Talking about CP

han156

I have mild CP- left side hemiplegia, and I don't know about anybody else, but I find it quite tricky explaining that to people when asked. Does anybody have any tips on talking to people about CP and explaining how it affects them in a way that is easy to understand for those who have no experience of it? 

Richard_Scope

Hello @han156
Trying to explain your cp to somebody who has very little or no experience of it can be tricky. I tend to try to keep it as basic as possible, I explain that I was oxygen deprived at birth and it has affected my arms and legs. Their response to that is usually a good guide as to whether you should go into more detail. Here is an interesting solution, that may not be for everybody.
https://blog.scope.org.uk/2013/02/12/harrys-cards/?_ga=2.241136259.187000956.1520852134-683246689.1520587137
What part do you find particularly tricky?

han156

Hi :-)  I suppose the situations I find the most tricky are where I have to ask for help that people do not expect me to need. For example if I buy two drinks at a bar, I can only carry one of them at a time back to the table so would have to ask for assistance. I know I shouldn't have to justify asking for help, but I find that because it's not glaringly obvious that I need it, people can be reluctant to give it without explanation.

han156

Sorry @speedincaesar, I thought I had tagged you in that reply but I don’t think I did it properly!

Richard_Scope

Hi @han156
No problem! I can see how the situation you have described could be a little tricky. I use a wheelchair so my potential need for help is very obvious. I do still have a well-rehearsed script though as I mentioned. I have included a link to our Invisible Impairments discussion. There are some really useful tips from others in the Community. https://community.scope.org.uk/categories/invisible-impairments 
Stay in touch, let me know how you get on.