Give Me Your Tickets...

     I have always been a fan of amusement parks, arcades and what not. On July 2nd, I got the opportunity to go to the Big Top Amusements in Kingston, Mass. I got to explain to the workers that sometimes it is hard to find video games that are on the right level for wheelchair users. I am not one to cast doubt on people, however, I truly think that tolerance begins at home and until someone steps up and realizes that, we are not going to have a more peaceful and safe place for kids to just let loose. Until next time, Advocate, Educate, and Empower.

The Playground Train Stops Again..

     It is interesting how you make connections doing the smallest things.  During my investigation of the Pembroke Community Playground, I got to meet with a mom of a special needs little girl named, Madison. We shared stories, advice, and the building blocks to life that can make C.P. very successful.  To me it is interesting how my tiara draws a crowd sometime. But hearing other people's stories humbled me so much in knowing that I need to be a great educator, leader, advocate and all around role model for the next generation of girls that have disabilities. I think in this day and age, people are a lot more judgemental because they do not understand things. But at the end of the day, all it takes is a little bit of compassion, a sprinkle of a common bond, and open ear to vent to. That being said, it is very nice to see that the Cerebral Palsy community is a live one and is willing to pass on their wisdom and knowledge to the next generation because, let's face it, as strong women, we want to see the bullying stop and they want to make the world a better place. Until next time, Advocate, Educate, and Empower

Fun At the Fair.....

     On June 30th, which happens to be my birthday, I got to enjoy all the activities at the Pembroke Family Fun Fair.  There was face painting, and live music and so much more.  However, the highlight of the day for me was the petting zoo. I might be thirty one years old, but I'm still just a kid at heart and I am a sucker for baby animals.  In fact, one of my birthday requests was to go to the petting zoo, as odd as that sounds for how old I am. So, in reality, Ms. Wheelchair Mass. gave me my birthday wish because I got to cuddle and love on some very cute animals. It was also good for the little kids to see me interact with animals, knowing that I could care for them and hold them and be capable of showing a loving bond, despite having a disability. My philosophy is to show by example and that is what I got to do that day.  Until next time, Advocate, Educate, and Empower.

The Old Ballgame

     Again I think it is a real important part of being Ms. Wheelchair Mass. to get involved in the community, both with abled bodied and children with disabilities. I was invited to cheer on the young men of the Nor'easters team of the Babe Ruth Baseball League at Magoun Field in Pembroke, Mass. on June 29th. Coach Jose was so gracious to host me and allow me to cheer on his team. The best part of the day, however, was being able to root on these athletic young men to victory. Way to go on your win, guys!! I hope you kept it up for a really good season. Until next time, Advocate, Educate, and Empower.

Hey, It's Too High..

     The next stop on my playground train takes me to Halifax Community Playground in Halifax, Mass.  Although this is a very tailored, kid friendly playground, there are some major flaws as far as wheelchair accessibility is concerned.  On June 28th, I came to realize that although there are many different pieces of equipment to be used and enjoyed, the majority of them have raised curbs or lips to get onto the wooden pieces. To me, this is highly unsafe for a child because if any child is like I was when I was young, I was not going to let a raised curb stop me from getting to my friends, even if that meant tipping backwards.  Although I do not condone this behavior, from a very young age I have not been a fan of the safety tip wheels on my chair. I understand their purpose and as an adult I understand that they are important, but frankly as a child, I did not care and if my mom would put them down, I would quickly explain to a friend how to put them up. That being said, children are more prone to choose fun over safety, so I think it is the playground's responsibility to make some changes.  Until next time, Advocate, Educate, and Empower.

Funnel Ball Returns...

          On June 27th, I made my next stop on the playground trail. This was at Hanover Community Playground. I was delighted to see that they have a similar funnel ball game that other playgrounds did.  People underestimate the use of this game for gross motor skills. The only problem that I found with this version of the funnel ball was that unlike the shorter version, which was more round, this version was indeed higher and more narrow. So this is not to say that a wheelchair using child could not use the equipment, but I do believe that it would make it much harder to do.  Even for me, as an adult, I could barely have a complete reach to the bottom of the funnels. In fairness however, I do not have full extension or range of motion in my elbows. That being said, if a child had similar C.P., they would find it even more difficult that I. It is promising however to see versions of this style equipment pop up from place to place, in hopes that more adaptive equipment will be installed as they get developed and money becomes available. Until next time, Advocate, Educate, and Empower.

Cast Your Ballot..

     On June 25th it came time for the people of Mass. to do a state senate election. I used my title to do a meet and greet with the people that were going to the poles. I feel as though, as Ms. Wheelchair Mass., it is very important that we set the example from a political perspective, in order to make our vote count and have our voice heard. There are so many issues, including accessibility, health care, employment, education, etc. that affect individuals with disabilities on a daily basis that if we choose not to get out and vote, we are not taking seriously our role as advocates for each other. It is so important that we make law makers understand that individuals with disabilities are a group of consumers who have very strong opinions and can be politically powerful. Until next time, Advocate, Educate, and Empower.

My Playground Quest Continues...

     Some times, when you are a title holder, your platform speaks to you and develops a mind of its own and you as the title holder just go with where the advocacy takes you.  I did not think that I would be this invested in adapting playgrounds, but I realized how important this is for a school aged peer to be able to keep up with and enjoy recess with his or her abled bodied friends.  So, my next stop was Bryantville playground on June 25th.  I was impressed with some of their equipment, especially their funnel ball game because they did have two sizes, one a higher size for older kids and a smaller one for younger kids, but what they do not probably realize is that the smaller version is excellent for wheelchair using students because it gives them exercise, as well as connecting with their peers. So all in all, I hope to see more of this style of equipment in more playgrounds.  Until next time, Advocate, Educate, and Empower.

Tic Tack Toe...

     My journey through playgrounds continues.  On June 24th, the day brings me to Hobomock Playground in Pembroke, Mass.  The only particular item I was fond of here, as far as wheelchair and disability accessibility was an over sized Tic Tack Toe game.  The reason that this worked out nicely was that it was easily chair level, first and foremost, but secondly it also was very easy to spin. This would mean that children with gross motor problems could easily take part in a recess or playground activity with their peers.  It is just unfortunate to see that an entire playground, especially one attached to a school, only has one item that is of this height and of this ease of use. Hopefully in the future, we will see more accessible playground equipment come to schools nation wide.  Until next time, Advocate, Educate, and Empower.

Deanna, the Painting Saint...

     My Mom is a very, very talented artist. She can draw, she can paint, she can craft and do many creative things.  Although I share my mother's joy of creativity, due to my Cerebral Palsy, I have extreme fine motor problems which means that I may have damaged technical genes to be able to paint and draw and anything fine tuned.  I have very creative ideas in my head, but have difficulty getting them on paper or craft items. On June 22nd, I wheeled into Deanna's pottery shop called, South Shore Pottery, in Abington, Mass. She,. from minute one, was a supporter of my cause, donated the pottery to paint the minute she heard what my cause was and graciously explained to me that despite my disability, there are plenty of tricks and small tweaks we could do to make my pottery look like a million dollar work of art.  Deanna was so patient with me. She is perhaps one of the sweetest, loving, and caring shop owners that I have ever come across on my journey. She made me feel as though on that day, my disability disappeared. I always wanted to be like my mom because she is my role model and for that day, I felt like I was carrying on my mother's name. I was doing just as good of a job as she was.  Deanna changed my life in the fact that I will never again doubt the ability and power of adaptation. My plate that I made there is so important to me because it incorporates my Ms. Wheelchair Mass. journey, as well as my Cerebral Palsy awareness.  Sometimes in life, there are people that you are slated to meet for a reason, Deanna is that person for me because, as independent as I thought I was, I was given the gift of knowing that I could carry on a family legacy of art that day.  Deanna mentioned to me that this might be a good fundraising item, but  I would never part with it because it is a part of me that I never thought I could accomplish. I am eternally grateful to Deanna forever. If there was a such thing as Ms. Pottery Massachusetts, she would absolutely take the crown, but for now she must settle with my never ending gratitude and my hopes that many more people with physical disabilities would cross her path, so that she can give them the same gift, as she is so talented at bringing out the best in people. Until next time, Advocate, Educate, and Empower.

