In the first episode for September, Kevin is excited to interview Ms. Brandy Rosly is an excellent disability advocate. She shares her story about disability and dating. What it was like to be married, divorced, have kids, and marry again all while being blind. She goes to the gym and drives a car. This is a story everyone needs to hear. Please share it with as many people as possible—links to support the podcast are below.
Have you watched The Matrix? It might seem like just a cool sci-fi movie, but it’s actually way deeper. Beyond the awesome effects and action, it has important ideas about our lives and why we’re here. So, stick with me as I explain. Don’t worry, I won’t give away any surprises from the movie because it’s been around for more than 20 years. If you haven’t seen it by now, you really should.
Here’s the quick version: The main character, Neo, gets pulled out of a fake world called the Matrix. The twist is that the fake world is the world he’s been living in all his life. He’s told he’s the hero who will save everyone from machines ruling the world. When he is awoken, he doesn’t understand why his eyes hurt. They hurt because he simply hasn’t used them before.
As someone with a disability, I find this concept awesome. Who wouldn’t want superpowers and to save the world, right? For me, it’s not about flying; it’s about simple things like standing up to pee. Recently, after a tiring day, My body was in a lot of pain, so I took a break to relax. This is rare. I’m always on the go. or at least my mind is. It made me realize that we often don’t really use our brains to their fullest. We only use 10% of our brain’s power. I imagine what we could do if we focused more on our thoughts and feelings.I’m not saying we should ignore our responsibilities and disappear. I’m just saying that sometimes it’s good to take a break.
“ ‘If you can’?” said Jesus. “Everything is possible for one who believes.”
Mark 9:23 NIV
Neo had to believe in himself and make a choice to be a hero. Similarly, I choose to see myself as a person, not just a disability. I believe one day someone will hold my hand without thinking twice. We’re always bombarded with distractions. But we can choose to stop and see beyond what’s obvious. If we want things to change, we need to believe in something different. The door is open, but we have to step through it. Thanks for reading. I love all of you.
Disability Limbo Newsletter
I started Letters from the Limbo as a way to connect with you on a deeper level. Twice a month, I send out an email filled with personal anecdotes, professional updates (like my recent reelection as Vice Chair of the NJCDD), and the policy insights I don’t share anywhere else. This isn’t just another email—it’s an unfiltered look at the life of a disability advocate. Join my community and get an exclusive, honest look at the work that matters
Is there a book you’ve read more than once? Don’t worry, this is not another shameless plug for my book. I’m going to talk about another book. Admittedly, I’m more of a movie buff than a bookworm. I can count the books I’ve read more than once on one hand. For me to do that, the book must stand out. I want to start a new series on my blog where I break down books and other sources of media featuring The disability community. I know this is not a new idea, but I never claimed to be original. For this first installment, I will be discussing the film and book Me Before You by Jojo Moyes I both love and hate this piece of fiction.
Please note that this book and film are over 10 years old, and I will be discussing spoilers. So, if you don’t want the ending ruined for you, come back and read this later Emma Clark, the female protagonist, is one of my celebrity crushes. The only reason I watched the movie in the first place was because I read the book after watching the movie. I am writing this before I purchase the audiobook. I am recommending this book and film. However, there are a few things you should know first.
Therefore we are always confident and know that as long as we are at home in the body we are away from the Lord. For we live by faith, not by sight. 2 Corinthians 5:6-7 NIV
Quick synopsis Will Traynor was once a very athletic and active young man before becoming paralyzed. His mother hires Louisa Clark to accompany him and perform some caregiving tasks, but not any of his private ones. Another caregiver looks after those. It is clear from the outset that the disabled character is depressed and missing his former life. As often happens in the beginning, they are both annoyed with each other before falling in love. After overcoming hardships and learning to trust each other with their most intimate life details, like a sexual assault that occurred to the female character, It is revealed that Will had planned and assisted suicide a year prior. Unfortunately, it does not end happily, as he follows through with those intentions.
Before I begin, I want to say I am not a paraplegic or quadrilateral. I was born with a disability. Every person is different, and every person living with a disability is different. It is not for me to say If the character is an accurate representation of a quadriplegic. I usually don’t enjoy first-person narrators. This is overused in young adult literature. Keeping this story from the point of view of Louisa not only keeps this story interesting, but it also serves as an educational piece to teach outsiders about disability. It’s okay to show that disabilities can be intimidating. Having a disability can be overwhelming at times The disability community does not serve to inspire the rest of society. No one with a disability is positive all the time. Struggles with mental health are real. People with all kinds of disabilities can have successful romantic relationships, even quadriplegics.
The idea that individuals with disabilities often harbor thoughts of suicide explains Will Traynor’s desire to end his life. This portrayal oversimplifies the complex emotions experienced by people with disabilities Just because someone has a major disability does not mean they wish to end their life. I truly believe that pieces of media like this unintentionally feed the idea That we should be put out of our misery. We are not dear on the side of the road. We are human beings with the same rights to live as anyone else.
