Barb writes, "I've been thinking Sean might benefit from knowing others who
have cp.  Either his age or older.  I've been thinking about placing an ad in
the paper to that effect.  I'd love the opinion of any of you with cp as to
what you think.  Would it have been important to you to know others with cp
growing up?"

Hi Barb.  My name is Denise.  I'm 35, married and also have "mild/moderate
spastic di/tri plegic cp.  Growing up (other than preschool) I didn't really
know anyone else with any sort of disability.  I also avoided people with
disabilites- especially cp.  My "phobia" was really bad when I got to high
school.  Then I stayed clear of the handful of mainstreamed students .  I was
in denial that I even had a disability, so I didn't want any reminders.  With
the advantage of hindsight I think that if I had more exposure to others with
a disability when I was younger, perhaps I would never have fallen into the
trap of secret self loathing.

At least today, society makes an effort to tolerate and accept "differences."
 This is of course a step in the right direction, BUT I personally feel it is
imperitive for people to know others who are more like themselves.  This is
not to say you must isolate yourself into neat categories.  "I only associate
with Italian women who have cerebral palsy and love cats." - That would be
the extreme :D

However, I can tell you that when I first got on the internet five years ago,
my main objective was to find out info on cp.  (I was having some problems
with secondary syptoms exaccerbated by aging)  Anyway, I only thought I
needed facts, figures from medical sites, doctors, etc.  What turned out to
be the MOST valuable information was my contact with other adults who have
cp!  I still remember the feeling.  It was as if I'd been living in secret
among an alien race, and suddenly found some people from my "home" planet.
All kidding aside, I found great comfort both emotionally and on an almost
spiritual level when I found out how common the problems I faced were for
others with cp.

Being able to talk to others with cp, regardless of the individual level of
physical ability, I KNEW the words of advice, comfort, insight came from
someone who honestly experienced what I had, not just someone who was trying
to empathize.  Don't get me wrong- empathy (NOT sympathy) is wonderful, but
nothing beats the feeling of knowing the person you are talking to can back
up the phrase, "I know how you feel."  Because- yes in fact- they have
"walked, wheeled, or scrapped their feet" in my shoes.

As to putting an ad in the paper.  I'd say steer clear of that idea.  Too
many nuts and con artists in the world.  Seems to me that is just
adverstising for trouble.  What about contacting your local rehab center or
UCPA office?  Perhaps there are classes or groups you might be able to have
your child participate in to meet others with cp or similar disabilites?  If
no interest was expressed, I would not push a child where they did not want
to be, but since your child seems to have questions I'd say you should try to
meet the need.   Anyway- that is one person's opion regarding your serious
question.  Take Care- Be well:  Denise.