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Wynnikka Matthews

I am a 25 year old Author, Writer, Advocate, Peer Mentor, Speaker, Community Healer & so much more. I am passionate about continuing to raise awareness for BPI | Erbs Palsy through advocacy, education, fundraising and sharing my own story. I self-published my memoir "Brighter Days Ahead" during BPI Awareness week 2018 to share my story and further raise awareness!!! Through book sales I was able to donate and give back to Organizations like the United Brachial Plexus NetworkI want to continue to learn more about BPI | Erbs Palsy and share my knowledge with others. My ultimate goal is to inspire and be inspired by staying active in the community.

MY BOOK
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My Story of BPI 

My disability is a result of a birth injury that occurred during birth.  Nerves in my Brachial Plexus were completely ripped from my spinal cord causing permanent damage that cannot be reversed even after undergoing surgery. My right arm and hand suffered the most damage and is significantly smaller than my left and turned inward. I also lost fine motor movement. There’s lack of circulation and I find my arm to be cramped up and in pain most days even with stretching and BPI exercises. The pain often radiates in to my shoulders neck and back. Because I overcompensate with my left arm, my left side tends to be in pain some days as well.

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My parents had no idea after I was born about this birth Injury so they felt much alone as parents raising a child with OBPI and learned most things on their own. There was no moral support around to help them through it. My parents tried their hardest to treat me like any other ordinary child and allowed me to do some things trying not to put any physical limitations on me, though I was already limited as long as I wasn’t putting myself at risk of hurting myself.

 

Growing up I’ve always felt alone with my OBPI because I knew NO ONE with the same thing as me. I felt like an outcast being the only one and my bullies never failed to remind me of it everyday, especially in elementary, taunting and mimicking me for being different than they were. I have struggled with self-confidence and self-esteem and I’m still struggling to learn how to ignore the words and actions of others who are ignorant and still make fun.

 

Keynote speaking, advocating for others with special needs and joining BPI support groups or blogs has really helped me in finding support and connecting with others who are like me and understand what we go through, though we all have our own unique journeys.

 

I’ve never hesitated to tell others about my story and I love doing so! I also love learning about others’ stories as well!

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