Geri Jewell from 'Facts of Life' comes out as a lesbian, talks about acting with cerebral palsy

The woman who played Cousin Geri on "The Facts of Life" is addressing the many complications in her quest to becoming an actor in her upcoming memoir.

Geri Jewell's "I'm Walking As Straight As I Can: Transcending Disability in Hollywood and Beyond" finds the actress openly discussing her cerebral palsy, her status as the first person with a disability to have a recurring role on a prime-time TV series and admitting that she's a lesbian.

Broadway World reports that the book, due April 1, follows Jewell's beginnings in stand-up comedy to her work on television. She explores her many trials -- including backstabbing agents, tax issues, addiction, an unsuccessful marriage and a tragic accident -- that brought her to a place where she feels comfortable telling her story.

We think there's a happy ending, though. Fans of "Deadwood" recognize Jewell from her professional resurgence on the series. Co-star Ian McShane provides a nice blurb for the book jacket, which sort of warms our heart.