Meet Chris Butts: Game On: Living, Learning, and Leading With Cerebral Palsy

C. J. Butts was diagnosed with cerebral palsy caused by congenital cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection at Bon Secours Hospital in Grosse Pointe, Michigan. CMV is a common virus, like a cold, but if a person that has never been exposed to it comes in contact with someone who is a carrier, it cold possibly cause the fetus issues. Medical professionals recognized early signs of neurological impairment and referred him to St. John’s Hospital in Detroit. There, doctors discovered an excess of cerebrospinal fluid in his brain and surgically implanted a ventriculoperitoneal (VP) shunt to relieve pressure. The buildup of fluid had led to three significant complications: cerebral palsy, epilepsy, and impaired vision. This diagnosis emerged through clinical observation, neurological imaging, and professional evaluation testament to attentive healthcare and timely intervention.

From infancy, C. J. displayed several indicators that prompted these evaluations. Medical staff observed abnormal motor tone and developmental delays. Neuroimaging revealed hydrocephalus—an accumulation of fluid in the brain cavities—which necessitated surgical intervention. Once the shunt was in place, the extent of his impairments became clearer: disrupted motor control typical of cerebral palsy, recurrent seizures characteristic of epilepsy, and poor vision. These complications were interconnected, each contributing to the complexity of his condition.

C. J.’s parents, Margaret Mary Butts (age 66) and Christopher Michael Butts (age 67), along with his older brother, Zachary Taylor Butts (age 31), became integral members of his care network. The Butts family has resided in Michigan their entire life. From C.J.’s earliest days, Margaret and Christopher instinctually advocated specialized care, therapies, and support systems. Zachary provided sibling companionship, encouragement, and motivation, helping shape C. J.’s confidence and identity.

The impact of cerebral palsy, epilepsy, and poor vision on C. J.’s life has been profound—and yet transformative. Mobility was a major challenge: he could not walk until ages three to four. This delay weighed heavily on both him and his family, as each subsequent rehab milestone demanded patience, perseverance, and carefully structured therapy sessions. With time, effort, and support, he took his first steps, marking a triumphant moment that redefined hope and possibility for all involved.

Another considerable struggle involved seizure management. For years, unpredictably timed seizures— often concentrated around holidays—disrupted routines and created emotional strain. Only with the introduction of

new medication did seizure frequency and severity become more controllable. Vision impairments also required adaptations: specialized seating, large-print materials, and assistive technologies became essential tools in school and daily life.

Despite these obstacles, C. J. has built a life of determination, creativity, and community involvement. He is currently enrolled at Macomb Community College, pursuing an associate degree in communications and writing. Academic life presents its own hurdles, balancing coursework while managing visual limitations and potential health fluctuations requires flexibility and strategy. To succeed, he utilizes campus accommodations, assistive devices, and unwavering organization. His passion for writing, supported by family encouragement and personal interest, keeps him motivated toward graduation.

Throughout his journey, there have been defining moments and memorable achievements. Perhaps the most exhilarating came at the Special Olympics State Soccer Tournament. Though C. J. typically plays defense, in one game his coach placed him at forward—a role he seized with elation. He scored not once but twice, a milestone moment crowned by a spontaneous media interview. The thrill of those goals and the recognition that followed gave him a powerful sense of belonging and capability.

Over 14 years with the Special Olympics, C. J.’s role has evolved significantly. For the first decade, he was a dedicated athlete. In recent years, however, he has embraced leadership

responsibilities—serving as a health messenger and athlete leader. In these roles, he educates peers on healthy living, promotes awareness, and offers guidance based on his personal experiences. His commitment to community and personal growth deepened further when he became a volunteer lector at his church, reading scripture each Sunday.

Recreation and everyday joys remain essential to his identity. C. J. bowls in two leagues during fall and winter, plays in a summer baseball league, and competes in the Special Olympics bocce events. He rides a recumbent bike specially tailored to his physical needs, relishing each outing. His passion for game shows, especially Jeopardy! inspired him to launch a Facebook page where he crafts short stories and informational pieces, as merging his love of words with digital creativity.

