My name is Lizzy, and as someone disabled from a spinal cord injury, I want to share a little about what living in a wheelchair truly entails. Many people often imagine that the biggest desire of someone like me is simply to walk again. While that may be a thought, it’s not always what I want most. I noticed that every time people see me in my wheelchair, they sometimes react as if they must offer me a solution or a million dollars to change my situation. But the reality involves so much more than simply walking. Living with a spinal cord injury challenges you in unexpected ways—not just physically but emotionally and socially too. The hardest part for me as a wheelchair user is often how others perceive me and the assumptions they make. Disability awareness means understanding that life with a spinal cord injury is full of complexities and abilities that can be overlooked. Humor plays a big role in my life—it helps ease the discomfort for both me and those around me. Finding joy and laughter amidst challenges is important for mental health and connection. #SpinalCordInjuryAwarenessMonth is a perfect time to remind everyone that people with disabilities have diverse experiences and desires. I hope by sharing my story, others can see beyond stereotypes and appreciate the whole person. If you want to support disability awareness, remember it’s about respect, inclusion, and learning from those of us living with disabilities every day. Empathy and genuine interest go a long way. Living with a spinal cord injury is not defined by limitations but by how we adapt, grow, and find happiness in new ways.