Author: Shari Cooper

Recently, I heard a news anchor use the word “handicap” when referring to people with disabilities. When I hear this word, I think: “Don’t networks know they should be using People-First” Language (PFL)?” ” Handicap” has a negative connotation. It makes it sound as if people with disabilities can’t do anything. If you know anything... Read more »

One day, everyone is going to grow old. To maintain a sense of independence, a person is going to need resources. On that note, join my friend and coworker Cindy Carusone as she serves as guest blogger and share some of the resources Goodwill Easterseals Miami Valley offers the senior population. Shari Did you know... Read more »

When traveling, it’s always nice to see the different accommodations cities offer people with disabilities. Some cities offer basic Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) accommodations, while others go above and beyond to make sure including everyone is part of their mission. I’m happy to be from Dayton, because my city is knocking it out of... Read more »

I really like the reality show, “Survivor”! Each season brings a new adventure from an exotic destination featuring a wide range of colorful contestants. Like the saying goes, everyone has a story. I’ve heard many heartfelt stories from Survivor contestants over years, but this year’s story from Eva Erickson touched me so deeply, I just... Read more »

If you follow my blog, you know I’ve had some unfortunate experiences when it comes to flying. You may remember one airline lost my scooter a few years ago. I landed in Seattle and my scooter was in North Carolina. I’ve also witnessed airline personnel treating my scooter like random baggage. If you’ve even seen... Read more »

April is National Read a Book Month. Since my passion is all about disability awareness, I like to focus on authors with disabilities. Advocates around Ohio are really doing an amazing job publishing books that are good reads. The following are three recommendations from my personal library. Renee Wood, who I’m happy to call a... Read more »

Let’s talk about the elephant in the room: the recent story of a business not allowing a service dog into a public establishment. You would think by now everyone would know about service dogs and the need for them, but some just don’t want them in their establishment. Keaton, a little boy, was so excited... Read more »

When my favorite guy and I go on vacation, I must do my homework to see what accessible transportation is available in the city we’re visiting. Usually, when we travel to a big tourist destination like Las Vegas or Orlando, where finding accessible transportation isn’t an issue. As a matter of fact, there are always... Read more »

One of my favorite music artists is Beyoncé. I love that she recorded a song called “Who Runs the World, Girls?” In honor of Women’s History Month, I like to honor a few women who are making an impact in the world.   Have you ever heard of Victoria Canal? If not, you will. Victoria,... Read more »

Celebrate Disability Awareness Month by learning about the great programs and services Goodwill Easterseals Miami Valley offer from guest blogger Cindy Carusone. Shari March is Disability Awareness Month – a time to reflect on the importance of creating inclusive communities for individuals with disabilities. For parents like me, it’s also a time to recognize the... Read more »