As a dedicated activist for cerebral palsy, there are three things that I dearly wish for this Christmas. If I had the chance to write a letter to Santa, these are the requests I would make:
1. More Research and Funding Towards Transition Programs for Adults with Cerebral Palsy: One of the most pressing issues I face as an adult with cerebral palsy is the lack of research and funding dedicated to our specific needs. Transition programs play a crucial role in helping individuals with cerebral palsy adapt to everyday life in society. These programs focus on areas such as employment, education, housing, and independence. However, they often struggle to receive the recognition and support they need. I would greatly appreciate it if Santa could prioritize further research and allocate more resources to the development of these programs.
2. More Representation in Literature: While we have made significant strides in increasing representation of individuals with disabilities in literature, there is still much work to be done. As an author and Disability rights journalist, it is my personal mission to create characters that reflect the diverse experiences of people with disabilities. By incorporating disability into my writing, I aim to challenge stereotypes, promote inclusivity, and contribute to the normalization of disability in society. My Christmas wish is for continued support and recognition in this area, enabling me to continue writing stories that bring disability representation into the mainstream.
3. Increased Understanding and Acceptance of Disabilities: Despite the passing of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) in 1990 and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act in 1973, there remains a significant lack of understanding and acceptance towards disabilities. I was reminded of this during a recent trip I took to New York for the Thanksgiving holiday. In the bustling airport, I encountered employees who struggled to comprehend what it meant to provide accessibility for someone with cerebral palsy. It was disheartening to witness the lack of empathy and understanding from individuals who work in public spaces. This Christmas, I kindly ask Santa to help spread awareness and education about disabilities, encouraging individuals to be more inclusive and accommodating towards those with disabilities.
In conclusion, my Christmas wish as a cerebral palsy activist is for more research and funding towards transition programs for adults, increased representation in literature, and increased understanding and acceptance of disabilities. By addressing these needs, we can create a more equitable and inclusive society for individuals living with cerebral palsy. 
