#CPChatNow Recap: 02-05-2020

Posted on February 12, 2020 by zacharyfenell

Wednesday, February 5th, 2020 proved an extra exciting night for the cerebral palsy Twitter chat #CPChatNow. Here to fill you in on all the excitement I am chat co-host Zachary Fenell. Time to dive into your weekly recap!

The exhilarating tone started early in the night with participants sharing wonderful news.

Zachary announces his CP memoir Off Balanced is now available in paperback form.

First, I revealed my CP memoir Off Balanced is now available in paperback! Additionally, another long-time chat regular shared some positive news.

Linds shares she has an upcoming audition for This is My Brave.

Linds tells a little more about This is My Brave.

Our own “Positivity Princess” Linds scored an audition for This is My Brave in Iowa City. As she would explain, This is My Brave shares stories about mental illness in order to break stigmas. Both my co-host Devin Axtman and I thought that sounds pretty cool.

Beyond participants’ exciting news, our community rallied together to show support to a fellow participant.

Members in the #CPChatNow community encourage Shira about needing five years to complete a four-year degree.

Shira expressed frustration in needing to drop two classes in order to keep up physically with her college schedule. Heather encouraged her “There’s nothing wrong with doing what you must to accommodate.” How true! To emphasize this, let us make the week’s extend-the-conversation question the following. “What is something you have done to accommodate your cerebral palsy?” Respond in the “Comments” section.

Learning to accommodate your CP helps to make you adaptable. Elsewhere in #CPChatNow February 5th, 2020 we discussed other characteristics CP makes us.

#CPChatNow fill in the blank, answering "Cerebral palsy makes me _____________."

I asked participants to fill in the blank and answer “Cerebral palsy makes me (blank).” Newcomer Travis Davis chimed in, saying CP makes him happy, providing him opportunities he wouldn’t have otherwise. Perhaps, like Travis, you will take the opportunity to join #CPChatNow. Our discussion happens each and every Wednesday on Twitter, starting at 8pm ET. If you do not like Twitter, join us through our Facebook fan page and through answering the weekly extend-the-conversation question. As a reminder, this week’s question asks “What is something you have done to accommodate your cerebral palsy?”

This week's extend-the-conversation question asks, "What is something you have done to accommodate your cerebral palsy?"

Leave your response below!

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

-Zachary

#CPChatNow Recap- 01-08-2020

Posted on January 15, 2020 by zacharyfenell

With the holidays over, we in the #CPChatNow community resumed our regular Wednesday evening schedule January 8th, 2020. To tell you more about the January 8th Twitter chat, I am chat co-host Zachary Fenell. Regular readers will know exactly how I plan to do this. Your weekly recap!

Over the years we within #CPChatNow have enjoyed a few laughs together. A trend which continues chugging along!

Time cannot derail #CPChatNow's train joke.

My co-host, Devin Axtman, arrived to the chat late because his bus was late to his train. All because the bus ended up stuck behind another train!

Although, the humor does not lay in Devin’s predicament. Rather, the fact Devin’s story involves trains creates the humorous tone. Early in #CPChatNow’s existence Hannah shared a funny story which included a train reference. Ever since simply mentioning trains invokes chuckles from our community’s long-time regulars.

Such a re-occurring joke helped us build a communal feel. Another pillar which allowed us to build our community returns in 2020.

Zachary teases the return of focus chats.

As I shared January 8th, this year will see focus chats return! I noted Devin and I should be ready to announce our first focus chat of the year next week (January 15th). Happily, I am able to confirm we will make this announcement during the January 15th chat. Make sure to join us then!

Also, to ensure we deliver focus chats which interest you, answer as the week’s extend-the-conversation question, “What topics would you like to see focus chats on?” Answer by leaving a reply in the “Comments” section. Your feedback proves vital towards maximizing focus chats’ value.

Perhaps a possible focus chat topic could entail the positives and negatives social media offers the cerebral palsy community. A topic briefly touched upon January 8th.

#CPChatNow participants discuss Twitter regrets.

