This conversation opened my eyes in a real way.
Janelle shares her journey of becoming a wheelchair user at 21 after emergency spinal surgery, and what it has meant to navigate grief, identity, work, faith, family, and purpose over the last 26 years. She speaks honestly about the daily realities many able-bodied people never have to think about, from getting dressed and moving through the world, to accessing buildings, bathrooms, transportation, and employment.
But this episode is not just about struggle. It is about perspective, patience, courage, support systems, and the value that persons with disabilities continue to bring to society when given the opportunity.
We also talk about:
adjusting to disability as a lifelong process
the grief of losing old dreams and building new ones
what accessibility really looks like at home and in society
why employers need more empathy and education
the importance of community, advocacy, and support
how Janelle is using psychology and lived experience to help others navigate disability
This was one of those conversations that stayed with me. It reminded me how much many of us take for granted, and how important it is to see people not just for their disability, but for their humanity, capability, and contribution.
If this episode taught you something, share it with someone.
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