In our first interview for our series on perspectives of parenting with a disability, we spoke with A.L. from South Florida. Continue reading this post to learn more about his experience of parenting with a disability.
Question: What are some of the concerns you had about parenting with a disability before becoming a parent?
A.L: When I got injured in 2004, my daughter who is now 25 was 7 years of age. One of my concerns was not being able to play sports with her as she was very active with softball and soccer. Also, not being able to have close access to her games due to the fields being all grass and or parks not having wheelchair access.
Question: What is one of the biggest obstacles you have faced as a parent with a disability?
A.L: Not being able to easily go to the beach with my kids due to access on the sand.
Question: What is the most important modification or pieces assistive technology that has made it’s easier and is important to you as a parent with a disability?
A.L: My hand controls for driving are a must!
Question: How have your children adapted to you as a parent with a disability?
A.L: My 25-year-old who was 7 at the time adapted to my situation very quick. She saw that I was motivated and determined so that made it easy for her. My triplets who have only known me in the wheelchair, only have random questions once in a while.
Question: Can you remember a time where you changed someone’s opinion about your ability to parent with your disability?
A.L: Yes. When people would see me around my neighborhood pushing a triplet stroller they would smile and tell me how they never thought they’d see someone in a wheelchair take their kids for a stroll so easily.
Question: As a stepparent, do you feel like your stepchildren treated you differently because of your disability?
A.L: My triplets mother has a daughter who was 5 years of age when I met her. At first she had a lot of questions but adapted very quickly and saw that I can basically do everything that an able body person can just a bit slower.
Question: What would you like to see change for parents with disabilities?
A.L: More access for hard to reach places and more cost effective equipment.
Question: Is there anything else you’d like people that are reading this to know about parents with disabilities?
A.L: Never give up on trying to do the things you want to do for yourself and your children!
Mama’s Munchkin Blog would like to thank A.L. for participating in our interview. If you know anyone who would like to participate in this series in an effort to raise awareness about the issues parents with disabilities face in our society, please email us at mamasmunchkinblog@gmail.com