Living with Cerebral Palsy is hard at times. Daily life presents many challenges. As I’ve grown up, I’ve developed depression and anxiety, especially surrounding the future. Nobody tells you how to be an adult, let alone an adult with Cerebral Palsy.
I try my hardest to find joy every day. I’ve been blessed to have an amazing family. My aunts, uncles, cousins, parents, grandparents, and younger sister have always been there for me. They have seen me through surgeries, doctor’s appointments, and everything in between. I don’t know where I’d be without my family.
In addition to my family, I have been blessed to know some wonderful friends, PCAs, teachers, doctors, and therapists. My friends feel like extended family. We’ve seen each other through so much over the past several years. One of my friends is my PCA. I would have never imagined eleven years ago that I’d have friends like them.
I’ve also been fortunate enough to know incredible teachers, doctors, PCAs, and therapists. I’ll always be grateful that my teachers embraced having me in their classrooms. They were dedicated to accommodating my disability in the classroom.
My PCAs and other caregivers care so much about me. I had the same paraprofessional in school for ten years growing up. It was comforting knowing that this person was there for me. I’ve also worked with various therapists and doctors over the years. Living with Cerebral Palsy is much easier thanks to them.
I’m able to find joy in the toughest of times because of my community. I cherish my family, friends, teachers, and doctors. Their devotion to me over the years hasn’t gone unnoticed. I am forever grateful for everyone in my life.