October 11, 2016

by: Client Contributor

Anything is Possible

This week’s blog was written by Christian. In 2006, Christian began working with UCP of Greater Cleveland’s OakLeaf Supported Employment Program, which includes a group of individuals working together in a community setting with continual support from an on-site OakLeaf supervisor. Christian worked as an assistant file clerk, an Administrative Assistant and Front Desk Receptionist. In early 2015, Christian expressed interest in becoming even more independent, so he began working with OakLeaf Partners Job Placement Specialists to find competitive employment out in the community. When a full-time receptionist position became available at Kurtz Bros., Christian was recommended for the position and got the job. Kurtz Bros. has repeatedly mentioned that Christian continues to excel and go above and beyond all of the expectations that were presented to him.

Cerebral Palsy is caused by brain injury or abnormal development of the brain that occurs during birth or before birth. Cerebral palsy affects the body movements, muscle tone, reflex, posture and balance.

My name is Christian. I am no stranger to challenges in life. I was born with cerebral palsy. Born at six months old, I weighed a pound and eight ounces and I was not expected to live past twenty-four hours. Thankfully, life had other plans for me. After several surgeries, I had to learn how to walk, talk and eat with the help of doctors, physical and occupational therapy. By the age of two, I was able to walk, talk, eat and be a kid again.

In 2013, I found myself facing another obstacle in life; I was diagnosed with stage one cancer. After six months with several rounds of aggressive treatments and surgery, I was able to pull through. Now I am two years cancer free and very happy and enjoying life to the fullest.

People often ask me how I do it after everything I have been through in life. Well, I am a 30 year old who works a full time job and lives on my own. I also love doing public speaking as well. I know I have a disability but I don’t see myself as a disabled person. I look at myself as someone who has abilities, not disabilities. It is because of my determination, strength, success and positivity in life that I am who I am today. I share my life story in hopes to inspire and change lives. I also would like to give someone the encouragement to go for what they believe in and to help them understand that the abilities are endless to anyone. If I can do it then you can too. Anything is possible.

I hope you enjoyed my story. October is Disability Employment Awareness Month. I hope I did my job by spreading awareness. Remember, dream big!!!

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