Disability

"It's not the disability that defines you, it's how you deal with the challenges the disability presents you with. We have an obligation to the abilities we DO have, not the disability. Jim Abbott ...."

I saw the above quote awhile ago and really liked it. But I have a real problem with thinking of Eli as someone who is disabled. Right after he was born a good friend made a comment about how Jered and I were going to become so much closer because we'd be raising a disabled child. I was so offended by her saying that and have still not forgotten those words. Not that there is anything wrong with being disabled, but the word disability means the following:

1. lack of adequate power, strength, or physical or mental ability; incapacity.
2. a physical or mental handicap, esp. one that prevents a person from living a full, normal life or from holding a gainful job.

Eli will not have a disability. He will be able to live a completely normal life. One of the reasons why we believe that an amputation is the best treatment for his FH is because it will ensure that he can do anything that his heart desires. Sure there will be challenges, but he will not be disabled.

My friend did not mean any harm when she said those words. I guess I have to just get used to the fact that people will say things that will hurt my feelings and Eli's and hopefully in time we will learn how to better deal with these situations.