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3 episodes with kevan chandler
2 episodes with kevan chandler
2 episodes with kevan chandler
2 episodes with kevan chandler
2 episodes with kevan chandler
2 episodes with kevan chandler
It was a joy to chat recently with authors Kevan Chandler (author of We Carry Kevan) and Joe Sutphin (author of Little Pilgrim's Progress and Tumbleweed Thompson)! We discussed their creative journeys, personal growth, and the pursuit of calling in the world of writing. From overcoming challenges to embracing faith, creativity, and the unpredictable paths of life, both Kevan and Joe share some valuable lessons God has taught them over the years. Find show notes and full transcript here: https://www.humilityanddoxology.com/joe-sutphin-kevan-chandler/Get Joe and Kevan's books here: https://www.amazon.com/shop/humilityanddoxology/list/2ATDTJPDM147K?ref_=aip_sf_list_spv_ofs_mixed_dWhile you're here, would you take a minute to leave a rating and review in your podcast app? Send me a screenshot of your review and I'll send you my Abolition of Man webinar for FREE! Just email me your review screenshot at Amy@HumilityandDoxology.comJoin Made2Homeschool for exclusive content and community: HumilityandDoxology.com/M2H https://www.made2homeschool.com/a/2147529243/KNcPGL3tFREE Homeschool Planner Calendar: https://www.humilityanddoxology.com/free-homeschool-planner-calendar/Year of Memory Work: https://humilityanddoxology.com/year-of-memory-workFollow Humility and Doxology Online:Blog https://www.humilityanddoxology.com/Facebook https://www.facebook.com/HumilityAndDoxologyInstagram http://instagram.com/humilityanddoxologyYouTube: YouTube.com/humilityanddoxologyAmy's Favorites: https://humilityanddoxology.com/favoritesThis podcast and description contains affiliate links.
This episode of Reading with Your Kids is all about celebrating some truly exceptional people and their stories. First up we meet Kevan Chandler, the driving force behind the nonprofit "We Carry Kevan." Kevan shares an incredible story about how he and his friends carried him in a backpack during a trip to Europe, and how that sparked the creation of their organization. They make these special backpacks to help families of kids with disabilities get out and explore the world together. It's all about building community and friendship, which is so inspiring. Next, we chat with Lindsey Larson about her picture book "Meeting Exceptional Friends." Lindsey wrote this book to help teach kids about human differences and the importance of acceptance. She's got some great insights on how books can empower children and foster understanding, even for parents and caregivers. Throughout the episode, we dive into the challenges of traveling and integrating with a disability, and the power of asking questions and inviting people into your life. These guests are doing such important work to break down barriers and bring people together. I walked away from this conversation feeling motivated to be more open, curious, and supportive of the exceptional people in my own life. Definitely check out these books and resources - they're sure to spark some meaningful discussions with your kids. Click here to visit our website – www.ReadingWithYourKids.com Follow Us On Social Media Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/readingwithyourkids Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/readingwithyourkids/ X - https://x.com/jedliemagic LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/reading-with-your-kids-podcast/ Please consider leaving a review of this episode and the podcast on whatever app you are listening on, it really helps!
