A gunshot injury fractured my timeline, replacing a carefree, mechanical life with paralysis and rigid daily routines. Yet amid chronic pain, this reality brought deep purpose: raising twin sons with my wife and discovering true self-actualization. On both ends of the spectrum, I truly can’t believe this is my life.
Tag Archives: spinal cord injury
Advocacy 101: An Unsolicited Crash Course from a Quadriplegic Cartoonist
The piece discusses advocacy within the disability community, emphasizing the importance of self-belief, community support, and a focused approach to activism. The author, a C4 quadriplegic and former Army veteran, shares insights on the need for credible sources, emotional balance, and networking in advocating for rights, highlighting resilience through art and personal experience.
SMART Goals and Why They Work
Josh reflects on his journey of goal-setting since his spinal cord injury in 2017. Drawing from military experiences, he emphasizes the importance of SMART goals—specific, measurable, attainable, realistic, and timely. As a mentor, he encourages others to adapt and modify their goals, ensuring progress and avoiding complacency in their recovery journeys.
Quadriplegic Product Review: Magnetic Charging Cables
The author, a quadriplegic, reviews magnetic charging cables that enhance independence in daily life. After trial and error since 2018, he found modern cables that can support high wattage, accommodating various devices. The pros include ease of use and protection for ports, while cons involve tip removal difficulty and connection stability issues.
Reflecting on My First Month as a Disabled Dad, Part 3
Mini-Series Description It is so hard to believe that it has already been one month since Kass and I welcomed our twin boys to this world. It’s even harder to believe that, if Kass had gone to full term, these boys would still be sitting comfortably in her womb. July 4th marked month one spentContinueContinue reading “Reflecting on My First Month as a Disabled Dad, Part 3”
Reflecting on My First Month as a Disabled Dad, Part 2
Josh and his wife celebrate one month since the arrival of their twin boys, reflecting on the challenges of early parenthood and disability. After emotional hospital experiences, including Kass’s post-surgery recovery, they navigate life with their newborns in a Special Care Nursery. They anticipate their transition home, filled with mixed emotions.
Reflecting on My First Month as a Disabled Dad, Part 1
The author reflects on the emotional whirlwind of welcoming twin boys, Brody and Bennett, born prematurely at 34 weeks. The post details the chaotic yet joyful experience of their birth, the challenges faced in the NICU, and the author’s journey through parenthood, disability, and the deep bond forming with his sons during this time.
Quadriplegic Product Review: Vertical Platform Lift
The author, a quadriplegic, shares insights on adaptive technology through product reviews, starting with the Symmetry Vertical Platform Lift (VPL). While emphasizing the lift’s benefits like space efficiency and independence, he also highlights drawbacks such as high costs and maintenance needs. Overall, the VPL significantly enhances his quality of life.
Section 504’s 49th Anniversary & Current Legal Challenges
April 28, 2026 The Disability Independence Day March, July 26, 1993 by Tari Hartman Squire, New York City Civil Rights History Project Today is the 49th anniversary of Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973. For millions of Americans, Section 504 is described as an accessibility lifeline. While many people are more familiar with theContinueContinue reading “Section 504’s 49th Anniversary & Current Legal Challenges”
World Art Day: Fostering Creativity
On World Art Day, I reflect on my artistic journey, from childhood creativity to becoming a professional graphic designer after my spinal injury. Celebrating art’s subjective nature, I now guide my niece and nephew in digital art, fostering their creativity and imagination. I encourage everyone to take a moment to create.