Arts and Crafts Time

     I think that arts and crafts are a really fun way for people with disabilities to express themselves.  I had the luxury of going on June 20th to the Pottery Playce in Hanover, Mass.  The gracious owners, Emma and Kathy, allowed me to use my creativity to paint a plate that reflected my platform that I could use pictures for my board for Nationals.  My plate reflected the Mass. State colors of blue, white and yellow as well as my platform slogan, Advocate, Educate, and Empower. This was an exciting day for me.  Until next time, Advocate, Educate, and Empower.

Next On the Playground Journey

     On June 17th, I wanted to stop and evaluate the North Pembroke Elementary School playground, as far as it's accessibility. This was especially important to me because this was my playground as a child, seeing as though this is the school I attended.  One of the things that stood out to me the most was actually making more ramps that were even with the sidewalk because although there were temporary put in to meet the sidewalk alley way, there were not flush with the sidewalk itself. So no matter what a child has for a chair, power or manual, they would have to at least go somewhat up on a threshold and for me taking children's safety into account, this was not acceptable.  The other problem that I had was there playground was covered in stone and stone is hard to push on and also gets caught in the wheels. Even with me as an adult in an adult size chair, this took far too much effort and it would tire a child out quickly, especially in a manual. Hopefully the school will heed my advice and make the appropriate changes.  Until next time, Advocate, Educate, and Empower.

Daddy's Little Girl

       My Father has always been a major support in my life. He is the person who gives me the most strength. Ever since I was a young girl, he was at every surgery, every therapy, doctor's appointments, IEP meetings and everything in between.  My dad may not have always agreed with the amount of independence my mom gave me at a young age, but he has always been the one to push me to have an independent and successful life. My father who worked tirelessly to make sure that I never wanted for anything and that I always had what I needed. My dad is super proud of the fact that I am Ms. Wheelchair Mass. because he feels like I am putting action into the morals and values that he taught me surrounding my disability. I have always been his little girl and I always will be no matter how old I am. One of the things that I valued most about my dad is that he has been so supportive in my Ms. Wheelchair Mass. journey.  He has driven to the far away events. He has made sure that I have had everything that I needed for Nationals and beyond, so it was really important to me that I make Father's Day, during my reigning year special. My father chose for me to take him to one of his favorite restaurants, The Wicked Good Cafe in Lincoln, Rhode Island. During that time, we laughed, we talked and we were simply father and daughter. I love you, Dad and thanks for everything.  Until next time, Advocate, Educate, and Empower.

Hockey Throw Back...

       On June 16th, I was invited by hockey instructor, Leo to be an example to his skaters about never giving up. This took place during what was called, Hockey Skill Night or Power Skating.  This took place at the Hobomock Ice Arena in Pembroke, Mass.  Honestly, this was an extremely fun event for me because my brother no longer plays hockey, however he played for 27 years of his life, so as much as he identifies with a hockey rink, so do I.  This was his home base hockey rink where he first donned hockey skates. This arena will forever hold a place in my heart because I grew up there. I could never be upright on skates, like he could, but my family made sure that they taught me the importance of the game, the importance of team sports and most importantly most of his hockey teammates treated me as though I was one of their little sisters as well. This is why when I got to finally skate with my brother at Cronin Ice Arena, it was a really emotionally moving experience because I never thought that I would ever be on that side of the ice, toe to toe with my favorite hockey star. He may never of made it to the Bruins, but one thing that he has taught me through his coaching of little children and his endless love of the game, is to pass that positivity and the never give up spirit and always head for the goal to the next generation of skaters because never know if your words will inspire a youth to have the drive to go to the NHL.  Until next time, Advocate, Educate, and Empower.

Fore.....

     On June 15th, I was also requested to attend the Adaptive Sports Fair at Braintree Rehab Hospital. Many of you who know me, know that alot of my services for my disability in the past, have come through Braintree Rehab Hospital.  I deeply trust in their expertise in helping people to live very full and adaptive, active life styles. This was an eye opening experience for me because I was never the athletic one in my family. I was the artsy, drama kid, who liked to be creative. But in a lot of ways, I looked up to my older brother who was the sports God of the family. There was not one sport that he could not pick up quickly, everything from golf to ice hockey to soccer and more.  To be perfectly honest with you, in a lot of ways, when I was younger I was jealous of his athletic abilities, but being a kid growing up in the 80's and 90's in a not very active disability community my Mom found activities that she could adapt for me instead of pre-adapted sports. It was an eye opener and a learning experience to see all of the programs that are available for everyone from children to adults that included adaptive cycling, adaptive golf, adaptive kayaking and more. I want to use this new found knowledge to pass it on to families so that some people with disabilities may get the opportunities that I did not know existed. Until next time, Advocate, Educate, and Empower.

Ready...Set...Go

      On June 15th I had the pleasure of giving the opening speech at the SBAGNE Walk and Roll in Canton, Mass. It was held this year at the Mass. Hospital School. It successfully raised 10's of thousands of dollars for the people affected by Spina Bifida throughout Greater New England.  Although as many of you know, I dp not have Spina Bifida myself, but I have made a tremendous friendship with Ms. Wheelchair Mass. 2010, Santara Sen, who does have Spina Bifida and as many people have often said, the Ms. Wheelchair Program is a sisterhood in which we change minds and change the world.  It was so great to see how many walkers and runners and rollers came out for a cause that is near and dear to me.  In my speech, I honestly wanted to give a sense of positivity to the walkers, rollers, and runners to help them understand that it is through organizations like, SBAGNE, that we can turn people's lives around and make more independence.  But more importantly we can form bonds of advocacy. Despite the funky suntan that I got that day, it was all worth it in the end. Until next time, Advocate, Educate, and Empower.

Needs Major Improvement

     My playground field trips continue. My platform this year, Advocate, Educate, and Empower focuses so much on allowing young people to understand that even though a disability occurs, it does not by any means mean that it should ever let you down from having fun.  This is why I was so disheartened on June 12th, when I visited the Richard E. Gifford Memorial Playground in South Weymouth, Mass.  Honestly, being the eternal optimist that I am, I would like to say that hopefully with a little bit of advocacy, we can change the dynamic of this playground because it is not at all disability accessible. There is not one piece of equipment that a child that uses a wheelchair could even reach.  Even as an adult, who uses a wheelchair, I had a hard time reaching for the bars, stairs, or any other piece of equipment. This is just a shame, if you ask me.  Until next time, Advocate, Educate, and Empower.

Just Keep Swimming

     On June 10th, I was asked to visit with the staff of Island Grove Park in Abington, Mass.  For those of you who do not know, Island Grove is a retreat area, mostly visited by family for the summer months where they can do swimming, pool games, diving, and nature walks.  For a very long time, I did adapted swimming. This was a great therapy for me, so I believe that many other people with disabilities should have the same opportunity to do so.  This is why it is important for me to educate staff members about extra safety concerns when dealing with physical disability concerns because although we can enjoy a dip, a dive, or some Marco Polo, we may need some assistance to make it happen. This assistance may not at all be huge. It could be something as simple as helping someone get into the water.  This is why is is so important for me to advocate for physical activities.  Until next time, Advocate, Educate, and Empower.

