PUSHLiving.com Wheelchair Accessible Living

A fascinating discussion of how a feedback form given by people with disabilities changed how a corporation decided to provide services. It can be so difficult for many with disabilities to find and get fuel for their vehicles independently,

Jennifer is a wheelchair user due to Arthrogryposis residing in Long Beach, CA. She is working as a political consultant /fundraiser to help elect more women of color, ethnicities, and LGBTQ.

We were SO EXCITED to have Jesi Stracham join us for PUSHLiving Podcast #32. Jessi is a wheelchair user who’s adventurous, athletic, capable, and an all around tough girl! She is quite the firecracker and has her plate full with tons of projects. When she’s not directing her foundation Wheel With Me (whose mission is to bridge the gap between inpatient rehabilitation and independent living through activism), she’s training with the US Paralympic developmental curling team, attending school full-time, participating in “Tough Mudder” obstacle courses, and giving health and fitness advice on her popular social media channels. Jesi is also the CEO of her coaching business, Wheel With Me Consulting, which is dedicated to helping individuals reach their life goals and consulting big business on their wheelchair accessibility. When riding passenger on a motorcycle in 2015, an SUV making a U-turn caused an accident that sent Jesi over the vehicle which resulted in her spinal cord injury at T4 and T7, as well as her lungs to be punctured by her broken ribs. Her massive injuries sent her to the brink of life as she coded and was resuscitated, twice. She also sustained a traumatic brain injury, which affects her to this day. Not only has she adjusted to living life in a wheelchair, she also learned how to filter and regulate her emotions, which could sometimes come across as hurtful and aggressive due to her brain trauma. Throughout her recovery she discovered therapy, and has completely shifted her outlook, perception, and most of all, focus. She’s a big believer in learning to approach life with laughter, identifying your passion, pursuing your happiness, and focusing on what you want out of life. Listen to the podcast here: Watch the live podcast here: https://youtu.be/cgbQ8aSJbvg In this podcast, Jesi shares her thoughts and experiences with: The accident that caused her to join the wheelchair lifestyle communityHow therapy was a game-changer for her, and why she highly recommends itWhat influenced her decision to “model in a diaper”Her outlook on bladder control and her remedies for achieving better bladder controlWhy approaching life with laughter makes uncomfortable situations a lot more tolerableHow she prioritizes and focuses to maintain a healthy and happy lifestyleWhat her big picture goals are for the future, and how she plans to achieve themHaving gratitude for her injury, and how appreciating it saved her from herselfThe importance of supporting others (especially in the wheelchair community), and how it benefits you and your lifeHer mantra of “Don’t Compete, Collaborate”, and why she feels it’s important for anyone with an injury to live byDating, both able-bodied men and wheelchair users (as well as her thoughts on “devotees”)The importance of healthy diet and exercise, and how the smallest things can improve your quality of lifeWhat she hopes to teach her audience when she’s speaking to a crowd, and the specific steps they walk away with Jesi’s Diet tips: Try the Whole 30 Easy Diet (Jesi did this for 3 months and lost 20 pounds)Designate a day for meal prep (Jesi does this weekly and preps for 4 days a week)Supplement through the day (Jesi has 5 small meals per day)Eat healthy greens, they are the most important for your bowels, belly, and reducing bloating Jesi’s Daily Diet: Breakfast: Protein shakeLunch: Spinach salad with red onions and protein (Jesi likes it with tofu and steak - she usually has 2 spinach salads in a day)Dinner: Protein with a sweet potato RESOURCES Jesi’s Wheel With Me Facebook Group: Diet & Excercise tips from Jesi Jesi’s Youtube Channel: Diet & Excercise videos from Jesi Jesi’s Instagram: @WheelWithMe Jesi’s Wheel with Me Foundation Jesi’s Website (Where you can buy her workout line - 10% of proceeds go to her foundation) The Untethered Soul book

