Even basic functions like speaking, writing and walking are difficult for this 57-year-old woman living with cerebral palsy.

Still, the woman — who didn't want to be identified — has managed to live independently for years. She wants to write a book about her experiences to help others in similar situations.

But even typing an e-mail to a friend is a struggle because of her condition. She has a computer that's a few years old but needs an accessible keyboard with large letters, which she can't afford.

"I am trying to write a book about me ... about my condition ... to help other people like me having a hard time," she said. "Because they come to me and ask me, 'How can you live by yourself?' "

The woman has been living by herself in a one-bedroom apartment that is partly subsidized by the state.

But although she lives independently, there are hardships.

Her Social Security benefits allow her to pay her bills and buy food, but she can barely afford clothes, bedding and other basic items that would help her improve her quality of life.

She also faces painful challenges that money seemingly cannot change.

"I don't like when people look at me," she said. "Like I'm crazy and I need help."

The woman, who recently got a scooter with assistance from Medicaid, used to work part time as a traffic aide for a local elementary school. She said she plans to find similar part-time employment and is working with a counselor from the state's Vocational Rehabilitation Program.

But in the meantime, she said, she just needs a little help from the community to help tell her story and continue to live an independent life.

In addition to the accessible keyboard with large letters designed for users with disabilities, she would also appreciate clothing, including size 28 pants, dresses and T-shirts. She wears a size medium. The woman is also in need of a pair of rubber shoes — her shoe size is 6 — as well as a comforter and a bed sheet for the hospital bed she sleeps on.

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