In Desperate Need of Tip Wheels

     The next stop on my playground trail honestly disappointed me. This was at the Rockland Memorial Park Playground. I visited there on June 5th and there were so many adaptations I would like to see be made. First and foremost, as a safety issue, I would like to see the town eliminate the course sand that they used in the playground because it is incredibly hazardous for both manual and power wheelchairs  to get around. I know that even as an adult trying to push my way around this playground was a chore because, even though I had my tip wheels down, there were so many times that my chair itself felt as though it was going to sink into the sand.  I believe that if a child was here with his or her friends, they would run the risk of falling easily and that is not acceptable with me. Hopefully, I can use my position to start to get this situation re-adapted. Until next time, Advocate, Educate, and Empower.

More Than Just Hopscotch

     After meeting with Tom from the Pembroke Commission for Disabilities, I wanted to make it a mission to see what differences could be made at playgrounds so that kids with disabilities could live a carefree playground filled childhood.  The first stop on my search was on June 3rd, at the Whitman Memorial Town Green Playground in Whitman, Mass.  I have to say that I was thoroughly impressed by the amount of disability friendly equipment that they had in one space. Most importantly for me, was the lowered make believe spaces, which included a fire engine, an ambulance, and a puppet show, all of which were easily chair level with a great amount of space. Even in an adult chair, although my feet stuck out, I was able to safely get around and inside to be able to reach all of the buttons.  I highly think though that the kid next to me was jealous that I hogged the fire engine for so long. But hey, you have to do some things for advocacy, right? Until next time, Advocate, Educate, and Empower.

We Meet Again, Mrs. Howard

     The Kingston Intermediate School was the venue for my next appearance.  The librarian had set up a book club meeting with me and her sixth graders, after they had finished reading a novel about an adolescent girl with Cerebral Palsy. On June 7th, I had a chance to discuss the book with them and I also found out that these were remarkable young people who had set up a disability awareness course for every grade level in their student body, so that they may be able to experience different types of disabilities, may they be visual, sensory, or physical disabilities. The ironic part about this was that the kids from this class were Mrs. Howard's sixth grade classroom students and this shows how full circle life can come because Kaitlin or Mrs. Howard was a woman that I graduated from my own high school with. It was nice to be able to know that I was making a different in my own community, not with just strangers that I meed for the first time. Until next time, Advocate, Educate, and Empower.

Let Your Hair Down

     In my hometown of Pembroke, Mass., there is a carnival that is sponsored by the Historical Society that is held every year.  On May 30th, I attended with my family.  I have been going to this carnival for as long as I can remember. When growing up in little town suburbia, these events are a big deal.  My mom had always made sure that I was able to ride the amusement rides and I could take full advantage of the fair, just like my peers.  One of the adaptations that my Mom used to make was to make sure that someone rode along with me on the rides, bracing my body so I would not get injured or fall out.  It was a fun experience going back, wearing my crown and sash because it is always important to remember where you came from to get where your headed.  I got to ride on the carousel and although I may have looked a little strange wearing my tiara, it was nice to be able to be a role model for these kids and show them that despite being a wheelchair user, I can let my hair down and now that I am older, I may not have needed someone to brace me while riding in the sleigh, but I can still have as much fun as when I was five. Until next time, Advocate, Educate, and Empower.

Like Me, But Different

      The Martha Jones School in Westwood, Mass. has a disability awareness program called, Like Me, But Different.  I had the opportunity to speak to the second grade students on May 29th.  The purpose of this program, unlike many other disability programs, is to show that my life is particularly normal. I explained that despite having Cerebral Palsy, I have a learner's permit to drive, I own a business, I went to college, I know how to swim and other basic life skills that these kids could relate to.  One of the most touching parts of the program to me was that there was a little girl who had a hearing impairment, who after the program was over, decided to tell me that her goal was to go to college like I did. It is these little things that make the Ms. Wheelchair Program worth it.  Until next time, Advocate, Educate, and Empower.

The Fire Is Still Burning

     There is a fire in my belly. It is not one that will go out lightly. It is a passion for advocacy that drives me to better understand in what ways I can help my fellow individuals with disabilities.  On May 29th, it was Halifax Fire Department's turn to hear my educational speech on the extra concerns of wheelchair users. I love no matter how many fire departments I go into, it never gets old. It is a matter of showing them the importance of a little extra TLC when handling a wheelchair or any adaptive equipment. Until next time, Advocate, Educate, and Empower.

Welcome to Blood Draw Alley

    The VA Medical Center in Brockton is one of the hubs for the veterans of Mass.  On May 28th, I got to tour the Brockton campus.  This was unlike a normal doctor's visit because it is always a special place that can take care of veterans that do so much.  My father goes to the VA in Brockton, so to see and meet the people that take care of him so well was my opportunity to give back to the people that gave to my family. One of the stops of the tour was known as, Blood Draw Alley.  This is the portion of the hospital where they check blood sugar, INR levels, etc.  I may have a few tattoos, but no needles for me, thank you. Until next time, Advocate, Educate, and Empower.

Parade, Parade, Parade

   On May 27th, I attended three separate Memorial Day Parades in my hometown and surrounding communities.  One of the reasons that this is so important to me is because my family on both sides has a strong military background in the Army, Air Force, Marines, Navy, and Coast Guard. I really strongly believe in supporting the military because they are the main reason that we have the freedom that we do today.  If it was not for the men and women who fought with honor and valor, there would be no such things as Disability Rights.  Often times as Americans we take for granted that we do live in a highly adaptive society and without fighting for independence, we would see none of this.  There three parts of the day that were particularly difficult for me. My brother went to school with a Marine named, Brian McPhilips, who was killed in action in 2004 in Iraq. There was a special float dedicated to him in my hometown. In another one of the parades, they honored a fallen soldier who was best friends with my boyfriend, named Benjamin Sherman.  I have very fond memories of Ben and his ability to make a positive out of any situation.  The third thing that touched me was in the Marshfield parade. There was a trolley full of Vietnam Veterans and my father, indeed, is a Vietnam Vet himself. He is perhaps one of my greatest heroes. He has taught me so much about survival and appreciation for small victories. It is for these three men that I wear the crown on this day. Rest in peace, Brian and Ben. May your spirits be with God. To my father, 'Some man may capture my heart one day, but you have captured it for a lifetime". Until next time, Advocate, Educate, and Empower.

Hey, Do You Sleep In Your Wheelchair?

     On May 22nd, I was requested to speak at Norwell Public Library in Norwell, MA.  Not only did I read my favorite children's book by Reymon Jourdan, "Willie the Wheelchair", but  I had the children do an activity in which they created what their own wheelchair would look like if they were the wheelchair designer.  I explained to them that the wheelchair comes in all different shapes and sizes for all different types of people.  My wheelchair was personalized by my rehab tech, Mala. It has my name and a crown on the back.  Although I must say I did get the crown embroidered before I competed for Ms. Wheelchair Mass. and even before it was a thought to compete. But it would have looked a little silly had I not won. Having these kids however, design their own wheelchairs brought up the opportunity for me to answer some very logical questions from the kids.  My favorite one of the day was, "Hey, do you sleep in your wheelchair". All of my wheelie friends would tell you that it would be very uncomfortable, in case you were wondering.  Until next time, Advocate, Educate, and Empower.

Hanging Out at Hanlon

     On May 21st, I had the pleasure of speaking with three classrooms of energetic and positive second grade students at the Hanlon School in Westwood, Mass.  This was set up in a question and answer type format which for me, as Ms. Wheelchair Mass., is the most fun because you never know where the hour or two hours is going to take you.  At this time, when I did this presentation the Bruins where in a play off battle, heading towards the Stanley Cup, so one of the things that impressed the children so much was when I could explain to them that, as Ms. Wheelchair Mass., I actually got to try adaptive skating and adaptive hockey.  This was especially important to me because the kids were so excited about the Bruins, I wanted them to understand that people with disabilities could be incredible athletes as well. Until next time, Advocate Educate, and Empower.

