Statistically, SCI is a man’s domain. Much of today’s Information speaks to him. I know many women’s organizations are beginning to form alliances to collaboratively speak on behalf all women with “disabilities” to improve their rights. That’s exciting, but individual women with SCI must speak up, as well. We have to challenge the limitations put on us. Historically, women have been underestimated and undervalued. Having SCI puts us even further behind the eight ball than the average woman already is in the workplace and the home. We must be bold, articulate and ready to demonstrate our worth to employers, communities and partners.

Not every woman needs to conquer the world. Most of us will never climb mountains with a wheelchair strapped to our backs. Many of us simply want to have equal access to the American dream. We want the right to work and build families. I know it’s all within our reach, especially if you believe it, too. 

God knows I’ve struggled with my share of insecurities, hurt and uncertainty. I stumbled through adolescence and partied through my twenties. I’ve gotten a great job and my own apartment; made friends; found and lost lovers, and questioned the purpose of my life in the darkest hours before dawn. I am a woman, after all, and that’s what women do.

I like being a woman. My paralysis has to take a back seat to that fact. I know my body isn’t perfect, but few women’s are. That doesn’t mean I can’t be sexy. Sensuality is an attitude; it’s a state-of-mind. If you feel attractive, others are attracted to you. I love children, but I haven’t been blessed with a child. Timing was never right, and now my biological clock is ticking like a time bomb! Much of my life has been dedicated to child advocacy and child injury prevention, methods of nurturing that appease my maternal instinct.

I recognize that most women with SCI are capable of living healthy, productive, happy lives. I only wish more women with SCI believed that, too. Information is power. Educate yourself about your rights, how to maintain good health and take control of your future.

Below are some of the links you might find helpful on your life journey as a woman...

Sexuality

Sexuality & SCI

Sexuality For the SCI Woman

Sexual Health Survey

Sexual Function

Let's talk SCI Sex

Why is penetration during sex still important if I can't feel it?

Dating, sex and marriage with SCI

 Pregnancy

Is it really possible?

Pregnancy and SCI

Fertility

SCI Labor & Delivery

If you don't want to get pregnant

 Aging

What you need to know

Aging & SCI (radio interview)

SCI women at high risk for heart disease

Aging & osteoporosis

Aging and weight gain

20 years and beyond: Life After SCI

Growing fatigue