MOVING FORWARD: Lisa works through a physical therapy exercise; Through persistent efforts in therapy, she's gaining the ability to walk again.

Her legs were so tight that the heels of her feet touched her behind. The doctors decided to surgically implant a baclofen pump on the side of her stomach. It released a muscle-relaxing liquid into the body every couple of hours. As Lisa grappled with her new reality, she fell into the depths of depression. The weight of feeling that she made a mistake, coupled with the nagging from her mother about making that mistake, added emotional layers to her already arduous journey. The inexplicable nature of her condition left Lisa and her family searching for answers, with no preexisting conditions or family history to offer insight.

The challenges extended beyond the physical, Lisa was unable to talk for 15 years. Her medical team developed a unique way for her to communicate. She would wear a baseball cap with a flashlight attached to it that allowed her to point at a

letter board to convey her words. She diligently used a plastic pump that would hang around her neck known as a spirometer which made her lungs stronger and eventually led to the return of her speech.

Lisa reflects on the societal separation that can occur, acknowledging that people treat disabled people differently. "It's like we have a whole planet with disabled people, and they don't want us to mix." She believes that understanding to be inclusive is crucial for breaking down these barriers. "People don't know how to address disabled people," Lisa shares, pointing out the awkwardness and fear that can accompany interactions. There's a clear hesitation to engage or even touch someone with a disability as if the condition itself is contagious. One prevalent misconception Lisa has faced is the assumption that people in

wheelchairs or with disabilities have hearing problems. This assumption leads people to speak loudly to her, when in fact, her hearing has heightened due to the loss of her other two senses.

Despite facing significant adversity, Lisa found unexpected positives. She successfully quit smoking, a change that might not have occurred without her condition. The experience has also taught her profound lessons about respect and appreciation for what she has. As she puts it, "You have to look at the good side of something bad." Lisa is content with her life, even though it could be better. She resides in a group home with 10 individuals with diverse abilities who have become family, complemented by a dedicated team of four aides always ready to provide support and care. She acknowledges that her condition could have been worse and expresses gratitude for retaining some senses. Others with similar conditions faced even more significant challenges, such as loss of eyesight, speech, or the use of their arms.

Lisa considers herself fortunate. Over the years, she made significant strides in her recovery. Through persistent efforts in therapy, she’s gaining the ability to walk again. The doctor was also able to take out the baclofen pump and she now takes the pill form instead. Lisa discovered her newfound passions in exercise, gambling, jazz music, and crocheting. Lisa’s journey is not over, but she is determined to continue moving forward. While her life has been altered in many ways, she refuses to let it define her. Lisa passionately advocates for greater understanding, acceptance, and inclusivity, challenging stereotypes and fostering a more compassionate world. •

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Alondra Cabrera is a Senior at Montclair State University majoring in Communication and Media Studies. She is expected to graduate in Spring 2024 and eagerly anticipates working in her field of study. Alondra is glad to be a part of Exceptional Parent Magazine. She was introduced to EP Magazine through Hawk Communications, a MSU course that provides the opportunity for students to gain experience in public relations, social media, advertising, content creation, writing, and much more! Alondra loves learning, cooking, and trying new things. Find her on LinkedIn at linkedin.com/in/alondracabrera