Cerebral Palsy http://learntruehealth.com/cerebral-palsy/ Cerebral Palsy: Breaking The Barriers There are so many misconceptions about people who have cerebral palsy. Win Charles, is one awesome woman who will show us how she strives to live a fulfilling life devoid of medication. I am excited about today's show because despite the fact that Charles was born with a disability, her health journey is truly inspiring. Born With Cerebral Palsy "Cerebral palsy is a lack of oxygen at birth which is what I acquired. When I was born, I only weighed one pound and 17 ounces," shares Charles. Honestly, I didn't know much about cerebral palsy. I assumed that if someone were in a wheelchair, those people would immediately have spasms or tremors. Common Misconceptions I initially thought people with cerebral palsy are less intelligent than those without the condition. Yes, I admit, I was wrong. In fact, one of my favorite TV show, "Speechless," served as an eye-opener for me. The TV show stars Micah Fowler, who incidentally has cerebral palsy. I think it was brilliant that the production team opted to cast a real person with cerebral palsy rather than casting an actor who would just act out the part. It's cool, right? "Micah Fowler, the actor in the TV show Speechless, has a severe form of cerebral palsy. He can't function at all," Charles explains. She adds, "In my case, I have a hundred muscle spasms a day. And I try my best to control them without taking opioids." Aside from Fowler, one of my favorite comedians also happens to have cerebral palsy. And I must say, he is spot-on funny! So, lesson learned. Just because someone has cerebral palsy, it doesn't mean that people who have cerebral palsy are mentally slow or incapable. Effects Of Opioids Doctors incidentally prescribed the drug to Charles from 2006 to 2009. For those who are unaware, the most common opioid usually taken by people with cerebral palsy is Baclofen. "Baclofen is a muscle spasm and muscle relaxer. In 2009, my family noticed the medication was making me act like a zombie," recalls Charles. Charles for sure is not the only person to experience the adverse effect of opioids.  Why medical doctors continue to prescribe it to patients is truly appalling. Nevertheless, Charles' mom was adamant. Charles vividly recalls that her mother firmly told the doctors to take Win off the medication. Finding The Right Doctor Aside from opioids, Baclofen is a common drug for people with cerebral palsy. Nowadays, doctors go as far as prescribing it to people with back pain or muscle spasms. Traditional doctors are quick to prescribe medication rather than explore other options like physical therapy. So it is best to find a doctor who listens to you. If a doctor tells you something, please voice out. Get a second opinion. Be brave enough to explore different alternatives that work and are more efficient. Traditional Medicine Vs. Natural Medicine "My mom had a book where she noted all my surgeries and medications," Charles said. "She knew too much anesthesia in my body was not good." Incidentally, Charles also mentioned that she felt a great impact after hearing my Episode #137 where I had Dr. Cilla Whatcott on the show. Charles remembered her mom who was hospitalized for some time due to meningitis but believed in her body's ability to heal itself naturally. "Meningitis can be cured through Holistic Medicine. But traditional medicine thinks otherwise," said Charles. "Hopefully, that line of thought will change in the future." Trailblazer For Cerebral Palsy And how does someone like Charles cope with her health condition? First and foremost, Charles stays away from opioids and other drugs. Second, she makes sure to stay active by doing sports. Yes, you read it right. Charles swims, rides a bike, runs and has even competed in the prestigious Kona Ironman Triathlon. However, Charles admittingly says that because of her health condition, she has limited physical capabilities. But that is not