Clinical Therapy and Me

     For those of you who don't know, I have a Masters of Clinical Therapy in Social Work. I graduated from Simmons College in 2006. One of my passions since is having people understand how mental health affects physical disabilities. I took the opportunity on May 14th to tour the Plymouth V.A. Medical Clinical.  This was special to me on a lot of levels. One of the things that they do is they specialize in Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, so for me to be able to be an advocate for people that have mental health disabilities as well a physical disabilities is a really big bonus, as far as I am concerned.  On a personal level, my first boyfriend fought in Operation Iraqi Freedom and he came back with PTSD from what he saw in battle. He was never quite the same. So, this gives new meaning to making your reign and your platform your own because I do not think if this individual didn't touch my life in the way that he did, I would not have such an appreciation for the need of mental health advocacy. Until next time, Advocate, Educate, and Empower.

Sparky and Me

     On May 13th, I did yet another disability safety awareness training with the members of the East Bridgewater Fire Department. This is a topic that I am extremely passionate about because knowing that my family members are first responders, EMTs and firefighters, I kinow that until I had a disability, they didn't necessarily realize the extra safety concerns that went along with the rescue of a person with a disability. One of my cousins runs a training school for first responders, EMTs and firefighters.  I got to use some of the knowledge that he teaches to his students with these firefighters as a refresher that the needs of their communities are ever changing.  This day would not be complete unless I had a photo opportunity with fire safety mascot, Sparky. Until next time, Advocate, Educate, and Empower.

Mommy and Me

     Since the day I was crowned my mother, Diane has been my number one support system in making my title holder year a success.  My mother does everything she can to make me be able to have every opportunity I can to spread my platform across the state of Massachusetts.  She is my taxi driver, my crown fitter, my makeup artist, and my occasional lecture buddy, despite the fact that I did not get my public speaking skills from my mom.  I contribute most, or if not all, of my caring and compassion genes to her. She has taught me to be a terribly strong person, even in the face of adversity.  I do not think I would be half the title holder without her.  It is for this reason that I took her out to brunch on May 12th, Mother's Day to IHop in Plymouth Mass.  It was just my way of thanking her and still letting the public know that people with disabilities have very good support systems.  In closing, I just want to send out a big "I love you, Mom"  for her love and support this year.

Until next time, Advocate, Educate, and Empower.

Fire Department Double Duty

     Because my Ms. Wheelchair schedule was so busy in May, there were times that I would need to schedule an event back to back.  This is the case on May 9th.  I had the pleasure of meeting two fantastic groups of individuals from two separate fire departments.

     My morning was taken up with by dealing with the rather handsome men of the Plymouth Fire Department.  They were eager to hear my perspective as a wheelchair user and what my fears and concerns were when dealing with fire department related emergencies.  I explained to them that more times than I care to count I had been stuck in the middle of non-working wheelchair lifts, and even on my first day of graduate school it was necessary for the fire department to carry me down 2 flights of stairs as the elevator was not working after all of my classes.  What a way to welcome someone to graduate school.  That being said, these are everyday situations that wheelchair users have to face with or without fear.

     On the afternoon of May 9th,  I visited Unit 4 of the Brockton Fire Department.  These men were equally welcoming of my perspective and were truly interested in what I had to say.  For me, I feel that as I go from fire department to fire department the talks get easier and easier, because I come to learn what is most important for the fire fighters to hear.

Until next time, Advocate, Educate, and Empower.

Advocacy 911

     On May 8th, I changed it up a bit, and instead of meeting with more firefighters, I had the idea that there are emergency situations that also include the police that especially concern people with disabilities.  So I wanted to see if I could explain through advocacy the importance of the special circumstances having a disability and being involved in an emergency mean.  As a person who is working on getting a driver's license and going to adaptive driving lessons, I realized that there are more concerns when traveling in an adaptive vehicle that a police officer should be aware of.  Whether or not he comes in contact with it throughout his career is a question, but at least he would be prepared.  I had the honor of meeting Sargeant Mike, dispatcher Krista, and many of the other team members of the Kingston Police Department.  What was particularly fun though was that I got to meet a very special police dog named Ollie.

Until next time, Advocate, Educate, and Empower

Advocacy is a Hot Topic

     I seem to be making a habit out of visiting fire departments to discuss the special needs of fire safety for individuals with disabilities,  There is a really good reason for this.  On my mother's side of the family there is a long line of firefighters, paramedics, EMT's, and first responders.  Since this has been a topic that is particularly special with my family, I find it important that during my rein year I touch on causes that have affected and pertained to my life.  May 7th, however, was not your average every day event for me, because it was this day that I went to the Rockland Fire Department in Rockland, MA.  It was there that I met with firefighter Craig.  This was a particularly moving experience because this firefighter was trained by my late uncle, as this was his fire station.  He is also very good friends with my cousin, who is a paramedic. Although I did not know who I was meeting with that day, when I requested to give my talk on advocacy.  I believe that there are no mistakes in the universe, and by meeting someone who is connected to my family in this way I had the ability to show my uncle, Richard, what I have been doing since he has passed, and I am pretty sure he was looking down on me smiling a little extra day.

Until next time, Advocate, Educate, and Empower

Winner Winner Chicken Dinner

     Growing up in a large Italian family, we learned how to play cards at a very young age.  Most of the time we used to play for pennies or candy.  By the time we hit legal gambling age, however, we would be fully ready to face the casino head on.  One of my family pastimes every few months is to go to Twin River Casino in Lincoln Rhode Island.  Over the years as I have gotten older, I realized that there are certain aspects of the casino that could be made more adaptable.  I figured since I have fun there every few months, other people with disabilities would too.  My dad happens to know the lead host, Lori, very well so she agreed to meet with me on May 6th in order to discuss the extra needs of wheelchair using patrons.  For example, for the longest time I would only play slot machines that were on the end of a row, as those were the only ones that I could reach the buttons, because the chairs were not removable.  One suggestion was, over time.  I found out that you could have the slot technician unscrew and remove a chair for you if you only asked.  I made the suggestion to Lori, although this was a great idea for adaptation because we could play whatever slot machine we wanted.  I suggested that she and the team find a better way to advertise this as an acceptable option for players with disabilities.  I made have not won that day, and I clearly did not break the bank, but one thing I did do was hit the jackpot for disability advocacy.

Until next time, Advocate, Educate, and Empower

There Goes thge Herring Run

     For those of you not familiar with Pembroke tradition, in the spring time pretty much the entire community comes out to the Herring Run, which is considered a Massachusetts state landmark.  This year the annual fish fry was being held on May 5th, and during this time basically the whole community gets together for picnicking, family fun, and community bonding.  This has been a tradition for my family ever since I was a little girl.  It is far more exciting to attend an event that you are so use to attending in crown and sash and allowing people to understand that you are more than the Nicole they know, you are a person with a mission with a platform.  I might have got a little extra sun that day, but it was well worth the good fish, the fun time, and the unforgettable memories.

Until next time, Advocate, Educate, and Empower.

Swing Batter

     On May 4th, some friends of mine requested that I cheer on the Pembroke Youth Baseball League as Ms. Wheelchair Massachusetts.  I got to spend a nice sunny day cheering on some future Red Sox players and watch these kids play their heart out.  Some people may ask what this has to do with my platform as Ms. Wheelchair Massachusetts, but I believe  it is very important to not only support causes that enhance your platform, but it is equally important to support community causes so that the greater public can understand that individuals with disabilities have just as much a role in their communities as their able bodied counter parts.  Let's face it, who can resist little children playing sports.  As far as I am concerned that's always a good way to spend a Saturday.

Until next time, Advocate, Educate, and Empower

One of My Personal Favorites

     On May 3rd, I got to visit with the students of Crystal Springs, Inc.  This is a residential program in Assonet, Mass.  This is a non-profit organization that provides care for youths with cognitive disabilities.  I can honestly say that this is hands down one of my favorite organizations.  My visit there changed the course of my title holding year.  I think as Ms. Wheelchair Massachusetts we get caught up in advocating for people with physical disabilities, but this showed me how important advocacy for cognitive disabilities really was.  I got to cheer the children on during therapy swim class,, and I for one can say I am super jealous of the heated olympic sized pool.  Had I had a bathing suit I would probably have jumped in with them.

