Why I Want To Be A Cerebral Palsy

I was born with Spastic Diplegic Cerebral Palsy; A neurological motor disorder that effects my lower legs, ankles, and feet. In short, this conditions causes me to have permanently weakened muscles in my lower extremities and shortened Achilles tendons. At the age of seven, a highly skilled Pediatric Surgeon gave me an opportunity for mobility as I had never experienced. A few months later, a dedicated therapist and my mother taught me how to walk again. My disability has most definitely put limitations on what extracurricular activities I could do during my high school years. However, I will never use Cerebral Palsy as an excuse as to not push myself.
My condition caused me to shun any sports, as my physician would never pass me for a sports physical. Despite that fact, it did very little to stop me from physical activities. I had to leave band before high school, because my instructor would not allow me to be a part of marching band or color guard. Even though she made the correct decision, it was a crushing blow. That same year, I participated on the Van Buren JROTC Freshman Drill
In fact, I believe that my condition gives me the ambition to try activities that may be a struggle for me. Drill proved to me that I could be a leader of an active group. Yet, it also showed me my limits. The experience made me realize that while I could overcome so much of my disability through perseverance, I needed to be aware of when I need to stop. I stay active at the fitness center at my local college, but I make sure I give my feet a break when they need it. Additionally, I plan to be participating in the Certified Nurse’s Assistant program at UAFS this fall. I go into this fully aware of my limitations. If I do have some difficulties, I know that I will be honest with myself and try to find a creative way around any