Welcome to our page.

Hello, I’m Jenn. My husband, Danny, and I have been together for seven years, married for three. Danny is a quadriplegic, but more importantly, he’s my partner, my equal, and the love of my life. We both work full-time—Danny as a dedicated principal and I as a supervisor of train operations. Our lives are full, vibrant, and active.

Yet, despite our efforts to live fully, we continually face systemic barriers that make everyday experiences unnecessarily challenging. One of the most disheartening aspects is the term “caregiver.” It implies a one-sided relationship, suggesting that Danny is merely a recipient of care rather than an active participant in our shared life. This couldn’t be further from the truth. We are partners in every sense, navigating life’s complexities together.

The Struggles of Air Travel

Traveling should be an enriching experience, but for us, it’s often fraught with obstacles. Airlines frequently mishandle or damage wheelchairs, despite our meticulous planning and provision of detailed information about Danny’s chair and its battery.  The lack of proper training and understanding among airline staff exacerbates these issues, turning what should be an exciting journey into a stressful ordeal.

Insurance Limitations

Our challenges don’t end with travel. Insurance policies often only cover equipment deemed necessary for use “in the home,” ignoring the importance of mobility and independence outside the household.  This narrow definition of necessity fails to consider the full scope of a person’s life and the tools required to live it fully.

A Call for Change

These systemic issues reflect a broader societal view that sees individuals with disabilities as burdens rather than as people with the right to live fully and independently. This perspective must change. Accessibility and inclusivity should be standard, not exceptions.

Danny often tells his students that everyone faces challenges, but together, we can overcome them. His determination is evident in his daily efforts to maintain his physical strength and independence. Yet, the lack of support and accessibility makes these efforts unnecessarily difficult.

We need to advocate for comprehensive policy changes that recognize the full lives of individuals with disabilities. This includes better training for airline staff, more inclusive insurance coverage, and a societal shift in how we perceive and support people with disabilities.

Join the Conversation

If you’re navigating similar challenges, know that you’re not alone. Let’s come together to share our experiences, support one another, and advocate for the changes needed to create a more inclusive world.

Feel free to share your thoughts, experiences, or questions in the comments below. Together, we can make a difference.