     One of the attributes of their campus that I am in awe of is the accessible tree-house in which any wheelchair can fit into.  Where were these types of cool things when I was a kid.  This shows how far we have come.  I also got to meet with clinical directors, Angie and Dennis, who are perhaps two of the most tireless, yet humble advocates I have ever met in my life.  This day was such a pleasure that I cannot wait to go back to visit and I hope to work with them again in the future.

Util next time, Advocate, Educate, and Empower.

Back to Titanville

     One way to make a Ms. Wheelchair Massachusetts title holder feel old is to send them back to their elementary school and make them realize how small the children actually are.  In all seriousness, I had the honor on May 2nd to go back to the North Pembroke Elementary School.  What is special here is this is the same school I attended as a child.  Why it holds special memories is because I was the first student wheelchair user to attend.  One huge difference is seeing how much the ADA affected the accessibility of the school.  You see, when I attended I had to enter the school through the back boiler room as there was no ramp access.to allow me to get to my classes.  Now the school is paved with ramps, has accessible doorways, and the bathrooms go beyond meeting standards.  So Pembroke has come a long way since the mid eighties.

     At my event I, along with nurse Judy, who was my nurse in school,  got to speak to four separate classes of 5th grade students.  Not only did I get to share my experiences about bullying, friendships, and academic successes, but nurse Judy made sure she brought out the old pictures of me when I attended.  The children even convinced me to sing the smoke free class of 2000 song, and for those of you who do not know me very well, my singing voice is less than stellar, and that shows my commitment to disability advocacy.

Until next time, Advocate, Educate, and Empower.

Adaptation and Access Fair

     On May 1st I got the opportunity to attend the Halifax Library Adaptive Technology Fair.  I, along with other non-profit organizations got to present different types of technology that are available to people with various disabilities.  The library asked me to help make this a family friendly event, so I read various children's books about disabilities, including the book "Susan Laughs."  The best part of the day for me, however, was the question and answer period that I held in between reading different books because it never ceases to amaze me how inquisitive about disabilities that young children can be.  A fun time was had by all and most importantly I did a lot of networking in order to be able to have people understand the mission statement of Ms. Wheelchair Massachusetts Foundation.

 Until next time, Educate, Advocate, and Empower.

5 Alarm for Advocacy

On May 1st, I got to have the pleasure of meeting the gentlemen at the Bridgewater Fire Department in Bridgewater, MA.  As many of you know, my mother's side of the family comes from a long line of Paramedics, EMTs, and Fire Fighters.  I have grown with an understanding of how important emergency situations are.  My cousin Dick, who runs emergency services schooling programs and I were talking one day about what it means to be in the middle of an emergency crisis and to have a disability on top of that.  There are many times that I have been stuck in elevators, stuck on wheelchair lifts in the air, etc, these are situations that able bodied individuals do not have to deal with.  It was my intention to go into the firehouse and explain that we as a disabled community are very grateful to the emergency rescue workers who come to our aid in these situations.  I also wanted to take this time as a teaching tool to teach the newbie fire fighters that these are situations, although they may not come across them often, are really near and scary to us.  No one wants to be stuck up in the air. 
       I need to take the time to thank the chief and fire fighters who graciously gave me a tour, made me laugh, and took the time out of their busy schedule at 9:00 AM from pulling busy night shifts to listen to what I had to say.  I am forever grateful to have this experience because this is the Empower part of my platform.  I can take time to make people realize how important, even the littlest changes in a rescue can make a person with a disability feel at ease and let's face it, as you can tell by the picture, these guys aren't bad looking.  I might be Ms. Wheelchair Mass., but I am still a single lady, so even advocacy has it's perks.  Until next time, Advocate, Educate, Empower.

Lions ...Tigers...And BSU Bears Oh My

You know it has been a long time since you have been back to your college when it has changed its name since you have been there.  I cannot believe it has been 8 years since I have been at BSU/BSC for us old folks.  I was asked by one of my favorite professors who happens to be retiring this year, Dr. Rebecca Leavitt, to share my Ms. Wheelchair story with the members of the Davis Alumni Center at Bridgewater State University.  Many of you know that Dr. Leavitt and I have always had a strong bond.  She is actually the professor who made me have a passion for social work, so when she suggests I do something I know it is for a positive reason.  It was so nice to go back to the campus that I literally found my independence on.  It was after I started taking courses in social work that I realized that I could do more for disability awareness then just talk.  I learned my legislative skills from classes like Dr. Leavitt's.  So coming back to BSU, which is still weird to say, by the way was a homecoming of sorts.  I also got to spend a little time with Autumn Grant who works at BSU who was my MWMA state coordinator, so things kind of came full circle.   I also got to see an individual, by chance, who taught me to have a thicker skin with my disability and it was this person who challenged me to learn to stand up for myself and my life as a student with a disability.  I did not realize the magnitude of this lesson until I got into my older years, but as tough as it was at the time, I am so glad I learned this lesson the hard way because it taught me to be a stronger advocate for my own self and in turn as Ms. Wheelchair Massachusetts I have learned to use my voice and my thicker skin to do what is right for the millions of people with disabilities in this great nation of ours.

Til next time, "Advocate, Educate and Empower".

I Like "Dougie"

Sometimes it is the less grand appearances that melt your heart the most and remind you why you want to be Ms. Wheelchair America.  This came from an unlikely source for me.  My godmother, who happens to be my mother's best friend, requested that I go make a home visit in Rockland, Mass. to her brother, Jim, who is home bound because of medical issues and has Down Syndrome.  My first thought was I need to find a way to relate to a man in his fifties who I only know about through stories from my mom.  You see, my mom is one of Jim's favorite people.  The funny part of this is my mother just celebrated her 40th wedding anniversary.  She has not gone by her maiden name in 40 years, however, she will always be Diane Johnson to him.  So, being Ms. Wheelchair Massachusetts, thinking on my feet, I said I will come up with anecdotes about my mom for a few hours.  Lord knows I have enough of them.  Upon arriving I was told that Jim was in a really good mood.  I knew it was going to be a good day from that point on.  However, I learned that even when dealing with people with cognitive disabilities it is important to find common ground.  In the beginning, Jim was not comfortable with me being in his room.  This was not the reception as Ms. Wheelchair Massachusetts I am used to.  Little kids smile, parents shake my hand, etc.  I then looked at my mom with an unknowing glance.  She looked at me and said just be yourself.  I then glanced up at his TV and the show King of Queens was in his dvd player.  This show happens to be a guilty pleasure of mine so we starting bonding already.  I asked him what he liked about the show and he gave me an answer that to this day is still cute to us, "I Love Dougie".  This made my visit worth it to see how genuine he was to spend time with me.  Fast forward a little to my leaving and he began to call me Diane Johnson Princess which in his own way was showing me I was accepted as if Diane Johnson is cool, you are ok in my book.  To go from a person who did not appreciate me being in his room to being a princess means that even for a moment and over a cancelled sitcom I made his day but in truth he made mine even more.

Til next time "Advocate, Educate and Empower".

Willie Meets the Maracas

East Bridgewater Library in East Bridgewater, Mass. was the next stop on my journey.This time was slightly different because I had a slightly younger crowd than I am used to but like my platform says, it is better to teach disability awareness at younger ages in order to expose children to all of the differences that they will see in the world.  I do not know how much of Willie the Wheelchair the kids comprehended fully but I can tell you that the graphics and the fact that Willie had wheels was an even bigger hit than my crown which I am told makes me a special princess.  They say during your reign sometimes you step out of your comfort zone and do things that you never thought you would.  For me, this was singing The Bear Went Over the Mountain.  For those of you who know me personally can attest that I would never win a karaoke contest.  I think that it should be quite illegal for me to sing in public.  I can say as Ms. Wheelchair Massachusetts, I took one for the team in the name of advocacy in order to ensure these children got a positive message.  You can see that this blog post is an abbreviated one.  This is mainly because I am trying to forget my less than stellar singing performance but this appearance taught me a great lesson i n  grace under pressure for nationals.