On this fascinating episode of PUSHLiving Podcast, we had the chance to speak with an inspiring young man that has turned his tragedy into hope for others through his business ReneGait. Daniel Campbell is the Founder and CEO of ReneGait (a company that develops activity-based therapy tools), as well as the inventor of their most prominent product for spinal cord injuries, the Spartan mechanical gait trainer. In 2012, at the age of 20, Daniel was a fitness enthusiast and English major at Augustana College in Illinois, when he became paralyzed (C6-7 complete) in an accident at his fraternity.  After his injury he took a three year break from school and while recovering, he came to terms with his new life, read a massive amount, and became inspired by writers like Carl Sagan and Isaac Asimov. When it was time to go back to school, he decided to change his course of study to engineering, and finished his Bachelors of Science and Engineering degree at Arizona State University in 2018. Listen to the podcast here: Watch the live podcast here: https://youtu.be/GwWQG3V73V0 In this in-depth discussion, Daniel shares his story and explains: How he was injured that fateful night in 2012What influenced his change of course of study from English to EngineeringHis thoughts on rehab and recovery, and what the real expectations should be.The importance of mindset in overcoming the challenges of spinal cord injuryHow he used The Human Refuge concept to utilize the skills and abilities he still hadWhy his pre-injury disciplined lifestyle was extremely useful post-injury during his difficult recoveryThe methods he uses to get himself out of those inevitable periods of sadness and depressionThe game-changing supplement he uses to offset his blood pressure issues caused by his injuryWhy he favors intensity and resistance training over cardio in his workout regimenHow forced use techniques are beneficial to people with spinal cord injuriesThe science behind gait training and how it’s been proven to workWhy he founded ReneGait, and created the Spartan mechanical gait trainerHow he evolved the product from a crude prototype in his garage, to an actual product that could be distributed to customersHis advice on how someone with an idea for a product/service can bring it to fruition RESOURCES ReneGait Website ReneGait Facebook ReneGait Instagram Entrepreneurs with Disabilities United https://pushliving.com/pushliving-wheelchair-lifestyle-videos-biking-for-cardio-upper-body-exercise-and-fresh-air/ https://pushliving.com/pushliving-wheelchair-lifestyle-videos-swimming-for-focus-fitness-and-fun/

The World Health Association reports that 77 million people in the world require a wheelchair, but only 7 million have access to one. Of the 70 million people who do not have access to a wheelchair, 8 million of them are children. These kids are missing school and developing potentially fatal deformities because they don’t have a good wheelchair. Keoke King is working towards changing this. We were delighted to have Keoke join us on PUSHLiving Podcast to discuss the goals of his organization, Participant Assistive Products. Participant makes affordable, easily transportable wheelchairs for children. They’re shaking up the wheelchair market so that everyone, everywhere can participate fully in life. Most of the necessary technology already exists to make this possible, it just needs to be made in a way that is durable and affordable. Keoke’s goal is to use a democratized system with his for-profit corporation to make wheelchairs available to all. Democratizing a product means that it’s not only for the elites and the wealthy, it’s for everyone. Basic wheelchairs are available everywhere in the world, but customized wheelchairs that fit the users’ style, body, and terrain are only available in the US, Europe, and Japan. That’s what Participant is working on. They want to make affordable chairs that perform well in all user’s environments. LISTEN TO THE PODCAST HERE WATCH THE LIVE PODCAST HERE https://youtu.be/LcCX44uEyoQ Listen to our in-depth discussion with Keoke King to learn: How long Participant has been working on their first postural support, tilt & space, pediatric wheelchair product, and when it’s set to launch.The astonishing low price that Participant has been able to manufacture this first product for low-income governments, and how they’ve been able to bring it to the US market at half the price of comparable chairs.How they decided the first product they would create based on the World Health Organization’s identification of 50 high priority products for governments that are starting to provide for people with disability.What makes Participant’s wheelchair different, and how it’s making a difference in the lives of children, and the people who care for them.The advantages of tilt & space designed wheelchairThe benefits of not being a charity, but being a for-profit company.What it means to be a B Corporation, and why it works so well for Participant.How Participant is achieving their status as a company that services the “global community”How their product being made, where it’s being manufactured, and how it is customizable. “For us as product developers, we want users to have choice so we can see what they chose to spend their voucher on. So then we can move more in that direction.” - Keoke King RESOURCES Participant’s Website Participant on Twitter Participant on Facebook Participant on Instagram Keoke King on LinkedIn Participant on WeFunder.com No Pity book Inclusion Done Right: How to Make Sure Your Brand Doesn't Miss the Mark

