Raise Your Voice: Succeeding Through Self-Advocacy  

Living with paralysis –– and any disability –– requires a certain amount of self-advocacy as you learn to navigate a world not necessarily designed with your needs in mind. Although at times overwhelming, self-advocacy can be an empowering experience that leads to change for yourself and your community.  

To guide you in your self-advocacy journey, we’ve partnered with the Shepherd Center to bring you a seven-part video series, Raise Your Voice: Succeeding Through Self-Advocacy. Videos offer expert advice and testimonials from community members.  

From exploring the history of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) to navigating healthcare, employment, housing, transportation, and education, these videos provide you with the tools you need to be a successful self-advocate.   

A History of Our Community 

 As a person with a disability, you are part of a unique community with a rich history of self-advocates working to create a more accessible world. In this video, explore the history of disability rights and the progress made in building an inclusive society.

Mastering the Skill of Self-Advocacy 

While self-advocacy can at times be challenging, it can also be an empowering experience that leads to change –– for yourself and your community. This video will identify tools to help you develop a successful, assertive approach to practice self-advocacy in any situation.

View further resources at:

Advocacy & Disability Rights

Become a Self-Advocate

Advocate for Change

Introduction to Advocacy

Protection & Advocacy Systems

ADAPT.org

5 Elements of Successful Advocacy

  
 Navigating Healthcare   

Accessing quality healthcare, whether primary or specialized, presents various challenges for those living with paralysis. In this video, learn how to navigate the healthcare system to ensure you receive the care you need, and gain tools to address challenges along the way.

View further resources at: 

Accessible Medical Healthcare

Access to Medical Care for People with Mobility Disabilities

Medicare, Medicaid, and Other Insurance

Insurance Appeals

Overview of Insurance Options

Women with SCI Resource Videos

Seeking Employment   

This segment will explore the challenges of seeking employment or returning to work as someone living with paralysis. You will hear expert advice from a certified rehabilitation counselor and a vocational specialist to assist you in preparing to enter or re-enter the workplace. 

View further resources at:

Employment for People with Disabilities

Employment for People with Disabilities Factsheet

Vocational Rehabilitation

Pre-Employment Benefits Analysis (scroll halfway down page)

Work and Benefits

Reentering the Workforce After Disability

Protection & Advocacy Systems

Job Accommodations Network