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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Ashes to Stone: A Journey of Resilience and Reflection
Upside down, sideways,Broken, broken images resurface.The meaning is lost,The longing gone. I grew older,The scars less fresh,My heart hardened,I thought the ash would turn to stone. Happy images,Torn and marred,Fading into the past. The poem “Ashes to Stone: A Journey of Resilience…
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The Power of Choice: Autonomy and Empowerment for People with Disabilities
The Importance of Autonomy and Empowerment Autonomy and empowerment are crucial for individuals with disabilities, enabling them to make independent decisions and gain control over their lives. Nota et al. (2007) emphasize that autonomy boosts self-esteem and contentment, allowing individuals to actively…
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Embracing the Mosaic: How Can We Contribute to Authentic Inclusion for People with Disabilities?
Recognizing the diverse identities of people with disabilities is like assembling a vibrant mosaic, where each individual piece is essential and unique. It is crucial to move beyond stereotypes and labels, appreciating the distinctive contributions of each person to foster genuine inclusion…
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Beyond Accessibility: Unveiling the Challenges of Life Transitions for Individuals with Disabilities
In a world of shifting uncertainties, individuals with disabilities face unique obstacles and biases. Ted’s story vividly illustrates the challenges many people with disabilities face when transitioning from school to community life. His experience sheds light on issues that go beyond physical…
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From Isolation to Empowerment: The Transformative Power of Inclusion in Education
Introduction: A Personal Journey from Isolation to Inclusion At the tender age of eight, my world was profoundly altered when a doctor somberly confirmed that I would permanently need assistive devices to walk. This revelation washed over me like a chilling tide,…
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Beyond Autonomy: The Reality of Choice in Disability Contexts
At Wiley’s Walk, the principle of choice is championed as a cornerstone of personal autonomy (Thompson & Peterson, 1993). However, for the disability community, an overemphasis on choice can obscure the complex barriers that hinder true independence. True independence transcends the mere…
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Empowering Choices: Shaping Inclusive Communities
Introduction: Valuing Choice at Wiley’s Walk and Beyond At Wiley’s Walk and beyond, I place a high value on the concept of choice, recognizing it as essential for fostering environments that support personal autonomy. This principle allows individuals to make decisions that…
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Empowering Change: Integrating Disability Consciousness into Healthcare Education
Disability consciousness involves recognizing and responding to the unique needs and viewpoints of individuals with disabilities. This perspective goes beyond the limitations of the medical model of disability and incorporates alternative paradigms, such as the social and identity models, into educational approaches…
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Adapting Ambitions: Navigating Challenges and Embracing Resilience
For over seven years, I pursued a singular dream: to walk without the aid of walking devices. This ambition, nurtured by a deep desire for independence, became my compass. Alongside supportive professionals who shared my hope, I dedicated myself to this goal.…
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Steps to Strength: Overcoming Injury
One morning, I woke up and realized I couldn’t stand. My knee buckled, and I crumpled to the ground, overwhelmed by pain and confusion. It was a harsh reality check as my independence vanished in an instant. I had a knee joint…