Another stereotype the book addresses is the belief that love cannot flourish in a relationship involving a disabled person. Louisa and Will’s connection is depicted as profound and heartfelt. However, the story inadvertently hints that love can only exist in the face of pity and tragedy when one has a disability. This portrayal undermines the possibility of genuine love in such relationships.
Literature like this can inadvertently propagate negative stereotypes. When books consistently depict individuals with disabilities as trapped in despair, they reinforce biases and restrict opportunities and expectations. As responsible readers, we should approach such stories with a critical perspective and use them as a starting point for conversations that challenge these stereotypes. By doing so, we can contribute to a more inclusive society where individuals with disabilities are recognized for their unique strengths and abilities rather than being confined to harmful clichés.
I started Letters from the Limbo as a way to connect with you on a deeper level. Twice a month, I send out an email filled with personal anecdotes, professional updates (like my recent reelection as Vice Chair of the NJCDD), and the policy insights I don’t share anywhere else. This isn’t just another email—it’s an unfiltered look at the life of a disability advocate. Join my community and get an exclusive, honest look at the work that matters
In the second episode for the month of September, Kevin breaks down what it is like to have fear. Most importantly, what we can do to overcome it. The first step is admitting that you are afraid. To deny your fear is to deny your own humanity.
I started Letters from the Limbo as a way to connect with you on a deeper level. Twice a month, I send out an email filled with personal anecdotes, professional updates (like my recent reelection as Vice Chair of the NJCDD), and the policy insights I don’t share anywhere else. This isn’t just another email—it’s an unfiltered look at the life of a disability advocate. Join my community and get an exclusive, honest look at the work that matters
Greetings readers, Now that summer is over and everyone is back from their vacations, I thought it’d be a good time to advocate for some systemic change. Traveling with a disability is an absolute nightmare. Despite what Hollywood movies might have you think, the bathroom on the plane is not large enough to fit two people or even one person using a wheelchair. After I use the restroom at the airport, I am the first person to board the plane. I am removed from my wheelchair and placed on the aisle seat. This is a device resembling Hannibal Lecter’s transportation flight. You can see a full description of this device in the YouTube video. Then I am placed in a regular airplane seat.
“lest you lose your honor to others and your dignity to one who is cruel,” Proverbs 5:9 NIV
I do not move for the duration of the flight. Finally, I am the very last person to get off the plane. I can guarantee you that it is not comfortable at all. By the time everyone gathers their belongings and gets off the plane, another thirty-five to forty-five minutes have gone by. I do not go on long-distance flights What if I have to use the bathroom? I’d have to expose myself in front of the entire airplane. What would I do if I were a female?
A person with a disability may find it difficult to navigate an airport and board an airplane, especially if they use a wheelchair. Transfers are often difficult because traditional airplane seats are not always accommodating. These passengers’ difficulties are further exacerbated by the cramped quarters and difficult-to-access restrooms onboard.
Delta’s Air4All prototype takes a giant leap toward enhancing airplane accessibility. With the idea of removable seats, spaces for wheelchair users would take the place of traditional rows. Allowing individuals to remain in their wheelchairs not only ensures their comfort but also promotes their Self-determination. This innovation celebrates the independence of passengers with disabilities. This ground-breaking design lets wheelchair users remain in their own chairs, maintaining their comfort and dignity. Boarding and deplaning would be streamlined and much more user-friendly for the individual. This is still in the early phases, so advocates need to speak up now!
Delta’s Air4All is a beacon of hope for accessible air travel. By introducing removable airplane seats to accommodate wheelchairs, Delta is transforming the flying experience for individuals with disabilities and encouraging other airlines to follow suit. As we soar toward a more inclusive future, let’s unite to ensure that everyone, regardless of their physical abilities, can experience the joy of taking flight.Thank you for reading, and I hope to see you guys next week. You can find the sources below.
I started Letters from the Limbo as a way to connect with you on a deeper level. Twice a month, I send out an email filled with personal anecdotes, professional updates (like my recent reelection as Vice Chair of the NJCDD), and the policy insights I don’t share anywhere else. This isn’t just another email—it’s an unfiltered look at the life of a disability advocate. Join my community and get an exclusive, honest look at the work that matters
Hey everyone, Now that Labor Day has passed It’s time to get back to blogging. As some of you know, I took the last two months off. To recuperate from surgery and finish my next book. This is my attempt at a life update. First, my hernia surgery was a complete success with no complications. Second, I didn’t finish writing my book, but I think it’s about 75% complete. Stay tuned for further updates. Life is full of opportunities for growth and transformation. Sometimes, all it takes is a willingness to step out of your comfort zone and make small changes.
“As the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without deeds is dead.” James 2:26 NIV
The first change I made was admitting I needed help I know I’m a small-time content creator. That’s perfectly fine with me. I want to do some good and deliver a positive message. There are so many distractions and responsibilities that seek our attention that I am truly amazed when someone takes a few minutes out of their day to read my blogs, listen to one of my podcasts, or buy my books. As you can imagine, this takes a lot of time and energy. This is my part-time job, essentially. My other part-time job is my official advocacy duties, where I serve on various committees on both the state and national level. Despite what you may believe, I do not get paid for any of it. This is a labor of love. Honestly, It can be a little overwhelming for me There is one blog per week and two podcasts a month at a minimum.
