Let's Raise Some Cane!

Hey!

The next few weeks are going to be very interesting. I graduate from college on 20th *AAAHHHHH*, while I'm actively looking for a job, I still haven't found one yet. While I am very excited about the prospects of graduating I am temporary distracted by something else. As mentioned here, I feel very strongly that mobility aids should look good, so I decided to something about it for my senior project. I decided to decorate approximately 40 mobility aids, turning them into fashion statements rather than signs of disability. I designed patterns, printed them out, and glued them to canes, walkers, etc. On Saturday the 14th I will be participating in my graduating classes BFA exhibit. My canes will be on display in the School of Art+Design at Purchase College from 2pm to 5pm. I invite everyone reading this (who physically can attend) to attend.

For those you cannot go, you can see bits and pieces of my project on my website. I'm very excited about having my very own exhibit. I am slightly nervous about the physical installation. Apparently it involves scaffolding. I tried to prepare for this event by blackmailing (I mean recruiting) people to help me install, but I do want to do as much of this on my own as humanly possible. I will definitely update the blog with progress shots of the exhibit as it comes up.

Crippie's Tippie- Take charge of your situation, even if you can't change what is occurring, make small changes to take some control of it.

Disability & College

Oh Hai

As promised I would continue the discussion on how being disabled effects school, particularly college. First off, I chose a smaller campus that was for the most part handicap accessible. That was my first priority on my school wish list. Unfortunately the size and layout of various colleges kept me from going there, regardless of whatever education and scholarships they offered me. Once I selected my school I was surprised by how easy it was to get accommodations. I needed a dorm on the first floor, done. If I needed a copy of the teacher's notes I got them. I really was shocked at how pleasant that whole experience was. Luckily my disability hasn't effected the educational portion of my college experience. I wish I could say the same for my social life. The medications I take don't mix with alcohol, so I can't play drinking games with my friends. I can barely walk, let alone dance, so going to dances isn't exactly "fun". I have chronic fatigue (I get very tired, very easily) so I can't stay out at all hours of the night and what energy I do have is spent on my school work.

Dealing with that can definitely be a challenge. I try to keep in mind that I am not here to get black out drunk every weekend. I am here to get an education so I won't wind up on disability when I get out of here. Able-bodied readers, I have a question for you. What is the fun of getting black out drunk and spending the weekend vomiting?

Crippie's Tippie- Learn to make ice-cream related beverages. When you can't drink alcohol with you friends, chances are they will drink milk shakes with you.