Many people wonder what they would do if they had a disability. Would they give up and quit? Or would they just hide from life itself?
Being different doesn’t always mean you have to act different. One person here at Edsel Ford shows great strengths and willpower to fit in, and that he does very well.
Marty Sheedy, a senior here at Edsel Ford is a very kind and social person. He is someone who does not let his physical problems interfere with being a “regular” kid.
Marty has a physical disability called Arthrogryposis. Arthrogryposis is a term describing the presence of a muscle disorder that causes multiple joint contractures at birth. A contracure is a limitation in the range weakness, which further limits movement. “ I know that everybody wonders why I walk with my legs crossed, and I only do that because it is more comfortable for me and I can move quicker,” Marty said.
Arthrogryposis is relatively rare, occurring in approximately one in 3,000 births. One way to treat this disorder is physical therapy. “I stated physical therapy in elementary school and stopped at the end of middle school,” said Marty.
Aside from just going to sporting events, he is also the team manager for boy’s basketball, hockey, and baseball. “ I find it rewarding. Even though I can’t physically play in the games, I feel like I am part of the team when I am with them and riding the bus,” said Marty. Marty has played on special teams before. He was part of a handicapped baseball league for two years. “ I loved it; it was a great experience,” Marty said.
After high school, Marty plans on going to Henry Ford Community College. He is going there to study respiratory therapy. Marty wanted to go into that field because he use to have respiratory therapists. He also said that being a respiratory therapist is something that he is able to do even with his disability. “Even though I don’t have any brothers or sisters, the rest of my family is always there to help me and is always behind be in any decision I make,” said Marty.
Everyone has their own personal quote to live by. Marty believes that “you should live life to the fullest, no matter what obstacles you may encounter, and always
Nothing stands in his way - Heather Stetz