NDIS Support Letter

"I have the pleasure to be Emily Carter's paediatrician and have known them since 2018. I am writing this letter at their request to give some background on the challenges that they face and my suggestions for how they may be better supported." NATURE OF DISABILITY - Cerebral Palsy, Spastic Quadriplegia - Severity: Severe and permanent. - Diagnosis confirmed by MRI and clinical examination. FUNCTIONAL IMPACTS - Significant impairments in mobility, self-care, and communication. - GMFCS score: Level V. - Vision impairment: Requires glasses for near vision. - Speech and language assessment indicates significant expressive and receptive language delays. - Impacts on daily activities: - Self-care: Requires complete assistance with all aspects of personal care. - Communication: Limited verbal communication; relies on augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) devices. - Mobility: Non-ambulatory; requires a wheelchair for all mobility. - Social interactions: Limited due to communication difficulties and physical limitations. - Impacts are unlikely to improve with therapy or treatments. - Assessment: GMFCS, ophthalmology report, speech and language assessment. SOCIAL IMPACT - Social impacts include social isolation and difficulty participating in community activities. - Psychosocial assessment indicates emotional distress and social withdrawal. - Effects on social interactions: - Difficulty forming peer relationships. - Limited participation in school and community events. - Emotional health: Experiences frequent frustration and anxiety. - Assessment: Psychosocial assessment. ECONOMIC IMPACT - Significant additional expenses related to care and equipment. - Effects on income: - Parents unable to work full-time due to caregiving responsibilities. - No assessment available. PREVIOUS TREATMENTS AND OUTCOMES - Undergone extensive physiotherapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy. - Outcomes: Limited improvement in motor skills; significant improvement in communication through AAC devices. SUGGESTIONS FOR ONGOING OR FUTURE SUPPORTS - Continued access to physiotherapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy. - Funding for AAC device maintenance and upgrades. - Respite care for the family. - Support for educational needs. I am hopeful for Emily's future and commend her and her family's commitment and resilience.