The Be Like Josh foundation is a non profit organization dedicated to the study and advocacy of dogs with neurological disabilities. We are proud to celebrate all abilities on the canine neurological spectrum. It is an honor to rescue, rehabilitate and re-home these exceptional animals, to tell their stories, from rescue to adoption, and every adventure along the way. They serve as ambassadors of … open the full bio our mission, which pushes back against ableism in the veterinary community and promotes true inclusion, for animals and humans alike. Through our work, we share the message that all animals and people, wherever they are on the spectrum of abilities, are worthy of being seen, loved and appreciated.
Our rescue arm operates much like a traditional rescue organization, however we predominantly take in dogs with special needs. Because these types of animals can often require more attention and expense, we generally manage no more than 5 or 6 dogs in our rescue at any given time. Through donations, the Be Like Josh Foundation pays for all intake evaluations, vaccines, spay/neuter and any needed diagnostics, including MRI’s, which can be rather costly. Our rescue also pays for follow up medical exams, proper nutrition, supplements, medications, behavioral training (if needed) and any other remedies or therapies prescribed by attending veterinarians. Our financial support continues until the dog is officially adopted.
As part of our Community Outreach program, we visit schools across the country. We have a Be Like Josh curriculum based upon acceptance and inclusion. We inspire the children to be kind toward, and embrace all people, regardless of their differences. Our Special Abilities Program is focused on connecting with Josh through physical interaction, and asking questions. Your donations help to cover the expense of travel to schools across the country, allowing us to make a broader impact.
We believe that every dog is worthy of a quality life filled with exercise, enrichment, and a forever family to love them regardless of their physical abilities.
Due to the nature of the work we do, the dogs in our care stay with us longer than the typical rescue dog. Our vetting and diagnostic process is extremely thorough and we spend a lot of time with each case to understand the dog in his or her totality, taking into account all aspects of their mental and physical well-being. Dogs that enter the Be Like Josh Foundation serve as ambassadors of our message which is that regardless of where we sit on the spectrum of abilities, all animals (and people) are worthy of love, respect and belonging. Our goal is to challenge the ableist mindset that discriminates against neurological differences to create a more compassionate and deeper understanding for all beings who exist in the world. Learn more at belikejosh.org

As an entrepreneurial leader in User Experience (UX) mixed methods research, I identify problems, pitch solutions and get buy-in to make improvements in products. My passion lies in finding new ways to apply Artificial Intelligence (AI) to user research. My professional journey spans over a decade, during which I’ve led research and design for more than 100 software projects and products across … open the full bio diverse industries. My unique blend of experience, from spearheading a UX agency to contributing to Fortune 100s, has equipped me with a deep understanding of how user needs intersect with business objectives.

Joci Scott is an actress, singer, and dancer based in Los Angeles. She became paralyzed at 20 years old by sustaining a T12 spinal cord injury when her family survived a plane crash, and has adjusted to life with a disability. Noticing a lack of disability in entertainment, Joci is a passionate advocate for disability representation and portraying complex disabled stories. Joci has been a … open the full bio Rollettes dance team member since 2021, empowering women through dance and community. Her leading performance in “Smash or Pass” received a “Best Actor” nomination in the 2023 Easterseals Disability Film Challenge and the film went to the 2024 Slamdance Film Festival. Her latest film “Body Swap” made for the 2024 Disability Film Challenge explores what happens when a wheelchair user and a non-disabled person switch bodies for a day. Spoiler alert – hilarity ensues. Her ultimate goal is to be a working actor in the industry and show the world that disabled people have stories to tell too.

Joanne Lopez: Banking Leader Extraordinaire
Joanne’s journey to the United States started at the age of 13, when she and her family made the life-changing decision to immigrate to New Jersey. Right from the outset, Joanne showcased an exceptional talent for numbers and an unwavering passion for providing excellent customer service. Upon successfully completing her education, she wasted no time … open the full bio embarking on her professional voyage, taking her inaugural step into the realm of finance as a bank teller at National Westminster Bank.
Her career in banking was off to a promising start, and it was evident that Joanne possessed a unique blend of skills and competencies that would set her apart in the industry. She quickly ascended the ranks, and her journey through the financial industry was marked by a series of noteworthy achievements.
Joanne’s core skills and competencies read like a comprehensive toolkit for a banking professional. She demonstrated strong leadership abilities, a keen sense of financial planning, exceptional quantitative skills, and an ability to perform under pressure. Her knack for problem-solving and risk assessment was complemented by her unwavering commitment to customer service. Joanne’s attention to detail, analytical skills, and proficiency in various software, made her a force to be reckoned with in the banking sector.
Career Highlights
Joanne’s most recent role at Valley Bank in Montclair, NJ, sees her leading the charge in planning and executing strategies to drive the overall operations and profitability of multiple branches. She has demonstrated her ability to manage budgets, improve revenues, and create an environment that exceeds client expectations. Her leadership extends to team development, market intelligence, and ensuring operational functions meet compliance requirements. Joanne excels at building and expanding customer relationships while representing the bank in an excellent manner.
Throughout her distinguished 27-year banking career, Joanne consistently demonstrated her expertise in delivering exceptional results, leading high-performing teams, and nurturing robust customer relationships. Her constant dedication to her profession has garnered her a plethora of accolades, most notably the prestigious distinction of Business of the Year by the Montclair Chamber of Commerce in March 2019. Furthermore, she has taken on the role of a board member for the N.J. Latino Law Enforcement Coalition since June 2023. In addition to these commitments, Joanne currently serves as a board member for Out Montclair and proudly carries the title of Ambassador for NJ Reentry Corporation.
One of the proudest achievements of Joanne’s career materialized through her recent partnership with NJ Reentry, a pivotal turning point. As an Ambassador for NJ Reentry, Joanne had firsthand exposure to the organization’s profound impact on individuals who have previously been incarcerated. NJ Reentry provides critical support in areas such as housing, food, medical care, clothing, substance abuse treatment, mental health care, employment, and education. Yet, one essential element was absent, which was the opportunity for these individuals to establish a bank account.
Recognizing this gap, Joanne initiated a transformative collaboration with Valley Bank. Together, they created a tailored banking solution for NJ Reentry clients, affording them the crucial opportunity for a second chance to build a secure and healthy financial future. This initiative represents a crowning achievement in Joanne’s distinguished career, embodying her commitment to social impact and financial empowerment.
Today, Joanne is a dedicated mother to two lovely teenage daughters and a loving wife to her husband. Her most cherished moments are centered around creating precious family memories and crafting unforgettable experiences during vacations.
Joanne’s life story serves as a testament to the American dream, where the combination of hard work, innate talent, and reliable dedication has led to remarkable success. Her amazing journey from the tiny island of Trinidad and Tobago to the pinnacle of the U.S. banking sector stands as an inspirational example of what can be accomplished with unwavering determination and a firm commitment to excellence. Joanne is undeniably an accomplished and elite banker, leaving an enduring impact on the banking industry that resonates today.