It was our absolute pleasure to welcome the man behind an incredible concept and worldwide company, Kerry Renaud, to this episode of the PUSHLiving Podcast. Kerry is the CEO of Scootaround, and their mission is to help individuals with disabilities, and their families, gain the freedom and mobility independence that they crave when they need it the most. They are truly making the world a better place. Deborah testing out her WHILL at home The company was founded in response to the need of a loving daughter whose father needed a mobility device when they went on a vacation together. Listen to the podcast to hear the full story, but it’s a heart-warming tale about recognizing a need and acting on it out of love. LISTEN TO THE PODCAST HERE WATCH THE LIVE PODCAST HERE https://youtu.be/AopFs7uGaRc Listen to this compelling podcast to learn: The story behind why Scootaround was founded.How Kerry got involved with Scootaround and eventually became the CEO.The new, high-tech, powered mobility devices available from Scootaround thanks to their merger with Japanese wheelchair designer/manufacturer, WHILL.Why the merger of Scootaround and WHILL is such a great pairing, and how their beliefs align to create a strong collective vision.How the Scootaround wheelchair rental process works for vacations.Kerry explains the benefits you can expect from Scootaround mobility device rentals: ease of use, maneuverability, and an extremely small footprint.Deborah shares her personal success story from the PUSHLiving Travel Ireland trip, where she utilized the WHILL from Scootaround.Scootaround’s belief in MASS (Mobility As a Service) and what that means to their wide range of customers.How Scootaround is giving passengers independent mobility at the airport.Average cost per day for a Scootaround wheelchair rental in North America. https://youtu.be/h4E-viy00uQ Deborah testing out her WHILL wheelchair before the Ireland trip Deborah's WHILL being loaded onto the airplane Deborah in Ireland, utilizing her WHILL RESOURCES Scootaround Website WHILL website Facebook: Scootaround and WHILL Twitter: Scootaround and WHILL Instagram: Scootaround and WHILL For information about our upcoming PUSHLiving Travel Italy trip, email us here: ContactUs@PUSHLiving.com For information about our upcoming Women On Wheels Conference & Retreat, click here. RELATED ARTICLES Conferences, Conventions, Concerts, and Festivals: Fun, Educational, Inspiring… and Accessible? WHILL Announces Autonomous Wheelchair Trials a Success PUSHLiving Podcast #26: Wheelchair Travel Guide for Yearning Travelers with Lilly Longshore PUSHLiving Ireland 2019: Day 4-7 Waterford, Kinsale, and Cork PUSHLiving Ireland 2019: Day 8-10 Killarney & Ring of Kerry PUSHLiving Ireland 2019: Day 11-14 Galway, Kylemore Abbey, and Cliffs of Moher Wheelchair Travel: Cuba Libre? How Free is Cuba for Travelers on Wheels? Wheelchair Air Travel – “Quad” Style Disability Tour Operators Deliver #AccessibleTravel

Lindsey Freysinger is a German/Austrian blonde haired, blued eyed beauty who became a pediatric nurse at the ambitiously young age of 21.  She was doing her residency in Texas to pursue a Masters degree in Anesthesia, when she was injured in a car accident that led her to become a C-5 Incomplete Quadriplegic. This tragic event occurred in 2013, just three months prior to her completing her Masters degree. After her injury, she planned on returning to nursing, but found that there was not adequate accommodations for someone with a severe disability in the nursing field. So, she decided to change course and get a Masters degree in Nurse Leadership instead. She is now pursuing her doctorate in Nurse Leadership, with a focus on educating healthcare providers on caring for people with disabilities. “I was horrified at what, as a nurse, I didn’t know about healthcare for people with disabilities” Lindsey aspires to help people with disabilities, like our PUSHLiving audience, on living a life of wellness through what she calls “the social determinates of health”. This includes not only the body, but also the spirit. She hopes to help others live a life of wholeness through sharing the importance of social well-being, having a life purpose, connecting to your community, obtaining an education, and earning an income (if desired). LISTEN TO THE PODCAST HERE WATCH THE LIVE PODCAST HERE https://youtu.be/CFPvUSdk4iA What we cover in this intimate and health-focused podcast: Lindsey shares the story of her accident, and her experience with dating during recovery.Lindsey discusses dating with her disability, and if it’s had an affect on her ability to be intimate.The exciting love story behind how Lindsey met and fell in love with her husband, Mike.How Lindsey made the decision to do a boudoir photoshoot with her husband, and her goal behind having her personal, intimate photos displayed for the world to see.Lindsey’s thoughts and plans on having children, and how she earns an income.The advocacy work in healthcare that Lindsey is doing, and what she hopes to achieve through it.Both Deborah and Lindsey share some of the injury-related health issues they’ve overcome, and how they found ways to prevent them.With her nursing expertise, Lindsey shares her top health tips for people with disabilities. Photos by April Bickford RESOURCES Triumph Foundation Wheelchair Accessible Farming and Gardening article Trailrider Accessible Hiking Review article Women On Wheels Empowerment Retreat & Conference 2020 If you have a health/wellness-related question for Lindsey, please email us at ContactUs@PushLiving.com with subject line: “Ask Lindsey” and we will provide Lindsey’s answers in an upcoming PUSHLiving post. If you’re interested in helping Lindsey with her healthcare advocacy work, please contact her directly at lindseyfreysinger@gmail.com to be considered for her survey research. Follow Lindsey on her social media channels: Facebook and Instagram