Today on Exploring the Marketplace, Shawn Bolz and Bob Hasson sit down with Kevan Chandler, a remarkable storyteller and advocate who has redefined life with spinal muscular atrophy. Diagnosed with this rare neuromuscular disease, Kevan shares his incredible journey of faith, friendship, and resilience. In 2016, Kevan's friends carried him across Europe for three weeks in a backpack, leaving his wheelchair behind—a transformative experience that revealed the power of love and community in action.Kevan, a TEDx and Google speaker, is also the founder of the nonprofit We Carry Kevan and a passionate writer. He opens up about the profound ways God has worked in his life, from miraculous provisions for his ministry to moments of personal growth and faith in the face of challenges.Tune in to hear Kevan's inspiring story, his reflections on relying on God's strength in his career and calling, and the lessons he's learned about grace, love, and walking out his faith in everyday life. You won't want to miss this heartwarming and powerful episode!RSS: https://bit.ly/3Q0wnPoiTunes: http://apple.co/2A6QJRzGoogle Podcast: http://bit.ly/2L3dvRaSpotify: https://bit.ly/3U0ANGTCome join me on my Social Media:Facebook: ShawnbolzTwitter: ShawnBolzInstagram: ShawnBolzTikTok: ShawnBolzYouTube: ShawnBolzofficialYouTube: Exploring the Marketplace with Shawn and BobTake a class or attend an event at our Spiritual Growth Academy: Our 4 week classes and monthly events are designed to do the heavy lifting in your spiritual growth journey. Learn how to hear from God, stay spiritually healthy, and impact the world around you: https://bit.ly/3B2luDROur resources: resources@bolzministries.comOur office: info@bolzministries.com
Join host Jonathan Pitts as he interviews Kevan Chandler, founder of "We Carry Kevan," delving into the extraordinary journey of resilience and friendship. Diagnosed with spinal muscular atrophy, Kevan redefined limits by embarking on a life-changing adventure across Europe, carried by friends for three weeks. In this episode, Kevan shares his personal journey from a supportive upbringing to becoming a beacon of inspiration as a writer and speaker. Discover how his unique approach to life, creativity, and community empowers individuals with disabilities and transforms challenges into beautiful journeys. Whether you're seeking motivation or insight into living fully, this episode promises valuable lessons and inspiration. Tune in now for an inspiring conversation that will leave you reflecting on your own decisions and the power of community.
Kevan Chandler founded ‘We Carry Kevan,' a non-profit group focused on redefining accessibility. He also has the book and children's version ‘We Carry Kevan' available.We Carry Kevan: https://wecarrykevan.org‘We Carry Kevan' Book: https://shop.wecarrykevan.org/collections/the-wck-librarywww.worldviewmatters.tv© FreedomProject 2024
Subscriber-only episodeOn today's PoM Podcast episode, I got the opportunity to speak with Kevan Chandler of “We Carry Kevan.” Kevan Chandler was born with Spinal Muscular Atrophy and has spent the entirety of his life overcoming extraordinary challenges. And doing extraordinary things. How? Well, he sees possibilities and not limitations. And he has an extraordinary community of friends.For example, a few years ago, when Kevan dreamt of climbing mountains and seeing Europe, these friends just said 'yes'. Ditch the wheelchair, they said. We'll carry you across Europe. So, they built a special backpack, and they did.Wanting others to be able to experience what he had, Kevan came home and launched a non-profit to create more of the backpacks and provide them to people in need all over the world. And what I'm hoping is that you'll help me connect people with his story and non-profit, 'We Carry Kevan'.To learn more: https://wecarrykevan.org/To get more PoM Podcast content and join a global community of men who help support PoM join The Herd: https://www.thepursuitofmanliness.com/join-the-herd Join Tribe XV by securing your spot today: https://www.thepursuitofmanliness.com/gear/p/tribe-xv Build your own local Tribe with Tribe Builder: https://www.thepursuitofmanliness.com/gear/p/tribe-builderRegister for our 2025 Fall Men's Retreat: https://www.thepursuitofmanliness.com/gear/p/2025-mens-retreatThis podcast is sponsored by Dark Water Woodwork. Dark Water Woodwork is offering a discount code exclusively for the podcast listeners. Use the discount code "PSALM824" to save 15% off of your next beard oil purchase. https://www.darkwaterkc.com#Podcast #ChristianMen #IronSharpensIron #Interview
