KEEPING IT REAL: Abigail’s Story, Part Two

KEEPING IT REAL: Abigail's Story, Part Two

By Abigail Meyers

Check out part one of our Q&A with Abigail

What's your favorite place to travel and why?

Anywhere in Europe! I love history and the humanities, and there are endless opportunities for exploration.

How do you handle accessibility issues when you travel?
I make sure there’s something I can hold onto while I’m on the stairs, like railings, walls, or anything like that. Or, if I can’t go up or down stairs and there’s no elevator or anything, I’m okay with finding other activities that I know I’ll be comfortable with.

What do you hope to achieve in the next few years?
I want to educate myself and others about cerebral palsy while working as a reporter. I want to become a White House Correspondent so I can ensure that people with any type of disability are seen and heard in government.

What advice would you give your younger self?
There are some things you will not be able to do, and that’s okay. You’re never going to live an ordinary life, and that’s okay. With love and support, nothing will hold you back from accomplishing your dreams. Get comfortable with being extraordinary.

What do you wish other people knew about what it's like to have cerebral palsy?
I wish people knew that every day is different. That, and cerebral palsy isn’t “cute,” and we’re trying our best. Support from others is key!

What advice would you give others with cerebral palsy?
Be gentle with yourself, and don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone and advocate for yourself.

*Abigail's story is 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.