Persona: Kate Patterson

Kate Patterson is an average 10 year old girl, with one exception – she has a mild form of cerebral palsy (CP). This does provide obstacles in everyday life, but Kate generally manages very well to get around these issues. The CP means that her control over her muscles is limited, which can sometimes cause mobility and agility issues.

Her parents are relatively well off, and try to provide everything they can for Kate, to make her life easier, and are always open to new ideas and suggestions. Her 16 year-old brother helps around the house and helps with Kate’s schoolwork wherever he can, but his own school commitments means this is only an occasional assistance.

At home, Kate enjoys watching TV and playing computer games, although she has trouble with some consoles, as the controllers prove to be a bit difficult to use. She also enjoys using the computer to chat to friends, and to learn things on sites such as CBBC.

Kate is a poor-to-average reader, who struggles to understand longer words and cannot currently grasp the idea of breaking down larger words into their components. She enjoys reading, but is sometimes a little dis-spiritted when she cannot manage to read by herself.

Kate’s parents have always tried to make the best of their situation, and believe that the most important step in helping Kate’s development is help her to keep fit and healthy. They encourage regular exercise such as walks and games of football with friends, and aim to give her healthy meals at least 5 out of 7 days. Kate takes a packed lunch to school, which consists of sandwiches, crisps, a piece of fruit and a yoghurt. When at home, Kate’s mum cooks for her almost every night, and Kate enjoys roasts, and spicy food. She is also allowed treats such as chocolate and sweets for achieving good grades at school, and for good behaviour at home.

Kate is keen to live her life as “normally” as possible, and despite her disability, remains upbeat and open-minded about ways to improve herself and her lifestyle.