Rosemarie Rossetti has a PhD in Agricultural Education, an extensive background in training and consulting, and has served on the faculty of Ohio State University teaching public speaking. When biking with her husband 21 years ago, a 7,000 pound tree fell on her leaving her permanently disabled with T12-L1 incomplete paraplegia, and her life’s course changed dramatically. She embraced her new identity as a person with a disability, and began using her skills in training, consulting, and public speaking to become an expert and start advocating for disability inclusion and universal design. Rosemarie speaking at TEDx Since her life changing experience, she has built her personal home in Columbus, OH using the latest and greatest techniques in accessible design, she's enjoyed 24 years of marriage with her husband, and has become a successful speaker and consultant for inclusivity, with a specialty on inclusive conferences/events. What you’ll learn from Rosemarie in this intriguing podcast: How to give the gift of inclusive design to facilities that are not in compliance.How meeting planners and corporations/groups can ensure their conferences and events are inclusive to all attendees.Her experience with building the #1 top rated home for universal design in America, and the certifications she had to obtain for the home to gain that status.How she maintains her 7 year old home, and her favorite design features that make her daily chores much easier.What she does to stay healthy at 66, and keep her marriage of 24 years alive.What it’s like to work with your husband from home, and what their daily schedule consists of. RESOURCES: Rosemarie’s Professional Speaking website: www.RosemarieSpeaks.com Rosemarie’s Home website: www.udll.com Rosemarie’s Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rosemarie.rossetti Rosemarie’s Home Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/universaldesignlivinglaboratory/ Rosemarie’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/topmotivationalspeaker/ Rosemarie’s Twitter: @RRossetti Rosemarie’s YouTube: https://yt.rosemariespeaks.com Home Elevator article: https://pushliving.com/stylish-elevators-bring-independence-home-for-wheelchair-users/ Tempur-Pedic Mattress and Power Base - Tempur Advanced ERGO System: https://www.tempurpedic.com/search/?query=ergo+system WHILL wheelchair: https://whill.us/ https://pushliving.com/why-a-home-elevator-was-the-perfect-fit/

Lilly Longshore has done much in her 57 years, 17 of which have been on wheels. After a long and successful career as a Waste Water Environmental Engineer, she is now retired and returning to her first love, becoming a travel writer. Lilly spent time in the Peace Corps as a young woman, speaks multiple languages, and is also the founder of LillyLongshore.com. SloveniaBlarney Castle Gardens, IrelandInverness, ScotlandFatima, Prtugal Lilly has just finished her personal memoir, depicting her life not only as a wheelchair user, but as a legally blind woman, and mother of a legally blind son who suffers from the same degenerative retina disease that she has. Lilly provides valuable insight into how someone can start their adventure on wheels, as well as inspires, educates, and provides a little courage to those who are seeking to PUSH towards TRAVEL! AmsterdamSintra, PortugalKinderdijk, NetherlandsBruges, BelgiumGardens at Blarney Castle, Ireland What you’ll learn from this invigorating and exciting podcast: How Lilly became a wheelchair user after a freak fall at home.Lilly’s personal travel style and preferences, and why she loves to travel.Her experiences with traveling alone, with a companion, or with a group tour.The qualities to look for in a tour provider, and what red flags to look out for.The advantages/disadvantages of private tours vs. personal tours.The pros and cons of using a manual chair vs. a powered chair when traveling, and what else you should travel with.Lilly's upcoming trips and the best (and most difficult) cities/countries to travel to in a wheelchair.Lilly’s top travel tips, and the obstacles we still face in accessible travel Deborah Davis with her WHILL wheelchair in Ireland 2019 SHOW NOTES/RESOURCES: The Untethered Soul book by Michael Singer Whill/Scootaround Wheelchair Trip Advisor Lilly's Website: https://lillylongshore.com/ Follow Lilly on Twitter and Facebook

Anna is a model with a disability in her early 30’s who uses a power chair to roll through her ever-fascinating life in her new home. Read more!

Anna is a model with a disability in her early 30’s who uses a power chair to roll through her ever-fascinating life in her new home. Read more!

