Living with a Disability

I was born and lived more than a quarter of a century as a healthy, able-bodied person but I have lived a lot longer than that with a significant disability. As a quadriplegic man since the end of 1987, I have a good perspective of what it’s like living with a disability, so it should come as no surprise that this is a topic I have blogged about many times over the years. Here are my posts on the topic that I would like to share with you…

• What was once unusual is now commonplace
  On the twentieth anniversary of becoming quadriplegic, I wrote this retrospective on living with a disability. Transitioning from a fit athlete to a paralyzed individual, I adapted my lifestyle and pursued education and a career, seeking fulfillment despite challenges. With family support, I achieved academic and professional success. Embracing life’s challenges, I looked forward optimistically to the future.
• Keep off the blue stripes
  Drivers of wheelchair-accessible vans face significant challenges when others park on the diagonally hatched areas adjacent to disabled parking spaces. Even a slight encroachment can obstruct ramp deployment, forcing wheelchair users to seek alternative parking or wait for inconsiderate drivers to move their vehicles. Awareness and adherence to parking rules are essential for accessibility.
• All Access Pass to Yosemite
  Yosemite National Park offers surprisingly accessible experiences for travelers with disabilities. This is a focus on the wheelchair accessibility of the park. Key features include wheelchair-friendly lodging, accessible trails to major landmarks like Bridalveil Fall and Yosemite Falls, and the provision of an Access Pass. While some areas remain inaccessible, many breathtaking vistas are reachable, enhancing the park’s inclusivity.
• The adapted driving cautionary tale
  This cautionary narrative reflects on the challenges, risks, and expenses associated with adaptive driving for people with disabilities. From a firsthand perspective, I examine independence, safety, and the emotional consequences that can arise when physical limitations, driving demands, and unscrupulous dealers collide.
• Amazon shipping hazards
  I have beef with Amazon’s delivery practices. There have been repeated incidents where packages they delivered obstructed my doorway, effectively trapping me because I use a wheelchair. Despite assurances from customer service, the issue remains unresolved, highlighting Amazon’s negligence regarding customer safety. I urge others with similar experiences to voice concerns publicly for change.
• Americans with Disabilities Act turns 25
  This essay examines the achievements and limitations of the ADA 25 years after it became law. I praise the landmark legislation for expanding accessibility, civil rights protections, and public awareness for people with disabilities. I also recognize that unemployment, social stigma, inaccessible environments, and unequal treatment continue to prevent full equality and inclusion in American society.