The ADA law was designed to protect the disabled from discrimination in public buildings and one of those ways is an accessible entrance. This law is a big reason why I can live an independent life, go to school, grocery shop, or have a job. But what protects my accessibility in my private life? What … Continue reading My Advice About Portable Ramps
My ultimate dream is not only to walk again but to move out of my parents' house and live independently. Both of those dreams may sound impossible to somebody, but I believe both are achievable. The Problem As I have that dream in the back of my mind, it’s hard trying to adjust at a … Continue reading A Simple Tip To Make Your Kitchen Accessible
Let’s be honest, I am still figuring out this independent lifestyle with disabilities. It’s a process but I am making progress! An obstacle I am still figuring out is how to cook noodles. I mean, I love any type of pasta in general, but this obstacle has caught my attention. Here is my problem… I … Continue reading The Spiralizer: A Device For Adapted Cooking
There are some great advances in the power chair industry nowadays. I’ve only had three power chairs in my post injury life, but I’ve been pretty fortunate (thanks insurance) to have some great ones. Typically, people see a wheelchair as a burden or think less of a wheelchair confined person. Well guess what - you’re … Continue reading Health Benefits of Standing In My Power Chair
I’ve been going to therapy for seven years and occasionally, we hit a huge milestone in my recovery. So far, I cannot walk (which is always someone's expectation but for now that is not the case), but we are working on my independence regarding transfers, rolling side to side, and other things. The video I’m … Continue reading Transferring from Supine to Sitting!
This week, Premiere Physical Therapy celebrated National Caregiver's Day and they asked me to speak at a night tailored to Caregivers! I was excited to share my perspective on what it's like to be in the position of the patient, the one that needs to be cared for BUT also to encourage them because without them, I'd … Continue reading National Caregivers Day
Would you believe me if I told you I’m a better artist post injury rather than before? Yes, the same accident that paralyzed specific muscles in all four limbs of my body! Sounds crazy, but it’s true. I’ve been excited to use this God-given talent to share with the world. If you are interested in … Continue reading Art by Abby is up and running!
I remember when the doctors told me I would never be able to brush my hair on my own. As a girl, I was devastated. I mean it’s such a simple thing to do yet I couldn’t do it... at least that’s what the doctor told me. Not even a month later however, I was … Continue reading Adapting Hair Styling Tools for Independence!
*Semi Spoiler Alert* Movies that have a main character who is paralyzed is rare. In my six years of experience, I’ve only seen one movie that reflected a quadriplegic’s life and it landed on my “don’t ever watch this again” list. If you don’t know, the movie was titled, “Me Before You.” Now, it was not … Continue reading A Quadriplegics View of “The Upside” With Kevin Hart and Bryan Cranston
Meet my good friend, Luke! He is a quadriplegic, just like me. We met at physical therapy about 3-4 years ago and have been encouraging each other in our recovery ever since. I love hearing other spinal cords injury survivor's story and wanted to share that experience with you. Their stories are always powerful and … Continue reading Interview With A Quadriplegic: Luke’s Story
