Author Archives: Kevin Schaefer

Embracing Disability Pride Month

July is recognized as Disability Pride Month, as it coincides with the anniversary of the signing of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990. Whereas this law secures basic rights for those of us with disabilities, disability pride is a phrase that…

The Beauty of Interacting with Strangers

“I want to know, can you show me/ I want to know about the strangers like me.” These lyrics from Phil Collins’ “Strangers Like Me” play during an iconic scene from Disney’s “Tarzan.” As Tarzan and Jane swing through…

Saying Farewell to My Beloved Canine Assistant

What follows is possibly the most difficult column I’ve ever written.  Since 2020 has a recurring theme of being a never-ending dumpster fire for everyone, I suppose this bit of news was inevitable. A week ago, my family and I said goodbye to my service…