On Being a Cripple, by Nancy Mairs

On Being a Cripple, by Nancy Mairs

"On Being a Cripple" is Nancy Mairs' description of living life with multiple sclerosis (MS). She explains the daily challenge battled, as done with great bravery and endurance. Mairs compares those challenges to life in general as well as the changes and losses of every one of us. If I had to describe Nancy Mairs' attitude with one word it would be "bravery." There is a quote and a concept that I have come to live by, "the only thing constant is change." We are all vulnerable to unexpected occurrences and all our lives are subject to change.

After many years of living with what Mairs calls "being a cripple," she finds a moment of humor to reflect on her life and living with MS. Mairs first makes it very clear that she refers to herself as a cripple. This is her way of being as much a realist as possible, and by doing so, leaves the reader with a sound grasp of her life with this debilitating disease.

Mairs begins with a portrayal of her childhood memories. She also touches on some of the symptoms and the almost unthinkable course that MS takes on the body: the losses of functions and essentially the process of becoming cripple.

Most amazingly to me is Mairs' obvious sense of humor. I personally believe she prides herself on this approach. Her humor opened arms to me, the reader, and helped to identify with her. Her writings take on a certain openness and display a warmth that is somewhat reminiscent of an honoree old aunt of mine that talks about things like men and menopause at the dinner table. Displayed is a very realistic approach to a subject which most may not be comfortable writing, reading or speaking about.

Mairs goes on to explain the support her family provides with her physical challenges. More importantly however, she speaks of her accomplishments in raising her children, teaching at a university, cooking, cleaning and even the menial task of dressing herself.

In terms of disability or disease I am extremely fortunate to report that I do not have a personal experience to compare this essay with, however, what I enjoyed the most about reading it was the parallel Mairs makes with life's changes and life's losses. Not a single reader can honestly proclaim to have never suffered a change or loss in life.

I consider Nancy Mairs a brave example of