Catarina is a dynamic public speaker, DEI consultant, and content creator. She works with companies to improve disability awareness, inclusion, and accessibility. As a disabled Latine woman, she is passionate about sharing her own unique story to help build a more inclusive world.

Lindsay Ulrey, is an active, busy mama of two young boys and enjoys being outside, family bike rides and adventures of all kind! Lindsay is a licensed clinical psychologist and certified perinatal mental health practitioner (PsyD, PMH-C) and runs a private practice in northern CA. She feels passionately about supporting individuals in the perinatal stages of life and creating safe spaces that … open the full bio facilitate growth and healing during a difficult transition. Lindsay is also a total foodie (and appeared on season 13 of Check Please, Bay Area!) and enjoys going out and trying new restaurants as well as getting crazy in the kitchen trying out new recipes.

Jillian is a writer, content creator, and advocate for dwarfism and disability awareness. She is the host of the podcast Always Looking Up where she speaks to little people, disabled people, those that are disability-adjacent and allies about living in a world that was not necessarily designed for them.

When she was just 18, Donna Walton’s dreams of being a dancer, a singer, and an actress were shattered when she was diagnosed with life-threatening bone cancer and had to have most of her left leg amputated to save her life.
Over the following decades, as she struggled to simply return to a “normal” life, she learned—despite disasters, setbacks, trials and tribulations—how to survive and even … open the full bio thrive with a disability.
“I know now that broken lives can be renewed, remade, rebuilt, recycled, reinvented and rebranded,” says Walton, who graduated with a doctorate in rehabilitation counseling in 2005 and is trained in cognitive behavioral therapy. “In fact, in many cases, our new lives can be even better than our old ones—if we know how to deal with the trauma.”
After reinventing her own life, Walton’s new dream was to help others. As a result, in 2012, she founded The Divas With Disabilities Project to support other black and brown girls and women with disabilities, and the organization has since grown into an international movement.
In addition to helping ensure that these women and girls don’t fall through the cracks of a world that wasn’t made for them, her earlier dreams of being a performer have also come full circle.
Since founding DWD, she has also modeled, done public speaking, and acted in several films, including the 2020 Black Oak TV series The Retreat and the 2023 Hulu series The Other Black Girl.
In 2024, she shows no signs of slowing down on creative projects, including co-producing a digital docuseries titled Divas in the City.
For more information about Walton and DWD, please visit divaswithdisabilities.org.

Jonathan Goodwin has been called “the closest thing we can boast to a real life superhero”, and “the worlds greatest theatrical stunt performer”. Jonathan has been hanged, buried alive, locked in a box while covered in 200,000 bees, attacked by sharks, bitten by rattlesnakes and hung from his toes from helicopters. Jonathan has performed on every continent except Antarctica and in every US State … open the full bio except Alaska. Goodwin has played Broadway, London’s West End, Sydney Opera House and Radio City Music Hall.
In 2021 Jonathan was involved in an accident while rehearsing a stunt for American tv. The accident left Jonathan with horrendous injuries and resulted in him being permanently paralyzed from the waist down. Now retired from stunt performing Jonathan has turned his attention to writing, presenting, Hypnotherapy and being a roll model (pun intended) for both disabled and able bodied people alike

Aiesha Robinson, a vibrant keynote speaker and self-love advocate, embarked on her empowering journey at 18 when diagnosed with vitiligo. Fueled by personal experiences, she founded Born To Rise, a nonprofit fostering resilience through shared stories. Aiesha’s impactful talks on self-love, resilience, grief, and bullying resonate globally, drawing from her authentic journey. As a speaking and … open the full bio self-coach, she guides others towards empowerment, embodying the strength found in embracing vulnerability. Aiesha Robinson is more than a speaker; she is a beacon of hope, inspiring individuals to rise above challenges and discover their inner resilience.

Valentine’s Day, celebrated annually on February 14th, is a day dedicated to love, affection, and romance. Its origins trace back to ancient Roman and Christian traditions, but today it is celebrated worldwide as a day to express love and appreciation for those close to us.
One interpretation of Valentine’s Day dates back to ancient Rome, where mid-February marked the celebration of Lupercalia, a … open the full bio fertility festival dedicated to Faunus, the Roman god of agriculture. During this festival, young men would draw names of young women from a jar, forming temporary romantic pairings. This tradition evolved over time to become associated with courtship and love.
The Christian association with Valentine’s Day is believed to stem from the commemoration of Saint Valentine, a third-century Roman priest who defied Emperor Claudius II’s ban on marriage for young men, believing that single men made better soldiers. Saint Valentine continued to perform marriages in secret, for which he was eventually martyred. The legend suggests that before his execution, he sent a letter to the jailer’s daughter signed “from your Valentine,” thus establishing the tradition of sending love letters.
Today, Valentine’s Day is celebrated with various customs and rituals. The exchange of greeting cards, flowers, chocolates, and gifts has become synonymous with the holiday, symbolizing affection and appreciation. Couples often go on romantic dates, share intimate moments, and express their love through gestures of kindness and thoughtfulness.
However, Valentine’s Day is not limited to romantic love. It also celebrates platonic love, friendship, and familial bonds. Many people use the occasion to show appreciation for their friends, family members, and even pets, spreading love and positivity to all those who hold significance in their lives.
Critics of Valentine’s Day argue that it has become overly commercialized, with the focus shifting towards consumerism rather than genuine expressions of love. However, proponents argue that the holiday serves as a reminder to cherish and celebrate the love we share with others, regardless of its commercial aspects.
In recent years, Valentine’s Day has also been reclaimed as a day of self-love and self-care. Individuals practice acts of self-love, such as pampering themselves, engaging in activities they enjoy, or simply taking time to appreciate their own worth and value.
Ultimately, the meaning of Valentine’s Day lies in the expression of love and appreciation for others. Whether it’s through grand gestures or simple acts of kindness, the holiday serves as a reminder to celebrate the bonds of love that connect us all. It is a day to cherish the relationships we hold dear and to spread love, joy, and positivity to those around us.

