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Hi , I'm Lynn from St. Petersburg, Florida. I was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis in 1980. JUST MY LUCK the doctors were right. My first thoughts were "this won't last they'll find a cure". After a period of sitting and waiting I realized being disabled was not my choice but a reality, one I did not want to accept. I needed to get involved and become a part of this reality.
I went to a support group, but it really wasn't what I was looking for. All the focus was about what disability did to us instead of what we could do with our disability. After sharing with a friend my belief that ALL disabilities should unite and share their experience, strength and hope, we contacted the Therapeutic Recreation Department with the City of St. Petersburg. That was the beginning of Physically Challenged Expressions a support group for adults. We encourage each other to "Be all that you can be".
This worked so well for me I became St. Petersburg's busiest volunteer. I volunteered anywhere, anytime for almost anything. I taught wheelchair tennis to kids, played on a wheelchair basketball team, referee'd balloon volleyball for the elderly, helped out at special olympics. I was active on four committee's all with accessibility issues. I wanted to make a difference.
I discovered WOW Winners On Wheels this has become my favorite project. It's a support group for kids (like a scout troop) they earn badges for learning independent living skills. A simple thing like going to MacDonalds and ordering their own lunch for the first time is such an eye opener. My reward, watch them see and believe they can do it.
I'm also involved with Spinal Cord Injury Outreach Network. Another recreational support group with varying disabilities, we may not have the best form but we have the most fun.
Each disability is unique but there are common features. Coping is a stage of adjustment where persons recognize certain limitations. Acceptance includes an emotional commitment to make the best possible life. Disability related challenges can be an obstacle which makes quality of life difficult and affects performance. This creates negative attitudes and causes separation from community life. I have found through interaction that group participation is a relief. Persons with disabilities no longer need to experience isolation and loneliness.
My goal is to encourage persons with disabilities of all ages to Get Out and Live. I plan to visit Independent Living Centers throughout Florida from Pensacola to Miami. Work with them through networking, research and discover all the sports, social, recreational, educational and volunteer opportunities available in their surrounding communities. Disabled individuals wanting to pursue this goal will be just a phone call away.