Multiple organizations have supported C. J. and his family throughout his life. ARC of Macomb offered vital early developmental services and community connection during early childhood. Michigan Rehabilitation Services helped him earn and sustain his first job and develop professional skills. Allways Care/Bridges currently provides job placement support and individualized coaching once a person is employed. United Cerebral Palsy (UCP) was a cornerstone resource throughout his younger years, guiding his family and offering access to services, respite, and emotional reinforcement.

Looking ahead, C. J. anticipates completing his associate degree in communications/writing; a milestone that brings the possibility of impactful storytelling, education, or advocacy. He eagerly awaits annual community events like Night to Shine, a special-needs prom celebrated every Valentine’s season, which he has attended for six transformative years. He also looks forward to participating in Dreams Come True on Woodward; an event he hopes will further enrich his personal aspirations and community connections.

C. J. offers advice grounded in his own journey. His central message: never give up. With faith, hope, help, and perseverance, individuals with disabilities can achieve remarkable goals. He emphasizes that a diagnosis is not a life sentence: cerebral palsy and epilepsy may shape the path, but they do not define potential. He encourages families to be proactive—to explore resources, to seek support from local and statewide organizations, and to advocate for their loved ones’ education, health, and community inclusion.

If explaining this diagnosis to families unfamiliar with it, C. J. would highlight that cerebral palsy arises from brain injury or abnormal development—often triggered in his case by cytomegalovirus infection and consequent hydrocephalus. He would outline how diagnosis is typically confirmed: through neurological exams, imaging studies, and developmental assessments. He would stress the importance of early professional involvement—therapists, specialists, educators—and the availability of interventions, from physical therapy to mobility aids and medication. His explanation would emphasize practical strategies and hope: that supportive resources and community connections make a measurable difference in quality of life.

To someone new in the community, C. J., he would share that although the resources may not always be immediately visible, they are readily available—with some persistence. He would remind newcomers not to become discouraged by initial setbacks; rather, to ask questions, connect with organizations, and lean on local networks. He knows firsthand that community support fosters independence and belonging.

Beyond his accomplishments and involvement, several personal details define C. J. today. He is a devoted Catholic, proudly serving as lector and participating actively in his parish community. He is a member of the Knights of Columbus, finding fellowship and opportunities to serve others. Writing remains a deep passion, and he continues to share his voice through his Facebook page. His love for game shows— particularly Jeopardy, which he enjoys spirited competition with his dad! —reflects a lively curiosity and joy in learning.

C.J.’s life story is not simply a narrative of disability—it is a testament to resilience, purpose, and progress. A diagnosis of cerebral palsy, epilepsy, and visual impairment once posed daunting challenges, but with early medical intervention, family support, community services, and personal conviction, he has forged a path defined by growth and leadership. Each milestone—walking, graduating, scoring goals, writing, serving—represents more than personal triumph: it reflects the power of perseverance, hope, and community.

Margaret and Christopher embodied unwavering parental advocacy from his earliest years. They navigated hospitals, therapies, and learning systems to find the best supports. Zachary, as older brother, contributed encouragement and connection, helping shape C. J.’s confidence. Together, their family created an environment where faith, love, and belief sustained daily life and opened possibilities.

In school, C. J. faced academic challenges—balancing physical limitations and visual impairment—but he tackled these through organization, assistive aids, and institutional supports. His decision to pursue higher education is driven by a desire to merge his communication skills with his own experience—hoping one day to write pieces that inform, encourage, and reflect lived resilience.

Athletics have been both outlet and achievement. Special Olympics soccer, bocce, softball, and bowling have offered not just competition, but community, coaching, and leadership. The moment he scored twice as forward stands out as a turning point: not only for the joy of accomplishment, but for the message it sends—that capability exists beyond expected roles.

Service remains central. Whether serving as lector during Mass or empowering peers through health messaging, C. J. consistently lifts others. His faith communities and special-needs networks provide spaces of belonging, but he reciprocates through active engagement and shared purpose.

Behind each story—each goal, each class, each volunteer session, each writing post—lies a commitment to possibility.

C. J. models a vision of life defined not by limitation, but by determination, faith, and creativity. His story continues to unfold in writing, athletics, service, and study—and stands as an example for individuals and families facing similar journeys.

C. J. shares his story with gratitude, humility, and hope. He is committed to showing that with support, belief, and perseverance, life with disability can also be full of meaningful achievements and joy. Through his own growth and outreach, he invites others to embrace challenges, seek connection, and believe in possibilities yet to come.