Regina and Shane Weinstein’s journey as parents of a congenital heart defect (CHD) warrior is a testament to the power of resilience and love in the face of adversity. Their story serves as an inspiration to many, especially during important awareness weeks dedicated to raising understanding and support for those affected by CHD.
Their unwavering commitment to their child’s well-being and their … open the full bio ability to navigate the challenges associated with CHD showcases the strength of the human spirit. By sharing their experiences, Regina and Shane not only raise awareness about CHD but also offer hope and encouragement to other families who may be going through similar struggles.
Their story reminds us all of the importance of empathy, support, and advocacy for individuals and families impacted by CHD. Through their resilience and love, Regina and Shane Weinstein exemplify the power of unity and compassion in overcoming life’s obstacles.

After being thrown out of a Las Vegas hotel in a drunken haze, jeopardizing his career and relationships, Nick Klingensmith had to make a change. A 4-time cancer survivor, type-1 diabetic, recovering alcoholic with herniated discs, nerve damage and sleep apnea, he defies it all when he finds Obstacle Course Racing. Refusing to accept his limitations, he’s completed over 100 Spartan Races, 6 Major … open the full bio Marathons, several Ultras and scores of other obstacle and endurance events.
As someone who has walked the path of a sales professional, Nick is an expert in propelling other achievement-driven professionals and leaders to overcome fear and rejection and push past self-limiting doubts, by inspiring them to take purposeful action towards their goals. Nick is a raw and passionate storyteller who holds nothing back when revealing who he used to be and the person he is now.

Here are some areas to look for significant developments throughout the New Year of 2024 in Accessibility, Diversity Equity & Disability Inclusion:

Policy Changes: Let’s hope for and expect potential updates or changes in disability-related policies and regulations globally that will help national and global disabled populations in all countries all around the globe to live finding richer, … open the full bio fuller, and more inclusive opportunities within our society.
Technology Advancements: Anticipate new technologies and innovations aimed at improving accessibility and inclusion for individuals with disabilities. AI playing a major role in this conversation moving into 2024.
Corporate Inclusion Initiatives: Look for major companies implementing or expanding diversity, equity, and inclusion programs with a focus on disability inclusion. The word is getting out that the disabled community represents one of the world’s largest consumer bases, and leading companies want to know how they buy in.
International Disability Awareness Events: Events like the International Day of Persons with Disabilities (December 3rd) may see increased global awareness initiatives, and major milestone moments throughout the year like National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM), Global Accessibility Awareness Day(GAAD), Disability Pride Month and the nearly other 240 special disability related days listed on this calendar.
Advocacy Campaigns: Let’s hope that we will see catchy, mainstream impactful advocacy campaigns addressing disability rights, inclusion, and awareness.
Education Initiatives: Campaigns throughout the upcoming cycle should be focusing even more than ever on the development of inclusive education practices and initiatives supporting accessibility in educational institutions and the learning to move beyond compliance and bridge and connect the human elements of inclusion.
Accessible Infrastructure Projects: From Federal to State and even at County and City levels every step in the chain of command in our government should be seriously considering and be actively in the discovery phase of advancements in creating more accessible public spaces, transportation, and infrastructure as a way to fill the need of their growing numbers in populations.
Media Representation: There should be continued efforts to improve the representation of individuals with disabilities in media and entertainment. Where real people living with disabilities find work in sharing and developing the themes, topics and instances that reflect a life of living with a disability portrayed in these representations.
Inclusive Employment Practices: Lets encourage and find more companies adopting and promoting more inclusive hiring and workplace practices for individuals with disabilities by bringing a real stake in the game to the entrepreneurs, innovators and advocators building the foundations of for the benefits of disability inclusion in the workforce.
Global Conferences: Participation and discussions at major international conferences focusing on disability inclusion and accessibility should include more people with disabilities outlining pathways to pushing forward the disability empowerment movement.
Inclusive Design Trends: Keep an eye on the integration of inclusive design principles in various products, services, and environments, as the full gamut of the world’s industries realize the new frontier of universal barrier free designs and truly all inclusive environments.
Collaborations and Partnerships: Watch for collaborations between organizations, governments, and advocacy groups to enhance disability inclusion on a broader scale. And, for the allyship of even the members within our tight knit community of people with disabilities learn to lift up and work with each other to usher in the new era of opportunities that await.

Meet Josh Basile a C4-5 quadriplegic, power wheelchair user, disability rights advocate, trial attorney, inventor, and proud father. In 2004 at the age of 18, Josh was paralyzed below the shoulders in a beach accident. Soon after he formed the Determined2Heal Foundation, a 501(c)3 nonprofit, to empower newly injured families. Josh created the world’s largest paralysis video mentoring network … open the full bio through SPINALpedia.com with 30,000 videos searchable by physical functionality. As a medical malpractice lawyer and disabilities rights advocate, Josh serves persons with disabilities both in the courtroom and through policy initiatives. As a community leader and changemaker, Josh works tirelessly to improve the quality of life the people with disabilities and to continuously break down existing barriers to access and inclusion, independent living, transportation, employment, and web accessibility.

Meredith Sadoulet is the Founder and CEO of ProFound, a startup building a powerful professional network among disability-inclusive leaders. She launched ProFound after a 20+ year corporate career as a Finance, Strategy, and HR executive across multiple iconic Fortune 100 companies. With personal connection to disability, Meredith is passionate about amplifying disability leadership in the … open the full bio workforce and positively impacting global employment outcomes.

