Quote Meaning - Oh, my goodness, when you’re a mother and you just give birth to a child with spina bifida and – or Down’s Syndrome or cerebral palsy, there’s a bit of a shock you’re going to have to go through, a bit of an adjustment curve.

The quote reflects a mother's initial emotional response when her newborn baby has a congenital condition such as spina bifida, Down’s Syndrome, or cerebral palsy. It emphasizes that there will be an overwhelming shock and significant adjustment period for the parents as they come to terms with their child's unique needs.

This statement delves deeper into the complexity of parenthood, particularly when faced with unexpected medical challenges at birth. Joni Eareckson Tada underscores the inevitability of a learning curve and emotional turmoil that comes with such news. The quote highlights the resilience required as parents navigate through unfamiliar territory, where they must adapt their understanding of what it means to be a parent while also adjusting to new realities regarding healthcare, daily routines, and long-term planning for their child's future.

Joni Eareckson Tada is an American author, speaker, and founder of Joni and Friends International Disability Center. She herself has been a quadriplegic since the age of 17 following a diving accident. Her personal experiences have deeply influenced her perspective on life, disability, and parenting, making her insights particularly poignant for those facing similar challenges.

" Oh, my goodness, when you’re a mother and you just give birth to a child with spina bifida and – or Down’s Syndrome or cerebral palsy, there’s a bit of a shock you’re going to have to go through, a bit of an adjustment curve. " - Joni Eareckson Tada

" Oh, my goodness, when you’re a mother and you just give birth to a child with spina bifida and – or Down’s Syndrome or cerebral palsy, there’s a bit of a shock you’re going to have to go through, a bit of an adjustment curve. "
- Joni Eareckson Tada