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Stepping out of
the box
to achieve independence after spinal cord injury Last update: July-2010
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Good living after SCI happens if you believe it can--and then work for it.
Growing up with a spinal cord injury (SCI) in 1980 was a frightening experience for me. There was no Americans With Disability Act or Internet at the fingertips to provide role models with my kind of injury to reassure me that I could still have a meaningful life, and I struggled for years to find direction. Through the love and support of my family, I found the courage to step out of the box people tried to put me in after my injury. It was scary, but I refused to believe that I would have to watch the world go by from the safety of the low expectations others had of me. I challenged myself and my injury's limitations, daring anyone to tell me that I couldn't be who I wanted to be. I have chosen to share my life through this web site because I believe my life has truly been blessed. I am not a super athlete or a famous actor; I am simply the girl next door. The life I have forged for myself is one that anyone can achieve after injury; it is evidence that there is more for people after SCI than a sick bed. I hope to inspire people with SCI to reject the victim label that has often accompanied the word "disability." I am challenging them to stop obsessing about what they can't do and start exploring what they want to do by experimenting with the things they can do-- so they can realize their own value. This web site is also an opportunity for families of those with SCI, and the general public, to recognize what a powerful community asset individuals with SCI can be if they have the education, opportunities, desire and drive to make it happen. No one will recognize the talents of individuals with SCI until they recognize it in themselves and let their voices be heard. This website is my voice.
Check out Kris Ann's novel:
Read Kris Ann's contribution: "A Journey to Self-Worth" |
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