Chelsie Hill is professional dancer, community leader, content creator, and Founder/CEO of Rollettes, a Los Angeles based wheelchair dance team that’s committed to education, disability representation, and female empowerment.
As an entrepreneur, Chelsie created the very first women and kids empowerment event called the Rollettes Experience with seminars to empower, educate and connect the hundreds … open the full bio and hundreds of attendees who have traveled from across the country and 17 countries to attend every year on dance, fitness, yoga, makeup, special guest speakers and panels, pj party, pool party, talent showcase, and the Boundless Babe Awards.
The goal as a company and team is to empower women with disabilities to live boundlessly and shift perspectives through dance. Chelsie and the Rollettes are creating a global movement of Boundless Babes by helping them become community leaders and live independent lives.
The Rollettes dance team were featured on Adam Levine’s series “Sugar” on YouTube Premium, Vanderpump Dogs on Peacock and performed in numerous special events such as Garden of Dreams Talent Show with the Radio City Rockettes, 86th Annual Hollywood Christmas Parade, Redbull’s Wings for Life World Run, Disneyland, Festival Internazionale delle Abilità Differenti in Italy, and Gold meets Golden for the Golden Globes.
As a content creator, community leader, and personal brand, Chelsie and the Rollettes are highly sought out by production companies, producers and brands to create, produce and consult on projects for TV, Film, Commercials, YouTube and Social Media.

In 2023, Alycia and Marty reflected on their pivotal moments. They discussed the launch of their podcast, remarkable interviews, and professional milestones. Besides, they recounted impactful experiences such as advocacy work, historical trips, and personal growth. The couple aims to continue inspiring others and overcoming fear in their journey.

Lisa Zibelli Tetzloff, a retired paralegal, boasts an extensive 40-year tenure within the legal field. Her professional journey was marked by aiding numerous individuals in advocating the complexities of securing social security and disability benefits.
Beyond her professional achievements, she revels in a joyous marriage, embracing roles as a devoted wife, nurturing mother, and loving … open the full bio grandmother.

Bill Krebs grew up in Philadelphia and was labeled with a developmental disability at an early age. In first grade, it was hard for him to keep up with the regular kids, so he was left back the next few years until he was finally tested. It was revealed that Bill had a developmental disability. He was placed in special education classes where he was self-contained, meaning everything took place in … open the full bio the class and you didn’t get to see the other kids. After he graduated, Bill felt fortunate to find a group called “Speaking for Ourselves.” He now utilizes his lived experiences to teach individuals how to speak up for themselves and know their rights.
Bill now works for Liberty Resources supporting others with developmental disabilities and autism. He facilitates a monthly group in which he provides support and resources. Bill is also an advocate coordinator for individuals with developmental disabilities at Keystone Services, an organization that has offices all over the world. Bill Krebs is a leader of a self-advocate movement and sits on several committees throughout the state. He is a proud recipient of the Brighter Futures Award, Justin Dart Award, and the Mental Health Association Award, among others. He brings an IDS perspective to the PCTAB, and we are excited to have him on board.

Before starting the Runway of Dreams Foundation in 2014, Mindy Scheier spent 20 years working in fashion on the design team for the INC collection and as a stylist for Saks Fifth Avenue. Mindy was inspired to start Runway of Dreams after her son Oliver, who has Muscular Dystrophy, dreamed of wearing jeans like everyone else. After using her design skills to adapt a pair that met his needs and … open the full bio increased his confidence, she went on to conduct extensive research to develop modifications that would meet the needs of the largest minority in our world- people with disabilities. Following its launch, Runway of Dreams partnered with Tommy Hilfiger on the first mainstream adaptive clothing line for kids and continues to work with many mainstream brands such as Kohl’s, Target, JCPenney and Zappos.com. Founded on the basis that clothing is a basic human need, Runway of Dreams develops, delivers and supports initiatives to broaden the reach of mainstream adaptive clothing and promote people with disabilities in the fashion industry.
Due to the overwhelming amount of requests Mindy received at Runway of Dreams from a multitude of brands and industries for connection to PWDs, in 2019, Mindy created Gamut Talent Management to represent people with disabilities and create a marketplace where businesses and industries can connect to this target audience. Gamut is rebranding the way PWDs are viewed, marketed to and represented in the mainstream world. The continued support of the mission of Runway of Dreams will always be a component of Gamut, as the company’s 501c3 partner.
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Mindy has been featured in ​Newsweek’s ​ “The Creative Class of 2019: Innovators,” ​People magazine’s “Heroes Among Us” and Pix 11’s “Changemaker: Making the Fashion Industry More Inclusive.” She has also been featured in USA Today, Parents, The New York Times, The Washington Post, Vogue Business, WWD, NBC’s Today, ABC’s Good Morning America, Access, CNBC, Fox News Channel and more. An inspiring ​TED ​speaker, Mindy has received numerous awards including the Catalyst Award for “Marketing Influencer of the Year,” Citrin Cooperman’s “Women at the Wheel Leadership Excellence Award, the Association of Image Consultants International Bravo Award and Enable Inc.’s Michael Graves Award for Creativity and Persistence.
Mindy studied Fashion Design with a dual program at the University of Vermont and Fashion Institute of Technology.

Mike Box is the mind behind the magic at BOX Wheelchairs. Mike began building wheelchairs after his brother was involved in a tragic motorcycle accident at the age of 17. When his brother couldn’t get cooperation from the manufacturer of his tennis wheelchair regarding adjustments, they decided to do it themselves. In 1992 after being in the aerospace industry, he left his job and they formed … open the full bio their own wheelchair company.
Mike designed and built the chairs for that company until 2010 after the company had been sold. At that point the industry was going in a direction that was not in Mike’s heart. His philosophy is and always has been helping others and for him, there is no better way to make a comfortable, durable wheelchair that fits the individual, than one you build from scratch! At Box Wheelchairs, ALL chairs are custom made to order and fitted with only the best parts and components on the market today.
Mike’s heart and soul goes into each one… Success is defined with team work, love, and LISTENING to a person’s concerns and challenges, before overcoming them. Most of all what makes BOX Wheelchairs different from the rest, is the bespoke feel and custom touches exclusive to each and every chair… You don’t have to just “settle”, as there is no such thing as a standard BOX Wheelchair!