On today's PoM Podcast episode, I got the opportunity to speak with Kevan Chandler of “We Carry Kevan.” Kevan Chandler was born with Spinal Muscular Atrophy and has spent the entirety of his life overcoming extraordinary challenges. And doing extraordinary things. How? Well, he sees possibilities and not limitations. And he has an extraordinary community of friends.For example, a few years ago, when Kevan dreamt of climbing mountains and seeing Europe, these friends just said 'yes'. Ditch the wheelchair, they said. We'll carry you across Europe. So, they built a special backpack, and they did.Wanting others to be able to experience what he had, Kevan came home and launched a non-profit to create more of the backpacks and provide them to people in need all over the world. And what I'm hoping is that you'll help me connect people with his story and non-profit, 'We Carry Kevan'.To learn more: https://wecarrykevan.org/To get more PoM Podcast content and join a global community of men who help support PoM join The Herd: https://www.thepursuitofmanliness.com/join-the-herd Join Tribe XV by securing your spot today: https://www.thepursuitofmanliness.com/gear/p/tribe-xv Build your own local Tribe with Tribe Builder: https://www.thepursuitofmanliness.com/gear/p/tribe-builderRegister for our 2025 Fall Men's Retreat: https://www.thepursuitofmanliness.com/gear/p/2025-mens-retreatThis podcast is sponsored by Dark Water Woodwork. Dark Water Woodwork is offering a discount code exclusively for the podcast listeners. Use the discount code "PSALM824" to save 15% off of your next beard oil purchase. https://www.darkwaterkc.com#Podcast #ChristianMen #IronSharpensIron #Interview Support the show
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Life, Culture and Current Events from a Biblical perspective.Your support sends the gospel to every corner of Australia through broadcast, online and print media: https://vision.org.au/donateSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Embark on a heartwarming journey with Kevan Chandler, the visionary behind We Carry Kevan, and illustrator Natalie Peterson, creators of the newly launched children's book, "We Carry Kevan." Kevan opens up about the initial concerns he faced when first trying the life-changing backpack and the ongoing challenges he confronts. At the core of the episode is a discussion about the book's essence—a tale crafted for all children, irrespective of abilities, who yearn for genuine friendships. Kevan shares his aspiration to both be that friend and find that friend. The episode unveils the inspiring collaboration between Kevan and Natalie and offers a glimpse into their 2024 tour, promising a journey filled with courage, trust, and reliance on others—the central themes of this captivating children's book. The narrative explores the profound impact of Kevan's journey, triggering two recurring questions: "Where did you get that backpack?" and "Where do you get those friends?" The answers unravel the magic of the backpack and extend an invitation: "Can you help me get this backpack so I can have an adventure?" Join us as we delve into the deep messages of fear, trust, and friendship woven into "We Carry Kevan," a book transcending boundaries and inviting every child to embark on an extraordinary adventure. ** Learn more about We Carry Kevan and order his brand new kids book here >> https://wecarrykevan.org/ Check out Natalie Peterson's etsy shop here >> https://www.etsy.com/shop/AedanPeterson Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Embark on a heartwarming journey with Kevan Chandler, the visionary behind We Carry Kevan, and illustrator Natalie Peterson, creators of the newly launched children's book, "We Carry Kevan." Kevan opens up about the initial concerns he faced when first trying the life-changing backpack and the ongoing challenges he confronts. At the core of the episode is a discussion about the book's essence—a tale crafted for all children, irrespective of abilities, who yearn for genuine friendships. Kevan shares his aspiration to both be that friend and find that friend. The episode unveils the inspiring collaboration between Kevan and Natalie and offers a glimpse into their 2024 tour, promising a journey filled with courage, trust, and reliance on others—the central themes of this captivating children's book. The narrative explores the profound impact of Kevan's journey, triggering two recurring questions: "Where did you get that backpack?" and "Where do you get those friends?" The answers unravel the magic of the backpack and extend an invitation: "Can you help me get this backpack so I can have an adventure?" Join us as we delve into the deep messages of fear, trust, and friendship woven into "We Carry Kevan," a book transcending boundaries and inviting every child to embark on an extraordinary adventure. ** Learn more about We Carry Kevan and order his brand new kids book here >> https://wecarrykevan.org/ Check out Natalie Peterson's etsy shop here >> https://www.etsy.com/shop/AedanPeterson
Kevan Chandler was born with a rare neuromuscular disease, making him dependent upon others for all of his physical needs—movement, food, even going to the bathroom. No one could blame him for living life from a place of self-pity, anger, or disappointment, but that's not Kevan. Through sacrifice and vulnerability, he's built a band of friends who are more like brothers. When Kevan had the idea to travel to Europe, his band of brothers responded—six friends covered three countries, taking turns carrying Kevan on their back as they meandered through Paris, hiked the English countryside, and scaled an Irish island. Even with his unique challenges, Kevan is committed to living an aggressive life. His attitude and approach is refreshing.
