Let’s Talk . . . Disability. Disability is not something to fear—it is part of our human diversity and every community. Yet, many parents wonder how to start conversations around disability.

That’s why we created LEAD — a simple way to LEAD the conversation about disability with confidence.

At BRIDGED, we know advocacy often begins with one jarring (and unforgettable) moment. For me, it began with Haley.

I’ll never forget sending an email the first week Haley started in our local public school district. I thought my concern was an easy fix. It should have been. It could have been.

Turns out . . . it wasn't.

Hey Buddy! Can I ask you a question? Why do you wear those things on your legs? What happened to you? What is wrong with you?

It takes a lot to shock me. But those words shocked me.

Time stood still for what seemed like an hour. The thoughts in my mind would not come out of my mouth. I was literally speechless.

For me the start of school comes with a palette of emotions: excitement, anticipation, hope, fear, worry, anxiety, and dread.

I feel my shoulders closer to my ears than they were a few days ago. My cortisol levels are higher. It feels harder to breathe. I’m gearing up.

To be honest, it feels like I’m preparing for battle. This battle isn’t physical; it’s a 180 day battle for advocacy, equity, and disability awareness.