Daily Routines: How Structure Helps Me Thrive With Cerebral Palsy

Daily Routines: How Structure Helps Me Thrive with Cerebral Palsy

by Jessica Grono

Living with cerebral palsy has taught me that routines are more than just habits—they’re the foundation that keeps my life running smoothly. People often tell me, “You’re so organized!” While I appreciate the compliment, the truth is that much of my organization comes from necessity.

When you rely on personal care assistants throughout the day, planning ahead isn’t optional. It allows me to work, care for my family, write, advocate, and enjoy life. Routines don’t limit my independence—they make it possible.

My Morning Routine

My alarm goes off, and I try to get up right away. I’ve never been someone who hits the snooze button because I’m always worried about oversleeping.

I get out of bed by carefully sliding to the floor and crawling to the bathroom. Before my morning caregiver arrives, I check my email, text messages, calendar, and anything I need for work. Most importantly, I spend a few quiet moments in prayer. Starting my day with God helps me stay grounded, especially on difficult days.

When my morning personal care assistant arrives, we work together to get ready for the day. She helps me:

• Get dressed
• Transfer into my power wheelchair
• Do my hair and makeup
• Brush my teeth
• Prepare my breakfast
• Fill my water bottle
• Pack my lunch
• Make sure I have everything I need before leaving

While we’re getting ready, I’m often checking in with my son before school and making sure everything is ready for the day. My daughter is now away at college, so our morning conversations usually happen through text instead of across the house.

Before I leave, my assistant walks with me to school, helps me inside, removes my jacket, puts on my staff badge, and wishes me a great day.

Lunch at School

Every school day is a little different, so I text the person helping me with lunch once I know my schedule.

I’m incredibly grateful for the teachers and staff members who volunteer to help me eat lunch. They get my meal ready, help feed me, and make sure I’m comfortable before returning to class. Their kindness reminds me every day that a supportive community makes inclusion possible.

After School

When I get home, another caregiver helps me settle in.

Together we unpack everything from the school day, complete household chores, organize paperwork, prepare meals, and tackle whatever needs to be done. Every evening I make a checklist so nothing important gets forgotten.

As any parent knows, evenings are busy. Between helping my son, catching up on family life, answering emails, and managing the household, there’s rarely a dull moment.

Evening Routine

Once my caregiver leaves, my day isn’t over.

I spend time helping my son when needed, exercising, journaling, blogging, answering messages, and working on advocacy projects. Some evenings I simply relax with my husband and watch television. Other nights I work on articles or my book until bedtime.

Before I go to sleep, I prepare my to-do list for the next day. Having a plan allows me to wake up with purpose instead of stress.

Why Routines Matter

Living with cerebral palsy means there are many things outside of my control. My muscles may be tighter one day than another. My involuntary movements may increase. Fatigue can show up unexpectedly.

A routine gives me stability when my body feels unpredictable.

It also helps my caregivers know exactly what needs to be done, making our time together more efficient and less stressful.

Of course, life doesn’t always follow a schedule. Appointments change, unexpected situations arise, and sometimes my body simply has other plans. I’ve learned that flexibility is just as important as organization.

My Advice

If you live with cerebral palsy—or care for someone who does—don’t underestimate the power of a routine.

Start small. Prepare what you can the night before. Keep a written checklist. Communicate with your caregivers. Most importantly, give yourself grace when things don’t go according to plan.

A routine isn’t about perfection.

It’s about creating a life that allows you to thrive.

What daily routine helps make your life easier? I’d love to hear in the comments.