Exceptional.

As my friend, Kathy removed my helmet when I wheeled into the lobby from a fabulous and eventful run on the ski hill, I could feel the adrenaline rushing through my entire body. A feeling I crave now. I was vibrating. In my one previous blog posts, I discussed what I think the world would be without labels. Words and phrases that highlight disability, rather than the abilities of the different- abled population. Derogatory terms like; disabled, challenged and special.

When I was first told by my eighth grade gym teacher that I could participate in our school trip as a skier, I thought she was absolutely nuts. How on earth was I going to ski? Had she not seen that I was just a little bit physically inhibited? The first time I went down the hill in my bucket, I was scared out of my mind. I actually crashed into a sign, which was enough to convince me that I was never going to do this again. Luckily for me, I had some encouraging people, who believed that I was capable of achieving success.

Fast forward seven years later, and I am the girl who deliberately plops down in a fetal position to experience the feeling of fresh powder. However, I never would have discovered my love for the sport had I chosen to throw in the towel.

I have been underestimated my entire life. I have been told that I can’t do things because of my cerebral palsy. I have learned that our choices can ultimately make us free. Yes. I have Cerebral Palsy, but it does not have to rule my life. I know that the road ahead might be difficult at times, but it doesn’t have to stop me from doing what I want. I know that this sounds cliché, but the only disability is a bad attitude. A positive attitude is invaluable. It opens up a world of endless possibilities. It is then that labels like disabled and challenged have no value. It is the key to living an exceptional life.

Placing one foot in front of the other, I've climbed to higher lengths. Reaching beyond my own limitations to show my inner strength. No obstacle too hard for this warrior to overcome. I am just a person on a mission to prove my disability hasn't won.

- Robert M. Hensel