My mom, Carole Mcbride is an inspiration to many. She has raised four children, has a dozen grandchildren (as well as some great-grandkids). She is loved by all who know her. She is feisty and courageous. She has survived two major strokes, a heart attack and has literally cheated death twice. These are all amazing qualities but one quality in particular sticks out. My mother was born with cerebral palsy.

     Born in 1941, my mom was raised in a time when people with disabilities were shunned and locked away in institutions. Yet, my grandparents fought for their daughter's right to live life the same as everyone else. My grandfather sat many hours on the steps of the school to ensure that my mother was allowed to remain. (Her disability made the other children uncomfortable and so they tried many times to make her leave.)  She completed high school, but did not receive a diploma, because she could not pass the gym credits. When she finished school, she moved to what was the most dangerous place in the Cities, Hennepin. She moved there because she was told she couldn't make it not because she was a woman, but because she had a disability. She was determined to prove them wrong and she did. She then became a camp Courage Councilor, giving back to place that gave her such pride in herself, years before. In 1961, Mom then came home and married my dad and had her my siblings and I. At one point she was stopped by a perfect stranger and told "People like you, should never have children". My mother smiled and walked away, two small children and a baby in tow.

     My mom has always been a strong advocate for the right of people with disabilities to be treated with respect and dignity. I remember many times people stared at her or mocked her, but mom never let it affect who she was. She taught me to bring awareness and educate others. "If they don't ask questions and we don't tell them, how will they ever know?" Mom has always said "we have a responsibility to people without disabilities to educate them". My mom is a perfect example of disability pride. While having Cerebral Palsy has never defined who she is, it is a part of her. She has embraced her disability and made it her own.

     If you or someone you care for has Cerebral Palsy there is a new support group for you. Without Limits will focus on the challenges and successes faced by people with cerebral palsy. We will support each other and educate ourselves as well as our community. We will work together to help our members live a life Without Limits.

     Without Limits begins February 8th at 11am. Please call Rinna at 218-262-6675 for more information.  

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     I have anxiety and I learned a long time ago that I can manage it through different relaxation techniques. There are several types of relaxation techniques. Guided imagery, progressive muscle relaxation and deep breathing to name a few.

     Progressive muscle relaxation includes a process of tightening and releasing various muscles in an effort to both physically and mentally allow your stressors to release from you. Progressive muscle relation is convenient as you can do it in your car, office, while watching TV etc. A few minutes of progressive muscle relaxation can make a huge difference in your day.

     Deep Breathing incorporates into most relaxation techniques. It is amazing how breathing can affect your stress. When we stress we tend not to breathe correctly which limits oxygen and therefore causes a chain reaction of stress. When we relax, we take deep purposeful breathes increasing oxygen to our brain and releasing natures natural antidepressants such as endorphins.

     Guided imagery is my favorite technique. This process allows you to mentally and auditory envision yourself someplace relaxing to you in particular. Some guided imagery is also visual. Imagine listening to the waves of the ocean while watching a vision of the waves crashing against the shore all the while someone (with a soothing voice) coaches you to breathe deeply and to relax. This process allows you a mental getaway for a few minutes or an hour, whatever you need.

     A person doesn't have to have anxiety or a mental health disability to benefit from relaxation techniques. Everyday stress can be taxing. So send yourself on a mental getaway and relax already.

     To learn some techniques such as those I mentioned, check out innnerhealthstudio.com or come to TLC on the second Tuesday of every month at 5:30.

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Cass Lake - 218.975.1011