My Fight Song!

This week, I had the opportunity to speak to a group of occupational therapists about what I think they should focus on to improve the lives of people with different abilities. Originally, I was asked to speak about energy conservation. I did not know until very recently that people with cerebral palsy use three to four times more energy than the average person. This topic is applicable to me because I find it extremely difficult to manage my energy levels. However, after some thought, I realized that it would be hypocritical for me to speak about this, simply because I have never once made an effort to conserve my energy. So... I decided to take a different approach.

I came across a quote the other day that said: “The biggest communication problem is that we don’t listen to understand. We listen to reply.” People with different abilities live in a world that is not made for them.

One of the biggest challenges that I have faced is learning to advocate for myself, but one of my biggest challenges has evolved into one of my passions. I have realized that advocating for myself as well as others who are facing similar challenges is the only way to help people understand what we need to be successful. This is something that everyone can relate to. When people listen only to offer a reply, it can feel as though we talking to a crumbling wall with no support. As a result, you hear nothing but the echo of your own voice. This in itself can be exhausting, drain our energy, and leave us with no motivation. I know that our physical health is important, but I can also tell you that as a person living with a physical disability, so is quality of life. In talking with other individuals living with disabilities, improving mobility is not nearly as important as getting out there and simply living life. For me, it’s about spending time with my beautiful friends and family, playing my heart out on the basketball court, singing songs at the top of my lungs in the car, soaking up the smiles of the children I work with, laughing, and being happy about the fact that I was able to put my boots on independently, even if I get them on the wrong feet a LOT!

Earlier this week, I was able to get a pair of cowboy boots on independently. Later that afternoon at work, a child pointed out to me that my shoes were on the wrong feet. I looked down and realized that I had gone the whole day like this.

My point being that no one should live their life according to their “disabilities”, no matter what they may be. We need to make an effort to listen with the intent to understand, because we all deserve to live our lives to fullest, even if you need help to get there.

Never stop fighting for what you want, my friends!