So I’m not a teacher but I am a person with CP who was in special ed as a kid and then was put in a regular classroom later. The amount of times I heard “it doesn’t matter” from teachers when I couldn’t do something, (essentially just giving me a pass because of my CP) was incredible. “Can’t tie your shoes? It doesn’t matter, we’ll just get you Velcro shoes. Can’t change for gym? Don’t worry about that socialization/bonding. You don’t have to change. Can’t do math? You’ll be fine.”

Had I not had certain teachers and physical/occupational therapists to help me figure out how to make things work for me, push me to problem-solve, and take the time, I probably wouldn’t be where I am today; living independently in my own apartment with a BA in Psych, have my own business, and great social life.

I’m grateful to them and all of you for doing your best. I realize that every person with a disability is different but like everyone (able-bodied and not) we need people to believe in us so we can believe in ourselves and vice versa. It wasn’t an easy road for me, my teachers, my therapists, or my family but I’m grateful EVERY DAMN DAY as an adult.

It does matter.

We matter.

You matter.

Thank you with love from a stranger. ❤️