At 32 years old, Sarah has accomplished more than most her age. She has
not let cerebral palsy slow her down. Sarah has completed an Associates
Degree in Early Childhood Education, received a Certified Nursing
Assistant's certificate, owns her own home, and is working full time.
Sarah is a classroom assistant for the Richmond, VA, YWCA Head Start
Program. She works full time and has health benefits. She helps the
classroom teacher with snacks, games, assignments, and maintaining order
in their room. Sarah says that she enjoys working with the kids and
learning about each individual personality.
"My life has been so much calmer since I began working. I don't have
to wonder what I will do each day. I have a routine and I need that."
The YWCA is now part of Sarah's family. She says that her coworkers are
very supportive and even a little protective of her. Sarah was having
trouble with drowsiness at one point and her coworkers were very
concerned. She was able to meet with her supervisors and doctors and have
her medication schedule changed so that the side effects of her medication
did not interfere with her job.
"My coworkers appreciate me and what I have to offer. They genuinely
care about me. That means a lot."