tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-49974283277708420632024-03-13T02:17:15.098-07:00I have Cerebral Palsy...so what, I'm still awesome!Jackhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11139803643250625806noreply@blogger.comBlogger54125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4997428327770842063.post-23624905554508650572022-08-22T14:57:00.000-07:002022-08-22T14:57:52.702-07:00End of a Productive Summer and Excited for School <p> <span> I had a very busy summer. My first job was the greatest job ever being a day camp counselor/instructor at the local park district. I reaffirmed my dream of working with kids for the rest of my life! Kids are so fun to be around. They make me feel like a kid again, and this is very rewarding! I am definitely going to try do this job again next summer! It was such an exceptional and valuable experience for me. Even though I did work for just a few weeks, I learned a lot about myself and working with kids. This summer, I also wrote my senior thesis research paper for my psychology undergraduate degree. It was really complicated and stressful, but I managed to get it completed on time. I would say this has been my most productive summer of my life. I actually am the type of person who loves being very busy. If I am not busy, I get bored and forget I have a purpose in this life. Getting my first job helped me realize my individual worth to society. This is not to say you need a job to be a worthwhile person. When I did not have a job, I was unhealthily obsessed with getting a job. How does this tie into the disability population? It is the case that me and other people with disabilities see ourselves as being able to work like abled-bodied individuals. We desperately desire to prove to the world we can support ourselves just like most everyone else. However, we must strive to not compare ourselves to other people. I fell into this trap countless times! </span></p><p><span><span> Next Monday, I start another fall semester at Benedictine University! I am very excited to make friends and serve on Student Senate again! It has been challenging to make friends ever since COVID-19 started, so I am hoping this will be easier this year! Have a great week! Remember you are beloved by God! </span><br /></span></p><p><span><br /></span></p><p><span><br /></span></p><p><br /></p>Jackhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11139803643250625806noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4997428327770842063.post-53739939916267962882022-07-22T19:18:00.001-07:002022-07-22T19:18:40.951-07:00Working with the Youth is my Calling <p> <span> I have always loved working with children and adolescents for many reasons. One of them is that I deeply cherish my own childhood and miss being a kid. Another reason is I realize young people need guidance and role models because their brains are developing at a rapid rate. Most of child and adolescent development depend on external factors including learning, parent influence, and peer pressure. This is my primary reason I love working with young people. Their developing brains encourage society's perception that kids are innocent. </span></p><p>Yesterday was my first day being a day camp counselor. My unique role is to lead an activity for groups of kids. Soon after I started talking, I began to feel a sense of deep curiosity from the kids. I could already tell we were forming a connection with each other! They were so patient and respectful of me! I thought they would be nervous and unsure of me because of my disability. I already love my job! </p>Jackhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11139803643250625806noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4997428327770842063.post-75130136538266293722022-07-15T19:03:00.004-07:002022-07-15T19:03:36.466-07:00Life is so Good Right Now <p> <span> This past month, I have been down about not having a job and my tutoring business not doing well. On Tuesday, that all changed! I was interviewed by the local park district to be a camp counselor, and they hired me! I was elated when I heard the news! This will be my first real job. Why was I so anxious and feeling bad about myself for not working? I should have been patient and trusted God more. No one should measure their self worth on whether or not they are working. I was making this big mistake. Anyway, I am so excited to start working! My awesome sister is going to help me! </span></p><p><span><span> God has made my life so great in so many ways! I am so blessed, loved, and cherished by Him. Every day, I try to show my Lord gratitude by praising His name and sharing His word with other people. </span><br /></span></p>Jackhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11139803643250625806noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4997428327770842063.post-47311830787046113812022-07-02T10:36:00.000-07:002022-07-02T10:36:01.984-07:00Overturning of Roe vs. Wade is a Victory for Life<p> As a proud citizen of the United States, I respect all other Americans regardless of their political views. Roe vs. Wade has been a controversial topic for decades in my great nation. At the very beginning of the United States, our founding