Oprah today....

featured the sister of one of my clients.  Rogers Hartmann is battling with dystonia a neurological disorder that acts much like Parkinson's Disease.  Both Rogers and Michael J. Fox were featured talking about how debilitating it can be and how they simply get through the day.  Something resontated with me as Michael J. Fox was talking.  He said he really believes Parkinson's made him stop and embrace each day for what it was.  He might not have a decision about whether he has Parkinson's, but he does have a thousand other decisions he can make.   If his children wanted him to come do something, "nothing to him was more important than being with his kids".  He wasn't sure he'd be that way had he not had Parkinson's.  Gosh, I hope for those of us that aren't faced with such a challenge that we take heed of his advice!

Rogers has a blog  that talks about dystonia and how people respond to her looking different.. hunched over.  One of her stories highlights her challenges at the airport.  She literally laid down on the floor waiting in a line becuause it was too painful to stand.  And no one offered to help her!

I think when we see people who look different our response is to avert our eyes for fear of being accused of "staring" or being rude or maybe because of the uncomfortable nature.  But the reality is, just like everyone else, they want love and kindness.  A nice hello, eye contact, assistance if needed.  All the things we all want.  On Oprah, Rogers talks about how she carries a cane around because it serves more as an emotional crutch to help others understand her situation.

Anyway, I thought I'd share.  I think there are some good lessons here.  And most certainly, if you go to Rogers' blog site she has information if you would like to make a donation to contribute towards helping to find a cure for dystonia.  Her positive attitude, strength and determination are pretty amazing!