Yesterday, I checked out Season2 Episode1 of This American Life on Showtime. The first segment, involving some kids in what I think is North Philly riding horses, brought back memories of grad school and missing my friends in the city of brotherly love. But, the next act, which discussed the story of a guy, about my age, with a muscular disorder trying to gain his independence from his family, was far more touching.
Mike Phillips lives with his mom (although this may have changed since the airing of the show?), and is largely dependent on others to care for him. Because of this, the (second) separation and individuation stage most people experience, where they pull away from their parents usually during adolescence, seems more challenging for him than for most. Mike requires a lot of physical maintenance and observation. A mistake can mean life or death for him. And he trusts his mom, who is thorough and is constantly paying attention to detail.
There are many dimensions to Mike and his story; he grapples with love, hopes, fears and dreams. But there is a sensitivity that Mike has, along with a great sense of humor, that seems attuned in such a way that I feel like he must be incredibly introspective about himself and the world around him.
I have had health problems through out my teenagehood, often spending lots of time unable to move about, unable to eat, having to stay in bed and rely on others for help. Perhaps this is why Mike’s story has touched me in the way it did.
In any case, I also would like to show the episode to the clients I work with. Many of them despise their disabilities and have yet to come to terms with the possibilities that they can make for themselves (within reason). They always sound surprised when I mention people who are able to work with their disabilities to make the life that they wanted and were ultimately capable of having. I think Mike would be a great example of this- not because he is an inspiration, but because he acknowledges his humanity and continues to hope, dream and strive despite the fact that he could easily live his life passively, in the way others choose for him.
I encourage everyone to check out Mike’s blog. Also, here’s a link to the TV show- This American Life on Showtime.