In 2016, Kevan Chandler and a few of his friends took a trip across Europe. Kevan's friends carried him—literally. Kevan has spinal muscular atrophy, type 2, a disease that renders him unable to walk. But he left his wheelchair behind, and his friends carried him in a specially designed backpack, giving him access to many more places than a wheelchair could go. Kevan has told the story of that remarkable trip in a memoir called We Carry Kevan, and now in a picture book with the same title. Besides being a writer and world traveler, Kevan Chandler heads up an organization called We Carry Kevan, which fosters a culture of creative accessibility by collaborating with families with disabilities around the world–sharing Kevan's story to encourage and inspire, distributing specially designed carrier backpacks, and having ongoing conversations about friendship and new ideas for customized access.Support the show: https://therabbitroom.givingfuel.com/memberSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
This week hosts Mike Nawrocki and Sarah Humphey talk with author and speaker Kevan Chandler about his story and new picture book We Carry Kevan. Kevan longs for adventures beyond the limits of his wheelchair. And with the help of a few friends and a heart full of courage, he just might go as far as his dreams can take him. With artwork by Natalie Peterson, author Kevan Chandler tells the true story of going to Europe with his friends in an albeit unconventional way… in a backpack on their backs. WE CARRY KEVAN is a timeless example of friendship, trust, and courage. ---------------------------------------------- The BIble for Kids is now a 501c3 non-profit and we'd love to have you join us in our mission of reaching kids with the message of the Bible. Our NEW store now features "Pay What You Can" pricing on many items with more coming soon. Visit TheBibleforKids.com to donate or learn more today! The Bible for Kids Podcast is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. To find practical and spiritual advice to help you grow into the parent you want to be visit www.ChristianParenting.org
Step into a world beyond comfort zones with host Ginny Yurich, as she engages in a compelling conversation with the remarkable Kevan Chandler from We Carry Kevan. Born with Spinal Muscular Atrophy, Kevan shares his profound journey of conquering fears, surpassing limitations, and venturing into the unknown. Explore how breaking free from the safety of familiarity can lead to transformative experiences and meaningful relationships, epitomizing the strength of human spirit and the beauty of inviting others into our needs and dreams. Discover the extraordinary adventures of the We Carry Kevan mission that spans 40 countries. Tune in and be inspired to carry and be carried in this awe-inspiring exploration of life's greater purpose. For more information and to be part of this incredible journey, visit wecarrykevan.org. Purchase your copy of We Carry Kevan here >> https://amzn.to/3F2jEW9
In episode 127, host Kevin Schaefer talks with Kevan Chandler, founder of the nonprofit organization We Carry Kevan. In 2016, Kevan used an adaptive backpack so that his friends could carry him on a trip across Europe. This adventure formed the basis of his nonprofit. Kevan is now an author, speaker, and world traveler. He has SMA type 2, and he currently lives in Indiana with his wife, Katie.
