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I'm Taking Back Control in Life With Cerebral Palsy

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Several months ago, I was struggling to cope with cerebral palsy. I didn’t know what to do or where to turn. I felt lost and confused. I started doubting my ability to survive the daily challenges I face.

I was then encouraged by my mother to write a story to help me release any negative emotions. My mind wandered and I decided to open my computer and start writing.

By writing down my thoughts and feelings, I was able to process them and gain a better understanding of my emotions. It also gave me an outlet to express my emotions in a way that was healthier than the negative coping mechanisms I had been using.

Once I completed the writing process, I felt empowered to make a difference and say, “Take it or leave it, this is me.” My story is my story, and I tell it from my point of view.

I discovered that I could overcome anything I faced as I wrote each chapter, creating characters that reflected my journey in life. I found it incredibly liberating to be able to express my thoughts, feelings, and opinions without fear of judgment. It was a way to explore and acknowledge the unique experiences I had and to truly appreciate the power of my own voice. Writing was an outlet for me to process and make sense of my life and discover a sense of self-confidence and acceptance.

Publishing my book, “A Not So Typical Eight Grader’s Story” has allowed me to connect with readers who have had similar experiences and to share my story with a larger audience. It has also been a way to inspire and empower others by showing that it is possible to overcome challenges and to create something meaningful out of them.

Cover of Tylia's new book with an illustration of a boy in a wheelchair working on a computer

Through telling my story, I have found a sense of community with people who have been through similar struggles. I have learned how to better advocate for myself and others, and how to channel my experiences into something positive and constructive. I have also been able to reach people who may not have been aware of cerebral palsy. I have been able to give them a better understanding of what it is like to live with a disability.

Ultimately, publishing a book has taught me to accept my disability for what it is, and to keep going. Writing and publishing a book about cerebral palsy has allowed me to share my experiences, which can help people gain a better understanding of living with a disability. It has also helped me to gain confidence in my own abilities, and to be more accepting of my cerebral palsy.

Writing and publishing a book allowed me to take control of my own narrative, and to share it with others. It was a way to show that I was capable of accomplishing something meaningful, despite my disability. It also gave me a sense of pride and self-confidence, and helped me to see that I could do whatever I set my mind to.

Getty image by RgStudio

Originally published: February 8, 2023
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