I wasn’t sure how to start this blog, but I figured I’d just dive in.
It took me a while to decide to write about this. A recent conversation reminded me that it’s finally time to share my story.
I was a victim of medical error so to say.
As a baby, I was admitted to the hospital (government owned)for about two weeks. During my stay, I had to take several injections, and one was wrongly administered. The effects didn’t show until I was supposed to start walking. Instead of walking normally, I rested all my weight on my left leg, leaving the right one hanging. Concerned, my parents took me back to the hospital, where they discovered the cause of my walking issues.
I had to drag myself on the floor to get around. I would paddle with my left hand, using my right hand to lift my right leg while scooting along on my buttocks. (I hope you can picture that!) My mom used to back me to keep me clean, but I was a big eater, and my weight eventually became too much for her to carry.
To cut a long story short, I took my first steps at two years and six months. While my right leg wasn’t fully strong, I could lift it slightly and use my hand for support. With time, it grew stronger, though not perfect, and I faced challenges as I grew up.
One of such challenge was trying to meet up with the pace of my peers which ended up in mighty falls. Sometimes I lost balance while walking. Bruises were my weekly companions while I was a kid.
Don't panic on my behalf, the leg is much more stronger now. I only have minor falls once in months.
I wasn’t walking like other kids, and that drew attention, most of it unwanted. People would stare like they’d seen something strange, and it affected my self-esteem. I avoided gatherings because I couldn’t handle the looks. My sports teacher took it to another level by calling me "half" during a school activity, something I still remember over 15 years later.
Even kids would laugh, and adults weren’t always better.
But after junior high school, I realized I needed to work on my mindset.
I might have a deformed gait, but I don’t have a deformed brain. So, I focused on my strengths, which I found to be many🥰
My motivation was simple: If people ignored me because of how I walk, they wouldn’t be able to ignore my intelligence and that has always worked for me.
Over time, I became more confident. I eventually stood before crowds and became the senior prefect in high school, a course rep at university, and even led my church for seven years. I graduated like everyone else and completed my NYSC.
Interestingly, I chose a career path that keeps me in front of people; teaching. I’m always loved by my students, and I’m proud of the work I do. Aside being a teacher, I'm a start-up business owner. That I can't walk perfectly like my peers is not a limiting factor.
These days, I don’t mind how people look at me. In fact, I’ve become more assertive. If someone stares too long, I meet their eyes and ask, Is there a problem? You should see the shock, especially on kids’ faces😅
I've refused to entertain pity or downgrading of any sort. Even if I have to go the extra mile to get things done, I do it. I’ve learned to be a force to be reckoned with, no matter where I go.
For example, an online friend invited me to be a bridesmaid at her wedding. I sent her a full picture of myself since she had not seen me physically and asked if I could still come. I didn’t want to deal with anyone treating me differently. Thankfully, she didn’t mind.
It's not so obvious here
So, why share this story?
It’s my way of encouraging anyone with a physical challenge to step out of their shell. I’ve had friends who rely on walking sticks, and they often feel less capable. It baffles me.
The difference is clear now 😁
Even if a part of your body is affected, you’re no different from anyone else. Just be yourself. I know we’ll encounter people with strange attitudes, but hold your head high. Stay motivated.
You’ve got this.
If you've read to this point, it's a sign that you should write your story too. Don't forget to tag me.
Let's go.