In my previous post I talked about the whole operations of recruiting/training/managing my personal care to get out the door each morning to work as a professional with Cerebral Palsy. Now I will share my commute.

With my recent expanded role, I am spending more time in the downtown office which makes it easier to get to work. Although I have to take an extended journey as not all subway stops are accessible, I have found a new exhilarating sport…slalom pedestrian racing!

When I get off the subway I have to roll from one end of the Eaton Centre (huge mall) to the other. With the super waxed flooring it is the perfect opportunity to dial up my power chair to top gear, full throttle.

At 7:30am the mall congestion is light enough to make top speed possible, but enough congestion to make it irresponsible.

With my headphones blaring ‘Bulls on Parade” I blast off! I love the feeling the wind against my face. Things blurring as I race past them. I love how people jump to the side when they hear me coming up on them. Oncoming traffic (people) that are in my path look at me with fear as they are not sure that I will be able to swerve around them. The truth is that I don’t know either…I’m just trying to beat my previous time of 3 minutes, 23 seconds. As a coach, I help people face their fears...so I'm just doing pro bono work in the morning.

I have learned that if I keep my swerving tight that I get a way better time. This means I just graze their coats. I see them saying something to me as I fly by…but my music is blaring.

As I proceed to the PATH the hallways narrow, more people, with rolling luggage….that’s when the fun doubles. There are people that always try to squeak through the individual doorway. These people are the brave. If I hit you there is a good chance one of us will be hurt…I like my chances.

Once I make it to the office my brain is clear. Ready to start my day.

Find the joys in life no matter what your circumstances or limitations you have. It's there if you look for it.

*Disclaimer* - there has been no able bodied people harmed in racing to date…but the journey continues.