Steve: Hello Chris! Thank you for being a part of this series. What general age range are you in
Chris: 50’s
Steve: What do you do with your time (work, pleasure, etc.)
Chris: I attend CP Nassau Center, take classes daily in a program called Life Options. Listen to music while at home.
Steve: What classes do you take:
Chris: My favorite classes are Art Therapy, my instructor is Sam Hasher and music, where my instructor is Billy Gaines. The former music director, Maura Wachberger recently retired. I will miss her very much.
Steve: How did you get into music?
Chris: I got interested in music by watching the Lawrence Welk Show with my grandmother, listening to music and singing with her.
Steve: What would you say is your greatest accomplishment?
Chris: My proudest times were (and are) singing with the Nassau Pops Orchestra at the Tiles Center on Long Island.
Steve: Wow! I remember listening to you sing! I am so happy that you are still performing!
Steve: What makes your life “amazing”?
Chris: Being a part of a good family. Attending in family dinners and get-togethers. I have a sister, two nephews and one niece who live in Florida.
Steve: What does “cerebral palsy” mean to you?
Chris: CP means I’m limited in my physical capabilities.
Steve: How does cerebral palsy affect your everyday activities?
Chris: I try not to let CO effect my everyday activities. I try to adapt.
Steve: Do you use any assistive technology in your everyday activities?
Chris: I don’t really use any specific assistive technology other than what everyone else uses. iPhone, iPad, alexa, sometimes via voice/Bluetooth.
Steve: Have you noticed any difference in your body as you age? What are they?
Chris: I’m no longer ambulatory and use a wheelchair to get around. I have respiratory issues and am slower in my overall movements.
Steve: What is your greatest frustration and/or fear?
Chris: I have a fear of losing my parents. I get frustrated over being told what to do and relying on others.
Steve: What is the one thing you wish people would know or understand about cerebral palsy?
Chris: I don’t think CP have to stop you in you life, just adjust
Steve: Sometimes I look back over my career, and I wonder who learned more: the students in my schools, or me for having had the honor to know and learn about life from them. Mahalo Chris for being such an amazing part of my life.