Dez Del Barba was a 21-year-old Sonoma State University college student when he took a leave of absence from his last semester of college in order to pursue and complete Basic Training for the U.S. Army at Fort Benning, Georgia. After basic training Dez was going to complete his degree and attend the Officer Candidate School (OCS) for the Army. Unfortunately, while in week 6 of basic training, he … open the full bio developed Streptococcus A was seen by several military medical providers for several days, but was not treated properly. Due to this he contracted a rare flesh-eating disease, known as Necrotizing Fasciitis.
Dez was sent to the ICU at Piedmont Hospital in Columbus, Georgia on February 11th, 2019. The medical team began the first of many surgeries removing infected flesh, skin and muscle from his legs and body. On February 13th, Dez was flown out on an air ambulance to the University of Alabama (UAB) medical burn unit. There, Dez was under the care of surgeons from UAB and surgeons from the United States Military.
On February 14th, his sister’s birthday, a lifesaving surgery was performed and his left leg was amputated. Dez would go through yet another surgery the following day removing even more muscle and flesh. At this point Dez’s right leg was in danger of being amputated. However, the surgeons were confident that they could save his leg if he was moved to a different facility.
On February 16th, Dez was flown on an air ambulance to the Institute of Surgical Research (ISR), a state-of-the-art military Burn Unit at Brooke Army Medical Center (BAMC) in Ft. Sam Houston, Texas. Here, Dez would spend 100 days in the ISR hospital ward and underwent weekly surgeries, skin grafts, reconstruction surgery, physical therapy, and wound care that was performed daily. A total of 43 surgeries were performed on Dez.
Once Dez recovered enough to be released from the ISR hospital ward, he was transferred to a Wounded Warrior Transition unit at Joint Base San Antonio/Ft. Sam Houston military base. During this time, he began intensive physical therapy, rehabilitation training, and learned to use his prosthetic leg and other devices at the Center for the Intrepid (CFI).
On March 15, 2020, Dez returned home to California where he continued his rehabilitation at the University of California San Francisco (UCSF). Dez remained in the Army and was medically retired on August 17, 2021. Today Dez is becoming stronger physically and emotionally every day. He is very active in weight training and works out every day. He continues to go to physical therapy weekly. Dez and his college sweetheart, Julia, live happily together. On December 15, 2021, Dez completed his Business degree from Sonoma State University and will be starting a new career with a large software company in January 2022.
Dez has endured a physical, emotional and spiritual battle since this tragedy started. However, Dez is a WARRIOR and his faith in God has shown what an amazing and inspirational and strong young man he is. The support of his family, friends and the medical professionals who helped save his life since February 11, 2019, were imperative to his recovery and survival.

Nikki Walsh was raised outside of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. She went to Penn State University where she graduated with a bachelors in Kinesiology and exercise science. She is a NASM Personal Trainer and Nutrition coach, content creator, and a mentor for women with disabilities. She has been featured in Women’s Health magazine Online, and Love What Matters. She strives to show all wheelchair … open the full bio users that despite their disabilities, they can do anything they want to in life.

Brian McComak is the CEO & Founder of Hummingbird Humanity. He is a consultant, speaker, author, and facilitator with over 25 years of experience in DEI, HR, culture, change management, internal communications, and employee experience. He is an openly gay man and a person with a disability who shares his lived experiences in service of fostering workplaces where humans thrive.

In honoring the contributions that people with disabilities have made to our workforce and celebrating National Disability Awareness Month (NDEAM), this weeks episode highlights the many layers of Alycia’s climb from waitress in a wheelchair to founder and CEO of her own business and how she went from serving margaritas and fajitas to propelling herself through college. We dive into how Alycia’s … open the full bio early experiences laid the foundation for her unwavering commitment to inclusion in the workforce, and how in spite of the challenges and discrimination she faced, how she found the courage to share her story as a testament to the power of self-advocacy and overcoming insecurities. Her transition from waitress to businesswoman is a small peek into to her adaptability and determination that has propelled her to her life’s dreams.

Dani Izzie is a digital marketing professional uniquely positioned in the growing disability consumer marketplace. As the founder of Access Social, Dani’s mission is to help companies meet the 3rd largest market segment in the U.S. Living with a disability herself has also immersed her into the world of grassroots advocacy where she has worked with organizations on local and national levels. Most … open the full bio recently, she co-produced and starred in a documentary film and spearheaded an impact campaign amplifying issues faced by disabled parents. She is a multinational wheelchair-using mother to twins and resides outside of DC near Shenandoah National Park.

“Airline passengers with disabilities deserve to travel safely and with dignity,” said U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg. “DOT is proud to partner with the aviation industry and members of the disability community to ensure that all travelers with disabilities know their rights.” The Airline Passengers with Disabilities Bill of Rights, describes the fundamental rights of air travelers … open the full bio with disabilities under the Air Carrier Access Act and its implementing regulation, 14 Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) Part 382.
The Bill of Rights consists of:
1. The Right to Be Treated with Dignity and Respect.
2. The Right to Receive Information About Services and Aircraft Capabilities and Limitations.
3. The Right to Receive Information in an Accessible Format.
4. The Right to Accessible Airport Facilities.
5. The Right to Assistance at Airports.
6. The Right to Assistance on the Aircraft.
7. The Right to Travel with an Assistive Device or Service Animal.
8. The Right to Receive Seating Accommodations.
9. The Right to Accessible Aircraft Features.
10. The Right to Resolution of a Disability-Related Issue.
In preparation for the busy holiday travel season, and in celebration of the 37th anniversary of the Air Carrier Access Act (ACAA), the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) announced that it has launched a campaign, #AccessibleAirTravel, to raise awareness about the right of air travelers with disabilities to safe, dignified, and accessible air travel. An estimated 5.5 million Americans use a wheelchair, and many encounter barriers when it comes to air travel.
The #AccessibleAirTravel campaign will promote DOT’s Airline Passengers with Disabilities Bill of Rights through a quick and informative video that empowers individuals with disabilities to understand and assert their right to safe, dignified, and accessible air travel. DOT is partnering with airlines, airports, ticket agents, and disability organizations in this campaign and these partners are sharing the video on their respective websites and social media channels in October.
Last month, DOT announced that United Airlines will implement industry-leading actions that go above and beyond Federal requirements to improve the air travel experience for passengers who use wheelchairs. This action is part of an agreement with DOT that follows a lengthy investigation by the Department into a disability complaint filed against United by the late Engracia Figueroa.
DOT is committed to ensuring that air travel is safe and accessible and to improving the travel experience for individuals with disabilities. Air travelers who experience disability-related problems may file a complaint with the Department. The Department’s Office of Aviation Consumer Protection investigates every disability complaint that it receives.