Anna is a model with a disability in her early 30’s who uses a power chair to roll through her ever-fascinating life in her new home. Read more!

Anna is a model with a disability in her early 30’s who uses a power chair to roll through her ever-fascinating life in her new home. Read more!

Here is what you will learn about in today's podcast. Becoming an Entrepreneur and learning all the ins & outs of running a business; The Journey to Advanced Freedom and the Handi-Pac; Living with MS; Family & relationships; Kickstarter Campaign

We are excited to welcome Chris Norton and his wife beautiful wife Emily. How did Chris become part of the disability community? Listen to our podcast!

PUSHliving was honored to host Matt Bellman, Matt, a Ph.D in Engineering, is a part of the Florida based team - QUIX. With his partner Peter Neuhaus, Matt is one of the 5 Worldwide finalists of the Toyota Mobility Unlimited Challenge.

Kristina discusses her dreams to create a Fully Wheelchair Accessible Holistic Lifestyle Retreat in New Mexico. Today she discusses obstacles to that dreams and how to keep pushing forward from defeat. She also announces her Woman on Wheels retreat in October 2018!

Anthony is fed-up and tired of traveling and reserving wheelchair accessible “ADA rooms” only to find the beds were raised up in the newest designer fashion…and he couldn't get on them.

Anthony is fed-up and tired of traveling and reserving wheelchair accessible “ADA rooms” only to find the beds were raised up in the newest designer fashion…and he couldn’t get on them.

When you ask Scott Chesney what the one word he would like to be described as is, his answer is....Real We would add Energetic, Emotionally Generous, and a Man of Deep Character. A family man with a strong marriage to his wife of __ year, a father to a teenage son and daughter, a spokesman for the wheelchair propelling device Rowheels. Most importantly and why we wanted to introduce Scott to our PUSHLiving audience is his work for 17 years as President and CEO of Scott Chesney LLC providing Motivational speaking and life coaching as well as consulting services.   So get ready to gain some incredible knowledge and insights on living your best life from Mr. Scott Chesney, How would you describe your emotional /physical recovery process? Why and how did you decide on speaking and coaching as a career? What do you attribute to your success in life and coaching? Do you recommend this as a career for other wheelers? What makes you feel energized, passionate these days? Tell us about your family, daughter, and son ---via in vitro fertilization. How are you recovering and dealing with secondary conditions? Can you tell us about the audiences who you speak to, their perspective on disability? Have you seen any shift in thinking over the last 25 years? What do you feel are the greatest challenges we face as a community? Health - your secrets? Links: http://www.scottchesney.com/ Scott Chesney Surfing

When you ask Scott Chesney what the one word he would like to be described as is, his answer is....Real We would add Energetic, Emotionally Generous, and a Man of Deep Character. A family man with a strong marriage to his wife of __ year, a father to a teenage son and daughter, a spokesman for the wheelchair propelling device Rowheels. Most importantly and why we wanted to introduce Scott to our PUSHLiving audience is his work for 17 years as President and CEO of Scott Chesney LLC providing Motivational speaking and life coaching as well as consulting services.   So get ready to gain some incredible knowledge and insights on living your best life from Mr. Scott Chesney, How would you describe your emotional /physical recovery process? Why and how did you decide on speaking and coaching as a career? What do you attribute to your success in life and coaching? Do you recommend this as a career for other wheelers? What makes you feel energized, passionate these days? Tell us about your family, daughter, and son ---via in vitro fertilization. How are you recovering and dealing with secondary conditions? Can you tell us about the audiences who you speak to, their perspective on disability? Have you seen any shift in thinking over the last 25 years? What do you feel are the greatest challenges we face as a community? Health - your secrets? Links: http://www.scottchesney.com/ Scott Chesney Surfing

I am hoping that hearing Kristina's story and learning about her dream will show you how to listen to your own soul…and find your own path. If you are a fellow dream follower, you will find her story to be enriching and invigorating as well.

I am hoping that hearing Kristina’s story and learning about her dream will show you how to listen to your own soul…and find your own path. If you are a fellow dream follower, you will find her story to be enriching and invigorating as well.

“The Accessible Icon Project is an ongoing work of design activism. It starts with a graphic icon, free for use in the public domain, and continues its work as a collaboration among people with disabilities and their allies toward a more accessible world.”

“The Accessible Icon Project is an ongoing work of design activism. It starts with a graphic icon, free for use in the public domain, and continues its work as a collaboration among people with disabilities and their allies toward a more accessible world.”

