I have been living with a disability since I was born. I have spina bifida, a condition that affects the development of the spine and the nerves. As a result, I have limited mobility and sensation in my lower body, and I use a wheelchair to get around.

Growing up with a disability was not easy. I faced many challenges and barriers in my life, such as:

• Bullying and teasing from other kids who didn’t understand or accept my difference.
• Inaccessible environments and facilities that made it hard for me to participate in activities or access services.
• Low expectations and stereotypes from some teachers, employers and others who doubted my abilities or potential.
• Health complications and surgeries that affected my physical and mental wellbeing.

But despite these difficulties, I also had many positive experiences and opportunities, such as:

• Supportive family and friends who loved me unconditionally and encouraged me to pursue my dreams.
• Inspiring role models and mentors who showed me what was possible for people with disabilities.
• Access to education and training that helped me develop my skills and knowledge.
• Involvement in sports, arts, advocacy and other hobbies that gave me joy and purpose.

Through my journey with disability, I learned a lot about myself and the world. I learned to:

• Accept myself and my disability as part of who I am.
• Advocate for my rights and needs, and speak up against discrimination and injustice.
• Adapt to different situations and challenges, and find creative solutions.
• Appreciate the diversity and beauty of human beings, and celebrate our similarities and differences.

I also learned that disability is not a tragedy or a limitation. It is a natural part of life that can enrich our perspectives and experiences. Disability is not something to be pitied or feared, but something to be respected and valued.

I am proud to be a person with a disability. I am proud of what I have achieved and what I can contribute to society. I am proud of being part of a vibrant and diverse community of people with disabilities who are making a difference in the world.

My journey with disability is not over. It is an ongoing process of learning, growing and evolving. I don’t know what the future holds, but I know that whatever comes my way, I will face it with courage, resilience and optimism.

I hope that by sharing my story, I can inspire others to see disability in a new light. Disability is not a problem to be fixed, but a possibility to be explored. Disability is not a weakness to be hidden, but a strength to be celebrated. Disability is not an obstacle to be overcome, but an opportunity to be embraced. Disability is not something that defines me, but something that enriches me. Disability is part of my journey, but not my destination. Disability is part of my identity, but not my entirety. Disability is part of me, but not all of me.

I am Samantha, and this is my journey with disability.