What I Wish I Knew Back Then

A Physical Therapist and Mother's Perspective of Raising her Child with Cerebral Palsy

The author Marsh Naidoo, PT, and contributors: Dana Kramer, Lauren Taylor, and Aspen Balthazor, DPT share their struggles, practical insights, and strategies to empower and educate parents raising their child with developmental delay or a disability.

Parents confronted with their child receiving a diagnosis of developmental delay or disability are often devastated by this unexpected reality. The fear of this unknown, coupled with the historical and cultural stigmas associated with disability, leads to anxiety and isolation.

This book is written by parents for parents on this challenging but not impossible journey.

"What I Wish I Knew Back Then" is the brainchild of Raising Kellan, Inc., a nonprofit organization founded by Marsh Naidoo, PT. The original art was illustrated by Hope Khalil.

Reviews

  • The author explains that early intervention (EI) is crucial to a child's long term success. This book provides a friendly and encouraging voice to parents who may feel alone on their journey.

    Angela Brasher
    Speech-Language Pathologist, Memphis, United States of America

  • I found this book to be captivating, informative and inspiring. Once I started, I couldn’t put it down. I loved the positive approach of the author and how she encourages her child "to hold his head up and speak his truth.” I am sure this will be helpful to others in their journey. 

    Deborah Keenan
    Dyersburg, United States of America

  • I am writing to thank you for your copy of your wonderful book that you gave to Merryn who has passed it on to our team. We would love to share it with our families. It will be a wonderful inspiration to them and so heartening to hear your story and to hear your wonderful insights and ideas. It will be a great source of comfort and will inspire other parents who are also going on their journey with a child with Cerebral Palsy.

    Lucy Charles DipCOT NZROT
    Pediatric Occupational Therapy and Physiotherapy, New Zealand

  • Marsh’s journey will resonate with many parents of a special needs child. But what makes this read different is that it is also a thought-provoking and practical philosophy that will help any parent navigate the murky web of medical and therapeutic interventions whilst maintaining mental wellbeing. 

    Namira Haripersad
    Parent, Durban, South Africa