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Friend,
People with disabilities just want to be who we are without lack of understanding and support impacting our ability to live life to its fullest.
Disability advocate and musician Lachi says, “these boxes that we put ourselves in make it very difficult for people who need access to get it due to the stigmas of those boxes.” And it’s something people with disabilities deal with constantly.
We must build awareness about disability, because acceptance begins with understanding! That’s why our $20,000 March goal is so critical, and we need your support today. Make your gift of $25 or more before March 31 and it will be matched!
Even though people with disabilities are constantly dealing with stigma, there are times when it can be especially disheartening.
When I spoke with Lachi on our “Everything You Know About Disability Is Wrong” podcast, she discussed the negative assumptions about people who use mobility devices to get around, like a cane or a wheelchair.
“ … a lot of blind people don't want to use their cane, and frankly, a lot of folks who have mobility differences don't want to use their canes as well because of the stigma of weakness … of the stigma of needing help and assistance that it brings. But at the end of the day, … it does the opposite of what people think it does. It doesn't make you weaker, it actually makes you more independent.”
As a wheelchair user myself, I couldn’t agree more. My wheelchair gives me freedom, and I want people to understand that it doesn’t limit me. More people should have access to the tools they need to live their best life – and you can help.
Assumptions and lack of support continue to be one of the biggest obstacles in the way of success for people with disabilities at home, at work, and in our personal lives. Help us meet our $20,000 goal by March 31 to help raise the awareness and resources we need to effectively address it.
Thank you for your support, friend.
Erin Hawley
Easterseals Communications and Digital Content Producer