Kiaira Fedorus, a resident of Grande Prairie, Alberta, found herself overwhelmed with emotions as she stared at the positive pregnancy test. Despite her lifelong desire to become a mother, her spastic cerebral palsy made the prospect seem daunting. The uncertainty of her body’s ability to carry a baby and navigate motherhood weighed heavily on her mind.
Seeking solace in her mother’s unwavering support, Kiaira grappled with the challenges posed by her cerebral palsy, a condition affecting her muscle control and mobility. Her specific type, spastic hemiplegic cerebral palsy, left one side of her body tense and limited in movement. While she had adapted to living with it, the prospect of pregnancy and motherhood presented a new set of challenges beyond her usual coping mechanisms.
Despite her fears and doubts, Kiaira embarked on the journey to motherhood with the encouragement of her partner and mother. With the guidance of a supportive doctor, she navigated her pregnancy without complications, dispelling the notion that her disability would put her at high risk. As her due date approached, the apprehension surrounding labor and childbirth led her to opt for a caesarean birth to ensure her baby’s safety.
After welcoming her son into the world, Kiaira faced the realities of caring for a newborn while recovering from surgery. Her reliance on abdominal muscles for movement posed challenges, but she embraced the process, giving herself grace as she adjusted to her new role as a mother. Over time, she learned to manage daily tasks with resilience, finding ways to care for her baby with limited mobility.
Nearly two years into motherhood, Kiaira has not only adapted to the demands of parenting with her disability but has also used her experiences to support other mothers facing similar challenges. Through her platform “Mothers Inclusive” on Instagram and a partnership with the Grande Prairie Public Library, she leads a support group for mothers in her community, offering guidance and understanding.
Reflecting on her journey, Kiaira acknowledges the hurdles she faced but emphasizes her belief in her capabilities as a mother, despite the added complexities of living with cerebral palsy. While she initially grappled with worry and doubt, she now cherishes the joy of being a mother and embraces the opportunity to inspire and assist others on their own paths to motherhood.