Dustin Giannelli is the CEO & Founder of HearsDustin LLC based in Boston, MA. As a DEIA public speaker who happens to be profoundly deaf, Dustin shares his lived experiences to help bring more awareness to the importance of DEI best practices, accessibility and communication.
Dustin was diagnosed with a profound bilateral hearing loss at the age of five. However, to this day, being deaf has … open the full bio never defined him. Instead, it has allowed him to consistently overcome life’s challenges and spread positivity in a powerful way.
HearsDustin was born to share stories, motivate others and collaborate with brands and organizations that are focused on providing accessible and inclusive experiences for all.
As one of 48 million Deaf and hard of hearing Americans and over 430 million Deaf and hard of hearing people globally, Dustin’s mission is to bring awareness to the solutions that give those with (and without) hearing loss the equitable access they need to succeed.

Corinna Busciglio Kamilli is a seasoned strategic communication leader and entrepreneur, boasting almost a decade of experience in the dynamic realm of technology.
A proud alumna of the University of Arizona, Corinna completed her undergraduate studies in 2009, graduating with a degree in Communication and Business. This formative period laid the foundation for her deep-rooted passion for … open the full bio effective communication and the limitless possibilities it holds within the business world.
In her pursuit of continuous self-improvement and professional advancement, Corinna is currently pursuing her Master of Arts degree in Communication at Arizona State University, further refining her skills and expanding her knowledge.
In her personal life, Corinna relishes her most important roles as wife, mother, daughter, and sister. These roles highlight her warm, vibrant, and nurturing personality, which complements her dynamic and strategic leadership in the professional sphere.

Amy Wang-Hiller, a Shanghai-born virtuoso violinist, a violin educator, and a doctoral student at the University of North Texas in violin performance. She is the creator of the Thrive x Strive Musician Podcast which discusses mental health and inclusivity in the music industry. Despite her ongoing medical journey and progressive quadriparesis from the genetic disorder Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome, she … open the full bio keeps performing and teaching actively in the Dallas area and building her online presence by talking about her medical journey.
Starting violin at three, Amy’s talent grew through local competition and orchestras. She debuted at the Shanghai Oriental Art Center with Tchaikovsky Violin Concerto with orchestra at the age of 18. Coming to the U.S., she won the third prize in the ENKOR International Violin Competition and was a finalist in the Lewisville Concerto competition among other competitions. Amy’s musical range spans Baroque to contemporary, collaborating with esteemed musicians and ensembles. She also currently maintains a private studio and offers virtual lessons.
Over the past two years, spine complications stemming from cervical instability to tethered cord syndrome challenged her motor functions and flared up many other comorbidities. Amy adapts her performances with her unique understanding of the body’s anatomy and function.
Beyond music, she advocates for her own illness and encourages others with disabilities to empower and raise awareness for rare diseases and spinal cord injuries.

Kerri A. Vanderbom, Ph.D., was born with Spina Bifida. For over 15 years, Kerri competed in water skiing at a regional, national, international, and collegiate level. She was on the 1999, 2001, 2003, 2005, and 2017 US Disabled Water Ski Teams. She has held the overall national champion title in the sit-ski category many times and in 2001 won the Overall World Champion title. She was on her … open the full bio collegiate team, the Chico State Wildcats, competing in the tricks event against her peers without disabilities at tournaments, including at All-Stars and Nationals.
Kerri graduated from Oregon State University with a Ph.D. in Exercise Sport Science and conducted research to improve inclusion and access to recreation and health promotion programs in schools and communities for youth and adults with disabilities. She was an NIH research scholar for the Programs to Increase Diversity among Individuals Engaged in Health-Related Research, Research in Implementation Science for Equity at UCSF. Kerri completed a Postdoctoral Fellowship at the University of Alabama at Birmingham in the School of Health Professions. She was the project coordinator of the Obesity Prevalence, Adaptations, and Knowledge Translation in Youth and Young Adults with Disabilities study. In 2015 she became faculty and continued her research trajectory, developed and adapted inclusive health promotion strategies and recommendations, and put them into practice in communities across the U.S. through a CDC-funded grant. The most life-changing accomplishment was getting to study at the University of Queensland in Australia as a Rotary Ambassadorial Scholar.
Currently, Kerri is a Program Manager of an Injury Prevention Program for Butte County Public Health. She and her team work hard to conduct truly inclusive education, events, and activities for communities.
Kerri’s favorite things in life are being with family, friends, and dog, spending time outdoors with her husband, traveling, kayaking, and eating good food.

Regina is a highly motivated business, leader, with Over 18 years experience in technology and construction. Currently working for Trip Hazard and focusing on accessibility in her day to day professionally. Accessibility has always been in Regina’s DNA due to growing up in an inclusive environment being raised alongside her twin sister, Alycia. Family means everything to Regina who currently has … open the full bio the staring role as her daughter Ella’s mom.

Michael is the Founder, and CEO of Curiosity Lab, a purpose-driven venture studio and consultancy that builds products and experiences that teach empathy, and the author of The Power of Empathy coming October 24th and available for pre-order now. In his role as CEO, Michael creates and incubates businesses to help values-aligned individuals and organizations use empathy to live happier and … open the full bio healthier lives and to nurture productive and inclusive environments. In 2022, Curiosity Lab received an investment from Pharrell and the Black Ambition Prize.
Michael Tennant is an entrepreneur, keynote speaker, and author of The Power of Empathy coming October 24th and available for pre-order now, and the creator of Actually Curious™ the empathy conversation game, Values Exercise™, and the Five Phases of Empathy™. His work has been featured by the New York Times, Oprah and the TODAY Show for teaching empathy and fostering a thriving ecosystem of advocacy for diversity, mental health, and well-being through products, content, workshops, and technology. In 2022, Curiosity Lab received an investment from Pharrell and the Black Ambition Prize.

