My Left Leg(s)

I now have two bum legs. For those keeping score, that is one more than usual.

I've had mild cerebral palsy on my left side since birth. Normally, my right side compensates for this very well. Those who don't know about my CP would assume that I simply have a limp as though I've stubbed my toe or twisted my ankle. They don't recognize a tell-tell gait of cerebral palsy. Because the muscles on my left side aren't flexible enough to command the heel-toe/calf-knee movements necessary for walking, my right side supports the left while I use my left hip to move my left leg forward. It also presents itself in other ways like when I'm getting into the car or putting my socks on. I have to literally pick up my left leg and place it where it needs to be whether that's inside of the car to the left of the gas pedal or a top my right knee so that I can reach my foot. It's not graceful and I can certainly get frustrated when I fall down (though I am truly skilled at the art of falling without getting hurt). However, these are all things I usually do without a second thought. While it might be different for you, this how I learned to walk, drive (automatic, no clutch) and tie my shoes. I don't know any different. That is until today.

Yesterday I went to the gym (this is a three week young habit)and today I discovered that I definitely pulled one or two muscles in my right leg somewhere in the vicinity of my knee. And it's all because my right leg does ever leg curl and press even if the left pretends to play along. My right leg is now painfully crying out for the same support it has given my left for over 25 years. Mr. Lefty however is simply sticking out his tongue and having nothing to do with any of this.

I'm feeling much better than I did this morning when I turned on the shower but decided against climbing into the tub. I also had Papa drive me to work and hold my hand as I walked into my office. You should have seen me when I managed to make it to the tuition slot (because today is May 15th and everyone must pay before finals or else), but couldn't manevour my way back to my desk. Praise Jesus for kind co-workers and helping hands. I can now shuffle with both feet and I figured out just the right way to position my feet and support both my legs when attempting to stand up.

As I said, I am feeling better and the flexibility on my right side is slowly but surely returning. I now have an even deeper appreciation for all that my right side does to keep me mobile and sincere gratitude that while my left side can be frustrating, I have yet to hear it mumble even one painful cry in all these years. I may have been born with cerebral palsy, but at least I wasn't born with TWO bum legs.