The short answer is no. Cerebral palsy affects my mobility and not my brain and critical thinking skills, for which I am grateful. I’ve been able to serve West Melbourne for four years and my disability hasn’t held me back from daily activities or Council responsibilities. I am regularly out in our community because of my work, current Council commitments, and other responsibilities, as well as getting out to meet as many people as I can since there are many new residents. I sincerely hope I get the opportunity to meet and speak with you, as I try to support activities and businesses in our area so you’ll see me out and about – sometimes even with my service dog, Opus.
Opus is a service dog from Canine Companions, a national nonprofit dedicated to providing service dogs to people with disabilities to enhance their independence and quality of life. Since I try to be as independent as possible, Opus doesn’t go everywhere with me but I’m sure you’ll see him around!
