A lifetime of learning and experience makes a difference when it comes to understanding disability and being able to teach it to others.

 

I was born with a rare genetic condition called Ectrodactyly Ectodermal Dysplasia. As a result, I have only a pinky finger on each hand with limited dexterity and partial feet. I am one of ten multi-diverse adopted children. My father became a quadriplegic from a car accident when he was twenty. My mother was legally blind in her fifties from complications with diabetes, and one of my sisters has Turner's Syndrome & Cerebral Palsy. Growing up, I was part of the Empire State Games for the Physically Challenged and competed with students with disabilities across New York State and Ireland. 

I graduated from Syracuse University with a professional degree in social work and did eleven years as a social worker in the City of Syracuse, NY. My focus was on the HIV/AIDS community, OPWDD, and child and family service programs in conjunction with the Syracuse City school district and child protective services. I provided direct support, goal planning and implementation, counseling, emergency services, student behavioral interventions, disability, advocacy, and mental health support. 

Disability has been my life, both personally and professionally.