KEEPING IT REAL: Diomayra’s Story, Part Two

KEEPING IT REAL: Diomayra’s Story, Part Two*

By Diomayra Ramos

Catch up on the first part of our Q&A.

What kinds of things do you do for fun? Do you have to make adaptations to do them?

 For fun, I enjoy reading, shopping, and working out. I started my fitness journey about nine years ago, and I absolutely love it. Similar to reading, exercising offers me an escape from reality, allowing me to push myself without anyone else dictating what I can or cannot do.

Most of the exercises I do don't require significant adaptations or tools. However, if I encounter a particularly challenging exercise, I adapt it to suit my needs. For example, since I can't jump, I modify jumping jacks by stepping sideways instead.

 What achievement are you most proud of and why?

Moving to the dorm after transferring to a four-year university was an incredible experience. It taught me how to advocate for myself, boosting my self-confidence and giving me a newfound sense of freedom.

 What do you hope to achieve in the next few years?

I aspire to become a motivational and dating coach for individuals with disabilities. Let me tell you, dating with a disability can be incredibly challenging, and I want to utilize my knowledge and experience to make it a little easier.

 What advice would you give your younger self?

I was reflecting on this recently and thinking about what I would say to my younger self. The first thing that comes to mind is giving her a warm, comforting hug and assuring her that she truly matters. I would emphasize that she doesn't need to change a thing about herself because she is already perfect just the way she is. Life may present challenges along the way, but I would instill in her the belief that she's fully capable of handling anything that might come her way.

What do you wish other people knew about what it's like to have cerebral palsy?

One thing I want people to know is that cerebral palsy is simply a condition; it doesn't define who we are as individuals. Behind the diagnosis, there is a human being with a unique personality, interests, and dreams. We are fighters, determined to fight for what we want.

 What advice would you give others with cerebral palsy?

To never give up, to realize your worth, and to embrace your amazing self just the way you are. The world may not always be designed for us, but that won't stop us from persevering. Oh no, we will fight relentlessly until we achieve our desires.

 Is there anything else you'd like to share about?

We are all here for a reason, and it's essential not to let fear hinder us from pursuing our dreams. If I had let fear hold me back, I wouldn't have my blog, shesdioma.com.

*Diomayra’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, medical endorsement, or other 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.