My name is Willow.  Willow Birch Hampton.

I live in a group home for people who are disabled.  I was born with cerebral palsy; because of it I can't talk well and usually use a wheelchair (for shorter trips I walk on two crutches, but I prefer my wheelchair; it's so much easier for me).

I am 22 years old.  I have lived here at Sheltering Arms Haven since I was 18, after I moved out.  Had a real bad argument with my Daddy; he never could accept the fact that I was born disabled.  I think I must have been a huge disappointment to him.

My mom died shortly after giving birth to me.  I never knew her excepting in pictures; I wonder what she was like.  Daddy is a mean drunk; I think he drinks, so he can forget about me.  I was their only child.

I dropped out of school in eleventh grade, got my GED.  I work at a sheltered workshop for people who are disabled; I've been there for over a year.  I like it; it pays the bills, but it don't pay that much.  I rely more on my Social Security disability check, which I get every month.

I don't mind being disabled, but I don't like the fact that we're often looked down upon or seen by the normal population as "burdens".  I'm sorry; I (or any other disabled person) didn't ask to be like this.  It just happened, whether we were born with it (like I was) or became disabled later on, due to an illness or an accident.  We are a part of society too and people need to make room for us; we aren't going anywhere!

I know I'm different.  Do people have to point it out or make me or any other disabled person feel even worse??  I also hate the comments or stares; that makes me extremely uncomfortable!  I always tell people to take a picture; it will last longer (and that is the truth!).

Well, I'm gonna go out to eat with Megan and Casey (as well as our social worker, Mrs. T); we're going to Chili's tonight.  I can't wait; it's been a while since I've really done anything fun!  Take care; I will write in here again soon!  Bye for now!

~Willow.