Brad Parks is the pioneering founder of wheelchair tennis. During an amateur freestyle skiing competition, he suffered a disabling injury when he was 18. He began experimenting with tennis as a method of therapy, and in 1976, wheelchair tennis was born. The first wheelchair tennis tournaments were held in 1977 and were a major success. This success motivated Parks to found the National Foundation … open the full bio of Wheelchair Tennis (NFWT) as the organizing body for the sport. The purpose of the NFWT was to promote physical and psychological well being among the disabled regardless of age, sex, creed, or disability extent. This was accomplished through the presentation of instructional clinics, exhibitions and competitive tournaments and sports camps. As more athletes became involved, the Wheelchair Tennis Players Association (WTPA) was formed, giving players more of a say in the governance of tournaments, clinics and expansion of the game.
Parks started the first international wheelchair tennis event, the US Open, held in Irvine, California. He was the Tournament Chairman for 18 years, setting the standard for others to follow. Today the NEC Wheelchair Tennis Tour is comprised of 157 tournaments in 41 countries, exceeding a total of $1,500,000 in prize money. In 1985, as a result
of increased international presence at the US Open, the World Team Cup was started. Today this prestigious Fed Cup/Davis Cup-style team event has been contested by 52 different nations in its 25- year history, and boasts men, women, quads and junior competitions.
As a player from 1980 – 1989, Parks was ranked number one in singles in the world in the sport. He is a three time U.S. Open Singles Champion (1980, 1985, 1987) and a ten time U.S. Open Doubles Champion. Parks retired from competitive play in 1995. His competitive accomplishments include a gold medal in tennis doubles at the 1992
Paralympics in Barcelona, gold medals in Singles and Doubles at the 1987 Olympic Sports Festival, and he won two gold medals and one silver medal in wheelchair track at the 1980 Paralympics. He has also won over twelve National Wheelchair Tennis Singles titles.
Parks is also credited with spreading the sport internationally by holding clinics throughout Europe, Asia and the Pacific. In 1988, the International Wheelchair Tennis Federation (IWTF) was formed to govern this growing international sport with Parks as the inaugural president. He served on the Management Committee for many years and was the driving force behind international wheelchair tennis. In 1998, the IWTF was fully integrated into the International Tennis Federation, making it the first disabled sport to achieve such a union on the international level.
Today almost 100 countries offer wheelchair tennis programs, and the sport is played at all four Grand Slams.

In 2009 my life changed in the blink of an eye when I incurred a spinal cord injury. I quickly learned that if I could even find a home that would fit my physical needs, it was not in line with my personal style. With so much change in my life, I was holding on to the idea that my home could reflect who I am outside of my disability. Combining my perspective of disability with my life-long passion … open the full bio for interior design fueled me to advocate for others in their accessible home journey. In 2018 I founded Blue Copper Design with the mission to combine barrier free designs with beautiful interiors and the vision to create a world where everybody can participate.

Carli Ross is a dynamic leader and educator in the field of Kinesiology and Adapted Physical Education, International APE project coordinator, founder of Carli B Yoga, and certified Yoga Instructor. She leads the Adapted Physical Education service learning programs at California State University, Chico as well as running her own successful small business. Carli’s methodology focuses on helping … open the full bio connect mind with body. She incorporates a variety of traditional practices in movement, breath, and meditation to help each of her students practice their own unique form. Carli’s greatest passion is introducing people to the world of adaptive physical activity. She has shared her passion globally through connecting her students with communities around the world.

Christina V. Rodriguez is a first-generation Latina, born and raised in the San Francisco Bay Area. Her family is from Nicaragua and is proud to represent her Nicaraguan culture and heritage in spaces where there is lack of Central American representation. She is an wife, mother of 2, dogmom, edu-creator, inspirational speaker, podcaster, advocate, entrepreneur, storyteller and scholar who … open the full bio embraces a multi-cultural and equity mindset with a strong commitment in creating equitable opportunities for Women of Color in Business, Housing & Academia.
Rodriguez received her Bachelor’s degree in Latino/a Studies from San Francisco State University and went on to receive her Master’s degree (MBA) with an emphasis in Marketing at Notre Dame de Namur University. She is currently pursing her doctorate in Education from Mills College and provides 15+ years of marketing and housing experience in the San Francisco Bay Area.

Joze Piranian is a lifelong stutterer turned Forbes and TED featured Keynote Speaker and Stand-up Comedian in 3 continents and 4 languages. He has delivered keynotes about disability inclusion and conquering fears at the United Nations, Boeing, Google, Meta, TikTok, Starbucks, Pinterest, Tesla, IBM,Dell, BCG, Deloitte, as well as at major conferences and educational institutions worldwide.
Joze is … open the full bio a lifelong stutterer turned International Motivational Speaker helping people who hold back turn fear into action so that they overcome their “inner stutter” and unlock their true potential in life. By empowering others to own their uniqueness and conquer their obstacles, Joze delivers transformational experiences allowing his keynote audience members and coaching clients to access the hidden powers of fear and become champions of inclusion.
After avoiding speaking almost entirely for more than 25 years due to a debilitating stutter, Joze uncovered groundbreaking insights for personal transformation that turned his obstacle into triumphant public speaking and stand-up comedy performances in 3 continents and 3 languages. Joze is now on a mission to change people’s relationships with fear and discomfort so that they start taking action and unleash their inner greatness at work, school and in life.
Winner of the Inspirational Speaker of the Year award in 2017, Joze has shared the stage with Drake music video producer Director X, Disney’s CIO, Brendon Bouchard, Jim Kwik, Dragon Den’s Arlene Dickinson and comedians Hannibel Buress & Whitney Cummings.
Joze holds a Bachelors of Commerce and Psychology from McGill University, a Master of International Business from Queen’s University and a Certificate in Diversity and Inclusion from Cornell University. He has delivered his keynotes on Inclusion and Resilience at organizations such as Tesla, Dell, Diageo and Amgen as well as conferences such as the HR Leaders Summit and the Hollywood Innovation & Technology Summit.
With more than 3 000 000 views on his Goalcast featured speech about overcoming adversity and a growing social media following of 30 000, Joze has also been featured on TEDx, Forbes, NowThis (about Joe Biden’s stutter), CBC and Global News Canada.

