Christy Brown

Christy Brown was born June 5, 1932 in Crumlin, Dublin, Ireland. He was an Irish painter, author and poet. Christy had severe cerebral palsy. He was one of 13 surviving children out of 22 born. Because of his cerebral palsy, he was not capable of deliberate speech or movement.

His Left Foot

Although doctors labeled him intellectually disabled as well, his mother was determined and persistent in speaking to him and teaching him. One day he surprised everyone by snatching a piece of chalk from his sister with his left foot, and made a mark on a piece of slate. At five years of age, only his left foot responded to his intention and will.

Using his foot he was able to communicate. From such humble beginnings he went on to receive praises for his autobiography, My Left Foot, which was eventually made into an Academy Award-winning film. In fact, similar to the Irish poet and novelist, James Joyce, Christy employed the stream-of-consciousness technique. He was able to capture the Dublin culture with humor, language and unique character description.

Christy brought a sense of wholeness to his life through his unique talent and dedication. His autobiography eventually expanded into the novel Down All the Days, was translated into 14 languages, and became an international bestseller. He wrote a series of other novels, as well as 3 poetry collections. Passing on in 1981 at age 49, Christy made a significant contribution to the arts, and was a glaring example of positive achievement.

Click here for the Transforming Child Behavior Home Page.

When done reviewing Christy Brown, click here to return to The Positive Role Models page.