fathers composed <i>The Declaration of Independence </i>claiming that each man and woman created by God has the three basic rights to life, liberty, and the pursuit of Happiness. I believe that the Supreme Court's initial decision on Roe vs. Wade decades ago was a clear violation of the right to life. I know life begins at the moment of conception. God has a plan for all His children even before they are in their mother's womb. So many Americas believe it is up to the woman whether or not to carry her pregnancy to full term. This is not the case. The medical and social science professional communities have recognized that unborn babies are human beings. </p><p><span> After the overturning of Roe vs. Wade, so many people are angry because they believe that women should have the right to terminate their unwanted child. This moral travesty pierces my heart. Especially as an individual with a disability, I know every human life deserves to be dignified and respected. Many of my good friends have disabilities like Down syndrome and autism which are common conditions where expecting mothers choose to abort their babies. Each of these friends are living flourishing lives despite their disabilities. It is not our fault that we have disabilities! American society must cherish life at all stages, not just after children are born. I just want people who are pro-choice to truly consider what the pro-life community believes about abortion. I am hopeful that more Americans will come to realize the truth about abortion. Please no hateful or disrespectful comments. Thank you! </span><br /></p>Jackhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11139803643250625806noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4997428327770842063.post-14652896022711385282022-06-09T16:13:00.002-07:002022-06-09T16:13:41.058-07:00Having an Impact on Others <p><span> One of my goals in my life is having a positive impact on other people. From a young age, my parents always taught me to treat other people like yourself. Throughout my life </span> , I have strived to live by this important rule of thumb. I make people more fulfilled in their lives by showing them respect, helping them grow spiritually, and advocating for their needs. I actually love doing these kind deeds! They make me feel fulfilled. Most people are good, but they tend to underestimate the importance of kindness. </p><p><span> My disability does not not inhibit me from having an impact on others. In a way, my disablity makes it easier because other people are drawn to me. They are interested in my life story. I am so blessed that God gave me all of my abilities! </span></p>Jackhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11139803643250625806noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4997428327770842063.post-32979971406217981202022-05-21T16:05:00.001-07:002022-05-21T16:05:50.879-07:00Summer Plans and Hopefully Working <p> <span> </span>Summer is finally here! I have a lot of plans to occupy this season. I just applied to be a tutor, and I think I got the job. It will be awesome to finally have a job. I am so blessed that I am able to contribute to society well despite my disability. As a disabled person, I feel bad that a lot of other disabled people are discriminated against when they try to attain a job just because they are disabled. This is unacceptable! All people disabled or not deserve the right to work! Thank you, God, for all of my strengths as a well-rounded individual!</p><p><span> As far as my other plans, I hope I will spend a lot of time with friends. COVID-19 has restricted my social life long enough! My family has a weekly movie night. I am so blessed I have so many great people in my life! </span> </p>Jackhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11139803643250625806noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4997428327770842063.post-81069287056049277132022-04-26T17:50:00.000-07:002022-04-26T17:50:00.076-07:00Be Kind to yourself and Other People <p> <span> I have been really feeling down lately and I am not sure why. My parents keep telling me it is normal to feel down some of the time. We all feel sad sometimes. I am tired of feeling this way. I have been talking with a neuropsychologist which helps a lot. However, I will not let that sadness define who I am. In a way, our own sadness makes us more empathetic for those who are going through similar situations as us. It is super important to be kind to yourself as well as other people. </span></p>Jackhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11139803643250625806noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4997428327770842063.post-27632282804310450372022-04-22T14:59:00.000-07:002022-04-22T14:59:22.887-07:00You are made for great things! <p> <span> Since I am a devoted Christian, I believe we are made for something greater than ourselves! Whether you are a Christian or something else, I respect you as your own individual. There must be more general acceptance of all people regardless of disability, race, ethnicity, religion, sex, and gender. Watching the news about the atrocities of Russia's war in Ukraine creates a murmur of anguish in my God-given heart! How could anyone believe this