In conversation with Paul Dexter, a 62-year-old bookkeeper from Northampton, Paul talks to us about life with CP, the clacking of his trusty typewriter, his inspiring career, his love for Tony’s chocolate and everything in between.
Paul and His CP
Paul’s CP manifests as an intentional tremor, which affects his coordination and motor skills. His hands shake, making tasks like carrying liquids and writing difficult. “I can drink a cup of tea, but carrying it across the room is another story,” he explains.
His walking gait is mildly affected, and more on his left side. Paul discovered he had CP when he was very young. “My mum noticed something was different. She took me and my sister to the doctor, and we were asked to jump off the examination table. My sister jumped down fine, but I struggled to land properly. That’s when the doctor suggested further tests,” he recalls. “It’s the only life I’ve ever known. I just take things as they are and do the best I can,” he says. Paul lives independently but values his close relationships with family. He enjoys cooking and often hosts family meals. “One of my favourite things is preparing a big roast dinner for my siblings, nieces, nephews, and my mum,” he says. “It takes a bit of planning, but I love doing it.”
Early Life
Paul’s childhood included both challenges and lessons in patience. His handwriting was difficult to read, and writing itself required intense concentration. “My writing is very childlike, and it takes me forever to finish anything,” he recalls. Paul used a manual typewriter in school. “It went ‘clack clack clack,’ and everyone in the room would look at me,” he says with a chuckle. Mistakes couldn’t be corrected easily, but it was better than writing by hand.
Paul also loved building model kits, but this hobby came with its own frustrations. “I’d save up for weeks to buy a kit, but when I sat down to build it, the glue would stick to my hands instead of the pieces,” he remembers. These struggles led Paul to explore technology and coding, where he discovered a creative outlet that didn’t rely on fine motor skills. “Coding gave me a sense of accomplishment—it was something I could do well and enjoy.”
Education
The advent of computers in the 1980s changed everything for Paul. “Computers opened a new world for me,” he says. They allowed him to type efficiently and correct mistakes easily, transforming how he communicated and learned. With this newfound tool, Paul returned to education as an adult. In 1993, he enrolled at what is now the University of Northampton to study business and finance. “It was a turning point in my life,” he says. “I finally had the tools to succeed academically.”
Paul thrived at university, both socially and academically. “Most of my classmates were younger, but they never made me feel out of place. We worked on assignments together, and my CP didn’t hold me back.” Disability coordinators supported him by upgrading his equipment as needed, ensuring he could keep up with his studies.
Career
Paul’s career has been diverse and fulfilling. After leaving school at 16, he trained at a residential centre run by the Spastic Society (now Scope), where he learned practical skills and gained confidence. His first job was at a whole food cooperative in 1981. Starting as a packer, he gradually took on more responsibilities, eventually handling bookkeeping and payroll. “I even operated a forklift,” he laughs. “Though I did leave a few dents in the walls!”
Paul later worked as a business advisor for nine years, helping people start their own ventures. While he enjoyed the role, he missed being part of a team and eventually returned to the cooperative, where he found a better balance.
Adapting to Aging
While Paul’s CP hasn’t changed much over the years, aging has added new challenges. “Everything just takes a bit more effort and time now,” he says. Tasks like dressing or moving around the house are slower, but Paul has adjusted his routine to accommodate these changes. “I’ve learned to pace myself and focus on what I can do.”
Advice for Younger People
Paul’s advice for younger individuals with CP is straightforward: “Don’t let it define you.” He acknowledges that growing up with CP can be hard, especially in a world that isn’t always accommodating, but he encourages young people to focus on their strengths.
“When I was younger, I avoided asking for help because I didn’t want to draw attention to myself,” he says. “Now, I don’t think twice about asking someone to carry my coffee or open a door. Most people are happy to help if you give them the chance.”
Looking Forward
As Paul transitions into retirement, he’s looking forward to having more time for hobbies and relaxation. “I’m already working four days a week, so I’m easing into it,” he says. His favourite holiday destination is Cornwall, particularly St. Ives, and he has a soft spot for the Tony’s chocolate bar.