Young woman with cerebral palsy about to celebrate 25th birthday

Soon she will be celebrating her 25th birthday, but Deonte Browne has never done many of the things young adults do.

She has never walked, never talked, or ever been able to feed herself.

Browne lives at Orange Hill with her parents Emily Browne and O’Carol Nero, and her other siblings.

When SEARCHLIGHT visited the home recently, her mother Emily Browne said she spends most of her time taking care of her daughter who is severely challenged.

She said from a very young age, Deonte began showing signs of disability, following which she was diagnosed with cerebral palsy.

Deonte will be 25 years old on November 28, but because of her challenges, she is like a big baby.

“She cannot do anything for herself, so I am the one who does do everything for her.”

“She cannot even eat normal food, I have to blend everything to liquid and feed her with a baby bottle.

Her only means of communication is by making loud sounds and shaking her body.

Browne said she enjoys taking care of her daughter, but she lacks the means to provide all that is needed for Deonte.

With both parents unemployed, Browne said it is very difficult to keep up with Deonte’s need for disposable diapers.

“This is what she really needs right now, she wears adult medium, but I do not always have the money to buy them.

Although she is challenged, Browne said Deonte is full of love and she brings a special joy to the home.

Cerebral palsy is described as a group of disorders that affect a person’s ability to move, and maintain balance and posture.

CP as it is commonly called, is said to be the most common motor disability in childhood.

It is usually caused by abnormal brain development, or damage to certain parts of the brain.

Emily may be reached at telephone number (784) 496 0634. Calls will have to be direct as Emily does not have Internet connectivity.