Beyond Diagnoses: Congenital Muscular Dystrophy from Capitol Hill to Center Stage In this episode of ‘Pushing Forward with Alycia,’ host Alycia Anderson interviews Avery Roberts and Kelly Berger, two formidable advocates living with congenital muscular dystrophy (CMD). They discuss their journeys in advocacy, the challenges of living with CMD, and the significant role Medicaid plays … read more… Episode 98 – Avery Roberts & Kelly Berger | CMD Advocacy Warriors
Fierce rare disease advocates and friends Avery Roberts and Kelly Berger join Alycia to spotlight congenital muscular dystrophy (CMD)—from Capitol Hill policy fights to artistic breakthroughs and accessible travel adventures. They unpack Medicaid’s lifesaving role, misdiagnosis challenges, breathing support needs, and why authentic disability representation on stage and screen matters. Hear how advocacy, dance, and 40-state road trips fuel community, pride, and action ahead of the ADA’s 35th anniversary milestone.
Marsha Elle, a bionic model, singer-songwriter, and disability advocate, shares her journey of embracing her prosthetic leg and redefining beauty standards. In this episode of ‘Pushing Forward with Alycia,’ she discusses turning adversity into artistry, the importance of self-acceptance, and the challenges of representation in fashion and entertainment. Marsha emphasizes the power of community, creativity, and self-expression in advancing inclusivity.
Marsha Elle, a congenital amputee, shares her transformative journey from concealing her prosthetic leg to embracing it as a symbol of strength. Coining the term “bionic model,” she redefined beauty standards by unveiling her prosthesis on her album cover, challenging societal norms and inspiring self-acceptance. Her story underscores the power of vulnerability in fostering authenticity and revolutionizing perceptions of disability.
In this powerful episode, Tiffany Yu joins Alycia to unpack The Anti-Ableist Manifesto, sharing her lived experiences and why dismantling ableism is urgent, personal, and transformative. Tiffany’s voice rings with authenticity as she reflects on disability pride, advocacy, and the manifesto’s 10 principles that challenge society to do better. This conversation inspires listeners to reflect, act, and move toward radical inclusion with heart and intention.
In this transcript of Episode 96, Tiffany Yu joins Alycia Anderson to present The Anti-Ableist Manifesto—a rallying cry to challenge ableism and reimagine inclusion. Their conversation dives deep into disability identity, the urgency of advocacy, and how storytelling can shape societal change. The transcript offers readers a chance to absorb Tiffany’s powerful message and explore each manifesto principle in full, word-for-word.
In Episode 95 of Pushing Forward with Alycia, Alycia and her twin sister Regina celebrate their 50th birthday with a heartfelt reflection on their lifelong bond. They recount a joyful trip to Playa Mujeres, Mexico, filled with laughter, dancing, and personal milestones—like Alycia wearing shorts publicly for the first time. This episode is a tribute to sisterhood, self-acceptance, and the power of embracing life’s journey with gratitude and resilience.
In Episode 95 of Pushing Forward with Alycia, Alycia and her twin sister Regina reflect on turning 50 and the journey that brought them there. They share stories from their celebratory trip to Playa Mujeres, Mexico, highlighting moments of joy, self-discovery, and the strength of their sisterly bond. This episode is a heartfelt exploration of aging with grace, embracing change, and the enduring power of family connections.
In Episode 94 of Pushing Forward with Alycia, Gigi Robinson opens up about living with Ehlers‑Danlos Syndrome and endometriosis. She shares her journey from early diagnosis to becoming a published author through Penguin Random House, offering candid reflections on balancing health and hustle. Gigi emphasizes the power of self‑advocacy and movement-based mindfulness, encouraging listeners to break down barriers, build bridges, and embrace resilience in the face of chronic illness.
In episode 94 of Pushing Forward with Alycia, Gigi Robinson, diagnosed with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome at 11, candidly shares how chronic pain shaped her life and advocacy. She struggled with physical limitations through middle school and competed students and professors who doubted her invisible illness. Turning her experience into a senior photo essay, Gigi found purpose educating through visual storytelling. Today, she balances chronic illness, creativity, and self-care—empowering others to embrace resilience and authenticity.