Curious, I asked participants if they ever regretted posting something to Twitter. Devin replied affirmatively, saying he regrets getting into certain political arguments. His regrets deal less with what he said and more just feeling like the discussions ended up pointless.

Meanwhile Hannah made the insightful point that everyone probably regrets posting something. She continued, noting there are in-person conversations she regrets having too. Quite the relatable sentiment, or so I think.

Anyways, enough about what I think. What do you think would make for a good focus chat in 2020? Remember to answer the week’s extend-the-conversation question. “What topics would you like to see focus chats on?”

Answer for the week's extend-the-conversation question, "What topics would you like to see focus chats on?"

Reply below to answer. Afterwards make your plans to join #CPChatNow each and every Wednesday, starting at 8pm ET.

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

-Zachary

#CPChatNow Recap- 06-05-2019

Posted on June 12, 2019 by zacharyfenell

Ladies and gentlemen, my name is Zachary Fenell and I am the co-host for the cerebral palsy Twitter chat #CPChatNow. Yet #CPChatNow remains much more than just a Twitter chat. Our participants make up a community. What exactly makes a community, a community though? That question I am able to answer by recapping the Wednesday, June 5th, 2019 chat.

A community disbands isolation, turning seemingly odd quirks into common bonds. Like sneezing and cerebral palsy!

#CPChatNow participants discuss the worst time to have to sneeze.

To an able-bodied person, a forthcoming sneeze probably raises one major thought “Better get a Kleenex.” Living with cerebral palsy adds another level to consider. Long-time regular Blemi described sneezing as “a whole body event for me.” I related, sharing I need to brace my lower half before sneezing. Otherwise I might blow myself off balance!

A second aspect to community involves supporting each other, providing concern and encouragement when life’s balance falters. Upon my co-host Devin Axtman literally experiencing this, #CPChatNow proved ready to rise to the occasion.

#CPChatNow participants give Devin emotional support after he fell.

Devin tweeted he just took a huge fall at a restaurant, but avoided harm. Community member Chris responded, sharing surprise she has not fallen at work yet. Continuing Chris said she began using a cane back in January. Based off her zero falls at work, the cane appears quite helpful.

Meanwhile I asked Devin about the after fall. In my experience people’s reactions can prove more flustering then the actual fall. Devin explained the floor’s weird texture caused his fall to sound extra loud. The loudness left others there to look prior to resuming their own dinners.

Beyond diffusing loneliness and supplying emotional support, community stands a place you may go to ask questions. I took full advantage June 5th, posing a question to our group.

Zachary seeks insights from others for a blog post, "Defending Social Media."

Currently I am working on a blog post, seeking to highlight social media’s positives. Wanting input from others, I asked “How has social media had a positive impact on your life?”

Chris in-part replied she learned a lot about different disabilities and made friends. Should we keep the conversation going?

I agree! Answer as the week’s extend-the-conversation question, “How has social media had a positive impact on your life?” Leave a comment to respond!

Then experience the #CPChatNow community firsthand, joining the chat every Wednesday. The fun begins at 8pm ET.

Until then remember. Don’t blend in. Blend out!

-Zachary

This week's extend-the-conversation question asks, "How has social media had a positive impact on your life?" — Reply below in the “Comments.”

#CPChatNow Recap- 05-30-2018

Posted on June 5, 2018 by zacharyfenell

Resembling a box filled with chocolates, the live weekly cerebral palsy Twitter chat #CPChatNow featured quite the variety Wednesday, May 30th, 2018. To keep the analogy going, that makes me, co-host Zachary Fenell, (insert your favorite chocolatier here). So shall we explore the deliciousness embodied by Wednesday’s discussion?

One endearing characteristic our weekly chat possesses involves the welcoming community. Participants can come and go due to life’s hurdles. Once cleared though, you can count on a warm greeting back. Just ask Hannah Pike and Yasmin!

Fellow regular Linds greeted Hannah using a fun dancing GIF. Meanwhile both my co-host Devin and I expressed our excitement to see Yasmin again. Yasmin’s presence represents a dedication towards our chat considering in her time zone #CPChatNow happens at 1am!