is acceptable behavior? Russian President Vladmir Putin must back off, and halt his hateful authority over the Russian army! Even Putin was made for good by God, but he is disrespecting his maker in Heaven. We all must strive for goodness in everything that we do! Please comment, sharing a troublesome news story you have seen and what you would like to see change. Thank you! </span></p>Jackhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11139803643250625806noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4997428327770842063.post-35943921843386823692022-04-10T17:07:00.002-07:002022-04-10T17:07:30.513-07:00My Faith<p> <span> I have so many good things in my life going for me! But, occasionally I feel down. When I am feeling down, I turn to my Catholic faith. My family instilled my faith in me from a very young age. Lately, since I have been out of the hospital, I have been feeling down about all the changes I went through like getting a trach and not being able to go to school. I try to remind myself that My Savior Jesus Christ voluntarily chose to endure the most horrific evils in the world. Anyway, my faith gives me a sense of purpose, community, and friendship. My faith makes me get up every morning and want to serve God. If any of you want to, check my new Bible Study Facebook page, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/Jack4Jesus" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/Jack4Jesus</a>. I believe one of my purposes in my life is to spread the Word of God to others. </span></p>Jackhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11139803643250625806noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4997428327770842063.post-6952819006500456372022-04-02T11:55:00.000-07:002022-04-02T11:55:05.127-07:00Isolation During COVID-19 and Perseverance<p> <span> For many of us around the world, COVID-19 has definitely impacted our mental health. From our workplace to our home life, this virus has really crushed us hard! I have learned to look at things from the bright side! I have had more time to be with my family which is always good! I feel bad for individuals who do not have a home. We need to give thanks to God for the things we have. </span></p><p><span><span> Since I have had to drop my classes, I really had time to learn what I want to learn. It has been good to have some peaceful time to myself! There is always a bright side to everything in life! Always be positive especially during the lowest points in your life! </span><br /></span></p><p><span><span><span> Perseverance is one of the hallmarks of being a strong-willed person. Because of my cerebral palsy, I have had to develop lots of perseverance. A lot of individuals without disabilities don't know how hard it is for us (individuals with disabilities) to attempt to live a normal life. This is why individuals with disabilities must be patient with other people with disabilities. I love my disability because it has made me into a stronger person! </span><br /></span></span></p>Jackhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11139803643250625806noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4997428327770842063.post-62559416052113499392022-03-28T11:06:00.001-07:002022-03-28T11:06:19.103-07:00Hey again after a while! <p><span> </span> Hey everyone! I know it has been a long time since my last post, but I feel I should give it another try! These past 3 weeks I have been in the hospital because I had pneumonia and an excess in carbon dioxide. It was very scary, but my parents helped get me through this tough time! I am so blessed that God put the right people in my life! Unfortunately, I had to drop my classes because it would have been impossible to catch up. This experience made me a more patient human being since I had been isolated for almost a month! Now, I am home just chilling with my parents, and I am so grateful to have a nice and warm home! </p><p> <span> We should all live every day like it is our last because not a moment goes by when we know God may take us. Cherish every good moment with happiness, love, gratitude, and hope! Love your loved ones unconditionally with thankfulness and mercy! Be nice to those who are sick and yearn for sympathy. Try not being too hard on yourself because life is too precious for that! Thank you so much for reading! </span></p>Jackhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11139803643250625806noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4997428327770842063.post-12896160198519645612016-08-06T09:46:00.000-07:002016-08-06T09:47:25.075-07:00Summer and storms...Wow! It's been a long time since I posted anything. I had kind of a rough Spring and Summer. Have you ever heard of a Dystonic Storm? That's what I have been dealing with for the past few months. It's also called Status Dystonicus. It's sort of a rare complication of Cerebral Palsy. I have dystonia, which just means that I have abnormal muscle tone because of my CP. So, the Dystonic Storm is my muscle tone being way too high and I was moving my arms constantly. It's really annoying and difficult to sleep. It also makes me sweat a lot and my heart rate gets really high. I was also having some pain in my wrists and arms. I even had some really bad muscle spasms. The storm went away, but then kept coming back. I'm really lucky to have awesome doctors, especially Dr. Pavone! She's a physiatrist, which is like a physical rehab specialist. I'm feeling so much better now! The medicine I have to take for the storms makes me really tired, so a lot of the summer I've been either storming or really tired. I'm looking forward to finishing up my summer feeling all better!<br />
