Raising Awareness of Cerebral Palsy is an important part of the Smiles Mission. Knowledge will break down barriers and change the lives of children living with Cerebral Palsy.

Meet the Kennedy Family

In the Fall of 2007, we had the distinct pleasure of meeting Marie Kennedy and reading some of her motivational work. Marie is the internationally recognized author of, “My Perfect Son has Cerebral Palsy”, a book about her son Jimmy and their family’s journey in embracing his diagnosis.

As quoted from Amazon.com’s reader reviews about “My Perfect Son has Cerebral Palsy”:

“Marie has taken a problem and turned it into a triumph! She is very candid about her feelings, and is able to give hope to others dealing with any kind of disability.” - Denise Crompton of NH

If you are interested in ordering a copy of her book, please contact Marie directly at MarieKennedy@aol.com. Identify yourself as a Smiles supporter and she will donate a portion of the proceeds from the sale to our foundation.

Marie, her husband Chooch and their son Jimmy are well known advocates in their Indiana community, frequently being asked to speak about “Abilities”. Jimmy has won numerous awards for his open-minded speeches. Their ability to raise awareness is unprecedented in their community.

The Kennedy’s have a great deal of insight and experience to share. We will continue to update this tab with helpful and inspiring information. Follow along as they help Smiles from Nicholas raise awareness of Cerebral Palsy.

The following short story was originally published at the Writers' Center of Indiana's Making Memoirs: Making Sense exhibit at the 2007 Indianapolis Spirit and Place Festival.  Marie has graciously allowed us permission to share it with you.

His Hand on My Shoulder

The nurse walks in with a smile and asks if we are ready. I answer, “Yes,” as my husband, Chooch, hands her our son, Jimmy. He is 18 months old and having a CAT scan to determine whether or not Jimmy has Cerebral Palsy (CP), a neurological disorder.

They walk away through the double doors. I have a lump in my throat and look over at Chooch, a strong man with tears in his eyes. He whispers, "I guess we just have to trust that he is going to be OK?". I hug him and whisper, "Yes, we do."

I am usually the one crying. His tears surprised me. I count on him so much to make me better, that I don't always consider his feelings. When Jimmy was diagnosed with CP, I made the calls and told family and friends. It was easier and therapeutic for me to talk about it. We knew Jimmy was very bright because he started talking at six months old. We didn’t know if he would walk, run and play like other children do. Time and therapy would determine that.

Jimmy began physical therapy and quickly started to crawl, then stand and walk with crutches. His progress was a miracle! We went to therapy three times a week and it was difficult to see him struggle in pain from using muscles in a new way. Chooch was there to listen and hug me.

One night we went to Chooch's high school reunion. These were Chooch’s friends and I had never met them before. I took out pictures of Jimmy standing with crutches in a tuxedo and crawling at therapy. The room suddenly became very quiet and one of his friends asked, “What happened? -- Did he break his leg?”

I opened my mouth but no words came out, I felt Chooch's hand on my shoulder and he calmly said, "No, Jimmy has Cerebral Palsy". Several comments were made such as "Oh, that's too bad." Chooch with his hand still on my shoulder said, "Hey don't feel sorry. Jimmy is working hard and learning to walk and the greatest kid you would ever want to have.”

Although Chooch accepted Jimmy's diagnosis, it didn't consume him as it did me. He pushes Jimmy so high on the swing I can't watch. They wrestle and rough house like Dads and sons do. They pass the football for fun not therapy. He taught Jimmy to swim and play golf. Chooch is a professional singer and Jimmy is just as fearless on stage with a microphone. They have private jokes, favorite movies they watch over and over, and they talk to each other. Jimmy has so many of the qualities I love in Chooch.

Jimmy is a junior high honor student and has many friends. He is a public speaker about ability. Whatever Jimmy accomplishes next, I know Chooch will be there with his hand on my shoulder

© Marie Kennedy