So what happens when you are a dancer, professionally or in training and you suddenly and unexpectedly become paralyzed? Well, that is the story of our next guest, who went on to fulfill a destiny that will change how many view people with disabilities and often, how they view themselves through the power of dance.

So what happens when you are a dancer, professionally or in training and you suddenly and unexpectedly become paralyzed? Well, that is the story of our next guest, who went on to fulfill a destiny that will change how many view people with disabilities and often, how they view themselves through the power of dance.

Gina, a C-5/6 quadriplegic, describes herself as a “politically incorrect foodie who is an equal opportunity offender" and while some may not agree with her robust and impassioned stance on issues, she has certainly earned the right to them.

Gina, a C-5/6 quadriplegic, describes herself as a “politically incorrect foodie who is an equal opportunity offender" and while some may not agree with her robust and impassioned stance on issues, she has certainly earned the right to them.

You will learn the powerful story of how Jennifer Lynn Adams came to be raised in her adoptive family to think nothing was impossible, yet how this innocent and carefree little girl then faced the most brutal bullying once she was part of the public school system in middle school. How this and darker and deeply painful incidences to come affected her psyche and physical health and how she has found the strength to use these experiences to fight back, not only for her self-esteem that others tried to take from her but for others who may find themselves in this situation.

You will learn the powerful story of how Jennifer Lynn Adams came to be raised in her adoptive family to think nothing was impossible, yet how this innocent and carefree little girl then faced the most brutal bullying once she was part of the public school system in middle school. How this and darker and deeply painful incidences to come affected her psyche and physical health and how she has found the strength to use these experiences to fight back, not only for her self-esteem that others tried to take from her but for others who may find themselves in this situation.

Ethan provides raw and deeply personal revelations about his frame of mind after the accident that will move you and teach a powerful lesson on overcoming and accepting oneself. He also gives us an inside look into his impressive story of achieving great success in business, and how he has finally learned the important balance between work and home life.

Ethan provides raw and deeply personal revelations about his frame of mind after the accident that will move you and teach a powerful lesson on overcoming and accepting oneself. He also gives us an inside look into his impressive story of achieving great success in business, and how he has finally learned the important balance between work and home life.

This uniquely courageous woman has a story to tell, a story in the making, and a future that is something we will all want to bookmark and follow. Not only is she drop dead gorgeous, she is the classic girl next door-sweet, sexy, smart, and quite the package! She has a smile that brightens up the room and she is every sailor's and soldier's dream. She is a girl's girl too. The kind of girl that would be voted sorority president and will no doubt one day be voted PTA president too. This truly remarkable lady has made a decision that defies what most feel is practical, plausible or even possible. She decided that she wanted a baby and didn't need a man or an able body to get one. She has a network, support, pure determination, and a well-researched plan to become a Mother at 32. Did I mention she is a quadriplegic? And Single? This is a planned pregnancy, one that was chosen and created with the assistance of a sperm donor and Artificial Fertilization. Her story is a true testament to what can be achieved by applying an intellectual and creative approach to overcoming what physical limitations one may have, and then making what most would think impossible to be simply doable. Listen to her describe the harrowing story of her injury, how she is doing dating again, and how she manages her now 16-month-old baby. Read More in our previous article about Jen pre-baby!

This uniquely courageous woman has a story to tell, a story in the making, and a future that is something we will all want to bookmark and follow. Not only is she drop dead gorgeous, she is the classic girl next door-sweet, sexy, smart, and quite the package! She has a smile that brightens up the room and she is every sailor's and soldier's dream. She is a girl's girl too. The kind of girl that would be voted sorority president and will no doubt one day be voted PTA president too. This truly remarkable lady has made a decision that defies what most feel is practical, plausible or even possible. She decided that she wanted a baby and didn't need a man or an able body to get one. She has a network, support, pure determination, and a well-researched plan to become a Mother at 32. Did I mention she is a quadriplegic? And Single? This is a planned pregnancy, one that was chosen and created with the assistance of a sperm donor and Artificial Fertilization. Her story is a true testament to what can be achieved by applying an intellectual and creative approach to overcoming what physical limitations one may have, and then making what most would think impossible to be simply doable. Listen to her describe the harrowing story of her injury, how she is doing dating again, and how she manages her now 16-month-old baby. Read More in our previous article about Jen pre-baby!

