As a woman with cerebral palsy, finding a book with a character who has the same disability is difficult. When I was a teenager, I read all the young adult romance books I could get my hands on. I would have loved to see a character with a…

Movies are usually liked because they are relatable. Seeing many movies that portray a character with cerebral palsy isn’t very common. There are some, but the character is either sick, dying or wants to die. Either way, they’re unrealistic. However, I felt very positive about the movie…

January is a new month and year, which marks a whole new start. Having cerebral palsy shouldn’t stop anyone from making new year resolutions. I like Christmastime, but I also always like opening a brand new calendar to write down my New Year’s resolutions. I rarely complete…

Heroes come in all shapes, sizes and locations. Some heroes are even animals, such as a service dog for someone in a wheelchair or with a disability. What makes a hero? How do you spot a hero? Everyday heroes are among us because most heroes are quiet…

Do you have a person who has cerebral palsy or a physical disability on your holiday shopping list? Are you at a loss about a gift to buy them? Something that will be helpful, and they also would enjoy? I have compiled a list of items that I…

Have you ever considered becoming a personal care attendant? These essential workers enable people with chronic illnesses to be as independent as possible by assisting with daily living tasks such as transportation, shopping and house chores. Not everyone is cut out for this important work, but if you…

Fortunately, personal care services are granted to those with physical disabilities. Waiver programs make these very important services affordable. I am blessed to have personal care services so I can live as independently as possible. In my experience of having personal care, I’ve seen good and bad attendants,…

Thanksgiving brings to mind family, friends, traditions and food. At this time of the year, being thankful and grateful for what we have keeps us optimistic in a complex world. Having cerebral palsy can sway some to complain and concentrate on all the things missing in their lives.

Recently I had to walk home from my car repair shop because my brakes need to be replaced. As we were walking, my friend asked me why people look at us strangely when I’m just walking in town? I’ve stopped noticing the obvious stares and live my life.

I entered college full of hope to be a special education teacher, knowing there were challenges, and the road would be bumpy. I have athetoid cerebral palsy that includes involuntary movements and a speech impediment. That my heart was born to teach had been known since my elementary…