Living With A Disability Stories
Adolescence is difficult enough, but for teenagers and families with disabilities there can be greater challenges. Two teens, two parents, one adult and one expert offer their perspectives on living with a disability.
TEEN #1
by Ashley Spicer
Ashley Spicer is 14-years-old. She’s a regular teen just like anyone else. She gets along with people and has many friends. The only difference is her Spina Bifida. But even with an assortment of challenges from Spina Bifida and needing a wheelchair, she is still just a regular teenager. Read more.
TEEN #2
by Noldon Starks
Noldon Starks, a senior in high school, is living with Joubert Syndrome. Despite the difficulties he has with balance, coordination, and speech, he never lets Joubert Syndrome prevent him from doing the things that he enjoys. Read more.
PARENT #1
by Jennifer Spicer
Jennifer Spicer has two wonderful daughters. Her older daughter, Ashley, has Spina Bifida. As a mother of a wheelchair-bound teen, Jennifer sometimes struggles with helping her daughter. Doctors appointments and even transportation are often a struggle. But she knows that Ashley is strong, and can overcome any struggle. And Ashley just wants to be treated like anyone else. Read more.
PARENT #2
by Lisa Bachman
Lisa’s son’s Tourette Syndrome started when he was very young. Now Justin’s TS causes him to constantly twitch. He is a kind, well-mannered boy with many friends. But many people, even adults, fail to treat him with the kind of respect that he deserves. Read more.
ADULT
by Marc Elliot
Marc has had Tourette Syndrome for twenty years. He often makes involuntary movements and vocalizations. But despite his struggles, Marc has overcome many of life’s obstacles to become a public speaker. His TS has allowed him to see the world in a unique way. Read more.
EXPERT
by Dr. Rachel Burmeister Tangen
Get expert advice from Your Teen for parents of teens with disabilities and help them achieve their best level of independence and acceptance. Important information for how to treat those with disabilities as well.
