Deborah Bruss

I had a spinal injury at age one. I walked with crutches until my early 60’s, Up until then, I thought I understood most of the issues faced by people with physical disabilities. When I switched to a mobility scooter, I quickly realized how little I knew about the issues faced by those who get around on wheels. Unless a person lives with a disability or interacts a lot with this population, s/he has no right to take away the services that are needed for those with disabilities. The “504 rights” are essential to create a society where every person is valued. I was lucky to have a strong mother who pushed for my inclusion in public school. Otherwise, I would have been an EasterSeals kid who used a wheelchair for her whole life. Without my parents’ advocacy and dedication, my life would have been much different. Despite my spinal injury, I attended college, traveled in Europe with a backpack for 4 months, worked in various jobs, including as a VISTA Volunteer, married, birthed 2 healthy children and adopted two more. Because of the support I’ve received over the years, I’ve been able to participate in a full and active life. All people deserve the support needed to reach their potential.