As Christmas approaches us, I look back on the journey of living with cerebral palsy. There have been countless moments of laughter and fun, shared with my family—my parents, grandparents, and sisters. Their support has been a pillar of strength, turning challenges into cherished memories.This year, we’re blessed to have my 88-year-old granddad join us…
Most childrens love the special time they spend with grandparents, these ones make precious memories full of laughter and joy. Me and my sisters began feeling the exciment everytime our grandparents rang to say they had bought flights from England to Portugal. My grandparents would stayed with us for maybe 2 or 3 weeks. These…
-Robert M. Hensel Dacing Girl Can you imagine not being as you are anymore? Suddenly having to learn how to live with a disability you never had before? Or to stop having a disability they've always had? I haven't!Given complications during my birth, I have CP, Cerebral Palsy and it is with some motor…
Some people cook because they love it.Others cook because they’re hungry.I cook… because I want to prove I can open a yogurt without starting a full-scale kitchen war.If you have cerebral palsy, you know cooking isn’t just cooking.It’s an extreme sport disguised as a domestic activity.And that’s when I discovered how to do things the…
My Right Side: The Untamed Dance Partner In the grand dance of life, my body is like a quirky duo on the dance floor. My left side takes a graceful lead, with precision while my right side is that unpredictable, enthusiastic partner who sometimes forgets the choreography. Having cerebral palsy means my right side is…
Growing up, I often envied my sister for earning her own money, dreaming of the independence that came with it. As a teenager, I imagined myself in various jobs—like being a waitress or a hairdresser. But as I grew older, I realized trust that certain professions, like those requiring fine motor skills, were not the…
Growing up with cerebral palsy brought its own unique challenges and experiences. From the age of 10 to 15, school was a blend of support and subtle isolation. I had special accommodations like a tailored chair and table, and I relied on a computer instead of traditional pen and paper. While these accommodations were incredibly…
There's something truly magical about the streets of Lisbon. Growing up, these cobblestone paths were more than just a backdrop; they were part of my daily adventures with my father, who’s an artist. We’d wander through the city, him searching for inspiration, and me, just trying to keep up—often with a few extra breaks at…
Living with cerebral palsy, my daily life is filled with unique challenges—though I like to think of them as quirks that make my normal, well, my normal. For instance, while some people can juggle a cup of coffee and a phone call, I’m just trying to keep the coffee in the cup! My right hand…
Living with CP is like having a body that’s on its own quirky adventure. My right side is both my biggest challenge and my secret superpower. Sure, I can’t always grab things with ease, but my hand’s impressive tension is like having a built-in grip strength… even if it’s a bit unpredictable!And yes, my body…
Getting a driving license is often seen as a rite of passage, filled with excitement and a sense of independence. I l the thrill of heading to my first driving test, imagining the freedom and possibilities that awaited. However, for someone like me, and others with similar needs, that journey can come with…
Living with cerebral palsy has taught me many lessons, one of which is how easily jealousy can creep in. There are moments when I find myself longing to do things that others take for granted. But over time, I’ve realized that jealousy is a natural feeling, and it’s okay to experience it.What truly matters is…
I live in a bodythat does not always follow me,even when my will is clear.Some days, it feelsas if I have to negotiate with it—step by step,day by day.My movements need time.They ask for patience.They demand a strengththat often goes unnoticed.I am tired more easily than others,sometimes long before the day is over.And still, I…