Til next time, "Advocate, Educate and Empower."

Tom & I Unite For Change!

                                                    

After reading the article that the Pembroke Mariner wrote about my crowning I got an email from Tom W. who like me has Cerebral Palsy and is the Director of the Pembroke Commission on Disabilities.  He was wondering if we could meet up to make some changes in accessibility around Pembroke.  I called him back right away and jumped at the chance to make disability accessibility in my own home town.  One of the things that Tom and I discussed were how many changes have been made in the past within the town.  We talked about everything from the new library accessibility to things that needed to change such as:  playground accessibility in Bryantville, which is part of Pembroke, to the need for more accessibility at the Herring Run, which of those of you that do not know is a historical point of interest within the town.  We have decided that that we must contact local legislators to see if we can get them to understand the desperate need for funding these major changes.  Tom also asked me to promote one of the programs that is near and dear to him, that is, people who call the Pembroke Commission on Disabilities can either donate small medical equipment such as :  wheelchairs, walkers, eyeglasses, bath chairs, etc.. With these donations Tom makes it possible for low income individuals to have these donations free of charge so that they may lead more independent lives.  As Ms. Wheelchair Massachusetts, I have a plan and  will continue to plan to make major changes throughout the state, but it is something special when you can do it in your own backyard.

Til next time, "Advocate, Educate, and Empower."

Direct Staff Meeting in Session!

I was asked to speak at the weekly direct care staff meeting at the Kennedy Donovan Center in Kingston, Mass. on the 18th of April, 2013.  This touched near and dear to my heart because,  those of you not familiar with the early intervention programs, they serve special needs children between the ages of birth to 3 years.  I was actually a graduate of the program in 1985.  They were some of the first care staff to provide me with physical therapy, speech therapy, and other basic services.  I think that these programs are vital to helping families transition into the idea of special needs life.  One of the messages that I wanted to get across to them as Ms. Wheelchair Massachusetts was that not all diagnosis are set in stone.  Many of you have read my Cerebral Palsy Story and will remember that the outlook doctors gave my parents for my independent life was very bleak.  Most of the milestones that a normal child would make I would never break.  This was farther from the truth.  Although I think it is very important that they should be realistic to parents.  I wanted to spread a message of hope that you can overcome doctor's odds and as a graduate of the program I wanted to show them that I was living proof of this.  This appearance was slightly different for me because as much as I can relate from a disability perspective I may never understand the parental perspective of having a special needs child.  For this reason, I sprung it on my mother, Diane, after my speech that I would really love for her to relive her experience with early intervention for the staff members so they could hear a success story from the parent's point of view.  Those of you who know my mom you realize this is a huge feat for her as I got my public speaking genes from my father and not from my mother.  My mother is an amazing woman who I want to model my life after, however, her painfully shy genes is one that I am glad that I did not get.  My mom took it like a champ and made OUR appearance extremely successful.  For that I realize that sometimes Ms. Wheelchair Mass. cannot "Advocate, and Educate" alone.

Until next time my friends, "Advocate, Educate, and Empower."

My After- School Special

  

The next stop on my Ms. Wheelchair Massachusetts, 2013 journey took place on April 11th.  I got to partake in a disability awareness talk and discussion at the Plymouth Boys and Girls Club in Plymouth, Massachusetts.  Not to play favorites but I think this was my most successful event to date.  The reason I say this is I spoke to 30 to 40 children between 2nd grade to about 7th grade levels.  This was particularly special because I had a range of children who had different experiences with their exposure to disability culture.  This made for a very rousing question and answer period because the kids shared their experiences with me just as much as I shared my experiences with them.  For example, I had one particular girl who has a sister who is hard of hearing and she expressed how sometimes her disability can make her feel different than the other children her age.  This started an open dialogue for another boy who explained his different view of the world after being a wheelchair user for 8 weeks due to broken limbs.  He realized how certain things that people who can walk take certain obstacles in every day life for granted.  My particular favorite child (even though Ms. Wheelchair Massachusetts should not play favorites) was a little boy named, Jamari, he kept me on my toes making sure that I gave him quick answers as well as relating my story as the reigning queen of Massachusetts to a story that he was reading in school.  This tugged at my heart strings because with these kids I felt like giving them an opportunity to see that disabilities relate to many different areas of your life even if you do not have one yourself.  It is because of these kids at the Plymouth Boys and Girls Club that I want to reach out to many more after school programs because clearly my mission was accomplished here.

Until next time, my friends, "Advocate, Educate & Empower".

Back to Laker Land!

For a change of pace I got to go back to my high school, Silver Lake Regional High School in Kingston, Mass.  I spoke to Ms. Jamie Schweer's sociology classes.  We talked about stigmas associated with being a wheelchair user.  We also spoke about discrimination against wheelchair users as well as current legislation that is in place to assist wheelchair users in the state of Massachusetts.  This question and answer period was far more candid than the age appropriate discussions that I am used to.  Students were more interested in what my college experience was like having a disability.  They wanted to know what my future held as far as romantic standings, starting a family, and what uphill barriers I may face in getting married and having children.  Being surrounded by such great Ms. Wheelchair Sisters it was quite easy to impart to them that having a family and getting married is just as attainable as an able-bodied person.  Although I answered a plethora of different questions, I think the hardest question for me to openly and honestly answer was what year did you graduate because suddenly I realized that I am 13 years removed from this wonderful place that  helped me form my identity as a strong woman that happens to be a wheelchair user.  There was one particular student that was more than willing to ask anything and it is so nice to not have a person who is afraid to ask a question without fear of offending the person.

It is ironic that 13 years later I would be presenting in front of Ms. Schweer's class because her sociology class is one that I took my senior year at Silver Lake and I remember thinking 13 years ago, I wonder if I will make a difference with stigmas regarding disabilities.  I finally got to accomplish one goal as Ms. Wheelchair Massachusetts that I set 13 years prior without even knowing what the Ms. Wheelchair Massachusetts program was.

In closing, I just want to say, once a Laker, always a Laker.  I want to extend my love and gratitude to the Silver Lake staff, especially Principal Richard Kelley, who is pictured above with me.  You guys will always hold a special place in my Ms. Wheelchair Massachusetts journey.

Until next time, my friends, "Advocate, Educate & Empower."  
Before I forget, GO LAKERS!

Camp Rice Moody & the Inclusion Patch!

First off I want to apologize for the delay in blog posting.  This has been a really busy time for me as Ms. Wheelchair Mass. because I have been sending out fund raising materials so that I can get to Nationals as well as I have been very busy booking appearances to fill up my summer before and after I go to Houston.  I want to be a very well rounded candidate when I go to compete for Ms. Wheelchair America.

Being asked by Kerryn Martin who is the inclusion specialist at Girl Scout of America of eastern Mass. to help girls in Reading, Lynn, and the surrounding areas was a very enjoyable experience.  Not only did I get to help these girls get their Inclusion Patch but I also got to give these girls a quick age appropriate lesson in disability history.  We talked about everything from 504 and the beginning of disability rights all the way to the Americans With Disability Act.  It is a humbling experience to share disability history with kids that would not otherwise get to experience this information on a regular basis.  They seem to enjoy it very much.  I also want to tip my hat in gratitude to the senior Girl Scouts who took it upon themselves to lead the younger Girl Scouts, Brownies, and Daises in activities that help these children understand the importance of recognizing that differences can make you more alike than most people first assume.  This goes along so well with how much I want to impart this message with young people with advocacy of my platform.

