Wednesday, July 24th, 2019 participants in the live cerebral palsy Twitter chat #CPChatNow displayed a problem solving attitude. Tasks CP can make difficult arose during the conversation. Others responded, suggesting potential solutions. I am co-host Zachary Fenell, here to tell you more the best way I know how. Through your weekly recap!

Long-time chat regular Blemi shared earlier in the day a spastic moment while using a knife almost sent her to the ER. This left me curious. So I asked participants to share their worst experience with a knife.

Veteran knife user Jake Jordan also showed curiosity. Though, his interest involved wondering what Blemi was cutting and with what type of knife. Those answers would help identify whether she could use a safer tool in the future.

Additionally Jake offered safety tips for using a knife. One such tip, cut away from yourself. A sentiment Blemi echoed, saying “Ya always cut away from yourself!”

Speaking up, I said I can find cutting away from myself challenging. To give an example, I mentioned cutting a roll. Jake countered, advising I hold the roll on its side and cut downwards. Plus he noted to use the proper knife, a serrated one. With a serrated knife, you should apply as little force as possible.

While Jake proved quite knowledgeable about knives, our community also received wisdom from another participant.

Veronica enjoyed a pleasant realization that although she cooks a lot, she has managed not to cut herself. She attributes the success to doubling or tripling prep time. An excellent idea!

As Veronica and I continued talking, she revealed another useful tidbit. At a restaurant they will cut your food in the kitchen if you ask! Good to know, right?

Beyond cutting food, a second CP challenge surfaced amidst the dialogue.

I momentarily excused myself to finish up some laundry, which I warned included bed sheets. Or, as my co-host Devin Axtman referred to them “the bane of CP.”

After members bonded over the struggle bed sheets cause, Jake once again offered a possible solution.

Jake linked to the mattress lifter, The tool could assist anyone who needs help lifting the mattress when putting bed sheets on. Perhaps you utilize a particular tool to make an activity easier. Let us know! Answer for the week’s extend-the-conversation question, “What is a tool you use to help make an activity easier?” Answer below in the comments!

Until next time, remember. Don’t blend in. Blend out!

-Zachary