Ryann “Ry” Mason, BS RN (she/they) is a 31 year old disability advocate, multi-specialty registered nurse, proud member of the LGBTQIA+ community, keynote speaker, model, adaptive athlete, sexuality educator, and self-proclaimed loudmouth southern belle. Ryann was born with a genetic collagen disorder called Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS) which caused them to begin utilizing a wheelchair for the … open the full bio majority of their mobility needs at the age of 26. Instead of allowing their disability to get them down, they decided to turn towards what they knew best, helping others. Ryann created an Instagram account called Chronically Ry, where they post photos, videos, and write ups showing her life and experiences living and working as a registered nurse with a chronic illness and degenerative disability. Over the past few years they have accomplished quite a bit including:wearing the crown for Ms. Wheelchair Virginia through both 2020 and 2021, having their story featured in numerous platforms including Woman’s Day, Scrubs , Frisson, Teen Vogue, and Forbes magazines, expanding their online presence to include Facebook, Twitter, TikTok, and LinkedIn, as well as amassing a following of over 19,000 people on their original Instagram page. Along with her disability advocacy work, Ryann has continued practicing as a registered nurse in the hospital setting throughout her disability journey and hopes to increase disability visibility and employment in the field of healthcare.
Ry could have let everything they’ve been through bring their life to a screeching halt, but instead they continue to share their story, educate, advocate, and inform others about the needs, rights, and experiences of the disability community.

26% of Americans identify with having some kind of disability – and as a double-amputee, I am one of them. I’m a lot of other things, too; I’m a woman. I’m progressive. I’m a community builder and organizer and activist. But, for the world at large, my disability is my defining characteristic.
When you’re disabled (much like when you’re a woman, Black, Latinx, Indigenous, Asian, LGBTQ+, or … open the full bio anything that isn’t a straight, cisgender white male) advocacy is not a choice. Our very existence is political. When the entire world has been constructed in ways that actively harm you – just being visible is an act of rebellion. Be it age, gender, ethnicity, orientation, religion or ability – we have to work harder to prove we can exist in spaces that never intended to include us.
I want to change that. My mission is to ensure more of us are seen and heard and advocated for. To leverage the resources I have access to and create access for those who don’t. To create opportunities, tear down the cultural and systemic barriers, and foster community, knowledge, and success.
Most importantly, I’m here to listen, learn, and grow.

Since 1990, Disability Pride Month has celebrated people with disabilities, their identities and culture, and their contributions to society. It also seeks to change the way people think about and define disability, to end the stigma of disability, and to promote the belief that disability is a natural part of human diversity in which people living with disabilities can celebrate and take pride. … open the full bio People with disabilities make up 15% of the world’s population and are the largest and most diverse minority in the United States making up approximately 26% of the population representing all ages, races, ethnicities, genders, sexual orientations, religions, and socio-economic backgrounds.
The concept of Disability Pride was born out of the Disability Rights movement and based on intersectional identity politics and social justice. The core concept of Disability Pride is based on a tenet of reworking the negative narratives and biases that frequently surround the concept of disability. Disability Pride is a response and counteraction against ableism and social stigma. The concept has roots in the same social theory that backs LGBT Pride and Black Pride. Disability Pride is a movement intended to celebrate the history of the Disability Rights movement and people with disabilities as positive contributors to society. It marks a break from traditional concepts of disabilities as shameful conditions, which were often hidden from public spaces and mainstream awareness. Disability Pride is built upon the social model of disability and is described as moving away from the medical model of disability.

In May 2021, one of Alycia’s longtime dreams came true when she was invited to speak at TEDx in South Lake Tahoe. Her talk, “Disabling Ableism: The Modern Pathway to Inclusion,” is a love letter to herself, others with disabilities, and society at large that brings light to the empowerment of having a disability. It’s also a call to action to examine — and dismantle — the ways that ableist … open the full bio thinking exists in our day-to-day lives.
Ableism is everywhere you turn. It’s ingrained in society so much so, it’s overlooked or goes unnoticed, but without recognizing ableism and its effects we will never fully understand what inclusion really means. I share the perspective that is missing from American TV, politics and generally any conversation, what does it look like when you put yourselves in another’s wheels not shoes. This talk focuses on shifting perceptions of what is perceived possible by disabling ableism, a social prejudice against people with disabilities based on the belief that typical abilities are superior. I explore the topic through my own personal journey over my lifetime, its cause and effects, and how we are taught from the time we are born to favor one over the other and because of this we don’t see the beauty of difference, no matter what shape it comes in. When we disable ableism we truly begin to value our differences bringing a broader outlook to our world, expanding possibilities for all!

Alycia Anderson is a TEDx motivational speaker, corporate Diversity, Equity, Inclusion & Accessibility consultant, advocate, and the founder & CEO of The Alycia Anderson Company, LLC. She studied Adapted Physical Education at California State University, Chico earning a bachelors degree and continued on to receive her Master’s Degree from KU Leuven, Belgium in Adapted Physical Activity … open the full bio emphasizing the benefits, practices, and principles of inclusion. Alycia’s authenticity and charisma draws others to her and she naturally connects them to inspire, mentor, champion and support.
Alycia Anderson started speaking because she is a bridge for all to see how to care about, practice and learn to be inclusive and this is her biggest life work. Alycia hopes to share with people that don’t know and are curious about how it is to live a lifetime with a disability. She naturally spans the gap from how to overcome, adapt and believe in what we think to be impossible… to be possible. She believes it’s all about the past, present and future and all of the collective progress along the way.
Alycia Anderson is a tennis player, cyclist, identical twin and a wheelchair user since birth. Alycia shares her journey globally to help communities and companies understand the true benefits inherent to building a diverse, inclusive and accessible workplace and society. She shines light on how our diversities are core to the qualities that make each of us uniquely qualified and able in life. Alycia right sizes everyday obstacles to open your mind to a world of possibility, and that’s how she rolls!