Author: Shari Cooper

All the recent discussion over banning straws at restaurants is really starting to stress me out! The issue that started this push to get rid straws is that they are thought to have a serious effect on the environment including polluting the ocean. Now, I’m all for clean air and going green to save the... Read more »

What is your biggest fear? I’m afraid of going to the dentist. I’m talking pass out, sweating, crying, deathly afraid. It’s something about the lay back dental chair, numbing needle and drill that freaks me out every time I go. Two years ago, I was having trouble with my back teeth.  I tried my best... Read more »

One thing that’s certain, everyone could surely use a pair of cool socks in their life. Socks are meant to dress up an outfit or keep feet warm, but did you know they could also be used to spread awareness for many causes? Twenty-two year old John Cronin of Long Island, New York is co-owner... Read more »

I learned a long time ago, it doesn’t matter how others view me as long as I feel good about myself. The movie, I Feel Pretty staring actress/comedian Amy Schumer is a good film that tackles the whole self-perception subject. Amy, who plays a young woman named Renee Bennett, is a very smart and a... Read more »

The sun is shining, grills are going, festivals are in full swing, and pools are open. Summer is here and vacation plans are in full effect! As I stated in an earlier blog, I took on Birmingham, Alabama this year. Although I attended and presented at a conference; I still managed to visit the science... Read more »

Happy Independence Day! As I think about it, every day is Independence Day to me. As a person with a disability, I truly value my independences. For most with challenges, independences are the root of their soul. I know it is for me. One major thing I value about independence is, having a job. My... Read more »

How old do you feel? Often, we let our age determine what we can and cannot do or shall I say, will not do. When you age, your body tends to weaken. It doesn’t work as well as it did when you were younger. Still, do you believe you can do anything as long as... Read more »

I went to Birmingham, Alabama last week and had a blast! I must admit, Birmingham wasn’t on my bucket list of cities to visit.  I didn’t think it was really a tourist state and it’s very hot in the south. As a matter of fact, it was in the lower nineties all four days; but... Read more »

I love to advocate for disabilities rights. When I think back, I’ve been doing this all my life.  My opinion is voiced loudly when I believe there is a need for change or when my friends are experiencing unjust treatment.  I once heard, “only the squeaky wheel gets heard” and I have done a lot... Read more »

I’ll be traveling to Birmingham, Alabama in June to present at the SABE National Conference (Self Advocates Becoming Empowered). Although, I’m excited to present, gain more advocacy knowledge, meet up with self-advocates and hopefully visit the Civil Rights Museum and Zoo, I really hope my path crosses with Austin Perine! Whose Austin you ask? Probably... Read more »