The Gift of Physical Disability

You may be surprised that I am saying that my son’s physical disability has been a gift for me and my husband, but it really has. It has allowed us to really get to know him and be involved in his development, his schooling, really learn about his determination, his physical and mental needs, his amazing sense of humor, and slowing life down to really appreciate everything.

This gift was not bestowed on us from his birth. It has been revealing itself since our son was 18 months old.

Samuel began using a compression vest and AFOs to help him feel his place in space and assist with the stabilization of his lower limbs.

As Samuel’s mobility has changed over the years, I saw the world for what it was, designed by those without disabilities. It was frustrating, but, as a family, we were always able to navigate it or push the status quo to find out why and make changes that we needed to experience and travel the world.

Now, Samuel uses this wheelchair full-time, or a transport wheelchair that is easier to navigate unfamiliar locations.

Not all wheelchair users have the same diagnosis, the same abilities, or the same prognosis. Just as with everything in life, there is a spectrum of mobility.

We still don’t know what the future holds for Samuel’s physical mobility, but I will continue to do everything in my power to help us, and all those with a variety of mobility disabilities (whether they be short-term or long-term), be able to enjoy the most out of life.

“Individuals and families with mobility concerns should not be restricted from the transformational activities that become part of your soul when you experience new things and visit new places.

We don’t want to just see the world from a wheelchair accessible vehicle or on the sidelines, we want to experience it.”