CP Strong Community Stories: Emily

By: Emily Nelson

Living with cerebral palsy has shaped my journey, but it has never defined my potential. I am a 32-year-old from Lexington, Kentucky, who first pursued a passion for horses by earning an Equine Management degree from the University of Kentucky. After several years in the equine industry, I made a career transition to become a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER ®. Outside of my professional life, I stay active through indoor cycling, a passion that keeps me energized and focused, and I still love to follow horse racing—a lifelong connection to my roots. When I’m not working or cycling, I’m usually hanging out with my German Shepherd, who always keeps life fun and full of energy.

Emily with her German Shepherd

Through my personal and professional experiences, I have developed a deep passion for advocating for individuals with cerebral palsy, particularly focusing on the often-overlooked needs of adults navigating healthcare, independence, and quality of life. I am committed to using my voice and experiences to drive greater awareness and better support systems for the CP community.

I was diagnosed with spastic hemiplegia cerebral palsy when I was six months old. At the time, there wasn’t much information available about the disability. Doctors told my parents, "It is what it is," and that there was no cure. But my parents refused to accept that answer. They took me to different specialists and tried countless therapies. While there is still no cure, the treatments and therapies I received early on made a tremendous difference — not just for my hand, but for my entire body.

If someone wanted to learn about my disability, I’d want them to understand that cerebral palsy is just as much an attribute as it is a challenge. Living with CP isn’t easy — it can be exhausting — but it has also given me incredible strengths. One of the greatest gifts is my ability to problem-solve in ways others might never think of. Cerebral palsy forces me to think creatively and adapt constantly. Simple tasks, like tying my shoes or putting my hair in a ponytail, require ingenuity — things many able-bodied people might take for granted, we have to reimagine.

Emily in a Cycling Studio on a stationary bike

Life with cerebral palsy teaches you to slow down and truly experience the world, instead of rushing through it. It has made me fiercely independent. I’m always determined to show the world that I can do just as much — if not more — than those without disabilities. Sometimes, I have to remind myself it’s okay to accept help. Needing help doesn’t make anyone weak; it’s a human experience, whether you're disabled or not.

#CPStrong represents the spirit of resilience: no matter the setbacks, we keep going, recognizing that cerebral palsy is a strength, not a limitation. It’s an incredible movement that motivates the CP community and reminds us that we are never alone.

When I was growing up, there wasn’t much of a disability community around me. Resources were limited, and there were few places where I could ask questions, find guidance, or connect with people who truly understood what I was going through. As a young person navigating life with CP, I often felt isolated and unsure of where to turn for support. Thankfully, today’s world looks much different. Thanks to social media and communities like #CPStrong, I no longer feel alone. These spaces have allowed me to share my story, ask questions openly, and build genuine connections with others who have lived the same experiences.

Being part of a community like this is life-changing. It makes me feel connected to something so much bigger than myself. I’m passionate about making progress for future generations with cerebral palsy, and I believe that building and strengthening the disability community is a powerful place to start.

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