You definitely need to see a neurologist - you could have any one of
many neurological conditions other than CP.

An aside to the discussion regarding labels -- I have always heartily
disliked being labelled "heroic" simply because I am in a wheelchair
or limped -- to me that is the stupidest and most degrading way of
looking at a person with a disability - as if the only reason they
are successful at anything is because they are disabled, not because
they are smart or hard-working.  Humph!  I remember that when I
received an award for "Best Handicapped Employee of the Year" I was
very embarrassed and so not flattered.  I wanted "Best Employee of
the Year," not "Best Handicapped Employee."  And yes, I've got
excellent performance reviews at work which have made me far
happier! :-D



Kat


On Oct 9, 2005, at 9:10 AM, Mary Katherine Powers wrote:

> In a message dated 10/9/05 2:03:27 AM, [log in to unmask] writes:
>
> <snip>
>
> I really appreciate this perspective.  I have problems with fine motor
> skills, weakness in my arms, posture, and balance, but my major
> problem is that it
> hurts to walk.  My lower legs feel stiff and sore and it's hard to
> move them,
> so I walk slowly.  I also have a limp from when I sprained my left
> ankle 23
> years ago and it healed improperly.
>
> I see what you're saying about not defining myself as disabled,
> even if I get
> some sort of diagnosis.  Especially because these seem to be mild
> problems.
> I am hoping to get help so I can function better.  I was a preemie
> (11 weeks
> early, weighing 2 lb. 12 oz.) so I suspect that whatever is going
> on is related
> to that.
>
> thanks,
>
> Mary Katherine
>