The retreat took place at Camp Rice Moody in Reading.  It was so nice to have such a large group of girls to talk to.  We also had a very innovative question and answer period.  As much as I can say that I taught these girls something about disabilities I think that they taught me how eager children of this age are to soak up knowledge about differences.  Yesterday, I got a really cool email from Kerryn saying that one of the troops made me a matching purple and pistachio T-shirt. This t-shirt is a sign of membership in their troop and they wanted to make me an honorary member.  How flattering is that?

Until next time, my friends, "Advocate, Educate & Empower."

Wheelchair Willie Take 2

So Wheelchair Willie made his second appearance of the week.  This time at West Bridgewater Public Library, West Bridgewater, Mass.  For ten o'clock in the morning the children were very energetic.  Each one of them wanted to hear what I had to say, which is very refreshing.  One thing that was special about this group of children was that the book sparked questions and the children were not afraid to ask them.  I got questions like: "can you feel your legs, do you have pain in your legs, do kids treat you different, and my favorite of the hour, do you get to wear a gown as Ms. Wheelchair Massachusetts". Suddenly I was having flashbacks to onstage questioning by the judges at Ms. Wheelchair Massachusetts.  I had to be on the ball with my answers because I had some very stiff judges, between the ages of two and seven.  Moving on to everybody's favorite part, the craft.  Again the children made individualized wheelchairs to their liking.  My particular favorite was one little boy's spy wheelchair complete with night vision goggles and a vending machine filled with chips and salsa.  Come to think of it that would have been a million dollar answer on pageant day.  This same particular boy has decided to have a career in movie making and after my visit he decided that he would create a wheelchair using super hero for his movies.  I give this kiddo 5 stars for imagination and creativity.  It is little anecdotes that remind you why it is so much fun to be a title holder.  It is moments like this throughout the year that one never forgets.  
           Pictured above with me is  Miss Nanette, who is the head children's librarian at West Bridgewater Library.  She is perhaps one of the most animated and genuine people that I have met on my journey thus far.  She helped me so much today to get my message across to the children in a fun and understandable manner.  They say that you meet people along your way as a title holder that renew your faith in people wanting to understand and hear your platform.  For me thus far it has been Miss Nanette.  I know even after my reign is over I will go back and experience these great kids again.  So Miss Nanette a thousand thank yous to you.

Until next time, "Advocate, Educate, and Empower".

Story Time AKA "Willie The Wheelchair"

Today was one of the most lighthearted days I have had since being crowned.  I attended story and craft time at Hingham Public Library in Hingham Mass.  It was a great experience because I got to read to about ten children between the ages of two and six.  Like I said in my platform, I wholeheartedly believe that it is so important to start children's awareness of physical disabilities at a formative age so that they are not fearful of people with physical disabilities.  Thanks to Mala from National Seating and Mobility for lending me such age appropriate books for preschool age.  Willie the Wheelchair was a smashing success with the little ones. They were so captivated by the fact that Willie the Wheelchair was the hero of the story.  It sparked such curiosity in the children that I could tell that a simple hour with me and seeing that I was just like them made them more comfortable with the idea of  physical disabilities.  It was also great because I got to show off some of my adaptive toys so that the children could see that even in the toy world they have toys that look just like me.  Even though we are different there is something that always makes us special.  Beyond my wheelchair and my title I am special because I am Nicole and they do not make any more like me.  If you ask the kids, however, the highlight of the day for them was decorating their own personalized wheelchair.  There were so many blinged out wheelchairs with the amount of glitter that was used, I decided that I want my wheelchair to sparkle as much as theirs did.  The kids tried to mimic the monogram that I have on my wheelchair that I thought was particularly cute.  At the end of the session the kids got to see how my wheelchair moved, touch it, feel it, etc. As much as I want to say that I taught them something today in all reality they taught me the importance of teaching children about differences at an age where their mind is capable of absorbing such knowledge without bias.  I also want to extend my gratitude to Anna, the head children's librarian, who made this event possible.

Until next time my friends, "Advocate, Educate, and Empower."

Hello Lady Luck....

Hi Ladies and Gents,
It is time for another blog installment of my journeys and adventures as Ms. Wheelchair Massachusetts.  I want to highlight one of the activities that is starting to become a tradition for Ms. Wheelchair Massachusetts.  Last year's titleholder, Patti, also got to make an appearance at Foxwoods Resort Casino.  I just wanted to take a moment and give this established so much credit for their accessibility and accommodation for individuals with disabilities.  Everything from the accessibility in their hotel rooms to having lower card tables for the people who use wheelchairs to easily movable slot machine chairs so that we can get our jackpot winning on.  

This experience is special to me because not only did I get to take pictures and support an extremely disability friendly company, but it has a lot of personal meaning because I spent my 21st birthday celebrating at a Foxwoods blackjack table.  It is funny how experiences in life come full circle to make an impact on your life.  I know coming from a card playing family we will be back to Foxwoods numerous times to have fun and let loose,  but coming from this Massachusetts girl there are few places that are as overly accommodating as Foxwoods.  I will create many more memories here with and without my title.

Until next time, my friends, "Advocate, Educate, and Empower."

Voices at The State House

My latest event was the first exposure I had, using my Ms. Wheelchair Massachusetts title to promote legislative change for those individuals with disabilities across the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.  I was invited to attend the luncheon for independent living at the State House in Boston.  Our main goal, coming together as advocates for people with disabilities was to have our State Representatives and Legislators to understand why it was important to create 1.1 million dollars in additional funding for the eleven independent living centers in the state.  As advocates, we needed to be a voice for people with disabilities who count on independent living centers to help them maintain a successful life, including but not limited to staying out of nursing homes, getting better rehabilitation services as well as employing 200 individuals with disabilities who serve as both role models and can better understand those clients that they worked so tirelessly for.  It was great to know that even one voice could be heard, let alone the 100 people or so that were in attendance.

This event hit me in the best ways possible because although it is prestigious to wear  my crown and sash with pride it pales in comparison to knowing that people look to the tiara as a sign of respect for the community of people with disabilities but I know that the voice that I made heard will make a difference for those that will employ the services of independent living centers for years to come.

Until next time, my friends, Advocate, Educate, Empower.

Luck of Irish & Awareness

They say everyone is Irish on St. Patrick's Day, which is lucky for me because with a last name like Tarzia I'm far from Irish, but that does not stop Ms. Wheelchair Massachusetts from showing people that despite being a wheelchair user I can let loose and have fun on this holiday.  My St. Patrick's Day was filled with excitement because I got to attend and make an appearance at the St. Patrick's Day Parade on the Abington Town Green in Abington, Mass.  Despite being extremely cold and windy it was a fun day had by all.  It was special for me because I got to cheer on one of my littles, Devon, who is Miss Teen Wheelchair Massachusetts as she took to a float.  It is always nice to have appearances in which you can share in the awareness along with your little sisters.  I am hoping soon that I can do the same with DiDi and Caitlin.  

To be honest this is my first time actually celebrating this holiday short of wearing green to school, that was as St. Patty's Day  festive as I got.  So, not only was appearing a way to spread awareness, but I was even more honored to celebrate my first holiday wearing my crown and sash because there were so many small children in attendance and if only for a moment during the celebration, festivities, and candy they got to see a person with a disability who was having just as much fun as they were.  That alone made this appearance worth braving the cold.

Until next time my friends, Advocate, Educate, and Empower.

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Ms. Wheelchair Mass. - Showing Off My Hockey Skills!

