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ThisAbled Bloggers and Writers
Alana Wallace
I would describe myself as a 56 year old proud African-American woman who has been a life-long disability advocate. I contracted polio at the age of five but it has never hindered me from doing anything that I put my mind to. I am a professional artist and I believe I was born to perform. The arts fulfill me like nothing else. As a vocalist, actor, wheelchair dancer, model and writer I try to demonstrate that people with disabilities have talent and make significant contributions to the arts.
The most rewarding part of my work is that through my art I enjoy the ability to change the minds and hearts of those who may have misconceptions about the abilities and achievements of people with disabilities. As an advocate I am passionate about FULLY ACCESSIBLE HOUSING – which means that I work hard to see that people with disabilities are afforded the right to barrier-free homes (beyond just eliminating steps and widening doorways). I know first hand how difficult it is for people who use wheelchairs to obtain and/or modify their homes to fully meet their physical needs. I love my life and each day I look forward to new experiences and things that enhance my growth. My motto is: “BEGIN YOUR DAY WITH GRATITUDE, FILL IT UP WITH JOY, AND NEVER END IT WITH REGRETS! More insights about me will follow as you read my blogs!!!!!!!!
Professir X
In 1987, Richard Gaskin, a Queens NY resident, was shot by a friend over a personal dispute. The result would change Richard's life and those around him forever. The bullet severed his spine leaving him unable to walk. This meant that from now on, Richard would be confined to a wheelchair. Richard's well being now depended on his family and friends, all of whom, fortunately for him, were extremely loyal and wanted to be there for him. Richard was never a trouble maker or into the negative things that his surroundings had an abundance of. He was a local DJ, and aspiring artist, who was on the fast track to making a career for himself. He also was becoming proficient in Hung Gar Kung-Fu, which taught him the discipline he needed to succeed. It was in part envy over his accomplishments and chosen life style, that brought Richard to his fate with some one he trusted. Moving on, Richard would slowly regain his ability to be the artist that he was. As the years went by, it occurred to him that turning his music into a message for young people could encourage them to stay focused and follow their dreams, while avoiding the many pitfalls in life.
In 2005, after doing a tribute song to Christopher Reeve, a hero of his, Richard was invited by the Christopher Reeve Foundation to perform at the Capitol Building in the company of Dana Reeve, Hillary Clinton, and other senators. politicians, many renown doctors. Since then, Richard has been asked to perform at various venues related to paralysis, and has taken part in round table discussions and gala events with New Jersey's Governor Corzine, and Governor Cody, as well Michael J. Fox, and other celebrities who are fighting for research needed to cure paralysis and other degenerative diseases. In addition to his appearances, Richard has founded an non-profit organization called,the "I Believe Organization". The purpose of the foundation is to promote awareness of the research being done and currently needed to help cure the diseases and conditions that affect him, and so many others. This is done by utilizing technology, to make informative presentations, and to spread the word via mediums such as audio, video, and the web. This method, in conjunction with live performances, will go a long way to getting people involved in such an important cause.
Jamie Prioli
Jamie Arasz Prioli, BS, ATP is a RESNA Certified Assistive Technology
Practitioner currently in private practice. She has more than 14 years experience providing services to individuals of all ages and abilities in computer access, environmental control, organizational / cognitive aids, and interconnectivity of these technologies. Her experience includes evaluating and training solutions for individuals with traumatic brain injury (TBI), autoimmune disorders, learning disabilities, physical impairments, and deaf or hard of hearing. She frequently presents at professional meetings and workshops and is an active member of the Rehabilitation Engineering and Assistive Technology Society of North America (RESNA).
Ms. Prioli resides at home in New Jersey with her husband, four cats and one bird!
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