End of The Semester Chaos

Dear Followers:

I apologize for my lack of posting. My week has been pretty hectic, preparing for final exams and what have you.  Thankfully, all of the chaos that has ensued me thus far will subside come  12/12/14. After that point, you will have me all to yourselves once more. (For the most part, at least) I ask that you all bear with me. I will try to keep everyone in the loop, but sometimes that's easier said than done. Enjoy your work/school week and I'll talk to you all Friday.

Best wishes,
Alexis

The Stares, The Shock, and The Reality: You're Really A College Student?

I can't tell you how many people gawk at me every time I set foot in a public space, whether it's an innocent four year old who considers me a real life Transformer or a rude adult trying to gauge my level of intelligence based on appearance. (That number's probably somewhere in the hundred thousands) Sometimes its so nerve-wracking that I almost lose my temper, but I manage to keep it in check.  I put on my best smile and keep moving about my day in hopes that they will unglue their eyes from me once I round the next corner. However, I'm not always so fortunate.

At times like these, I realize that I'm going to have to suffer through the awkward small talk associated with meeting new people. In some cases, the person who approaches me plasters on a fake smile and nods like some automated bobble head as I introduce myself. Other times they seem to be genuinely interested in the things I have to say. In either case, their jaw never fails to hit the floor after I tell them that I am a full time college student.

It's almost as though they expect me to be completely incapable of mastering college-level concepts simply because of my physical state. I find it both frustrating and amusing that almost everyone equates physical disability with a complete lack of cognition. Fortunately, they seem to walk away with a better attitude and the understanding that just because I can't walk doesn't mean that I'm unable to develop and fulfil dreams. It's moments like those that restore my faith in humanity.

For all those who read my blog that are fortunate enough to be free from the clutches of a physical disability: Don't assume that someone who struggles physically doesn't have the potential to flourish academically. We often have just as much potential as you do. I can assure you that we are not alien life forms who desire nothing more than to eat your brains. Don't be afraid to strike up a conversation.

Now to address all of my readers who do suffer from a physical disability: Please don't allow the words of a few ignorant passersby destroy your self-confidence. You have just as much talent as the next person. Take pride in the things that make you unique, love yourself, and most importantly, don't be afraid to tell your story. You never know who you may inspire.

Sincerely,
Alexis

My Source of Strength

This post is dedicated to one of my amazing friends. Her name is Jackie. We both suffer from Cerebral Palsy, a disorder that affects everything from muscle tone to balance and speech. (Those are just a few examples of how this disorder can effect a person's life.) To learn more visit http://cerebralpalsy.org/ Now that I've explained a little about how this disorder effects people, let me tell you more about this amazing person and how we met. I was browsing through the various groups that Facebook has to offer, and I stumbled upon a Cerebral Palsy support group (I'll post a link at the end for anyone who is interested in joining) Once, I had successfully joined the group I began to share a bit of my story with its members.

A week after the initial post, I received a friend request from Jackie inviting me to talk. I was a little nervous about accepting at first, but she seemed nice enough, so I pushed my apprehension aside and began to strike up a conversation. It turned out to be one of the best decisions I had made. We became instant friends. She is one of the few people who truly understands the constant struggle that Cerebral Palsy can pose.

As we talked, she began sharing her story. It made me feel as though I had a long lost sister. I also gained a new appreciation for the abilities I have. I am extremely grateful to have a friend who really understands the everyday battle and makes me feel as though I belong somewhere.  Here's to amazing friends.

Until next time,
Alexis

Here's the link:
https://www.facebook.com/cerebralpalsysupportgroup

The Journey To Freedom

It's been almost five year since I first set foot in the operating room where angels disguised as surgeons and nurses set me on the path to independence. The tendons in my legs and adductors were so tight that I couldn't stand and bear weight or open my legs, even after countless rounds of Botox injections. Thankfully, one surgeon and my dedicated parents changed my future forever. It took about six hours of skilled cutting and lengthening of tendons and muscles, but soon the fog of anesthetic wore off, and I looked down in awe. My legs were straight for the first time in almost fourteen years. At last, I felt a twinge of hope, maybe I could become more self-reliant.

Six weeks later, the casts were removed and the scars healed. Now came the process of rebuilding the muscles. I had to undergo intense physical therapy, the process was painful, almost totally unbearable, but my mother pushed me no matter how much I begged her to stop. She saw the potential that lie just beyond the physical anguish. Within five months after having my tendons released,  I was able to stand while holding on to a grab bar. Two months later, I had returned to school.

However, my most amazing feat had yet to come. I had always dreamed of walking across the stage to accept my diploma, a task that most kids my age take for granted. On June 13, 2014 I accomplished that goal. The auditorium exploded with elation and tears of joy covered my face. A month later, I returned to the hospital and gave my surgeon the surprise of his life by walking into his office. He beamed, a single tear running down his cheek.

I beat the odds, in spite of all those who had doubted me. I hope this story inspires the desire to fight for your dreams and not listen to the voice inside your head that says it can never be done. I look forward to hearing your stories of success in the future, and no matter what, I believe in you

Yours truly,
Alexis

About This Blog



This blog is designed to be a place where I can share my struggles and triumphs, as well as offer inspiration to people who are going through struggles similar to my own. I hope that these experiences help to remove the barrier between those with disabilities and the able-bodied community. We have feelings, aspirations, and dreams that we would like to fulfill. The only difference lies in the way we achieve them. I will update regularly with details about the different challenges and milestones that occur in my everyday life, as well as resources that have helped me achieve my goals. I hope that each and every one of my followers walks away feeling understood, valued, and maybe even with a new perspective. Feel free to post questions. I will answer them to the best of my ability.

Best Wishes,
Alexis