplines my little sister and she doesn't help out AT ALL with my sisters. Please give me some guidance bc I know some of you may have been through this before.
Posted on 11/13/07, 07:11 pm
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Reply #1 - 11/14/07  12:20am
" I am the sibling that does it all too. I was lucky. I did get away for college and found a great guy that has been supportive in all the roles that I play for my sister. You do need to get a life. I never thought I would have a life until I met my husband. My mom and I don't use outside people either. We have it easier because my sister is not physically disabled. Your younger sister might do more than you expect if you aren't always there. Sometimes, letting go at least a little and moving on is what is best for everyone. You will be surprised how things fall into place. My older sister called me a martyr. I think it made her feel better about how little she helps out. However, in some ways she was right. I would give up things so Mom could go out but wouldn't expect Mom to give up things for me. At least make more time for yourself on a regular basis. You deserve it!! Hugs and more hugs, Donna "
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Reply #2 - 11/15/07  5:52am
" I agree. You can help and still move out and have a life. I have MS that goes into serious relapses, but do not expect everyone to take over my THREE special needs kids, in fact, I homeschool two of them. Your mom will need to learn to stand up with the rowdy one and there are agencies she can get help for with your CP sister.
Best wishes for YOU,
SUsanNC "
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Reply #3 - 02/03/08  12:29am
" You're an adult and have your own life to live. We all have choices and you can choose to stay or leave. Listem to your inner self for guidance, but I think you already know what you need to do. "
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Reply #4 - 04/12/08  9:27pm
" Mariahalexis, I'm there with you, although in my case it's been my older sister who's now deceased (truly one of the BEST and most God-helped knowledgeable mothers there ever was.), myself, and our mom (78 and counting) who have done 'all' the work when it comes to my nephew with Asperger's and my older brother who is mentally challenged.
Have you thought about contacting the United Cerebral Palsy chapter in or near where you live? Perhaps they might be able to "life some of your burdens" and give all of you a breathier for a while? They might also be able to help with other things such as social programs, employment (various types of employment say perhaps even a 'sheltered' workshop?), and maybe even housing. You could always check the programs out for yourself, just to see what they're about, and if your sister can make the transition, keep an eye out for her to see how things work out for her, once she gets into the program.
Lastly, if not United Cerebral Palsy, there's always the Federation Employment and Guidance Service Organization, or even the Young Adult Institute. Either way I wish you all nothing but the BEST. Please keep us posted on your sister's progress if at all possible? Thanks. "
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