Author: Jessica Grono

Jessica Grono is a special education teacher, public speaker and writer. She is former Ms. Wheelchair Pennsylvania. She plays goalie for Philadelphia Flyers PowerPlay! Jessica is happily married with two children. She has cerebral palsy.

I sit in silence as I type this blog. My daughter is off at band camp, and my son is on another trip with my dad. Jeff is at the gym. Silence often is what mothers think we want. However, after we have it, silence hurts the ears. Today, let me reintroduce you to having a son in middle school. Jason is 11. He seems to have matured well beyond his years in several ways. In further ways, he is right where he should be. For the last two nights, Jason has dragged a massive tub of Legos from his…

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Sitting in a wheelchair with cerebral palsy might seem easy. However, sitting all day can create havoc on your body. Your body needs movement and exercise. Having a disability isn’t a great excuse to not exercise. Anyone can do it. I want to be independent and as pain-free as I can. Independence is important to me because I don’t enjoy relying on others. For the rest of my life, I’ll have to rely on someone for meals and daily living activities. Even though relying on help will always be present, I can make independence a bit increased by exercising. My…

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The Summer Olympic Games are a multi-sport event that began in 1896 in Athens, Greece. Typically these games are held every for years in varying countries. I always have loved watching the Olympics. I like watching when people challenge themselves to be their absolute best. Watching the people represent their country is nothing but inspiring. Before I continue, I have to say congratulations to all of the athletes. No athlete deserved all of this controversy to distract from their sport. The athletes worked hard to achieve Olympic status.  Great job to you all. Olympic Opening Ceremonies Everyone has a choice…

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Change and goodbyes are my weaknesses. Laura is a senior in high school and a very busy one. She will shortly be applying to colleges, and the last celebrations will be had as the year continues. Her life as an adult will begin. I remember these times as clear as day and how exciting I felt. I didn’t realize how painful the senior year could be for my parents, especially my father, because I lived with him. Of course, I want Laura to grasp everything she can in life. For almost 18 years, I held, helped, guided, and taught her.…

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National Ice Cream Day is a delightful celebration that takes place on the third Sunday of July each year. This sweet holiday was established by President Ronald Reagan in 1984, who recognized the popularity and cultural significance of ice cream in the United States. He proclaimed July as National Ice Cream Month and designated the third Sunday of July as National Ice Cream Day. Mark your calendar and grab your family to go out to get ice cream. Ice cream made its way to the United States in the 18th century. The first mention of ice cream in the U.S.…

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Friendly Shoes are made to help people dress independently. As the website suggests, these are shoes for all abilities to live life as independently as possible. I am excited that stylish options are available for people who have disabilities. Friendly Shoes are easier for people who have disabilities to get them on off for the person or someone helping them. I learned about the shoe from Facebook so I decided to give them a try. I normally buy shoes that are not cerebral palsy friendly. I know that sounds ridiculous especially coming from someone who uses a wheelchair everyday. I…

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God has a mission for everyone. I mean everyone and none of us are exempt. If you want to come up with a million excuses or justifications, realize that is you – Not God.. Our job is to find out the job He has given us. Whenever I think of a mission of God, I always think big and difficult. Many of us might have those missions, but there are many of small missions to do. Early in my life, I knew Jesus wanted me to be a teacher, mother, and speaker. I’m also a writer. But, listening to God…

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God knows us more than we know ourselves and God’s plan is the best. He loves us more than anyone we know. I tell my children as much as I can possibly love them until my heart explodes, God loves them more. Are you feeling down? I hope these tips help you. I wish I could remember how much God actually loves and cares for me. We can easily remember when life is going well that God loves us, but when life is hard, we forget how much we are loved. As life often doesn’t go the way we want,…

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Daily routines with cerebral palsy improves my daily life and well-being. I’m organized out of necessity. People often say to me, “You are so organized!” While I’m positive that there is some truth in that statement, I know I’m organized, I also believe a huge reason why I am organized has to do with having a disability. Relying on others involves routines to keep the household and my basic needs being met. If you have a significant disability, like cerebral palsy, personal care assistance is sometimes needed. The time allowed for personal care is not unlimited. People work different time…

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Parenting conflicts aren’t easy if you’re trying to be a decent parent. In fact, parenthood is the hardest occupation that exists. I know if you’re not a parent, you probably think, “How hard can it be?” I know I had a ton of misconceptions before I became a mother. Then, you add a spouse into the mix and truly learn how difficult parenting can be with different approaches. I highly recommend discussing parenting , methods before getting married. The more you agree, the better everyone is in the family. Parenting Conflicts Being a good mom has been a goal since…

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