Walking

Seeing their child walk is a goal for many parents of children with OI. Because of the different levels of severity of OI, it is very difficult to predict what lies ahead for your child. There are many people with OI who are capable of walking independently for long distances, and others who are able to get in and out of their wheelchairs and walk on a more limited basis. There are others who, even after years of braces, surgery, and physical therapy, are still unable to walk.

 

Since seeing into the future is unlikely, you need to proceed as if walking is attainable. Yet, it is important to be accepting of whatever your child is able to achieve. Have faith in your child, allow him or her to take the risks necessary to achieve as much independent mobility as possible, and love your child no matter what he or she is capable of accomplishing.