Jacob Wittkop

Cerebral Palsy is a disability caused by brain damage before or during birth, resulting in a loss of voluntary muscular control and coordination. Prematurity is one of the leading causes of CP. When a baby has very low birth weight (less than 3.3 lb), they are prone to many issues one being IVH (Intraventricular Hemorrhage).

After a prolonged stay in the hospital due to complications during pregnancy, we welcomed our twin boys Jacob and Matthew Wittkop on September 17, 2005. They were born at 25 weeks. Jacob weighed 1lb 15oz and 13 inches long, Matthew was 2lbs 1oz and 13.5 inches long.

Jacob came home from the hospital on December 17, 2005 at exactly 3 months old. On Jacob’s 3rd day of life he suffered a Grade 3 IVH and Stage 3 Retinopathy of the eyes. Jacob showed signs of delay at about 6 months of age when we noticed he was off target reaching his milestones. Jacob was diagnosed with CP at about 8 months old.

We knew that because of the hemorrhage and he would have medical problems, but time would tell us what challenges he would be facing. Jacobs both legs are affected as well as his left hand. He receives occupational therapy as well as physical therapy several times a week. Jacob has braces he wears day and night and a walker that he uses to get around.

In spite of this, Jacob is a happy 2 and half year old who enjoys spending time with his brothers, both inside and outside. He is rambunctious and daring, doing things that his twin brother won’t even attempt to do. Jacob looks forward to every day and doesn’t let any disability dampen his spirits.