“51 years ago,” says Shirley Rosenberg, “I gave birth to my second son, Bob, who was diagnosed with Cerebral Palsy. My husband Sid and I were told he probably never would walk or talk. We went from doctor to doctor about his condition because we never wanted to hear a doctor say, ‘Why did you wait so long?’ But Bob fooled them all! All I can say to the parents with children who have some kind of disability is ‘Don’t give up!’”
Indeed, Bob does walk and talk and travels independently. He is an example of what children can do to live a full life in the community with the help of parents, siblings, family, and friends who love and support them. Bob enjoys an excellent social life in the community and usually is seen with his roommate and another friend, a woman who lives in the same building. In addition to some trips organized through UCP, he was asked to speak at a community meeting.
“I wasn’t at the meeting,” says Shirley, “But people were calling my house that night to tell me how great Bob did! Bob has an excellent memory and is a walking TV Guide, because he knows every show, who’s in it, what time it’s on, how many years it’s been on, and more. Bob is so good at so many things, and needs support for other things – sort of like everyone else!”
He now lives independently in an apartment with a friend he has known for 45 years and is very happy, supported by KenCCID. He also has worked part time for T.J. Maxx for the last 19 years, and recently was named Employee of the Month. “I enjoy my job. I like to spend my money on trips and DVDs,” says Bob. When he’s not working, Bob takes classes at the Norcom Community Center.
Mr. and Mrs. Rosenberg say to their son, “We hope life continues to be a bowl of cherries forever.”
This was written by Shirley Rosenberg in 2008. Mrs. Rosenberg passed away in 2011. We’re forever grateful for her support to KenCCID over the years.