Wiley’s Walk
Join the journey. Walk the path.
Writing by Kerry Ann Wiley about disability, adaptation, participation, and the difference between access and inclusion.
New on Wiley’s Walk
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Social Exclusion and Disability – Navigating Cultural and Social Norms
Introduction Hailey always felt a strong sense of belonging at her local community center, where she engaged in activities ranging from pottery classes to community meetings. However, everything changed when she developed a chronic illness that limited her mobility. Invitations to events…
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Beyond Limits: Nurturing Dreams
Introduction Dreams are universal, but for those with disabilities, they often undergo unique transformations, posing challenges that may seem insurmountable to others. With unwavering belief, these obstacles can be overcome, revealing pathways once thought unreachable. This analysis examines Kerry A. Wiley’s poem…
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A Pool Party with No Access: Navigating Social Exclusion
An Inaccessible Invitation One sunny afternoon, Alex, the man I was dating, invited me to a pool party at a local park. The event, part of a work function, was a golden opportunity for him to network with influential colleagues. The venue,…
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Beyond the Sidelines: Mia’s Story
Mia watched the children playing around her, a scene that triggered memories of her own childhood. She remembered a specific incident at a family gathering when she was eight years old. While her cousins laughed and chased each other, Mia sat on…
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Three Wishes for a More Inclusive Future: Acceptance, Technology, and Genuine Inclusion
Introduction Individuals with disabilities have profound aspirations that reflect their unique experiences and hopes for inclusion. Three prevalent wishes within the disability community are acceptance and understanding, empowerment through technology, and genuine inclusion. Exploring these aspirations reveals challenges and highlights the critical…
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Resilience in Silence: My Journey Beyond Bullying and Isolation
Growing up, I endured the crushing humiliation of having my walking devices knocked away from me daily, leaving me sprawled on the ground. Each insult was a searing blow, making me feel defenseless against the cruelty that haunted my childhood. Even now,…
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Being on the Fringe: Surviving and Adapting in the Transition from High School to College
At 18, I found myself navigating the vast expanse of a college campus, often feeling ill-prepared for the challenges that came my way. That first year was all about survival, a constant struggle to keep my head above water. I often felt…
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Beyond Acceptance: Amelia’s Journey to True Inclusion
Amelia, a software engineer with Cerebral Palsy, has confronted significant challenges throughout her professional journey. Despite demonstrating a natural aptitude for technology from a young age, her path into the professional world was fraught with obstacles. While her peers progressed through school…
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Bias Unmasked: Unveiling the Diverse Abilities Within Disability
The misconception that disability means inability is common. It often overshadows the potential and achievements of people with disabilities (Smith, Brown, & Evans, 2022). People with disabilities encounter this bias regularly. However, it is crucial to recognize that individuals with disabilities often…
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Acceptance vs. Settling: Navigating Life with a Disability
Living with a disability involves navigating a nuanced journey where acceptance and settling play significant roles. Acceptance means acknowledging and embracing one’s circumstances while striving for fulfillment within those limitations (Vash & Crewe, 2004). Conversely, settling involves accepting limitations without seeking improvement.…