UCP People: Shelby

Shelby weighed just over a pound when she was born with cerebral palsy. Now at 10 she can use a laptop and write letters.

When Shelby and her twin brother, Shane, were born 11 weeks premature, Shane suffered minimal effects, but Shelby was diagnosed with multiple challenges, including cerebral palsy and multiple epiphysial dysplasia.

Fortunately, Shelby’s mom had worked in UCP’s Family Respite program and knew the family would have a partner in caring for Shelby, who at one point required anywhere from five to 15 trips to therapy each week.

Now Shelby is becoming more and more independent, learning to drive her wheelchair, playing on her own and enjoying playing with hair and make-up.

“Just because I’m in a wheelchair doesn’t mean I can’t dance and sing,” Shelby said. “I’m just like everyone else.”

Shelby’s mom, Jennifer, credits UCP’s respite program for her daughter’s success. “Providing 24-hour care is exhausting, but respite is a lifesaver,” Jennifer said. “Our respite worker is loving and nurturing and really looks after Shelby’s practical needs.”