Living Life To The Fullest
I grew up with a disease called Spinal Muscular Atrophy. It weakens my muscles so that I am immobile on my own and pretty limited in my independence. But I also grew up with two amazing parents who believed in living life to the fullest, no matter what disability may lie in the way. They encouraged my wild heart, to go big and never give up, and I've been blessed with friends who love adventure too. So, when I decided to visit Europe this year, my friends were onboard right away. But the places we wanted to go were not wheelchair friendly. Not a problem! We left my chair at the Atlanta airport and my friends carried me in a backpack all over Europe for three weeks!
The Trip
We explored Paris and London; hung out with gypsy by the river; trekked through the woods of Churchill's hometown; and hiked an island to reach the 1400 year old monastery at its peak.
Different Cultures
Our culture tends to associate accessibility with independence, but I have found that the world opens up to us when we help each other out. It is more fun, more thrilling, and more fulfilling to pour into one another's lives than to try and go it alone.
Friendship
My friends and I are home, now, from our journey, but the adventure has just begun. We have more trips planned, and we are helping other disabled folks live out their dreams too.
