My New Community
Earlier this month, I got to attend a holiday party hosted by a group of amazing people who are part of a community dedicated to helping others. This group is composed of people of all backgrounds and ages. They are survivors of spinal cord injuries and conditions alike. It’s almost like a second family to everyone in this group. I was introduced and invited to join the group by an incredible person who I consider to be a friend. As soon as I arrived I was greeted by everyone there. For the first time since being in a wheelchair I was in a place where most of those around me looked like me. There were roughly about 10 people in wheelchairs and there were no feelings of discomfort, shame, nor embarrassment.
Inspiring People
I got to talk to many people there and it was incredibly inspiring. Everyone had such a unique life story of overcoming terrible injuries and obstacles. Every story I heard made me realize how similar our lives were despite having different injuries and experiences. We all shared how blessed we were to be alive. Every person I spoke to saw life the same way I do. We acknowledge our struggles, we talked about them, but we thank God for all that we do have and are able to do.
My favorite part of the night was when we all had the opportunity to introduce ourselves to everyone. We shared a little bit about our lives. I was inspired by each person there. Every single person was extraordinary in their own right. I had the pleasure of sitting beside someone who was a ballet and dance instructor. She was also a yoga teacher and was involved in other things as well. She does all of this from her wheelchair. When she was speaking I was in awe of her. Not only was she able to do that, she was also volunteering to take on another task to help out her community.
A True Inspiration
She was only one of the amazing people I met. I wanted to talk about her specifically because she is the definition of overcoming and not giving up no matter how difficult things may seem. She was a dancer prior to her injury and now she continues to do what she loves from her wheelchair and has the best attitude towards life. Apart from being just such a great example of defying adversity, she is such a friendly and optimistic person to be around.
There were others like her, who despite being in a wheelchair and having to deal with the limitations and obstacles that come with having a disability are out there doing amazing things both professionally and personally. Listening to their stories and hearing what they’ve been through and now seeing what they’re doing and what they have been able to achieve made me realize that although I may be in a wheelchair and have my physical limitations. I can do anything and everything I put my mind to.
Life Is What You Make Of It
Going to this event was really refreshing for me to see people like myself that have a similar mentality and attitude towards life. We all have struggles, but at the end of the day we are just grateful to be alive and be able to share what we do have with the world. Next time you feel like giving up or feel as though life is too difficult, think about all those people who really do have it tough, but they make something amazing out of a difficult situation.
A good friend once told me, “ I used to cry because I had no shoes until I met someone who had no feet”. Very strong words, but very true. I have always had the greatest support system. My family and friends are truly the best. Finding this new group of people is now part of that support system and I couldn’t be more thankful. I found a great group of people that understand what it is to have a disability and what that entails. There are many people out there who may not have any support system. Just know that you are not alone and there are many people out there who want to help so don’t hesitate to reach out.