Introduction Part Two

 Have you ever wondered how a person who is confined to a wheelchair functons in daily life? I believe that most people believe that they have an idea, but if you are not in my particular position, I don't think anyone can understand the full impact that a disability can have on a person's life.

Let me introduce myself. My name is Elizabeth Yost, and I'm a spastic quadriplegic with Cerebral Palsy. In a nutshell CP is a developmental disability. It's basically brain damage caused by multiple different things. My particular injury happened at conception. It can also happen during delivery of the baby. Most people are aware that it can occur during delivery, but it certainly can happen during any point in the pregnancy. I digress... I'm much more than my disability. I am a intelligent, witty, compassionate woman who loves life. Yes, having CP is not the best, but I have adapted to obstacles that have been put in my path. For the most part, I'm a positive person. Throughout my almost forty-two years, challenges have come up, and I've overcome those challenges with a smile on my face.

For the last couple of months, a thought has taken root in my mind. The majority of people don't understand how a person who is confined to a wheelchair can also have complexed thoughts and feelings. There is a stereotypes that all people who are in wheelchairs are deaf and/or stupid. I'm living proof that stereotype is a narrowed minded concept. I'm a college educated woman who knows her own mind. So, having said that, I would love to push back against that stereotype, and educate people. I have this thought that I educate people on a wide range of topics regarding disability. I would love to dispel the many myths about disability. I also hope that I can help people who are in a similar situation as myself.