The Gift of Listening.

I can’t even begin to imagine what it is like as a parent to find out that your child has a disability.

My mother has told me how she felt when she found out I had Cerebral Palsy, but it’s difficult to understand what people have gone through if you have not walked a mile in their shoes. I do know that despite all the challenges I encountered growing up from surgery to self- confidence issues, my parents never stopped treating like a normal kid. To them, I have always been Becca.

Looking back on my life thus far, I now realize that this was by far the best gift they have ever given me. I have acknowledged that I most certainly would not be where I am today had it not been for the support I have been so fortunate to receive. We live in a world where there are still so many misconceptions about individuals with different- abilities. My favorite is when I am out in public and complete strangers approach me, get two inches away from my face, and start talking to me as if I am deaf or something. The funniest part of those conversations is when I respond back in FULL SENTENCES. People with different- abilities are in many ways, the same as everyone else. There is no reason to treat us any different than anyone else. We have dreams and aspirations for ourselves, and many of us are capable of making our own decisions. The best way to gain an understanding of what people want is by taking the time to listen to what they have to say. We all deserve to be heard.

Throughout my life, I have been blessed with so many amazing opportunities because of this. I am not, Becca, the “girl in the wheelchair.” I am Becca, the sit- skier and wheelchair basketball player. I am also determined, funny and adventurous. The truth is, we all have disabilities, but if we chose to focus only on the negative aspects of our lives, there is a good chance that we will miss out an opportunity to maximize our potential.