Shortly following the salutations conversation garnered greater substance. Devin’s extend-the-conversation question from the previous recap surfaced as a topic.

Earlier in the day I teased an interesting answer to the extend-the-conversation question Devin posed.The question asked “What did your therapists do to keep you interested in therapy?” Hannah and I each gave our answers.

I shared my physical therapist awarded me trophies to commemorate achieving long-term goals. Hannah recalled her therapists letting her listen to music. The answer intrigued me because I remember therapists using music to distract me amidst intense stretching.

Later in the evening Devin added to the evening’s assorted dialogue, tweeting a current news story.

The aforementioned story detailed two friends going to prom together. Nonetheless rather than taking a patronizing or pitiful tone, the item broke the usual prom story mold. View and judge yourself.

Keeping the interesting subject matters flowing, regular participant Seth asked a compelling question.

He asked, “How old does a child staring at you have to be before it is a problem? Do you react different if it is a three-year old to it is a seven-year old to a 12-year old?”

Giving an ambiguous reply, I responded saying the situation matters more oppose to age. After all, everyone matures differently! Devin said stares become a problem once kids reach their teenage years. What do you think? Answer Seth’s question as the week’s extend-the-conversation question.

“How old does a child staring at you have to be before it is a problem? Do you react different if it is a three-year old to it is a seven-year old to a 12-year old?”

Comment below to reply. Until next time remember, do not blend in. Blend out!

-Zachary

#CPChatNow Recap- 04-18-2018

Posted on April 24, 2018 by zacharyfenell

#CPChatNow’s communal atmosphere remained on full display Wednesday, April 18th, 2018 during the weekly Twitter chat. Familiar faces returning after lengthy absences helped to establish the night’s tone. Here to tell you all about the evening, I am co-host Zachary Fenell.

Those aforementioned familiar faces referenced included long-time participant Hannah Pike and always busy co-host Jorge Oteiza. Other participants warmly greeted the two.

Co-host Devin utilized a wrestling GIF to welcome Hannah and Jorge. Such a GIF demonstrates another aspect to our friendly community. Perhaps an element to discuss in a future recap! For now, let us catch up with Hannah and Jorge.

Some serious health issues kept Hannah away from #CPChatNow. Issues she recently detailed while blogging.

Despite personally already knowing Hannah’s situation, reading her blog post still made me shudder. The seriousness that comes along brain surgery proving undeniable. Take a look and read yourself, “The Setbacks Leading to the Comeback.”

Thankfully the reasoning behind Jorge’s absence involves a lot less dire circumstances. College and work continues to keep him pre-occupied. As Jorge explained, an earlier shift allowed him to make the week’s chat.

Just like Hannah, participants excitedly met Jorge. Specifically, Shira Sadiky recounted how Jorge helped her feel comfortable when she first joined #CPChatNow a couple years ago. Comfort definitely stands important towards building a strong community.

What other characteristics do you also find valuable in a community? Answer for the week’s extend-the-conversation question, “What characteristics make for a strong community?” Respond in the “Comments” section.

Maintaining the communal theme, remember #CPChatNow’s forthcoming April 2018 Google Hangout.

The monthly Hangout allows our community to chat using a more open platform. No character limits! Plus video chatting adds communication factors like tone of voice and facial expressions, enhancing the dialogue! Due to privacy reasons, the link to the Hangout does not go out publicly. Perchance you want to join us, message the #CPChatNow Facebook fan page to let us know.

Before visiting our Facebook page though, answer the week’s extend-the-conversation question! “What characteristics make for a strong community?” Answer by commenting below! I eagerly await seeing your replies.

Until next time,

-Zachary

#CPChatNow Recap- Reflecting Back and Looking Forward Focus Chat

Posted on December 13, 2017 by devinaxtman

This past week in #CPChatNow was especially lively as we celebrated #CPChatNow’s 4th birthday! We decided to do a focus chat with various questions focusing on changes in member’s lives, questions about #CPChatNow, and a discussion about #CPChatNow’s future. This is #CPChatNow Co-Host, Devin Axtman, taking you along on this special recap.

