Tuesday, March 28, 2006

About Me

I am a person with a disability: Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy. It didn't come upon me suddenly--I was born with it. I was not expected to live past the age of fifteen, but now at age 37 I am still ticking. At age eleven I ended up in a wheelchair; my legs had become so weak that I was no longer able to walk or stand. When I was 26 I was trached and hooked to a ventilator. The ventilator assists my breathing. Without it, I would not be here today. Modern technology has given me, and others like me, a new lease on life. I am thankful to live in a country that has made this possible. Every birthday I celebrate is a personal victory over my disease.

It may seem to some people that I don't have much quality of life. I beg to differ. Although I am unable to walk, have limited use of my hands, and need a vent to breathe, I can describe my life as relatively content. There is much for me to live for: my family, good friends, spending time with my niece and nephews. I try not to dwell on what I can't do, but focus instead on what I can do. I try not to dwell on the past or the future, but live in the present. As Eleanor Roosevelt said: " Yesterday is history. Tomorrow is mystery. Today is a gift."

1 comment:

HollisCarney said...

Hi Johnny ~ it's me Holly Carney ~ you make me never want to complain about my "problems" again! You have been on some journey.

I prayed a lot for you last year when you were in the hospital. My brother, David, was there too! Yes, same doctor even. I call him Dr. Dapper (not Eiseman) cause I think he's hot! (It's okay - my husband knows - tee hee) You and my brother were next door to each other and it was great comfort having your parents and Bibbi there for me too! Who ever would have thought?

Your family has always been special to me and will always be like family to me and John and our children!!! Especially since J.D. and Sterling were in diapers together!

I love you ~ can't wait to rock out with you at the Connor Casa!!!! Happy early Birthday! May God continue to use you to bless so many others!!

love,

Holly Carney