DISABILITY PRIDE MONTH: A KEEPING IT REAL Q&A

DISABILITY PRIDE MONTH: A KEEPING IT REAL Q&A

Earlier this year, we started a Keeping It Real Q&A series on Instagram stories to engage with our followers — people with cerebral palsy, parents and caregivers of people with cerebral palsy, and other disabled allies. Keep scrolling to learn more about collective experience that people with cerebral palsy and other disabilities shared in a recent Q&A.

What would you tell your younger self about cerebral palsy?

“There will be ups and downs. Be gentle with yourself. There will always be someone who thinks you aren't capable — just don't let it be you.”

“You're more than enough. Don't let people's mean words break you down.” 

“Life is tough, but so are you. It's going to be okay. You're going to be okay.”

“Screw the scars, wear the bikini.”

“You will learn to be resilient, flexible, and display grit to navigate the world. Celebrate each small win as you learn to move your unique body.” 

“Embrace yourself — it doesn't make you any less of a man.” 

“Aggressively grow your network of other awesome people with CP. Your community will mean everything to you!”

“Go with your gut and love yourself at every stage.”

 “CP is a speed bump! It might slow you down, but it absolutely cannot stop you!”

“I would tell my younger self that when people stare, give them a show.” 

Follow us on Instagram @researchforcp and keep an eye on our stories for our next Q&A during Disability Pride Month!

These responses are part of KEEPING IT REAL — a series of personal stories that will take you deeper into the lives of people with CP. Each person makes different choices based on what works for them, and we’ll showcase that — highlighting what life is like for them on a daily basis, what they care about, and the ways CP impacts them. 

The KEEPING IT REAL blog is intended solely to raise awareness about the varied human experience with cerebral palsy and shouldn't be read or construed to contain any medical advice or medical endorsement by Cerebral Palsy Alliance Research Foundation. Only you and your doctor know what's best for you. Please consult your doctor for medical advice.