The first question focused on what has changed in members’ lives in the last four years. Members shared many things, but it was interesting that many members had common changes:

Zach asking what has changed over the past 4 years. I answered with some changes including a master's degree, girlfriend

Blemi discussing a new job and boyfriend when talking about changes. Seth discussing cruises and burying his grandpa

The next question was about how members had heard about #CPChatNow. Members shared various things such as discovering it on their timeline to seeing CP celebrities like John Quinn tweet about it:

Hannah tweeting that #CPChatNow showed up on her timeline

Me stating that I stumbled on #CPChatNow in a search, but I saw John Quinn tweet it

Zach also shared the story of the creation of #CPChatNow. A collaboration between John Quinn and @HandicapThis.

Zach sharing story of #CPChatNow's creation

The next question related to specific questions or conversations that have stuck out to members. Hannah shared the long running #CPChatNow joke of the story when someone asked if her CP was caused by getting ran over by a train:

Hannah tweeting the train conversation is her favorite #CPChatNow conversation

Jen tweeted about the focus chat with @The_CP_Swagger and Hunter Gandee who has made national news by carrying his brother with CP on his back to raise awareness:

Jen tweeting her favorite chat was with CP Swagger

Zach chimed in with the exercise chat led by Erin while I said the dating or accessible gaming ones:

Zach and Devin discussing their favorite conversations

Members also mentioned liking that the conversations in #CPChatNow tend to happen organically and do not feel forced:

Members discussing the joy that CPChatNow conversations tend to happen organically

Finally, the last question in the Focus Chat was regarding who members would like to see be a guest on a future focus chat. Members were consistent in requesting Micah Fowler of Speechless fame.

Jen tweeting that she would like to see Micah Fowler on a future chat

Now this brings us to our next Extend-The-Conversation question and I will use #CPChatNow’s fourth birthday as inspiration. What has changed for you in the past four years and what would you like to see in the next four?

This week's extend-the-conversation questions asks "What has changed for you in the past four years and what would you like to see in the next four?"

Answer in the “Comments” section.

#CPChatNow Recap- 04-19-2017

Posted on April 26, 2017 by zacharyfenell

Every week the Twitter chat #CPChatNow thrives thanks to our great community. A fact our April 19th, 2017 Twitter chat exemplified! I am proud co-founder and co-host Zachary Fenell here to recap our latest chat.

Interim co-host Devin Axtman suggested we start the night by sharing peaks and pits from the last seven days. An idea in past weeks offered up by participant Amanda. Hamda’s peak raised the night’s first communal mention.

Participants keeping in touch throughout the week demonstrates the strength in connections made within our community. Something I wish to emphasize by creating new #CPChatNow promotional graphics. In past months I asked participants to submit photos with them in their #CPChatNow shirts for such graphics. I asked again April 19th, this time also sharing a taste to what said images might look like.

One signature trait to a true community involves seeing an idea shared grow and evolve. Long-time participant Hannah Pike set said evolution in motion with her photo submission.

Additionally opening up submissions beyond pictures featuring CPChatNow shirts seems only fair to those without CPChatNow shirts. If you want your face incorporated into CPChatNow promotional material, submit a photograph! You can send our way via a direct message through our Facebook fan page.

Another aspect to community emerged while a couple participants made small talk. Shira discussed a school project which peaked Blemi’s interest. Soon their dialogue blossomed in more meaningful ways.

$Knowing Blemi has made a career with numbers despite struggling at math brought Shira some hope.$ Hope, enhanced ideas, and friendship all represent community characteristics. What characteristics do you value in a community? Tell us! Answer the aforementioned for the week’s extend-the-conversation question.

This week the CPChatNow extend-the-conversation question asks "What characteristics do you value in a community?"

In the “Comments” section share what characteristics you value in a community.

