KEEPING IT REAL: Adrien’s Story

KEEPING IT REAL: Adrien's Story*

By Adrien Pinkard

What achievement are you most proud of and why?

My most proud achievement would undoubtedly be the relationship between my daughter and I. She is a gem and I am immensely proud of the young lady she is becoming. 

What's the most adventurous thing you've done and what's one adventure you hope to take?

The most adventurous thing I've ever done was getting married to my beautiful wife Tara.  Everyday is an adventure on our journey to happiness. 

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

I hope to be a homeowner in the near future. 

What is most rewarding about being a parent?

The most rewarding feeling is watching my daughter reach milestones on her path to adulthood. This past June, she graduated from Lower School which was extremely gratifying to witness.

On the flip side, what's the most challenging part of parenting?

The most challenging part of parenting is definitely accepting the fact that you are not in control of what the universe has in store for you and your family but keeping your trust in faith is paramount. 

What advice would you give your younger self?

I would tell my teenage self to keep your core values at the forefront of your decision making and invest in bitcoin. 

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

I wish people knew that we are innate problem solvers and can find solutions in instances where others may not see a resolve. 

What advice would you give others with cerebral palsy?

Lean into your strengths and speak loudly and proudly. 

Is there anything else you'd like to share?

Thank you to CPARF for allowing me to share a small piece of myself and my story!

*Adrien'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.