Lucky or Unlucky?

“We cannot choose our external circumstances, but we can always choose how we respond to them.”

~ Epictetus Quotes from The Enchiridion

How very true! Every client at Easter Seals DuPage and the Fox Valley Region has unique circumstances that present challenges. The challenges are incredibly different. Some are physical, cognitive, emotional, and the list goes on and on. Arguably, our challenges from Down Syndrome to Cerebral Palsy and everything in between are great and change our perspectives. With our unique perspectives and lives comes a very important decision. What kind of attitude will we have?

My parents have always had an incredible attitude when it comes to my challenges. My mother fought for me throughout my school days, battled with insurance companies for basic equipment, and never once wished I was different. My father always did recreational activities with me, skiing, tubing behind a boat, horseback riding, along with fixing my equipment. I picked up their attitudes ages ago and they are engrained in me. Stay positive! Don’t give up! You can do anything! If I didn’t have a disability, I would probably not appreciate their attitudes as much. Also, I have met some of the most amazing people due to my disability. I have said this in previous posts, but my assistants in school and now college have been phenomenal in helping me become a strong and independent woman.

I really do think I am lucky to have a disability. I would not choose to live a different life for myself. Yes, the ability to walk and talk would make life easier but I would have missed out on hundreds of tremendous individuals. So, this St. Patrick’s day, why do you feel lucky to be part of Easter Seals?