Handicapped-accessible parking spaces are for people with disabilities. In a recent news report, a disabled California man said he was physically assaulted because he asked someone not to park in a handicapped-accessible space. I don’t understand why anyone would have a problem with being asked to move out of…

Everyone needs adequate sleep each night. Sleep allows the body to rest and recharge for the following day. But for people with cerebral palsy, sleeping isn’t always easy, as we frequently struggle with spasticity and involuntarily movements. I have difficulty sleeping. Luckily, I’ve found ways to help me address…

Spasticity is common with many types of cerebral palsy (CP). Everyone handles spasticity differently, and spasms vary depending on the extent of CP.  Because I have athetoid mixed CP, spasms are part of my daily life. In this column, I’d like to share some tips that I find helpful…

Cerebral palsy brings out the worst in even the common cold. Since I was a little girl, I’ve seemed to catch colds easily. I need many people to assist me with my personal care, and with that additional contact comes extra germs that can lead to illness. Colds aren’t pleasant…

I recently read a column from a few years ago about a woman with a disability who was told by TSA agents at an airport that she should be happy her husband chose to marry her. Sadly, even though we’re living in the 21st century, people with disabilities still…

Employment is a huge obstacle for people with disabilities. I struggled with finding a job immediately after graduating from college. Discrimination is real when it comes to disability — please don’t let anyone tell you otherwise. I have cerebral palsy and have no way to hide it. A physical disability…

Gratitude sounds easy, but it’s also easy to forget. We become absorbed in our lives and giving thanks is the last thing on our minds. But being thankful can make us happier. No matter your disability, there is always something for which to be thankful. I am happy despite…

Accessibility is a concern when you have a disability such as cerebral palsy. One step is like a hundred if you use a wheelchair or have mobility issues. I have tried to create an accessible home environment, but money is always an issue. If cost were not a problem,…

When someone has a disability, it’s easy to believe they have only one diagnosis. However, I’ve also had breast cancer, and I fight post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) every day. According to the American Psychiatric Association, PTSD is “a psychiatric disorder that can occur in people who have experienced or…

Technology plays an important role in the life of someone with cerebral palsy (CP). A cellphone is high on the list of items I depend on to maintain my independence. My husband bought me my first iPhone several years ago despite my objections that I probably wouldn’t be able…