Tricia Downing is a woman who is driven, classy, accomplished, and looks to demonstrate the concept of "mental toughness" to help others achieve great things. Not only a Paralympian athlete she is a speaker, author ("Cycle of Hope"), and a creator of many worthwhile projects. Her projects include: She's Got Grit TV - A unique online show consisting of 3 minute episodes about female athletes with disabilities who compete at the highest levels. Camp Discovery - A 2 1/2 day camp for woman who are full-time wheelchair users. Tricia was injured on September 17, 2000, when a car hit her while she was cycling as a part of her rigorous training to compete in cycling events. Up until then, she had competed in 18 events in 22 days across the country as a competitive road and track cyclist. Tricia shares her personal story, and you will learn: What has been the draw for her before her accident and now to sports and athletics. Her best advice to stay healthy and injury free. From an athletes' perspective, how one trains your mind to be strong and persevere. Some advice for our readers on how to gain the discipline she has mastered in sports and life. What she attributes her success to and what drives her. Other than her accident, the other areas she has needed mental toughness to overcome challenges. The challenges she hears from others that we need to address as a community of people with disabilities. The discrimination she's experienced as a woman in relationships and business due to her disability. What we can do to overcome discrimination for ourselves and others. Camp Discovery: When it was founded and how participants get selected to attend. You can learn more at: http://triciadowning.com/ tricia@triciadowning.com +1 (303) 358-2768

Tricia Downing is a woman who is driven, classy, accomplished, and looks to demonstrate the concept of "mental toughness" to help others achieve great things. Not only a Paralympian athlete she is a speaker, author ("Cycle of Hope"), and a creator of many worthwhile projects. Her projects include: She's Got Grit TV - A unique online show consisting of 3 minute episodes about female athletes with disabilities who compete at the highest levels. Camp Discovery - A 2 1/2 day camp for woman who are full-time wheelchair users. Tricia was injured on September 17, 2000, when a car hit her while she was cycling as a part of her rigorous training to compete in cycling events. Up until then, she had competed in 18 events in 22 days across the country as a competitive road and track cyclist. Tricia shares her personal story, and you will learn: What has been the draw for her before her accident and now to sports and athletics. Her best advice to stay healthy and injury free. From an athletes' perspective, how one trains your mind to be strong and persevere. Some advice for our readers on how to gain the discipline she has mastered in sports and life. What she attributes her success to and what drives her. Other than her accident, the other areas she has needed mental toughness to overcome challenges. The challenges she hears from others that we need to address as a community of people with disabilities. The discrimination she's experienced as a woman in relationships and business due to her disability. What we can do to overcome discrimination for ourselves and others. Camp Discovery: When it was founded and how participants get selected to attend. You can learn more at: http://triciadowning.com/ tricia@triciadowning.com +1 (303) 358-2768

Sabrina has become a Miami Beach Celebrity as this powerhouse beauty has raised the awareness of the value of inclusive communities with her many projects.  First, her Foundation, having spent 10 years raising money for SCI research, has now also spearheaded an inclusive playground and her infamous Sabrina's Beach Project. This has opened the world of sun and sand to those in the community and tourists around the world who needed access to this gorgeous destination beach in wheelchairs or mobility devices. You will want to learn more about her work as a certified life coach (with a personal impromptu coaching session with our Host!), and now a Realtor who feels her life has come full circle as she has found that gratifying space where she can be both financially successful and help others in the process. We will share how she can assist those who want to get out of the cold and find rentals and homes that will meet their specific needs. Sabrina, a 25-year post-SCI thriver, from an age 15 Motor Vehicle accident with a c 3-4-5 injury, who now functions at a level C-6-7, graduated with a double major in communications/advertising and Phycology from the University of Miami. Want to visit Sabrina's Beach in Miami? Join us for the Women on Wheels Empowerment Retreat & Conference 2020 in May! On day 4, we'll be taking part in an adapted beach experience by the Sabrina Cohen Foundation. Links: Realestate:http://www.sabrinacohenliving.comhttp://www.sabrinacohenhomes.com/about/ Foundation:http://www.sabrinacohenfoundation.org Personal/Life Coaching: http://www.sabrinacohen.com

