Happy Family Day!

"Living with a disability is challenging, but I like to use it as a teaching tool for others. I was born with Cerebral Palsy and I use an electric chair as my legs and feet to get me to where I’m going. Having a disability wasn’t my choice, however, I do choose to help people understand that we are the same as everyone else. We may do things differently, but at the end of the day we get the job done.

I grew up with two siblings that didn’t have disabilities and my family taught and treated me like I was no different than anybody else. I was told by the education system I would never graduate high school let alone go to college. When people doubt my abilities it only makes me more determined to be successful and prove them wrong. Not only did I complete high school, I also graduated from college and have a successful career. People never thought I’d be able to live on my own, but here I am.

I have supports that come in to help me with the basic needs that most people take for granted such as, showering, dressing, using the bathroom, and preparing meals. I am just like you; I want all the same things, including my independence. I just need a little help along the way. That doesn’t mean you have to pity me; let’s face it, I don’t know anything different.

Disabilities vary from person to person, some are invisible and some visible and stick out like a sore thumb! It’s hard for a lot of people to get past my chair and see me as a person, especially when it comes to employment opportunities. I became tired of people not taking me seriously. Many potential employers see a disability and are afraid it will create more work for them and simply look the other way. I was lucky enough to come across one that was able to see my abilities before my disabilities. It’s not impossible, but employers need to be more open minded to having people with disabilities on their team.
Life is hard enough when you don’t have a disability, but it’s even more challenging when you do. We have to prove to people what we are capable of and that’s why I became a vocal part of the community and sit on committees and boards. The public needs to know what people with disabilities can bring to the table.

I didn’t get to where I am today because I sat back and had it handed to me. I am where am because I fought for everything I have. I also had the support of Inclusion Advocacy for more than the past 20 years which has helped me and my family get the supports I needed growing up and throughout adulthood when things got really tough. Some of the issues they supported me with are advocacy, future centre planning, and disability support hours. Without Inclusion Advocacy I wouldn’t be the strong advocate I am today. It all started with a letter to the editor written by my mom. I can honestly say I look forward to the day when people don’t see the disability, but rather the ability of the person. One day you may be in the same position so take a chance on someone with a disability, you may be surprised at what we have to offer."

If anyone would like to share a story of how Inclusion Advocacy has helped them feel free to reach out through Facebook messenger or by email: contactus@inclusionadvocacy.ca We would love to hear your stories!

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