On The Road To My Dream
A little background for you: I was born with cerebral palsy (CP). My umbilical was wrapped around my neck when I was born. Due to lack of oxygen, I have CP. Contrary to doctors saying that I would never talk, walk, or function at a normal level; I have lived life to the fullest, attained a bachelor degree, got married, and raised two children. Although I have lived a wonderful life, it has not been without challenges. I will share these challenges and my life story in my book, “Am I Different, Mommy?”
When I tell people I’m writing a book and they ask me what it’s about, I pause, and think, “I can’t tell them it’s about me, that’s crazy, why would people want to know about my life?” But then I remember, people see me way different than I see myself. I do things different but get the same results as others. It’s the only thing I have ever known, so it’s “normal” to me. It’s normal for me to; write with my mouth, drink through a straw, type with a pencil or use the mouse with my foot. These things seem to inspire people for different reasons. The reasons range from; “what do I have to complain about”; “if she can do it – i can do it”; to “I’m not alone.” Whatever the reason, I want to share my story with the world and inspire others that all challenges can be overcome with determination and an willpower.
Writing this book has been a long time coming for me. It has been a dream of mine since high school. I got busy with getting an education, raising my children, and just trying to live life and in the process, it got put on the back burner. It’s time now.
I hope to accomplish several things through my book. First, I want people to see disabled individuals for who they are and what they can do instead of seeing just the outside. Second, I want people with cerebral palsy or any disability to know that they are not alone in the challenges they go through. Children and young adults reading my story will see that they will get through the teasing, the staring, and the obstacles; and there are people that will look past their disability. Third, to the younger crowd, if you know someone with a disability, becomes friends with them. I know you will be nervous, but I guarantee they are a hundred times more nervous than you. If you don’t, you are missing out on a great friend. Lastly, I want to give hope to parents with a disabled child that they can have the same hopes and dreams for them as a “normal” child. The road and the goals may be a little different but they can be accomplished. Never let them say they ‘can’t', always encourage and motivate them.
If you enjoyed this, buy me a cup of coffee. Thanks so much!