Abstract: The birth of a child with a disability, or the discovery that a child has a disability, can have
profound effect on the family. This paper has explored the parent's experiences of coming to
terms with living with a disabled child. It is based on the case studies in Delhi and NCR region,
India. When parents learn that their child has a disability or a chronic illness, they begin a
journey that takes them into a life that is often filled with strong emotion, difficult choices,
interactions with many different professionals and specialists, and an ongoing need for
information and services. Initially, parents may feel isolated and alone, and not know where to
begin their search for information, assistance, understanding, and support.
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