Following the CDC director’s comments, disabled people have been sharing their stories with the hashtag my disabled life is worthy on social media. I live with Cerebral Palsy and deserve to live a meaningful life. Cerebral Palsy does make my life more challenging at times, but my life is one that is worth living.
I’ve been blessed to have a fantastic family. I have been surrounded by loving people my whole life. My aunts, parents, sister, uncles, grandparents, and cousins have always been there for me. I try my best not to take my family for granted. Many people aren’t as lucky as I am to have such loving families.
Growing up, I remember being very happy. Some of my happiest memories include holiday gatherings with my extended family, and reading books before bed with my parents, and insisting that they help me write my name in the front cover. I also enjoyed playing with them.
I have also been fortunate to know some wonderful doctors, personal care assistants, friends and teachers. They all help me the best they can, and the devotion they’ve shown me over the years hasn’t gone unnoticed. Admittedly, sometimes PT or medical appointments can leave me drained, but I am fortunate to have a fantastic care team who all try their best to help me maintain a good quality of life.
Cerebral Palsy does make my life challenging, but it doesn’t mean that I don’t have a wonderful life. Everyone is worthy, and has their own unique gifts. Nobody is worthless regardless of their disabilities or other challenging circumstances.