Johnny, aged 10 1/2, realizes just how fortunate he is, even having to live with muscular dystrophy and other health problems.
I really am a lucky little guy, you know that?
I could be sitting around, feeling so sorry for myself because I am in a wheelchair and have a neuromuscular disease that is making my muscles go weak on me, but as bad as I may seem to have it (I also have epilepsy and have seizures, and I also have breathing problems and have to wear oxygen in my nose, plus I am hard of hearing and have problems seeing), I am a lot luckier than a lot of people.
For one thing, I don't have diseases like AIDS or cancer, which are FAR worse than muscular dystrophy in MY book, and I can still do SOME things for myself without a lot of trouble! I also have family and friends to help me in case I get stuck or into some sort of jam. I have a very loving family who accepts me for who I am, not for WHAT I am, and they don't go around, feeling sorry for me. They get me involved in doing things, and they are very supportive, especially if I happen to get sick or end up in the hospital again.
I also have friends at school (namely Jose'), and they aren't ashamed of me. Sure, I may not get around as well as some of my friends, but I am STILL able to get around, and I am STILL able to do SOME things without anyone's help! I also have very good doctors who help me whenever a problem arises, and my therapists I see at the hospital or MDA clinic are very helpful to me, too. They give me advice, and they are always there to talk to if I am feeling sad about something. Or, best of all, I can talk to my pastor at church, Pastor Bilkey, and together, he and I can pray about whatever is bothering me to God, and God always manages to make things better again. He never fails me.
I also have my computer, and I have been doing a lot of writing. I found this cool site called Authorsden.com, and there are many people from all over the world who get together and write poetry, stories, and stuff; and a lot of them are really good! There aren't too many kids on there, though, and I wish there were, because I think Authorsden could use some kid power in writing! My sister, Ronee', and I write all the time, and we really enjoy it! (I wish Authorsden had a kid's or teens area; that way, in case someone wrote anything nasty, we don't have to read it!)
I also am lucky because I have my brother, Erich, who lives in New York City, and we see each other at Christmas or if we happen to be in that part of the country. He looks a lot like me, 'cept he's tall and has darker blonde hair, and he isn't disabled like I am. He has a girlfriend, and in a few months, he is hoping to start taking driving lessons and get himself a car. He wants a HUMMER, but I don't know how he is going to drive a HUMMER in New York City! Erich and I get along very well, and we talk on the phone every week. He is a cool dude, and I love him so much!
Well, I would write more, but it is fixing to storm, so I want to get off before it really gets bad out. I don't want to be on the computer when lightning hits, especially since I have metal braces on my legs and am sitting in a wheelchair! NOT good! ZZZZAPPPPPO!!! You get the picture...FRIED Johnny Burgers!~ YUMMO!!
'Bye now! Talk to you later!
~Johnny, aged 10 1/2. :D
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Reviewed by serenety L
9/17/2003
Yes Johnny, you are a lucky little one - and intellligent as well to know what you have.
Wonderful write Karen. Positive and strong, yet touching.
Love
Nico
Okay Johny don't you get struck by lighting now...take care and see you back soon and hopefully in good health!!
You are amazing....do you know that KAREN??
Love your story!!
Love Tinka
Reviewed by Julie Wyatt
8/26/2003
How refreshing to read this viewpoint, and from a child no less. Now if everyone could be as positive about the things that have gone wrong in or with their life. Thank you Johnny!
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