Living with Cerebral Palsy: My Journey and Challenges

Living with cerebral palsy (CP) has been a rollercoaster ride—full of ups and downs, challenges, victories, and moments of self-discovery. It’s shaped who I am in ways I never expected, and while it hasn’t always been easy, it’s given me a perspective on life that I wouldn’t trade for anything. Today, I want to share my journey, the struggles I’ve faced, and the lessons I’ve learned along the way.

Growing Up: Learning to Adapt

As a kid, I quickly realized that certain things didn’t come as easily to me as they did to others. Walking, running, or even just keeping my balance took extra effort. I remember watching other kids race across the playground while I tried my best to keep up. At times, it was frustrating—not just because of the physical challenges, but because I often felt alone. Making friends wasn’t easy. Some kids didn’t understand why I moved differently, and others simply didn’t take the time to get to know me.

It was tough, but I learned to adapt. Whether it was using assistive tools, finding new ways to complete tasks, or simply taking things one step at a time, I refused to let CP hold me back. And even when people doubted me, I was determined to prove that my disability did not define me.

Navigating K-12 Schooling

School was a mix of challenges and small victories. From elementary through high school, I had to find ways to navigate not just the physical barriers but also the social dynamics. Some schools were more accommodating than others, and I was lucky to have teachers who genuinely wanted to help. However, there were also moments when I felt like I had to fight for the support I needed, whether it was getting extra time on assignments, accessible seating, or just being included in activities like everyone else.

Socially, it wasn’t always easy. I wanted to fit in, but my CP made me stand out. I had to work harder to make friends, to prove that I was just as capable as anyone else. But over time, I found my people—friends who saw beyond my disability and valued me for who I was. Those friendships, along with the support of my family, helped me push through the tough moments and focus on my goals.

Facing Challenges, One Step at a Time

Living with cerebral palsy means dealing with both physical and social challenges. Some days, my muscles feel stiff and tired, making even simple movements exhausting. Other times, I notice the way people look at me—sometimes with curiosity, sometimes with pity. There have been moments when people underestimated me, assuming I couldn’t do something just because of my disability. Those moments sting, but they also fuel my determination.

One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is the power of advocacy. Instead of getting frustrated, I try to educate others. People don’t always mean harm; they just don’t understand. The more conversations we have, the more we can break down misconceptions and create a world where disabilities are seen as just another part of life, not something to be pitied or feared.

Finding My Place in College and Beyond

Going to Wright State University was a game-changer for me. It was my chance to prove to myself that I could navigate the world on my own terms. Of course, there were challenges—getting around campus, balancing coursework, and managing my energy levels—but I also found a sense of belonging. Being part of Abilities, a student-led organization focused on disability awareness, gave me a platform to share my experiences and connect with others who understood what I was going through. For the first time, I felt like I was surrounded by people who truly saw me for who I was, beyond my disability.

Now, as I move forward, I carry the lessons I’ve learned with me. Life with cerebral palsy is unpredictable, but it’s also full of possibility. I don’t know exactly what the future holds, but I do know this: I will keep pushing forward, keep breaking barriers, and keep proving that disability does not mean inability.

Final Thoughts

Cerebral palsy is just one part of who I am—it doesn’t define me. Sure, it presents challenges, but it’s also taught me resilience, creativity, and the importance of community. If you’re living with CP or any other disability, know this: You are capable, you are strong, and

you are not alone.

We all have our own battles, but together, we can change the way the world sees disability—one conversation, one breakthrough, and one step at a time.