Featured in Forbes, USA Today, CNN, and more, Kevan Chandler inspired a movement of people helping people, all starting with a backpacking trip to Europe in 2016. Born with spinal muscular atrophy, Kevan's adventures on the backs of his friends have taken him to the English countryside, Ireland's Skellig Michael, and even the Great Wall of China. As the founder of the nonprofit We Carry Kevan, Kevan continues his mission to redefine accessibility as a cooperative effort between the disabled and able-bodied communities. Guest Information: Instagram: @wecarrykevan Twitter: @wecarrykevan Youtube: wecarrykevan Facebook: wecarrykevan Follow @thevogeltwins for updates on the podcast, tips on travel and more! Instagram Tiktok Pinterest Facebook Youtube Like the show? Please leave us a review here! --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/thevogeltwinspodcast/support
This is a story about friendships and commitment to one another so incredible you wouldn't believe it if it wasn't true. Kevan Chandler didn't let being in a wheelchair stop him from having a big adventure. During the summer of 2016, Chandler and six of his buddies went on a trip to Europe and left his wheelchair at home. Chandler, who has spinal muscular atrophy, and his friends trekked along France, England and Ireland, with his pals securing him in place via a specially-adjusted carrier. On Friday's Mornings with Eric and Brigitte, Kevan Chandler joins us to give us a glimpse of the constant love of God so rich and beautiful in the company of good friends and the profound power of friendship and self-sacrifice. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Marty Solomon and Brent Billings are joined by Kevan Chandler of We Carry Kevan to continue through the Gospel of John, exploring the healing of the official's son and the healing at the pool of Bethesda.BEMA 102: Son of ManAddendum to BEMA 102 — Marty Solomon, YouTubeWe Carry Kevan (Nonprofit Organization) Special Guest: Kevan Chandler.
Marty Solomon and Brent Billings are joined by Kevan Chandler, author of the book We Carry Kevan, and founder of the nonprofit organization We Carry Kevan.We Carry Kevan by Kevan ChandlerWe Carry Kevan (Nonprofit Organization)Andrew PetersonThe Wingfeather Saga by Andrew Peterson Special Guest: Kevan Chandler.
Dr. Marie interviews Kevan Chandler is an avid storyteller, author of We Carry Kevan, TedX Speaker, adventurer, and international traveler. In 2015, Kevan and friends developed a backpack for his friends to carry him around during their travels. Kevan was born with spinal muscular atrophy (SMA), a genetic disease affecting the part of the nervous system controlling voluntary muscle movement. He never took a single step – but his friends carried him through Europe and China on their backs, and it started a worldwide movement, “We Carry Kevan,” gaining momentum by the day. Resources mentioned in this episode: We Carry Kevan: Six Friends, Three Countries, No Wheelchair (https://www.amazon.com/We-Carry-Kevan-Countries-Wheelchair-ebook/dp/B07NVJXS2H/ref=sr_1_1?keywords=We+Carry+Kevan%3A+Six+Friends%2C+Three+Countries%2C+No+Wheelchair&qid=1639680413&sr=8-1) To get the book study guide (https://www.wecarrykevan.com/book-study) To support Kevan's Mission (https://www.wecarrykevan.com/mission) (501c3) To Sponsor a backpack (https://www.wecarrykevan.com/mission) To book for a Speaking Engagement (https://www.wecarrykevan.com/contact) Remember, there are two kinds of fire in the world: One that burns and consumes and one that burns and empowers. May God's word and God's love burn brightly in you, giving you the strength to face any fire. Until next time, little embers! Thru the Fire is a production of Family Vision Media, a non-profit ministry committed to helping Christian parents discern the truth in a culture of lies. Connect with the Seltzes: Candescent Counseling and Coaching (https://cccc-usa.com/) (657) 325-8635 Lutheran Center for Religious Freedom (https://lcrlfreedom.org/) Connect with us: www.FamilyVisionMedia.org (https://familyvisionmedia.org/) www.Facebook.com/FamilyVisionMedia (https://www.facebook.com/FamilyVisionMedia) www.Twitter.com/FamVisionMedia (http://www.twitter.com/FamVisionMedia) Find more encouragement and information on our blog: https://familyvisionmedia.org/category/fvm/ (https://familyvisionmedia.org/category/fvm/) Questions? E-mail us! hello@familyvisionmedia.org This post may contain affiliate links. We appreciate your support!