<br />
I can't believe I am going to be a SENIOR in high school this year! High school has been the best years of my life so far. I will be sad when I leave because I have made so many friends and gotten to know the teachers and staff really well. My dream job is to come back to my high school and work there as a teacher or maybe a counselor. I think college will be awesome, too. I'm not sure where I'm going yet, but I have some ideas. I think I want to either be a teacher or maybe a psychologist. I also really love animals, especially dogs, so I might do something that works with animals. Maybe I could be a dog psychologist that teaches a class! My life has been running by too fast. My mom wants me to go back to Kindergarten!<br />
<br />
In between storms, I have had a great summer. I went to visit my cousins in Kansas, I went to Iowa for a weekend to visit friends and family. I have hung out with my friends a few times, but not as much as I want to! Enjoy the rest of summer, I know I plan to!<br />
<br />
Later,<br />
JackJackhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11139803643250625806noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4997428327770842063.post-8471649299399634972016-03-30T13:24:00.000-07:002016-03-30T13:24:30.606-07:00You never know unless you try!First and foremost, PROJECT DANCE was a HUGE success this year! We had so many people at it and a ton of kids signed up to be buddies to guests with special needs. We had a ton of volunteers, too. Everybody had a great time AND we raised a bunch of money.<br />
<br />
<br />
I believe that part of the reason why disabled people are in the world today is to inspire others. Someone that works with me at school sent me a video of a friend of hers that now has ALS and uses a wheelchair and a communication device. He said that God has touched his life by helping him inspire others because of his ALS. A lot of people tell me that I inspire them and that makes me feel awesome because I feel that it is my calling. I am so lucky and blessed that I am able to inspire people. My friend's with disabilities inspire me and they always make my day. When I see some of my friends at school, they make me so happy. My mom tells me that I do that for other people.<br />
<br />
I am helping out with the volleyball team this spring. What a great group of guys! They are a silly bunch! My message for people with disabilities is to try new things. I wasn't sure if I should do volleyball and I'm so glad I did. Sometimes, it's easier for those of us with disabilities to not try new things or not get involved, but people are really nice most of the time and they are so happy to have me as a part of the team. This could be the same for anyone with a disability. Give people a chance to meet you and talk to you. You never know unless you try!Jackhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11139803643250625806noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4997428327770842063.post-5821326155639361372016-01-31T15:34:00.002-08:002016-01-31T15:34:43.144-08:00Project Dance FIERCEThe club I'm in at school hosts this awesome event every year. It's called Project Dance. This year, we are calling it Project Dance FIERCE. We have a four hour dance party that is open to anyone who wants to come. A lot of people from our school and our community that have special needs come and we all dance and have a blast! Even more people come that don't have special needs and it is so cool. I love dancing and hanging out with my friends. Our goal is to provide a fun time for all different people, to raise awareness about disabilities and to raise money for local organizations that support people with special needs. Here is a link to our website if you want to check it out. <div>
<br /><div>
<a href="https://scnteampolaris.shutterfly.com/projectdance" target="_blank">https://scnteampolaris.shutterfly.com/projectdance</a>/<br /><div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I want to tell you why I love Project Dance. Like I said, I love having a dance party with my friends. Also, I love to see so many different people having fun. It's also a great way to meet new people. There are a lot of people with special needs that don't get to go out and socialize very often. Sometimes the situations are hard for them and sometimes it's just too hard or they aren't feeling well or anything could keep them from going out. It's so cool to have a safe and fun environment to just be with other people. So, if you're from around this area, join us on February 27 at St. Charles North High School in St. Charles, Illinois. Oh yeah, this year Project Dance is on my birthday! How awesome is that?</div>
</div>
</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Hope to see some of you there!</div>
