Recently, the topic of personal training, fitness, and disabilities was discussed along with my belief system on why I wanted to take on the task of personal training and training people with physical and intellectual disabilities. For a large amount of my life, I was always told that I would not amount to any activity I did, I was not able to do it, and that I would possibly need to live a sedentary life where I would have no chances to do the tasks I wanted, and the a

Hey everyone, my name is Nancy. I have spastic Cerebral Palsy. I currently walk with a walker. I had a pretty typical childhood up until about the age of eleven. I was in special education from first grade until fourth grade. I was one of the first kids to be mainstreamed in 5th grade, until I graduated from high school being included was tough. I was not bullied. I was ignored. I studied to be an elementary and special education teacher in college. I never had a job teaching

Behind these walls is a soul That, holds onto feelings, That just can not be ignored. Sometimes I smile, Just to shield away my pain. While at times, You could barely even read me, And that is because I have hidden my pain So well. This outside shell is only a cover, If you only begin to speak these words, Truth will only set you free. But, hiding them only causes more pain, Tearing away your inner soul. So, come on out, And begin to speak to me. Please do not keep your pain

I have Spina Bifida, Hydrocephalus, and Arnold Chiari Malformation. My back was never repaired. I was born in 1954 and was told that I was not expected to live. I have a lump on my back at the tailbone area, covered with skin that was not surgically done.        I walk with long leg braces and crutches most of the time. I also use a wheelchair for long distances. I had a normal childhood growing up, for the most part. I went to public school. I graduated in 1973.       I