I promised myself when I started this journey a few years ago that I would never do it for the money. I hate asking for money. So, after much deliberation and prayer, I decided to employ “the value method.” If you, as a consumer, find value in my work, then please leave me a tip. Now at the top of each blog and podcast You can find a link to my CashApp and PayPal. You can also support the podcast directly. Think of it as a musician on the street If you like my tune, leave some change in the hat. No one is under any obligation, and the content will always be available.
If you follow my social media accounts, I post on them five out of seven days a week. quick little videos of positive reinforcement. Some days, this was more exhausting than producing a podcast. This was the only way I knew To promote my work. So I decided to get off the social media hamster wheel. From August 1st to September 1st, I deleted my social media account. Facebook,Twitter,Instagram, and Snapchat To be transparent, I did keep my LinkedIn, but I hardly ever used it before, and I didn’t really use it in that month anyway.
I have it for my advocacy connections. For the first three or four days, Every time I Went to grab my phone, I felt a little bit weird. We, as a society, have become addicted to social media. After that, I really didn’t think of it at all. I finished a few audiobooks. I wrote three times as much in my book. That was my main goal. It was easier to be more present. I had conversations with people both in person and via text. Without Facebook, you have to find out what the person has been doing. Social media is an important part of our lives. Sometimes you do want to see pictures of your friend’s birthday party or someone’s major life event. However, 90% of it is miscellaneous and forgettable information anyway. The only reason I went back to those accounts was because I hoped one of my videos would make a difference in someone’s day.
The last change I made was more of a personal one. I’m always complaining that I’ll never find someone special in my life. So, I decided to take a chance and do something I promised myself I would never do. Get on dating apps. It’s been about 2 weeks, and I haven’t had any real connections or conversations with anyone, but I figured. Faith without action is dead, so I have to keep putting myself out there. I took the first step and let God do the rest.
Whether it’s taking a break from old habits, trying something new, or seizing new opportunities, each step can lead to personal growth, self-discovery, and positive outcomes. So, don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone and embrace change—it might just be the key to a more fulfilling and enriched life. I hope this wasn’t too boring of a first entry after a long summer off, but I wanted to keep you guys informed. Thanks for reading, and I will see you guys next Wednesday. Remember, podcast episodes come out on the first and 15th of every month.
Disability Limbo Newsletter
I started Letters from the Limbo as a way to connect with you on a deeper level. Twice a month, I send out an email filled with personal anecdotes, professional updates (like my recent reelection as Vice Chair of the NJCDD), and the policy insights I don’t share anywhere else. This isn’t just another email—it’s an unfiltered look at the life of a disability advocate. Join my community and get an exclusive, honest look at the work that matters
People often complain about being stuck in a rut. In this episode, Kevin breaks down three ways to change your life. Remember, small things always add up to the biggest. 1. Try something new that scares you 2. Seek different opportunities. 3. Stop one habit.
Apologies for the DIY lighting and sound editing. I will no longer record in the middle of my kitchen.
In the second episode of August Kevin of the Purposely Broken World, he breaks down what it was like to be a disabled student in New Jersey. This list of personal anecdotes and advice for future students should provide Liberty and information. To all, don’t be ashamed of your own disability.
I started Letters from the Limbo as a way to connect with you on a deeper level. Twice a month, I send out an email filled with personal anecdotes, professional updates (like my recent reelection as Vice Chair of the NJCDD), and the policy insights I don’t share anywhere else. This isn’t just another email—it’s an unfiltered look at the life of a disability advocate. Join my community and get an exclusive, honest look at the work that matters
In the first episode of August’s Purposely Broken World, Kevin brings up disability pride and what it means to him. Faith plays a significant role in Kevin’s disability Identity. Kevin recounts personal stories of discrimination.
Disability history is American history. Judy Humann, Brad Lomax, and the 504 sit-ins should be taught in schools. Financial discrimination and disability discrimination are still prevalent in today’s America. Feel free to join the conversation.
“Neither this man nor his parents sinned,” said Jesus, “but this happened so that the works of God might be displayed in him. John 9:3 NIV https://john.bible/john-9-3
I started Letters from the Limbo as a way to connect with you on a deeper level. Twice a month, I send out an email filled with personal anecdotes, professional updates (like my recent reelection as Vice Chair of the NJCDD), and the policy insights I don’t share anywhere else. This isn’t just another email—it’s an unfiltered look at the life of a disability advocate. Join my community and get an exclusive, honest look at the work that matters
In the conclusion to The Dog Days of Life, Kevin breaks down the best ways to find the gift card left for you to make your life count. If you want to learn how not to sleepwalk through life, watch this video or listen to this podcast. Just because your situation is terrible doesn’t mean you must stop living.
The Advocacy Life Podcast & Blog 