<div>
Later,</div>
<div>
Jack</div>
Jackhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11139803643250625806noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4997428327770842063.post-45139789612915819172015-12-23T13:18:00.001-08:002015-12-23T13:18:21.586-08:00Happy Holidays Happy Holidays everybody! The holidays always go by so fast! It's frustrating that we won't have a white Christmas, but at least it's not below zero! We are going to my aunt's and uncle's house on Christmas Eve. On Christmas Day, we will go to church and have dinner at our house with some of our family. Going to church is a really important part of celebrating Christmas for me and my family. A couple days after Christmas we will go see our cousins and go see the new Star Wars movie! Christmas is my favorite day of the year because it reminds me of all of the things I am thankful for. I talk about being thankful a lot because it is so important. <br />
<br />
I want to tell you about something great I was a part of. My school district hosts a Christmas party for kids with special needs and I got to be a volunteer for it this year. Me and my friends helped out with some games for the kids and I got to hand out prizes. It felt so good to help make the little kids happy. They all were having a great time.<br />
<br />
My disability doesn't interfere with my holiday celebrations at all. I can eat all the great food, sing Christmas songs and open presents! I feel lucky that most places are wheelchair accessible. We have a portable ramp that we take with us so I can get into houses that aren't accessible. So I can go to anyone's house!<br />
<br />
I bet you're wondering what I want for Christmas. I really want an iPhone 6S, another dog and I want a laptop. I really enjoy giving presents to people, too.<br />
<br />
Here is our Christmas card: <br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2dlfCW0Yzt9OXuIsm3xqvdYrpgExgpQ4v71KD3avqIlhaWWyPq2zUjyIkugjtGgX0U-zN6CV8XM-xGtF1jvlkLsaic7L3McmbWM6u2WsgT0U0-hRx1GWrLG3nI8mll4zTSHjN7UG29eoM/s1600/IMG_4911.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2dlfCW0Yzt9OXuIsm3xqvdYrpgExgpQ4v71KD3avqIlhaWWyPq2zUjyIkugjtGgX0U-zN6CV8XM-xGtF1jvlkLsaic7L3McmbWM6u2WsgT0U0-hRx1GWrLG3nI8mll4zTSHjN7UG29eoM/s320/IMG_4911.JPG" width="240" /></a><br />
<br />
<br />
I'll be back in the new year! Have a safe and blessed holiday!<br />
Later,<br />
Jack<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Jackhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11139803643250625806noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4997428327770842063.post-88957809956016906332015-11-08T15:44:00.000-08:002015-11-12T16:37:17.250-08:00Holidays are coming up <br />
It's that time of year again. The holiday season. My favorite time of year! A time for being grateful and giving. I love the holidays because there is so much joy. Sometimes it is tough for disabled people to be grateful. Here is a Ted Talk on how to be more grateful:<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen="" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/UtBsl3j0YRQ/0.jpg" frameborder="0" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/UtBsl3j0YRQ?feature=player_embedded" width="320"></iframe></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
When you are more grateful, you are happier. I strive to be grateful everyday. Some days it is really hard. Here are some of the things I am grateful for: </div>
<div>
1. My family </div>
<div>
2. My friends </div>
<div>
3. My power chair</div>
<div>
4. My school </div>
<div>
5. The community that I live in</div>
<div>
6. My house </div>
<div>
7. My dog, Bailey</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Gratefulness has a direct correlation with happiness. When you are feeling down, think of all of the things you're grateful for. I guarantee, you will be happier!</div>
<div>
Later, </div>
<div>
Jack</div>
Jackhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11139803643250625806noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4997428327770842063.post-40238701193476898402015-09-07T18:42:00.001-07:002015-09-07T18:42:18.570-07:00Homecoming<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Happy Labor Day everyone! My homecoming is coming up soon. One of my favorite times at school. It is so much fun! I love homecoming because I can have a normal homecoming experience like the regular kids. Here's what I'm thinking: What should I wear? Going to the parade. Going to the football game. Going to the dance. Isn't that a normal homecoming experience? What I am trying to say is that disabled people can just have as much fun as regular people. Here are some pictures of previous homecomings:</span><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFK28BSqLWkrwaq_UZDuNJln9j26bM3-3xZY5w4MAfVxwmcUPWceJBPJNaJpjInO_0NQ8puiq7J6otR9U4zwUY-Z6zuEISG7cjC04rwdVVP4V-dH1WCcKEmtnT5Xmw69KWOB48rQqkWUCR/s1600/IMG_3262.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFK28BSqLWkrwaq_UZDuNJln9j26bM3-3xZY5w4MAfVxwmcUPWceJBPJNaJpjInO_0NQ8puiq7J6otR9U4zwUY-Z6zuEISG7cjC04rwdVVP4V-dH1WCcKEmtnT5Xmw69KWOB48rQqkWUCR/s200/IMG_3262.jpg" width="150" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Me and my sister, ready for the game!