What I Should Have Told My Friends About Cerebral Palsy in Elementary School

looking back at my childhood and going to school, it was always easy for me to make friends. But I do have some regrets when it comes to explaining my cerebral palsy to my friends over the years. As I’m about to turn 23, I begin to think about what I should’ve told my friends about my cerebral palsy back when I was in elementary school.

I should have told my friends having cerebral palsy doesn’t make me anything different from them.

I should have told my friends that cerebral palsy doesn’t stop me from enjoying what I love to do.

I should have told my friends that just because I have cerebral palsy, it doesn’t mean that my feelings are going to be hurt if I don’t win at a game of UNO. Please don’t let me win.

I should have told my friends that cerebral palsy isn’t a sad condition to have — it’s a blessing.

I should have told my friends that just because I have cerebral palsy, it doesn’t mean you can’t invite me to your birthday parties because the water park isn’t accessible. I could find a way to swim.

I should have told my friends that cerebral palsy doesn’t define me as a person. I’m just Tylia.