West Grad Does Not Let Disability Slow Him Down

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By Sarah Gravlee

Story Published: May 29, 2011 at 10:58 PM MDT

Story Updated: May 29, 2011 at 10:58 PM MDT

BILLINGS - West High School graduate Christian Johnson was born with Cerebral Palsy. It's a condition caused by brain injuries usually within the womb. While the severity varies, Johnson has had limited use of his legs for most of his life.

"I really wanted to walk, but I couldn't," he said.

He added that it was a struggle just to get to school.

"I hated school," he said, "As I grew up, I understood the basics of school life."

After years at school he's now sad to leave. "When I first came here, I didn't know what challenges were in store for me," Johnson said, "I didn't know many of the people, and now I conquered my fears and I'm really starting to enjoy it."

His teachers said he has a spirit that can't be confined to a wheelchair. "He's taught me that a lot of the things," said Gaye Koczynski, "Issues in my life are nothing compared to what he's dealt with."

Johnson wants others to know that with the help of friends and family, you can make it through anything.

"My teachers and my mom have always been there for me. They told me to keep trying and never give up. I want to spread the word. All the kids who don't think they can try, and just want to give up on life, just keep trying. You'll make good of yourself. You know?"

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