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgssav7zXnNZtvg_NIbsTqKqDprhCDYi7uLYX21bg-i0imkJvDgnflbelSz1BdVtGBAAQdkdGoWjGqMK0Wag3iiU_w6wFml_cqFHBKmBZgDq3BbOFEg9Zawxh-Hkdtd1A4DRRUvhcO2CqeH/s1600/IMG_3300.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgssav7zXnNZtvg_NIbsTqKqDprhCDYi7uLYX21bg-i0imkJvDgnflbelSz1BdVtGBAAQdkdGoWjGqMK0Wag3iiU_w6wFml_cqFHBKmBZgDq3BbOFEg9Zawxh-Hkdtd1A4DRRUvhcO2CqeH/s200/IMG_3300.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Silly pose with friends before the dance</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiKpOOJILMP3YdFMHdxqNImZPk_SHF8uyWckFLyDLFrAe_z9SmGDBW6WBvHGlPKv8dqmnGDJqJTB4V1X7z84AuvxvfCy88-QJzSQ20maQvjKoEOpPcFN99MRacBM5aJ5rF2jGII4d_x_rO/s1600/IMG_1641.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="149" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiKpOOJILMP3YdFMHdxqNImZPk_SHF8uyWckFLyDLFrAe_z9SmGDBW6WBvHGlPKv8dqmnGDJqJTB4V1X7z84AuvxvfCy88-QJzSQ20maQvjKoEOpPcFN99MRacBM5aJ5rF2jGII4d_x_rO/s200/IMG_1641.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Taking a break from dancing</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
I love homecoming because my school has spirit week before homecoming and almost everyone gets into it. We have competitions between classes and volleyball and other games. We have a shorter school day on Friday so we can have a parade downtown. Then there's the football game where it's so loud in the student section that we can't even hear. And of course there's dinner with friends and the dance. I love the dance. Did you know that people in wheelchairs can dance? My arms will be flying around! I love being in high school!</div>
<div>
Later,</div>
<div>
Jack</div>
Jackhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11139803643250625806noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4997428327770842063.post-7157861354101569632015-08-16T15:11:00.002-07:002015-08-16T15:11:59.684-07:00Back to school...<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> I am really excited for my Junior year of high school to start. I'm not excited about homework, but seeing my friends more, football games, basketball and Homecoming make me happy. I'm also excited about Team Polaris (that's the awesome club that I'm in at school). We have so much fun in that club! My sister will be a Freshman at my school this year so it will be kind of nice to see her and her friends around. I'm also super pumped about Project Dance this year, it will be in February so more details later.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> This has been a great summer. I've done a lot of stuff with friends and family. We went to Iowa a couple times and Kansas to visit my cousins. I went to a couple of pool parties that were a blast. I had some friends over to the park by my house and we just hung out and had snacks. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> Some things to remember as school starts...</span><br />
<br />
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Try to make new friends</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Try something new, like joining a club</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Try to get good grades</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Get involved</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Be nice to everyone and SMILE</span></li>
</ul>
<br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Summer isn't over yet...</span><br />
<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Later,</span><br />
<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Jack</span>Jackhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11139803643250625806noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4997428327770842063.post-57700671580966207822015-08-05T11:00:00.000-07:002015-08-05T11:00:52.502-07:00Friends<br />
Today, I am going to talk about how friends are so important for disabled people. friends make them feel less alone in a sense that they are different. It takes someone special that has good social skills and a lot of patience. I have a lot of friends who are like that. In an ideal world, everyone should be like that. My friends help me feel more normal less disabled or different.<br />
<br />
I want to show you guys a video about an unbreakable bond between two friends:<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe width="320" height="266" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/OlOjYHn_yIg/0.jpg" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/OlOjYHn_yIg?feature=player_embedded" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>
<br />
I saw this on ESPN's Sportscenter. Dogs can be friends too! I have a dog and she is one of my best friends. Dogs have unconditional love for their owners.I'm so glad that Owen has Haatchi.<br />
Later,<br />
JackJackhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11139803643250625806noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4997428327770842063.post-55404358561333108742015-06-10T12:10:00.002-07:002015-06-10T12:13:10.290-07:00Reach out Make a difference in disabled people's lives. Whether it's talking to them, volunteering, or just playing a game or hanging out with them. We do that a lot in the club I'm in at school. There are a few people with disabilities and even more people that don't have disabilities. We all enjoy the same things! This is one of the most popular clubs in my school because it's so fun.<br />
