Lawrence Dooley hopes his story will help people understand their disabilities

He was born with cerebral palsy but despite the daily challenges Lawrence Dooley is living a full life. Read about his achievements.

Lawrence Dooley who is in his 50's and lives with cerebral palsy has written a book with the assistance of his mum Lorraine. Picture: Nikki Davis-Jones

He’s lauded for his love, laughter and passion for life and Lawrence Dooley hopes the book he has written will encourage others living with disabilities.

Lawrence, 54, was born with cerebral palsy and can now add author to his list of achievements including being an artist, actor, radio presenter and horticulturalist.

He says he started thinking about his life story when Cheryl, a support worker, helped him understand his “history” and how to approach his writing.

“I hope my story will encourage other people with disabilities, to write their story and understand their disabilities better,” Mr Dooley said.

“This will help them to express their feelings and understand them.

“It is important to express their feelings to tell people ‘how it is’.”

Lawrence Dooley with mum Lorraine Dooley. Lawrence Dooley who is in his 50's and lives with cerebral palsy has written a book with the assistance of his mum Lorraine. Picture: Nikki Davis-Jones

His 84-page book titled, ‘This book is about me’ chronicles his life, including his challenges and daily exercise regime to allow him to stay mobile.

In the foreword, his younger brother Robbie tells of Lawrence’s best man speech at his wedding, describing him as a “remarkable person” whose humour and wit and storytelling left guests “in awe and laughter”.

“His life has been one marked by courage, resilience, and a deep kindness for others,” Robbie wrote.

“He possesses a unique perspective on the world, one that has inspired me throughout my own life.”

This book is about me by Lawrence William Dooley.

Lawrence inherited his gift for story-telling from his mother Lorraine and his father Larry instilled in him to always do the best he can.

He says he has worked hard to conquer his panic attacks and travelling to Sydney and being best man for Robbie was important.

“I have learned to breathe in and out and work out a way to tell myself how to approach it.

“If other people express their feelings, it will make them feel better and try hard to understand how to make life better.

“Going to Sydney was a journey and I got some good points for going to Sydney which I found difficult.

Lawrence Dooley who is in his 50's and lives with cerebral palsy has written a book with the assistance of his mum Lorraine. Picture: Nikki Davis-Jones

“I wanted to show myself that I could do a good job.

“I wanted to please Robbie and (his wife) Anna and see where they worked and lived, and help them on their wedding day, as Robbie’s best man.

“I would like to help other people with disabilities to keep on trying, to express their feelings so other people will know how they feel and make sure you are pleased with what you do.”

Lawrence is a talented artist and relishes his regular spot on Edge Radio.

A few years ago he moved into a group home with mates at West Moonah which he loves.

“I am very happy here. Friendship is very important to me.

“When I lived in Launceston, when ‘I was handicapped’, I loved playing with Bess and Drew at their grandma’s house. It was really the first time I got out on my own to someone else’s place.

“I am very happy that many people gave me a chance to live a good life and help me with my difficulties.”