Vivian’s Story: Choosing to Keep Moving Forward

Vivian’s life changed during college after a serious injury that left her using a wheelchair. At the time, she was studying in New Jersey. After the injury, she went back home to Alabama to recover and figure out what she wanted to do next.

It wasn’t a simple experience. Like many people going through a big life change, Vivian had a mix of emotions. Some days felt hopeful, and some days were harder.

“When you lose something, you go through a process,” she said. “One day you’re up, the next day you’re down.” 

Even during that difficult time, Vivian made a decision that would shape the rest of her life. She decided she would not let the injury define her. 

“I just refused to allow it to dominate my life,” Vivian explained. “I had to keep moving.”

Returning to School

About six months later, Vivian returned to college. Support from the Alabama State Rehabilitation Department helped make that possible. They helped pay for her education and provided housing so she could live close to campus. 

Returning to school helped her reconnect with friends and regain a sense of normal life. Being around other people made a huge difference. Instead of staying home and feeling isolated, Vivian was able to be part of the community again. She believes staying active and visible is important for people with disabilities.

“If you have the opportunity, get out among people,” she said. “Let them know who you are and live your life.”

Changing How People See Disability

Over time, Vivian realized that many people misunderstand disability simply because they have never had the chance to interact closely with someone who has one. When people meet, talk, and spend time together, their perspective often changes. 

“When you see the person as a person instead of just the disability, it makes a big difference,” Vivian said.

She believes visibility helps break down misconceptions. When people see someone living their life—working, studying, traveling, and participating in the community—it challenges stereotypes. Vivian’s approach has always been simple: live your life and let people see who you are.

Advocacy and Community Change

Vivian later became involved in advocacy through the Alabama Council on Developmental Disabilities. Through that work, she saw how programs, policies, and community projects could improve everyday life for people with disabilities. One project that stayed with her involved a daycare that received funding to build an accessible playground so children with disabilities could play alongside their classmates.

For Vivian, that moment was powerful. “Why should they have to sit back and watch everybody else have fun?” she said. 

Experiences like this reminded her that advocacy can lead to real change. Sometimes, small improvements in accessibility can open the door for people to fully participate in their communities.

Encouraging Others

Over the years, Vivian has also supported people who are adjusting to life with a disability. She has spoken with individuals in rehabilitation programs, sharing her story and encouraging them to keep going.

Her advice is simple but powerful: “If you have fears, do it in fear. If you do it, the fears become less and less.” She understands how intimidating new challenges can be, but she believes that taking action builds confidence and helps people rediscover their strength.

Finding Joy in Giving Back

Today, Vivian continues to stay active in her community. One activity she especially enjoys is helping young children learn how to read. She works with first and second graders and finds the experience incredibly rewarding. 

Children at that age are curious, kind, and eager to learn. For Vivian, spending time with them is a reminder of why inclusion matters. When children grow up interacting with people of different strengths, they learn that disability is simply one part of the diverse world around them.

When asked about the biggest issue facing people with disabilities today, Vivian points to accessibility. Even with laws like the ADA, she believes communities must continue working to make sure spaces, services, and opportunities remain open to everyone. Above all, Vivian hopes people remember one simple truth: “Every person has value.”