Kevan Chandler's friends carried him through Europe. Yes, literally - in a backpack. Diagnosed with SMA when he was young, Kevan grew up in a family that empowered him to dream of a unique life with his disability. His life experiences, combined with a personal relationship with Jesus, led him to try something crazy when he left his wheelchair behind and let a bunch of his musician friends carry him on their backs for three weeks. The result: a book, lessons innumerable, a documentary, strengthened relationships with friends and God, a nonprofit, and a fresh perspective that will leave you feeling encouraged and inspired today. I love this episode so much, and I believe you will too! Kevan IG: @vanchandler We Carry Kevan IG: @wecarrykevan We Carry Kevan Website: https://www.wecarrykevan.com/ We Carry Kevan Book: https://amzn.com/dp/1683973178/ Django Reinhardt Best Hits: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ceqeR49t7I4 C.S. Lewis The Space Trilogy: https://amzn.com//dp/B00ZAT776G/ Green Ember by S.D Smith Book One: https://amzn.com/dp/0986223506/ Little Pilgrims Progress: https://amzn.com//dp/0802420532/ Tera IG: @terabradham Tera Website: terabradham.com Heal Ministry Website: thehealministry.com If you liked this episode, you may also like this one about the men in “I'll Push You”: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ep-36-patrick-gray-justin-skeesuck-ill-push-you/id1503052916?i=1000504971446
Kevan Chandler is the founder of We Carry Kevan and the author of the book of the same name. We discuss the beginning of We carry Kevan and how a big dream lead to the book, a documentary, and a non-profit. We carry Kevan works to connect families with backpack carriers which allow for up to 60 pounds, and they are about a lot more.
Fort Wayne resident Kevan Chandler and his friends have literally been blazing trails, despite Chandler's lifelong battle with spinal muscular atrophy, since they decided to trade his wheelchair for a backpack a few years ago. Once they devised the necessary gear, and formulated travel plans, nothing has stopped them from seeing the world, one exciting trek at a time, and now, the remarkable story has been chronicled in Chandler's latest book, We Carry Kevan. For an update on the adventurers, and their mission to redefine accessibility as a cooperative effort, WBOI's Julia Meek sat down with Kevan earlier this week to talk about what the team is learning, as well as sharing, as they move forward on this journey. WBOI Artcentric is brought to you by WBOI's own Julia Meek and Ben Clemmer. Our theme music is “Me voy pal campo'' by KelsiCote. Our administrative assistants are Olivia Fletter and Keegan Lee. Our production assistants are Alex Castonzo, Steve Mullaney, and Sydney Wagner.
This week's guest is flat-out amazing! Whereas many would choose to see themselves as a victim, he has chosen to be a victor. Accordingly, God has taken his willing heart and initiative to impact the world. What began with a tour of city sewers led to hikes throughout Europe and China, garnering the attention of 40 million people, including Ashton Kutcher, Tim McGraw, and Will Smith. You will not want to miss the inspirational life of this author, speaker, counselor, and nonprofit founder!
When Kevan Chandler was diagnosed with a rare neuromuscular disease as a small child, it would have seemed that his life would have limits. How could it not be when he would never even take a single step? But Kevan chose not to let his disability define him. With the help of his friends, Kevan has traveled without a wheelchair across Europe and China, written a book called We Carry Kevan, and founded a nonprofit to improve accessibility all over the world. Kevan joins Davey to talk about how his disability has impacted his life and his faith, and how he's taken what he's learned beyond himself to make an impact on the world. Check Out Kevan's Website Buy Kevan's Book
As an introduction to our November book club, Kevan Chandler sat down with us for this coffee house interview about his book “We Carry Kevan”, an inspiring story of camaraderie of six friends taking a journey through Europe without Kevan’s wheelchair - just a backpack to carry him in. Kevan shared with us his motivations to write this book, why he chooses to share his story, and what’s on the agenda next for he and his adventure-seeking friends. Find Two Rare Mama Bears on Facebook, Instagram & Twitter: 2raremamabears
SMA News Today’s Director of Multichannel Content, Michael Morale, discusses a long-term trial that states how Spinraza was found to improve and restore motor function in children with late onset SMA. Also, Community Development Manager Kevin Schaefer talks about Kevan Chandler's latest book, which is in stores now. Chandler is an author and nonprofit founder, who has SMA. Are you interested in understanding gene therapy? ExploreGeneTherapy.com has helpful information about gene therapy, including its history and how it is being investigated for the treatment of genetic diseases. Visit www.exploregenetherapy.com
In Episode #011 of the greatest podcast out there from two guys in a wheelchair, Man vs Wheelchair talk about traveling with a disability with Kevan Chandler from We Carry Kevan. See more of Kevan below. http://wecarrykevan.com/ https://www.facebook.com/wecarrykevan/
Kevan may have been born with a disability, but its never prevented him from living life to the fullest. Kevan has learned more about how vulnerability can create deep, meaningful, and long-lasting relationships with others. Kevan shares his journey of how inviting others into his life and asking for help has actually created deep friendships that span the globe. Kevan and a handful of friends have made a point to not let the challenges of a friend with disabilities prevent them from traveling the globe and exploring together. "We Carry Kevan" was formed a few years ago and is platform for inspiring us all to build meaningful relationships that go beyond the barriers of life.
