Member Spotlight: Marie Bissetto

Today, the OFCP is shining a light on one of our most remarkable members, Marie Bissetto! At 91 years old, Marie has led an incredible life and witnessed many changes in the way that society views and treats people with Cerebral Palsy. Thankfully, Marie has been incredibly generous in sharing her story with us.

Marie was born in 1933, delivered in her family home in Windsor, Ontario. As she explains, "At that time doctors regularly made house calls. Many families did not own automobiles. This was at the height of the depression". At three months, Marie was diagnosed with Cerebral Palsy by her family doctor. "My right arm and leg were affected (Right Hemiplegia) to the degree where I did not walk with stability until age four. At the age of four and again at twelve, I had Achilles tendon surgery at The Shriner's Children's Hospital in Montreal. I was then able to walk with only a minor limp. I had limited use of my right arm and hand". At the time, resources for children with Cerebral Palsy were scarce. "There was no services or programs for kids with CP in our area until The Red Cross started a rehab program when I was twelve".

Speaking on her experience growing up with Cerebral Palsy, Marie says that, "My childhood was pretty normal. I was able to participate in school sports, ride a bike and roller skate. I was never made to feel different by my family or school mates". After high school, "I started an office job as a Cost Clerk. At age 20 I was married. One year later our son was born. My family helped with baby care the first few weeks". However, there were challenges as a young mother with Cerebral Palsy. "Unfortunately there was none of the fancy baby equipment for the home like in later years. I had to find my own way of handling a newborn with limited use of my arm". 

As time went on, "I was able to ambulate unassisted until the age of 80, when I started using a walker. I am still ambulatory today at a slower pace and need help with some of my daily routine. I am so grateful that I can continue to live and be cared for by family. I am sure that is what has contributed to my longevity". 

Looking back on her extraordinary life, Marie comments that, "So many things have changed in my lifetime. Science and technology has contributed to the disabled having more surgical and equipment options that make our home easier to navigate as well as school and work". Her biggest accomplishment "is that I was able to raise a family, work and be independent for most of my life. Some of the lessons I have learned along the way is to have a positive outlook and enjoy the simple things. There were many physical obstacles I had to overcome in my life. I would tell any younger OFCP member to take each challenge as it comes using your own determination even if it is a struggle".