Born with cerebral palsy, the prognosis given to my parents was that I’d never be able to walk or talk. I learned to do both aged three, and I’ll forever feel blessed that the disability only effects one side of my body; moreover, that my will, even as a child, was stronger than my brain.

Recalling my sense of determination as a kid, has stood me in good stead: I can siphon- off the fiery drive I had, and use the energy from it- in my real time today, or any day.

Yet, I only bothered to search for my will about two years ago: when my disability worsened. I looked for it as thoroughly, as one might do when finding a well-hidden passport or misplaced birth certificate. I knew my will would still be potent; I simply had to remember how I’d first discovered it – which was when I was in the physiotherapy session, facing the prize of walking towards the alluring red ball.

As I began to refamiliarize self with my old friend, I recalled some of the old adult negative narrative: doubting family members and professionals. Looking back, they were likely basing their opinions on my brain scans and medical notes… but to me I thought they were being ridiculous. I was after all the proud owner of shiny red shoes, even though I was in a pushchair; I’d imagined being able to walk in them, rather than them being just a pretty way to decorate my feet.

I yearned to walk because I was fed-up with crawling. I was blissfully unaware of my medical notes, equally about the damage to my brain…

It was solely the almighty human will, that we all have, which eventually enabled me to walk.

Two years on, I have been using my will as though it were a limitless credit card: every time I swipe it, I’m recharging it with more units of focus and will. I do this through a mix of healthy eating, and exercising, within the constraints of the disability.

My mobility once again has been threatened. Surgery is a choice, but my will is stronger.

I’m sure that you’ve observed far less fortunate people than I harnessing their will too.

Just last week, I watched a short film about a new mother which made the hairs at my nape stand proudly: she has no arms, and yet her will and determination in how she’s adapted is frankly incredible.

Never feel railroaded by anyone- who might tell you that you can’t achieve a particular aspiration you that you have. If you think that you can achieve something, and even when the odds are stacked against you: this, your positive attitude IS your almighty will.

Lastly, if you’re dismissing yourself as not having a will, then it’s likely that you’ve simply over-looked when you indeed did. Cast your thoughts back to when you were a child, as I’m sure you can rekindle your latent strength resources too. Don’t overlook the smaller golden nuggets; because a great example is when you insisted, albeit with clumsy kiddie digits, to tie your own shoe laces for the first time! Remember how delighted you felt: revisit that glorious mindset!

I hope this is helpful.

SUNNY wishes,

Emma x