I enjoy hanging out with my friends and being social. Everyone needs someone to talk to and sometimes it's nice for that person to be your own age. One thing all of my friends are really good at is acting silly. My friends make me laugh and I love to hear them laugh, too. We support each other. Last month at school we had a triathlon. I was riding my bike around the track and so many people were cheering for me. I felt so good and so proud of myself.<br />
What are my summer plans? Hanging out with my friends, of course. I will spend a lot of time with my family too. I plan to do stuff outside, go fishing, play with my dog and watch a lot of movies! Oh yeah, one more thing...post on my blog more often!<br />
Later,<br />
JackJackhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11139803643250625806noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4997428327770842063.post-23580638005293808112015-04-12T18:09:00.000-07:002015-04-12T18:09:01.612-07:00How to treat people with disabilities<div style="text-align: center;">
TREAT EVERYONE WITH RESPECT</div>
<div>
In my last post, I said I was going to tell people how they should treat people in wheelchairs or with disabilities. People with disabilities are just like everyone else so we wanted to be treated like everyone else. That's not too hard, is it? If you don't know what to say, just say hi or hello or what's up dude? Just say what you would say to anyone else. I'm lucky that most people in my school just treat me like a regular guy. </div>
<div>
So, be patient. It might take us longer to answer a question or respond. It's okay with me if you ask questions, especially for kids. I've had kids ask me or my family why I'm in a wheelchair and we just answer honestly. I know I have a wheelchair, you don't have to pretend that you didn't notice. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<div>
Here's what not to do:</div>
<div>
Don't baby us! </div>
<div>
Don't assume we can't hear you or understand you!</div>
<div>
Don't stare!</div>
</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Guess what? I nominated my Adaptive PE teacher for teacher of the month and she won. We got to be on TV (on WGN in Chicago). She is such an awesome teacher and she treats all of the kids in Adaptive PE with respect. She is so patient. Here is the clip:</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<a href="http://wgntv.com/category/news/teacher-of-the-month/">http://wgntv.com/category/news/teacher-of-the-month/</a><div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Later,</div>
<div>
Jack</div>
Jackhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11139803643250625806noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4997428327770842063.post-87708048354839703602015-03-21T18:13:00.000-07:002015-03-21T18:13:05.425-07:00Advantages of being in a wheelchair<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">...yes, I said advantages! </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
You might not realize this, but there are advantages to being in a wheelchair. My family and I are always making a list.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
1. I always have a comfortable seat</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
2. No one steps on my feet</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
3. My shoes stay really nice</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
4. Rock star parking</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
5. I don't sprain my ankle or stub my toe</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
6. People remember me</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
7. Sometimes I don't have to wait in lines</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
8. Wheelchair seating is often close to the floor or stage</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
9. People have to cook for me and get me stuff that I need</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
10. My parents can't make me take out the garbage or do laundry</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
I prefer to focus on things I CAN do rather than things I CAN'T do. Life can be really frustrating and hard sometimes so if you always look on the bright side, it can make it easier. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
I LOVE March Madness!</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Remember, I have a new website, too.<a href="http://cpsowhat.weebly.com/">cpsowhat.weebly.com</a></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
I took a webpage design class last semester so I made that website!</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
My next post will be on how you should treat people with disabilities when you meet them. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Later,</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Jack</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
Jackhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11139803643250625806noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4997428327770842063.post-53126172366519326362015-01-01T12:48:00.004-08:002015-01-01T12:48:35.232-08:00Happy New Year<span style="background-color: white; color: #888888; font-family: 'Droid Sans', sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;">Since it is a new year, it's going to be a good time to set some goals for yourself. One of my goals for this year is to walk in a permanent walker and not need my wheelchair as much anymore. That will probably not happen but it is still good to try. Anything is possible! By trying stuff, it makes you stronger physically and mentally. Do not give up on your goals! Always try. Another good New Years resolution would be to try new things. If you can't do it, oh well, at least you tried. You don't know what might happen until you try.</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #888888; font-family: 'Droid Sans', sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #888888; font-family: 'Droid Sans', sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #888888; font-family: 'Droid Sans', sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;">Giving up is like someone not wanting to have a happy life. You have to try to be happy! I know that it is sometimes easy to give up and really hard to keep trying but it's worth it. </span><br style="background-color: white; color: #888888; font-family: 'Droid Sans', sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #888888; font-family: 'Droid Sans', sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;" /><strong style="background-color: white; color: #888888; font-family: 'Droid Sans', sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;">"A champion is someone who gets up even when they can't."</strong><br style="background-color: white; color: #888888; font-family: 'Droid Sans', sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;" /><strong style="background-color: white; color: #888888; font-family: 'Droid Sans', sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;">-</strong><em style="background-color: white; color: #888888; font-family: 'Droid Sans', sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px; position: relative;">Natalie Rogers</em><br style="background-color: white; color: #888888; font-family: 'Droid Sans', sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #888888; font-family: 'Droid Sans', sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #888888; font-family: 'Droid Sans', sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;">This quote is on a wall at my school and I love it. I am so inspired by these words. This quote means that if you try, you are a champion even when you are not successful. </span><br />
<div style="background-color: white; color: #888888; font-family: 'Droid Sans', sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #888888; font-family: 'Droid Sans', sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;">
<b>HAPPY NEW YEAR!</b></div>
Jackhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11139803643250625806noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4997428327770842063.post-55192265515849832562014-10-13T19:19:00.001-07:002014-10-13T19:19:38.880-07:00Loving life!<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"> Hi everybody! School is going great this year! I am a Sophomore now. Homecoming was a couple of weeks ago and it was great. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"> At school, I have a walker now. I use it during Adaptive P.E. I love that class. my teacher is so awesome and I have a lot of friends in there. One time, we played kick ball in P.E. and I walked all around the bases in my walker. It was really hard work and I felt so proud of myself. I also played badminton in my walker with a couple of my friends helping me. If I can do this, I feel like I can do anything I set my mind to. That means that anyone who is disabled can do so many things that they might not think they can do. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"> Hey guess what? The other day I went fishing with two of my friends. I caught a fish! It was so fun and I can't wait to go again. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Later dudes and dudettes,</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Jack</span>Jackhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11139803643250625806noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4997428327770842063.post-81408751170846490982014-08-26T18:51:00.002-07:002014-08-26T18:55:26.490-07:00Talkitt SO COOL!WOW! My Aunt sent this link to my mom today and I want everyone to know about it! This app could change my life and could help a lot of people with disabilities. Watch the videos, read all about it and donate if you can! If you want to donate, that would be wonderful.<br />
Later dudes and dudettes!<br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.indiegogo.com/projects/talkitt-this-is-my-voice">https://www.indiegogo.com/projects/talkitt-this-is-my-voice</a><br />
<br />
<br />Jackhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11139803643250625806noreply@blogger.com0