Hi, my name is Arran and I have mixed spastic dystonic quadriplegia cerebral palsy. I was diagnosed with CP at 18 months of age and from there I got physiotherapy and occupational therapy with CPA.
One myth I want to bust about CP is, and this is probably similar to many people with CP, is that just because I am physically disabled doesn’t mean there’s an issue with me intellectually. In fact, I was regularly called a smart aleck by my learning support teacher, so just treat me like a normal kid!
I think I’m outgoing and my friends describe me as easy to talk to, kind and humorous. I’m quite into rugby league and just sport in general.
I was the first Australian to compete internationally in the sport of frame running. Frame running is basically a three wheeled bike with no pedals that you stand up and run in. I am into politics and want to be a journalist because I want to travel the world and experience different cultures and ways of life.
My favourite subjects at school are obviously English and sport for reasons previously stated, and I also enjoy history and geography. Along with my other interests I love animals and especially my dog Kelsie, named after my dad’s hometown of Kelso in Scotland.
My family has been by far my biggest supporters throughout my life and journey with CP, especially my big sister Roxy, who, when I was recovering from my surgery was pushing me to get up and walking again. She wouldn’t let me give up until I was up and walking for longer periods without pain.
While only 14, Arran has already had some great media exposure which is helping to develop his skills for a future career in journalism. Arran’s been the voice and face of CPA’s brand campaign and now the What is CP campaign. He’s also honing his writing and speaking skills as part of his advocacy work, continuing to educate his peers at school and to of normalise disability.
Keen to find out more about cerebral palsy? Head to the “What is cerebral palsy” web page for more information and to watch the video explainer series.
