Welcome to Wiley’s Walk…

 

Hello! My name is Kerry Wiley, and I’m so excited to welcome you to Wiley’s Walk.

Starting this blog has been on my mind for years. I’ve written articles about my life with a disability and shared pieces of my story in other spaces, but people often asked me, “Why don’t you start your own blog?” That question stuck with me. I wanted to make sure I had something worth saying—something that could truly connect with others.

Now feels like the right time. Wiley’s Walk is my space to share the ups, downs, and everything in between about navigating life with Spastic Cerebral Palsy, advocating for inclusion, and finding ways to move forward—even when the path isn’t clear. It’s not just about my journey; it’s about the universal experience of facing challenges and figuring out how to keep walking, no matter what.

My Story: Growing Up with Spastic Cerebral Palsy

I was born with Spastic Cerebral Palsy (CP), a condition that often gets described in technical terms—words like “stiff muscles” or “limited mobility.” But CP isn’t just about medical definitions. Words like these create a “box” that can lead people to define you by what they think you can’t do, rather than seeing who you are.

Growing up, my parents refused to put me in that box. To them, I wasn’t a diagnosis—I was just Kerry. Sure, I moved differently, but I was their daughter first and always. They taught me to focus on what I could do, not what anyone thought I couldn’t. If I needed to adapt, I adapted. Walking devices and labels didn’t define me; they were just tools to help me get where I wanted to go.

That mindset shaped how I approach everything. My parents’ belief that “there’s always a way” inspired me to tackle challenges head-on. I grew up playing with my peers—field hockey with a walking device, duct-taped stick and all—and participating fully in life. Inclusion wasn’t just an idea; it was a way of being. When barriers came up, I learned to push through, find support, and create solutions.

Why This Blog?

That’s why I’ve dedicated much of my life, both personally and professionally, to breaking down these barriers. I’ve worked to challenge outdated ideas, change perceptions, and create spaces where everyone feels they belong. Wiley’s Walk is an extension of that work.

It’s a space to share stories, reflect on what inclusion really means, and explore how we can all learn from one another. My hope is that this blog becomes more than just a place for my voice—it becomes a space for connection and conversation. Wiley’s Walk isn’t just about me. This blog is for anyone who’s ever felt underestimated or boxed in—whether it’s because of a disability, a challenge you’re facing, or the way the world sees you. It’s for people who believe in finding new ways forward, no matter what.

Here, I will share my story—what I have learned, where I’ve struggled, and how I have grown. I will explore topics like inclusion, and advocacy, but also the everyday stuff that makes life messy, joyful, and real. Whether you are here for practical insights, encouragement, or just a fresh perspective, I hope you will find something that resonates with you.

Ready to Explore?

Life isn’t always a straight path—it twists, turns, and sometimes feels impossible to navigate. But the journey is always worth it. I invite you to walk with me and explore the blog. Whether it’s your first visit or you’ve been walking this road for a while, you’re welcome here. Let’s take the next step.

Welcome to Wiley’s Walk.

---