Sometimes Cerebral Palsy is a blessing, a curse, and maybe even both. Here are a few things I have learned:
1. You are not your CP (but sometimes you are).
When you have CP (Cerebral Palsy) , or any disability, the number one thing that people say all the time is " don't let your disability define who you are." But, when you live with it all the time, it's hard not to. So, sometimes that's okay.
2. Keep your friends close, and your best friends closer.
One of the most important lessons I learned early on was about friendship. Sometimes, people are friends with you out of pity because of your disability. Let me tell you right now, if you are reading this and someone's face pops into your head, drop them like a hot potato because they are so not cool. That being said, keep the ones who are always there for you and the ones who are super genuine because we all need each other. ( Shoutout to all my real friends for being so awesome).
3. Falling sucks, but it's a good way to meet cute boys.
When it comes to CP, falling is inevitable. Unfortunately, we fall in the most ungraceful ways possible. But, it has it's advantages. Sometimes, we fall infant of really cute boys who will help you up. Ladies, chivalry is not dead, it's just hidden in the good ones.
4. Embrace the parking, you need it.
One of the coolest things we receive in light of our disabilities is really close parking. ( if you park in a parking spot and don't have a permit or a disability, shame on you). Ladies and gentleman I cannot stress enough how this is not embarrassing. It's awesome and you should use it to your advantage
5. If people think you are drunk or a zombie just go with it. Let's all be honest with ourselves and say it's easier than giving our spiel about how we have Cerebral Palsy.
I mean I love a good joke, and let's be real it's pretty funny.
6. Find others who also have CP.
It really helps to know you are not alone. If you are interested in finding others with CP or you can follow the link to Teen CP. Shoutout to the CP Chick Squad, and to all my friends with CP and other disabilities.
7. It's okay to make fun of yourself.
Sometimes we are our own worst critics. So, sometimes it's best to just roll with it and laugh with and at ourselves because with or without a disability we are pretty darn funny.
8. Be Smart. Sure, you can do anything you put your mind to, but don't push yourself.
When I was younger I was taught that I could do anything anybody else. Which is so very true. But at the same time, we have to understand our limitations. For example, I probably can't run 5 miles non-stop.
9. I heard this quote from Abbey Curran once. She said "I have CP, but CP doesn't have me."
I don't think this is correct. I think it's great motivation. But sometimes CP has me because it sucks that my muscles are tight all the time.
10. Shoes are important. Make sure you can walk well in them.
(This one is for you, mom), From one CP girl or guy to another wear shoes that keep your foot in line. If you have AFO's wear those. As uncomfortable as they are, they really do help.
11. ASK FOR HELP.
Personally, one of the biggest things I have trouble with is asking for help. I know we think that we already ask for help a lot, and so it would be horrible if we asked for one more thing. But, sometimes we need more help and that's okay.
12. Stretch.
I don't do it as much as I should, but when I do, it feels a lot better on my muscles and I can bet it does for you too.
13. Be Yourself.
The best way I can think to describe this is with the help of Dr. Seuss.
