3 Cerebral Palsy Books You Must Read!

Here are 3 must-read cerebral palsy books written by people who have CP — and, one who thought she did for 30 years — until being diagnosed correctly!

1. Misdiagnosed: My Thirty-Year Struggle with a Debilitating Disorder I Never Had by Jean Sharon Abbott

You won’t want to put down this beautifully written memoir by my friend, Jean Sharon Abbott. It describes her “journey from wheels to heels” — a powerful, uplifting story of faith and perseverance. I was engrossed in her story, how her positive outlook remained in tact despite decades of doctor visits, medical procedures, and surgeries. What I love most about Jean is her commitment to giving back — she travels across the country sharing her story — and, by doing so, has helped so many people. Watch Jean’s incredible journey on Today.com.

2. Firewalk: Embracing Different Abilities by Kathy O’Connell

This life-changing book was written by my friend, Kathy O’ Connell — one of the 7 cerebral palsy advocates you should know! You’ll be dazzled by her bravery, willingness to work on herself in order to embrace cerebral palsy and live “fully with a disability.” Kathy is the founder of Radiant Abilities, a website “devoted to the personal development of people with disabilities through increased self-esteem, confidence, and empowerment.”

3. One More Step: My Story of Living with Cerebral Palsy, Climbing Kilimanjaro and Surviving the Hardest Race on Earth by Bonner Paddock

This New York Times Bestseller by Bonner Paddock is the story of a man struggling with the fact that he has cerebral palsy, learning to accept it — and the extraordinary emotional, physical journey that transpires. This is truly a page-turner filled with adventure, determination, and the dogged pursuit of seemingly insurmountable goals. Bonner is the founder of OM Foundation (OMF), whose mission is “to raise awareness and support centers that provide services to empower children with disabilities and their families to live life beyond limits in their communities.”

So, what’s on your reading list? These 3 must-read cerebral palsy books are thought-provoking, inspiring, and motivating stories that will challenge what you think is possible for a person with cerebral palsy — and, yourself! Have you read any of them? Let me know in the comments below!