Putting the wheels in motion

By Adelle Ellis, Times Reporter

By Steven Greene Times Contributor

Over the last 10 years of living in Strathmore, I have noticed an increase of respect and empathy for people living with disabilities. And quite honestly, I think it’s about time!
When I first moved here in 2007, I have to admit that it wasn’t easy to move into a town with a lack of accessibility for people who are wheelchair-bound like myself (as I live with spina bifida).
But as I got older, I have noticed that people with disabilities of all forms have finally gotten the respect and notoriety they deserve, and it makes me happy to know that people are willing to listen. You just have to find the right person. Although I have to admit, the town isn’t completely accessible by any means, but it’s nice to see that people are willing to do what they can to accommodate the needs of others.
As a person living with a disability, I feel that it’s very important that people in similar situations of all forms speak up on the issues they’re facing in their community. That’s because not everyone is aware of the issues that we face in our everyday lives.
I’d also like to point out that if someone is wondering why I’m in a wheelchair or why I can’t walk, then I encourage them to ask questions so that they get a better understanding of who I am; because the way I look at it is, you will never know if you don’t ask.
As I stated earlier in this column, I strongly encourage everyone, regardless of what their disability or situation is, always speak up on the issues you’re facing so that people can get an understanding of what is needed and what they can do to help you, to help make your life just a little bit easier. I decided to do these columns to help people with disabilities (and/or without) say that it’s okay to speak up about the issue you face in life, because your story could be the motivation for someone else’s journey.
So, on that note, I encourage anyone who would like help in speaking up or speaking out to the public to know that if you see me out and about, whether it be at a grocery store or out on the streets, please feel free to stop me anytime or email me at stampsfan4ever@gmail.com.
Peace and love.