Issue Four. We’ve come full circle…Happy Birthday to us! It’s been quite a ride. It’s only fitting that this edition seems to be all about journeys.
Our cover story on adaptive golf speaks to one golfer’s journey to reclaim who he’s always been. Yes, adaptive golf is here! Along with community partners, our sports and fitness team will soon offer this unique opportunity to hit the links.
We have two new sections this month: In “Lopex on Love” Ability360 staffer, Emily Lopex, takes us with her on her romantic journey. She’s asking that you share your own journeys, too.
The Creative Team traveled to Mexico (we told Phil it was for “work”) to explore the pros and cons of accessibility in Rocky Point. The pros far outweighed the cons, and we briefly considered the possibilities of never leaving the beach and working remotely from now on. You’ll see more from us as we “work” at various destination spots in the future.
Melissa Ann Santora introduces the Arizona Youth Leadership Forum; a group of young people well on their way to changing the face of disability empowerment.
Several of this issue’s stories are about people who journeyed to reclaim themselves after they acquired a disability. Nic Danger takes us kayaking and to the gun range with his new non-profit, The Next Step.
Writer Brooke Brown introduces us to Isabella Mansfield, who expresses herself through her poetry and recently reclaimed a healthy lifestyle at the Ability360 Sports & Fitness Center. The Center was the impetus for Phoenix Heat Rugby team member, Jake Zunich’s move to Phoenix from New Mexico.
With the publication of this issue, it’s time to say goodbye to our interns, Andres Rosales and Yvette Mallari. We’re sad to see this part of our journey with them end, and we’re eager to see where their life paths take them. For this issue, Rosales takes us to an adaptive summer camp in the cool pines, Camp Tatiyee. Mallari chronicles Valerie Kappas’ uncharted path through the acquisition of three distinct disabilities and the adjustment tradeoffs that came with them.
As always, the inimitable Susan Webb offers her expert employment advice to those dealing with a work gap history as they navigate the application and interview process.
We also cover the Road to Rio for our Paralympians, the path one group of women are taking to empowerment – and invite you to join, and medical arts students becoming more disability sensitive as they represent the future of healthcare integration.
We’re glad you’re with us on this journey. Until next time…