An essay from my son: I have been able to be successful.

My son had to write an essay about himself this fall.  I think he did a great job of explaining himself.  I asked him if I could use it on my blog, and he gave me permission.  I have been hanging onto it waiting for the right time.  That time is now.  My son is graduating this weekend.  

You will find me on the couch with chocolate celebrating this milestone in my son's life. He has worked very hard to get here!

I have been able to be successful.

  “Neither this man nor his parents sinned,” said Jesus, “but this happened so that the works of God might be displayed in him.” (John 9:3 New International Version (NIV)) This was my confirmation verse and it has a special meaning to me because I have multiple disabilities. I’ve been able to be successful because of the people God has put in my life to help me on my journey. I think it is important to advocate for people who have disabilities, so they also have the chance to succeed in life as I have had so far.

I have three disabilities: CP, Low Vision, and ADD. My CP affects everything. However, the CP primarily affects my arms and legs. I started out using a walker. Now, I walk with crutches and I can also walk with one crutch. I can even walk short distances without any support. I use leg braces to help keep my legs straight when I walk. I use my own personal manual wheelchair to save energy and get around quickly when I have to travel long distances. I have always had problems with my vision; however, I recently received the label Low Vision. In the fourth grade, I was diagnosed with ADD. Even with my disabilities, I still have been successful in my life so far.

The reasons for my success are my parents, doctors, therapists, friends, other people and Faith. My parents have battled school systems to ensure that I’ve gotten a good education like everyone else. One school district suggested that I needed to be in a special school as a result of my disability. My parents said no and that I would be attending a regular public school. I have had good doctors and therapists. I have friends and other people who have helped me when I’ve needed help. My friends have made sure that when they plan activities that I can participate as well. At the end of the day, the number one reason why I am successful is because of my faith in Jesus Christ. I always pray for a better tomorrow, especially on the days that I’m physically struggling.

I think it is very important that all children and adults who have disabilities get the services and tools that they need in order to be successful. If they require certain adaptations in order to get tasks done and make their lives run smoothly, I think steps should always be taken in order that people with disabilities have access to them. If a person with a disability requires therapies, medications, or medical care, then I believe that steps should also be taken to ensure that they can gain access to them quickly without getting the run around from other people. I think it's very important to advocate for those who have a disability because I believe that everybody deserves a chance.

In conclusion, I do have a unique combination of disabilities. I have been able to be successful so far in life because I have had some help along the way. Everybody deserves a chance like I have been given.