Category: Make Things Happen

Blogger-in-chief, award-winning public speaker, and disability awareness advocate Shari Cooper provides insight, humor, and reflection on a range of issues.

Vacation Ready

This past year, Because of COVID19, we have all been stuck in the house, so who’s ready for a vacation? I love to travel! Going to new places, doing new things, and seeing different faces, really excites me. Another thing I love about traveling is planning activities so I can see all the sites.  I... Read more »
learn more

Crip Camp Goes For Gold

As we prepare to tune in to this year’s Academy Awards, there are a few films I have selected for Oscar gold. My picks are Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom, A Night in Miami, and Crip Camp; all are outstanding and must-see films. But there is one movie that really hits home, and I want it... Read more »
learn more

My Second Chance

As I continue to celebrate Second Chance’s in the month of April, I’m always impressed by those who’ve managed to take the opportunity to make the best out of a difficult situation.  My friend, Robert Shuemak, is one of those people. Not only is Robert my friend, he’s also a strong advocate for people with... Read more »
learn more

Second Lease On Life

Sometimes in life, you’re not always given a second chance, but if you do get one, take advantage of it.  Often when there seems to be no way out, an opportunity is there to give you that new lease on life. We often think of just humans getting second chances at life, but there are times an animal... Read more »
learn more

PAC-MAN THERAPY

When I was a kid, back in the 80’s, my brother Jay received an Atari gaming system for Christmas.  One of the games that came along with it was Pac-Man.  I would annoy my brother daily to play.  Most of the time he would give in; sometimes just to get me to stop pestering him.... Read more »
learn more

Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month A Year After COVID

I look forward every year to celebrating Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month. As a person with a disability, I understand the everyday challenges we face. Having a disability can be difficult, especially when you have some who refuse to see your worth and a system that’s forced a value on fairness.  It’s a much better situation... Read more »
learn more

COVID-The Unwanted Friend

I’m blessed that I have not had to deal with having COVID-19. With having a disability, I was always cognitive of the whole social distance and mask thing.  I knew, if I came down with it, my life would be even more difficult. Having a disability is challenging, let alone having to deal with other... Read more »
learn more

The Mask

Wow, ever since COVID-19 hit last year, and became a worldwide pandemic, our new normal is mask up! Everywhere you go, you must wear a mask. Often when sitting in my vehicle, I see a person about to enter an establishment only to do an about face back to their car to retrieve their mask.... Read more »
learn more

Voice of Power

As most of you know, I have a speech impairment. I’ve worked very hard over the years to create articulation tactics in order to be understood. Although it is challenging, occasionally, I’ll get that “what did you say” look, but for the most part, I am understandable. I am encouraged when I see another person... Read more »
learn more