Leave your reply in the “Comments” section. Then join us tonight on Twitter at 8pm ET. Susanne Kate Jones returns to our community to lead us in a focus chat titled “A Serious Chat About Comedy.” You can expect an insightful discussion sprinkled with laughs throughout. Talk and laugh with you later.

Sincerely,

-Zachary

#CPChatNow Recap- 12-28-2016

Posted on December 31, 2016 by zacharyfenell

Wednesday, December 28th closed out our third complete year filled with Twitter chats. I am co-host Zachary Fenell, here to recap our final 2016 Twitter chat. Long-time regulars enjoyed seeing a familiar face surface once again.

Susanne‘s humor remained a missed entity from #CPChatNow. Even those on the receiving end to her sarcasm enjoyed Susanne’s presence.

The warm reception Susanne received represents our community’s overall welcoming attitude. Life could keep you away. However, say the opportunity arises for you to stop in. Prepare for exclamation marks, joyous GIFs, and maybe even happy emojis! 😛

On a personal note, I am pleased to see #CPChatNow adopt such an attitude. As an original co-founder I witnessed much transition the last three-plus years. Yet we continue to remember and respect our past. For example, take the praise given Wednesday to former co-host and #CPChatNow co-founder John W. Quinn.

Fittingly enough #CPChatNow stands at another transition point. My current co-host Blake Henry will spend the first half to 2017 studying abroad in Spain. Consequently the time difference will limit Blake’s ability to participate in the Twitter chats. Hence last week’s announcement promoting chat regular Devin to interim co-host.

Suspecting individuals might possess questions about his upcoming adventure, Blake made himself available to chat December 28th.

Meanwhile I asked a question designed to encourage others to think about their 2017.

Although I am obviously bias, I think my question supplies a lot to contemplate heading into the new year. So let the thoughts flow! Answer for the week’s extend-the-conversation question, “Is anyone setting New Year resolutions? If so, what are they?”

Leave your reply in the “Comments” section below.

Finally, let me take a moment to thank you. With your help #CPChatNow enjoyed a second straight banner year! Besides 11 focus chats and monthly Google Hangouts this year saw new members join the community, our website launch, and #CPChatNow apparel created. The latter you can still purchase during our “#CPChatNow T-Shirt and Winter Apparel” sale.

Profits from our shirt sales go to the non-profit Keep On Keeping On Foundation. To date our summer and winter sale raised nearly $158.00. Enable us to add to that total and go ahead buy your own #CPChatNow t-shirt or winter apparel. First, before you go shop #CPChatNow apparel answer the extend-the-conversation question.

“Is anyone setting New Year resolutions? If so, what are they?”

Answers go in the “Comments” section. Talk with you in 2017!

Sincerely,

-Zachary

#CPChatNow Recap- 12-21-2016

Posted on December 28, 2016 by zacharyfenell

Excitement resonated throughout #CPChatNow Wednesday, December 21st. I am co-host Zachary Fenell, tasked with compacting all that enthusiastic energy down into your weekly recap. Hype for a big announcement sparked the initial anticipation.

Multiple community members expressed their excitement for my co-host Blake Henry as he prepares for his next adventure.

Summarizing in my own words the details to Blake’s upcoming opportunity feels underwhelming. Rather I recommend you check out his post for yourself. Read “Blake Henry’s Next Adventure.”

While time ticked away until the interim co-host announcement, our dialogue transitioned to the previous week’s extend-the-conversation question. Special guest Heaven Ramsey asked the question during her “Strength Through Community” focus chat. “Did you feel alone before social media?”

This triggered discussion on the differences various social media platforms provide.

In some ways my explanation echoed sentiments I shared at our “Strength Through Community” focus chat December 14th.

For me chatting with the #CPChatNow regulars week after week I almost feel I know them as persons and not online connections.

The individual Blake and I chose as interim co-host falls into said category. Blake revealed the interim co-host’s identity around 8:30pm ET.