Sabrina has become a Miami Beach Celebrity as this powerhouse beauty has raised the awareness of the value of inclusive communities with her many projects.  First, her Foundation, having spent 10 years raising money for SCI research, has now also spearheaded an inclusive playground and her infamous Sabrina's Beach Project. This has opened the world of sun and sand to those in the community and tourists around the world who needed access to this gorgeous destination beach in wheelchairs or mobility devices. You will want to learn more about her work as a certified life coach (with a personal impromptu coaching session with our Host!), and now a Realtor who feels her life has come full circle as she has found that gratifying space where she can be both financially successful and help others in the process. We will share how she can assist those who want to get out of the cold and find rentals and homes that will meet their specific needs. Sabrina, a 25-year post-SCI thriver, from an age 15 Motor Vehicle accident with a c 3-4-5 injury, who now functions at a level C-6-7, graduated with a double major in communications/advertising and Phycology from the University of Miami. Want to visit Sabrina's Beach in Miami? Join us for the Women on Wheels Empowerment Retreat & Conference 2020 in May! On day 4, we'll be taking part in an adapted beach experience by the Sabrina Cohen Foundation. Links: Realestate:http://www.sabrinacohenliving.comhttp://www.sabrinacohenhomes.com/about/ Foundation:http://www.sabrinacohenfoundation.org Personal/Life Coaching: http://www.sabrinacohen.com

If you are tired of people parking illegally, and we KNOW YOU ARE! This empowering interview with Mack Marsh of ParkingMobility.com will give you all you need to know to learn how you can take into your hands, the solution: awareness, enforcement, and education. 15 Years of work has gone into this app that is available to download on the Parking Mobility webpage, iTunes or Google Play for Android. This enables you and your community volunteers to document and send the photos of violator whose vehicles are parked illegally. Mack is a C-6 complete quadriplegic from a swimming pool dive, a graduate of New Orleans's University with a degree in Business, a proud father of two boys 16 and 20, and currently divorced and living in Austin, TX (take note single ladies!) You can reach Mack at 512-981-9628.

If you are tired of people parking illegally, and we KNOW YOU ARE! This empowering interview with Mack Marsh of ParkingMobility.com will give you all you need to know to learn how you can take into your hands, the solution: awareness, enforcement, and education. 15 Years of work has gone into this app that is available to download on the Parking Mobility webpage, iTunes or Google Play for Android. This enables you and your community volunteers to document and send the photos of violator whose vehicles are parked illegally. Mack is a C-6 complete quadriplegic from a swimming pool dive, a graduate of New Orleans's University with a degree in Business, a proud father of two boys 16 and 20, and currently divorced and living in Austin, TX (take note single ladies!) You can reach Mack at 512-981-9628.

Ali Ingersoll is a delightful and beautiful young woman who is famous for her China Quad Diaries where she documented her fascinating trek to China for spinal surgery that would not be attempted in the United States.

Ali Ingersoll is a delightful and beautiful young woman who is famous for her China Quad Diaries where she documented her fascinating trek to China for spinal surgery that would not be attempted in the United States.

Michelle Hernandez, PhD earned her doctorate in Clinical Psychology in 2011. As a Latina with childhood Rheumatoid Arthritis, which now requires the use of a wheelchair, Michelle has become a successful speaker discussing real life topics such as culture, prejudice, and overcoming adversity in a discriminating society.

Michelle Hernandez, PhD earned her doctorate in Clinical Psychology in 2011. As a Latina with childhood Rheumatoid Arthritis, which now requires the use of a wheelchair, Michelle has become a successful speaker discussing real life topics such as culture, prejudice, and overcoming adversity in a discriminating society.

ADA Legal Eagle gives us the inside view of how the Law works and how you can best insure your rights under the law. Also, discussed the new #DroptheHighTops campaign for more inclusive seating in restaurant and bars.

ADA Legal Eagle gives us the inside view of how the Law works and how you can best insure your rights under the law. Also, discussed the new #DroptheHighTops campaign for more inclusive seating in restaurant and bars.

Bill is a thought leader on Inclusive travel and shares a new perspective on how this important and economically viable market of travelers with a disability can best be served. Whether you are a person who loves to travel or a travel provider, you will not want to miss this insight.

Bill is a thought leader on Inclusive travel and shares a new perspective on how this important and economically viable market of travelers with a disability can best be served. Whether you are a person who loves to travel or a travel provider, you will not want to miss this insight.

Sam, a LA Native, and paraplegic since 1991 is a powerful first interview that set the tone for the type of depth, insight and real talk that you can come to expect on PUSHLiving’s Podcast. Sam talks sex, marriage, communication and building on achievements to get out of a rut.

Sam, a LA Native, and paraplegic since 1991 is a powerful first interview that set the tone for the type of depth, insight and real talk that you can come to expect on PUSHLiving's Podcast. Sam talks sex, marriage, communication and building on achievements to get out of a rut.