Runner With Cerebral Palsy Out To Prove She Can Still Compete

ROCKLIN - Caitlyn Morton doesn't know how to give up on her dreams. She also doesn't like it when people say those dreams won't become a reality.

Despite having cerebral palsy, Caitlyn is running this spring for the William Jessup University track and field team in Rocklin.

Diagnosed with cerebral palsy at the age of 1, her indomitable will refuses to let any physical impairments dictate her life. So she pursues her passion: running.

"We were told when she was first diagnosed that she wouldn't walk or talk," Caitlyn's mom said. "Obviously, she does both."

The cerebral palsy affects movement for Caitlyn, who doesn't have full range of motion in her right shoulder. Reconstructive surgery on her right foot and a bar placed in her wrist are also definite impairments for running faster. Her physical challenges prohibit her from running long distances, so she became a sprinter.

"I'm not a normal runner," admits Caitlyn. "I'll never be a normal runner, but I proved a lot of people wrong."

Caitlyn has been running since her freshmen year of high school. But her mother didn't want her running in college due to safety concerns, and many other doubters didn't believe she could compete at the next level.

"She has been an inspiration and she's a stubborn little girl," Caitlyn's mom said. "She does want she wants to do."

The William Jessup coach heard about Caitlyn's inspiring story and gave her a spot on the team a year ago. This year's she's earned that spot. After an intense training schedule to prepare for this season, Caitlyn ran at the collegiate level for the very first time.

Caitlyn's parents watched her run for the very first time at the collegiate level at the Sacramento State track meet on Saturday.