contributions
finding
the
positives
different, often meaning I would
get frustrated if I couldn’t keep up
with peers. However, as I got older,
the difference between my peers
and I grew - they started going on
night’s out, something that just
By Chloe Tear wasn’t practical for me to do.
When initially given a diagnosis Now aged 18 I have achieved a lot.
for yourself or your child it can be
the fear of the unknown that is the
scariest part. I was diagnosed with
mild cerebral palsy (CP), affecting
my legs and left arm, at the age
of seven and it would have been
impossible to predict how things
turned out. I understand that
CP can be very unique to the
individual; for me it has meant
muscle weakness, muscles being
too tight and lack of coordination
and balance. Although my speech
is unaffected, it has resulted
in pain, seizures and a visual
impairment, but here is why I
Some may argue this is because
I have CP, and in some respects
they are right. Cerebral palsy has
allowed me to appreciate the small
achievements. It has allowed me
to be inspired by loads of young
people and adults who are facing
similar challenges as myself and
through this I have created amazing
friendships. A positive of living with
cerebral palsy means I have learnt
how to turn my obstacles into
opportunities. It means I have had
to work harder to make people see
me, to stand out – but for all the wanted to raise awareness. Not
right reasons. only that, but I wanted to move
think it is a positive.
away from the medical definition
Having cerebral palsy has allowed of cerebral palsy and make a
When I was younger I often me to voice my opinion and collection of blog posts that
resorted to ‘blending in’ as it was create a change in people’s were both truthful and relatable.
the easier option when I didn’t fully attitudes. How many people have I wanted someone who didn’t
understand what CP was. I have an opportunity to educate others have cerebral palsy to gain more
always attended a mainstream at the age of 18? Working in understanding, but allow people
school and have found this to be partnership with CP Teens UK and with CP to have someone to talk to.
a positive experience, especially Scope, this has become a reality. when I got older. However, I If I believe something is not right, I would rather stand out than blend
slowly learned that ‘blending in’ then I know something can be in. Thank you cerebral palsy for
is pointless and, at times, can just done about it. helping me realise this.
When I set up the blog ‘Life as a Chloe Tear blogs at
Cerebral Palsy student’ I knew I cpstudentblog.blogspot.co.uk
make the situation worse. When I
was younger I didn’t see myself as
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