Congratulations to Devin! He deserves the opportunity based off seniority in #CPChatNow, his passion for the community, and more. Certainly though, a community needs more than co-hosts to thrive. Your participation keeps us going strong. Decisions we make as co-hosts aim to best serve you. Therefore your feedback proves vital. You will possess the opportunity to share feedback tomorrow Thursday, December 29th at our year end Google Hangout.

Whether you can make the Hangout or not, please reach out and share your feedback about #CPChatNow. Contact Blake, Devin, or myself. Give your input on how #CPChatNow runs. Plus offer any new suggestions.

Beyond all our exciting community activities, regular Jen turned our attention to holiday festivities. She asked about what you hoped to find under the Christmas tree.

Although Christmas passed, let us maintain the holiday theme with the week’s extend-the-conversation question. This time we concentrate on the giving aspect to the season. Answer “What is a gift you gave this holiday season?”

Leave your response in the “Comments” section below.

Additionally note, #CPChatNow apparel still remains available. At your request we extended the #CPChatNow t-shirt and winter apparel sale to Monday, January 2nd, 2017. A #CPChatNow shirt could make a great belated holiday gift. Or, perhaps you feel like buying yourself a present. Proceeds from the sale go to the non-profit Keep On Keeping On Foundation. So, essentially you still end up giving to someone else!

Go ahead and order your #CPChatNow shirt. Too attend our Google Hangout Thursday, December 29th and share your feedback on our community. Finally, remember to answer the week’s extend-the-conversation question “What is a gift you gave this holiday season?”

Comment away!

-Zachary

#CPChatNow Recap- Community Through Strength Focus Chat

Posted on December 21, 2016 by zacharyfenell

Special guest Heaven Ramsey joined #CPChatNow Wednesday, December 14th to lead our “Strength Through Community” focus chat. I am co-host Zachary Fenell, ready to compile chat highlights into your weekly recap. Enjoy!

Heaven’s credentials as a community leader begins with her Facebook page, “A Stairway to the Stars: Heaven’s Journey with CP.” Over 8,000 people like the page. More importantly, the page provides an active and supportive community. Support proved a key concept discussed throughout the evening.

Most participants seemed to empathize with Heaven’s alone sentiment. Although others enjoyed a belonging feeling. What about you? Allow me to rephrase Heaven’s question for the week’s extend-the-conversation question. Answer “Did you feel alone before social media?”

Leave your response in the “Comments” section. First though, let us continue with the recap. My answer to Heaven’s question spurred dialogue revealing a valuable aspect community supplies.

The understanding you find in a community helps relieve the previously mentioned loneliness. Also regarding understanding, #CPChatNow regular Devin sought to better understand Heaven’s goal with her Facebook page.

A mentoring program like Heaven aspires to create could reduce loneliness even more. Plus build certain expectations so kids with cerebral palsy growing up can feel increasingly confident towards their futures. Such a demand already exists too. In fact returning participant Sarah demonstrated as much in a tweet.

By offering encouraging feedback and practical advice, #CPChatNow empowers participants to better build in-person relationships and communities. Maybe that explains why participants continually profess their admiration for our community.

Additionally our guest Heaven Ramsey spoke highly about her experiences with us.

Come revel in the positive community one Wednesday yourself. #CPChatNow happens every Wednesday from 8pm ET-10pm ET. Tonight we will make a big announcement related to what my co-host Blake Henry posted on the website earlier in the month (read here).

Before then remember to answer the week’s extend-the-conversation question. The question gives those not on Twitter a chance to still participate in our community. The week’s question rephrases a question Heaven asked.

“Did you feel alone before social media?”

Respond in the “Comments” section below. As always thanks for your interest in our community. You allow us to thrive.

Until next time!

-Zachary

#CPChatNow

Online community for those with cerebral palsy!

Tag Archives: community

#CPChatNow Recap: 02-05-2020

#CPChatNow Recap- 05-30-2018

#CPChatNow Recap- 04-18-2018

#CPChatNow Recap- Reflecting Back and Looking Forward Focus Chat

#CPChatNow Recap- 04-19-2017

#CPChatNow Recap- 12-28-2016

#CPChatNow Recap- Community Through Strength Focus Chat