Imagine if parts of the world you wanted to see and experience were off limits to you. Some people don’t have to imagine it. It’s their reality. But things are changing. Kevan Chandler founded the nonprofit, We Carry Kevan, where he’s become a prominent voice for rethinking accessibility in the world. Meaning, he’s creating new ideas and resources to make the world more physically accessible for people with disabilities. And all of it started after an unusual backpacking trip to Europe, when Kevan’s friends carried him in a special, modified backpack. But one trip wasn’t enough. Kevan and his friends are off to China this year to spread their ideas of accessibility, and to tour the sights, with his backpack of course. I knew I needed to meet Kevan and hear about his trip and ideas, firsthand. So I made my way over to Fort Wayne, IN and met Kevan at Fortezza Coffee, one of his favorite spots. From there and on to JK O'Donnell’s, we spent hours getting into his story and life, and getting to know each other. Kevan is imagining the world differently, and he’s asking for everyone’s help. See more about this episode and the show at: MyBigStory.show JOIN CHRISTOPHER’S ADVENTURE & SEE BEHIND-THE-SCENES PICS, FUN AND MORE Instagram Twitter Facebook ChristopherSwan.info GET MORE STORIES, INSPIRATION, IDEAS, AND MY BIG STORY UPDATES Subscribe to Christopher’s newsletter: Be Inspired LOVE THE SHOW? Tell a friend (literally, go text them right now!), and then give me an awesome rating and review on Apple Podcasts or wherever you listen. This helps others find the show too!
Kevan Chandler was born with Spinal Muscular Atrophy, a neuromuscular disease which limits his mobility and requires Kevan to utilize a wheelchair. Wanting to visit parts of Europe that are not accessible and ADA compliant (due to their nature of being historic locations), Kevan and his friends developed a plan to design a special backpack so that they could carry Kevan throughout parts of Europe. thus making the continent fully accessible. The trip later became the focus of a documentary, book and nonprofit organization. About We Carry Kevan: The nonprofit aims to inspire both the disabled and able-bodied communities to re imagine accessibility, then empower this change by providing resources and training for collaborative adventures
A group of twentysomethings backpacking their way through Europe may not sound unusual, but for Kevan Chandler and his friends, their trip in 2016 was by no means a typical backpacking adventure. Chandler, born with the rare neuromuscular condition spinal muscular atrophy, has been wheelchair bound for most of his life. Because the planned trip included several places that were not wheelchair accessible, the friends decided to rig a backpack to carry Chandler and leave the wheelchair at home. We spoke to Chandler about the journey, how it led to the creation of the nonprofit We Carry Kevan, and why he is working to change the way people think about accessibility and dependency.
Kevan Chandler is an incredible man. Born with a physical condition that most would label a "disability," Kevan has shown the world that even the most restrictive physical conditions cannot hold back a man who is determined, courageous, resourceful, connected and optimistic. Prepare to have your excuses put to shame!
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