8 replies to this topic

[DellFan]

Hey all,

Long time, no post! Forgive me if this is in he wrong section.

Hi all,

I am 17 and have been trying to figure out what I want to do after I am done high school. I am extremely interested in becoming an Occupational Therapist. Here is the thing, though, I have Cerebral Palsy and it affects my vision (no depth preception/ eyes work seprate from each other) and I have a little bit of difficulty with fine motor tasks although it is nothing drastic. The only thing I seem to really not be able to do is tie my shoes. I also can not walk. I have a passion for Occupational Therapy and want to give back to other people what Occupational Therapy has given me but, I don't want my limitations to get in the way of providing my clients the care they deserve. My Occupational Therapist says I should go for it and that he thinks I shoudln't let my limitations stop me but, I can see myself having trouble doing standing/walking, preceptual testing, and lifting with patients (although I could probably use a power chair/transfer belt to help a patient i.e drive with one hand and hold the patient with the other and use an acutal lift for lifting) I just noticed when I was looking at Occupational Therapy school applications, one of the things they base acceptance on is physical fitness for the profession and they specify a spot for you to (voluntarily) disclose whether you have a disability and if you are registered with Disability Services at the school, they will accomadate you as best they can and they encourage students with disabilities to apply. I would hate to think I take a job I can't stand for fear of failing at being an Occupational Therapist because it is truely where my heart is as far as careers go.

Any input would be appreciated.

Dell

[Tetracyclone]

This seems a matter in which you must risk a great deal. If your OT thinks it possible, that is an educated opinion. Once trained you would function well in an organization large enough that others could assume the tasks you cannot efficiently do. Likewise, they would reserve for you certain tasks or clients with whom your personal experience would be a big advantage. Disabled or not, work in any group gets divided according to peoples particular skills.

So a lot depends on finding the right place to work, where your special history and skills are seen as big plus. It could take you several years to find a place that fits you but, you know, it often takes an AB several years or more to find the job that is a fit for them. Obviously you would not do the job as others do it, but that does not make it impossible.

I encourage you to listen to your OT and also to discuss more details with him or her to learn why they feel you could succeed. Passion will take people a long way toward being unusually good at something.

There is no trying, only doing.

[Tetracyclone]

opps duplicate

Edited by Tetracyclone, 16 February 2011 - 07:43 AM.

[guido]

Listen to Tetracyclone.


This is your life. Half of life is knowing what you want to do, the other half is actually doing it. You've already worked out the hardest part. Now you just have to find the way to make it work.


This might not always be easy. You may encounter plenty of ignorant people along the way who make it harder. But you will also discover some great people who will be pleased to have someone so dedicated working along side or for them.


Grab your opportunities and start the ball rolling.


Good luck and enjoy!

[megatrig]

Tetracyclone, on 16 February 2011 - 07:42 AM, said:

This seems a matter in which you must risk a great deal. If your OT thinks it possible, that is an educated opinion. Once trained you would function well in an organization large enough that others could assume the tasks you cannot efficiently do. Likewise, they would reserve for you certain tasks or clients with whom your personal experience would be a big advantage. Disabled or not, work in any group gets divided according to peoples particular skills.

So a lot depends on finding the right place to work, where your special history and skills are seen as big plus. It could take you several years to find a place that fits you but, you know, it often takes an AB several years or more to find the job that is a fit for them. Obviously you would not do the job as others do it, but that does not make it impossible.

I encourage you to listen to your OT and also to discuss more details with him or her to learn why they feel you could succeed. Passion will take people a long way toward being unusually good at something.

There is no trying, only doing.

Totally agree.

I had very good OT's in rehab.

Also "old" injuries about.

I learn't equally as much from both.

Someone in rehab seeing you getting on with life despite having a "disability" will be more useful than being able to lift someone, etc.

[nomis]

I trained and worked as an OT while using a chair. Be realistic and avoid the areas where you are physically ill-equipped. Specialise in the areas that you are passionate about and no doubt will excell. Recognise the special attributes you have to offer.

So, yes, go for it. If possible don't rely on mailed applications - front up in person to let them know how motivated you are. You're going to standout with your w/chair so you might as well be upfront and bold from the start. Once people have met you they will take you seriously.

All will fit into place as you progress.

[DannyR]

I agree with Nomis be bold. The chair will make you stand out ...use it to your advantage. You have an insight the others do not you have been there. The OTs that i worked with did different things. Who I worked with depended on what I was doing. Good Luck!!!

[DellFan]

Thanks all! I guess it'll be a learn as I go thing.

[DellFan]

Nomis,

Is there a reason you no longer work as an OT, if you don't mind my asking?