Today I got to make my first official appearance as Ms. Wheelchair Mass. 2013, post crowning that is.  I, for one, can say that my first official appearance was a complete success and super fun.  On a personal note, I come from a hockey family and I am so used to watching the game from the bleachers that it was so much fun to be on the other side of the ice.  I got to do this event at the Cronin Memorial Ice Arena in Revere, Mass.  The staff of the Dept. of Conservation and Recreation - The Universal Access Program were so welcoming to me and were more than ready to get me on the ice.  I had the chance to speak to a few young adults who were also participating in the program.  We talked about the importance of adaptations in sports programs, as well as how important inclusion is in everyday recreational activities.  It was so enlightening to get their perspectives and I think that it will help me to be a more aware Ms. Wheelchair Mass.  It was also an awesome experience because my entire family got to come with me, including my brother who has played hockey for many years.  I have always looked up to his sporting abilities and today has shown me that simple adaptations like a stroller bar, hockey sled, or skating walker can make the games just as competitive and just as much fun.  I want to spread greater awareness that these programs exist, so that we can get more children involved at younger and younger ages.  I want to extend my deepest gratitude and excitement to Gigi, the Director of the program, who has invited me to come to their spring/summer sporting activities expo in Brighton, Mass. taking place on June 8, 2013.  I am very  excited to see what other sports I can pick up a  knack for.  So far, these sports will include cycling, boating, and sailing.  I do not think that I will get drafted by the Boston Bruins anytime soon, but I must say my hockey skills are far more advanced than I thought  they would be for my first time skating.  I can now say there are two hockey players in the family. I have learned that so far, my greatest hockey skill is weaving through the cones. I can say that my first appearance will be memorable because I met some really great people who learned from me and in turn, I learned from them. Today was a terrific day. Until next time, my friends, "Advocate...Educate...and Empower!"

My Reign Begins

I am Nicole Tarzia for those who do not know me.  I am a thirty year old woman with Spastic Cerebral Palsy.  I was lucky enough to be crowned Ms. Wheelchair Massachusetts, 2013 on Saturday, March 2,. 2013.  This day has changed my life because now I feel like I can be a better advocate for individuals who have a disability.  Getting involved in this program has been something I wanted to do for years, so this is a dream come true.

My platform this year is "Advocate, Educate, Empower" especially with the youth population.  I have officially booked my first few appearances of many to come.  There will be disability awareness education for St. Thecla's Parish in Pembroke, Mass. This is very exciting for me.  My title is starting to feel official now that I am booking events.

I would like to share some memories of Saturday so that everyone can understand my joy at the beginning of this journey.  I was preparing for the pageant and advocacy program for many weeks trying to perfect my platform speech for many weeks.  Most of my family members now can recite it  themselves.  I got some amazing advice from a friend who had told me that if I just be myself I will win over many people.  As much as I tried to heed this advice I'm not going to lie to you I was as nervous as nervous could be.  The reason I was nervous I wanted to win this for very unselfish reasons. I know that I can be a really good advocate throughout the state, and that is my main mission.  On a personal note, my late grandfather was also a person who used a wheelchair in his childhood, and he taught me that when you are a person with a disability you should always use it to make the world a better place, so part of my victory was to honor his words of wisdom to me.

Fast forward to crowning, so I do not make this too long, because everyone knows I love to talk about myself, my experiences, my Cerebral Palsy, or just about any topic.  I competed against two other very accomplished, educated, and amazing women so as much as I wanted to win I was not by any means expecting victory.  For those of you who were there at Mass. Hospital School on Saturday I think my knocking down the microphone during my acceptance speech will go down in the unplanned events during crowning of Ms. Wheelchair Massachusetts history.  I can now  admit to you that I am not embarrassed or ashamed because I really let my personality show through.  I look forward to an excellent year and making a difference for people with disabilities across Massachusetts.  For a final thought for this post I want to just express how elated I am to have been passed the torch from our new state coordinator, Patti.  So until next time, my friends, remember Advocate, Educate and Empower.

Is This the End.....or the Beginning?

Yesterday we had our Ms. Wheelchair Massachusetts 2013 Leadership and Advocacy Competition. It was a bittersweet day for me because my year has ended as a titleholder. I am very excited to announce my successor, Nicole Tarzia, as the new Ms. Wheelchair Massachusetts 2013. I wish her congratulations and much love!

I want to use this time to share some thoughts on the amazing year that I had as Ms. Wheelchair Massachusetts 2012. It was truly the best year of my life! To begin as a competitor I had to really reflect on a platform that was my heart and soul and to organize my life and past accomplishments. That in itself was an amazing way to further understand my own identity and personal growth as a woman with a disability.

As the titleholder I was able to spread my platform of Creative Perseverance. To me this means finding creative ways to accomplish your goals and fully participate in a life with great quality. I met many people throughout the state of Massachusetts who I shared these ideas with. I had the opportunity to meet the Mayor of Boston, my State Representative, and various people in many organizations. I was on the pitcher's mound at Fenway Park during the pregame show on Disability Awareness day there and got to see myself on the large screen. I also got to perform an original song at the Putnam Club at Gillette Stadium for Triangle, Incorporated, which is a huge organization assisting people with disabilities to live independently, advocate for themselves, and find employment and leisure activities.

Attending the Ms. Wheelchair America Leadership and Advocacy Competition was a life-changing event for me. I met 27 other state titleholders who shared the same vision as myself but at the same time brought very different gifts to the table. We became instant friends and sisters, along with all the other people that were there from companions to spouses to other state board members to volunteers and on and on and on! Even the staff at the Renaissance Hotel shared our enthusiasm and really got to see what it was like to be a person with a disability living a great life and advocating for and mentoring others. Much to my surprise, I took home the Lifetime Achievement Award!

I have to say the most important thing that stands out to me for my year as Ms. Wheelchair Massachusetts 2012 is thinking about the looks on the faces of young women as they heard me share my life story and dreams and accomplishments. Their faces lit up as they learned that they, too, could turn obstacles into opportunities, go to college, acquire employment, live independently, nurture their creative side and express it, have meaningful relationships and participate fully in life. As the titleholder, it is a constant flow of giving out and getting back in forming lifelong relationships.

I am saying farewell as Ms. Wheelchair Massachusetts 2012 and saying hello again as the Ms. Wheelchair Massachusetts Foundation State Coordinator. Many thanks to the Board of Directors and past State Coordinator Autumn Grant for choosing me and giving me this opportunity.

I have so many people to thank for helping me to make this year it so memorable! Thank you to the judges last year who saw promise in me, thank you to Susan Houston for encouraging me to compete, thank you to Autumn Grant for mentoring and guiding me, and thank you to the Board of Directors and sponsors who made it all possible.

Special thank you to my husband Vinny without whom I never would have competed. He reminded me of gifts and abilities I possess and always encouraged me. He calmed me down when I was nervous about competing and also about doing the best job I could. He filled in all the blanks during events and appearances I attended by getting me there on time, (especially when a PCA did not show up and I had no way to get there nevermind no way to dress up for it!) taking pictures and generally being the wind beneath my wings. I will always love you until forever fades away.

And to many other people who are too numerous to count, thank you for your support and love, thank you for having me at your events and organizations, and thank you for supporting the Ms. Wheelchair Massachusetts Foundation. I am excited about going forward and about our new titleholder Nicole Tarzia and the things she will accomplish this year!

Much love to all!

The Ms. Wheelchair Massachusetts Foundation is pleased to announce that we are accepting nominations for their first annual Little Miss Wheelchair Crowning Ceremony. Applications are due no later than February 4th 2013. To receive an application, email me at mswheelchairmass12@comcast.net. 

1. The child must be between the ages of 5 and 12.

2. She must utilize her wheelchair for 100% of daily mobility.

3. She must have resided in Massachusetts in the six months prior to the competition.

4. She must be able to make a minimum of 6 appearances during her one year term.

5. All nominees will be required to attend a lunch with the current titleholder along with a member of the MWMA board. It will not be a formal judging session but a chance to see how the little girls present and interact in a public setting. After the lunch the titleholder and board member will pick the winner privately and the winner and guardian will be contacted and invited to the crowning ceremony where she will receive her crown.