Challenge preconceptions about life's curveballs and discover the disconnect between perceived challenges and the vibrant reality of the disability community. Join the conversation with Marcia Zaruba O'Connor as we redefine assumptions, embracing curveballs as opportunities for extraordinary achievements. The post Curveball Conundrums: Shifting Perspectives on Life’s Challenges appeared first on Kristin Smedley ..read more

23 years ago my dream of becoming a Mom came true. Michael Joseph came into my life and my signature smile was it’s biggest and brightest. Within a few short months of having the time of my life,  I heard the hardest four words of my life: Your son is blind. It took me a while, […] The post 23 Lessons in 23 Years of Being a Mom of Children That Are Blind appeared first on Kristin Smedley ..read more

In this thought-provoking article, we'll dive deep into the realities and myths surrounding employment for people with disabilities. We'll explore how individuals, employers, and society at large can come together to change the narrative and uncover fresh possibilities. It's time to unmask the hidden truth and embrace a new perspective on employment, impact the unemployment crisis, and change lives. The post Not-So-Popular Perspective on Employment for People with Disabilities appeared first on Kristin Smedley ..read more

Just as they head into a new school year with a fresh backpack, it's time for us to lighten the load we place upon our children. The post Unpacking Dreams: How a Disability Diagnosis Unleashed My Children to Soar appeared first on Kristin Smedley ..read more

Lesson one: Know when to ask for help. While I managed to tackle a few repairs myself, I quickly realized I needed the pros for the heavy lifting. Getting clear information from them was key to making smart decisions about my projects. And it was an incredible opportunity to really get to know the systems […] The post When life throws a curveball, here’s how to knock it out of the park. appeared first on Kristin Smedley ..read more

Life sure can hit us hard, am I right or am I right? All of us have had to navigate a curve ball or two (or 57!) on our journey – and ALL of us collectively navigated, and are still trying to manage, the pandemic and it’s aftermath. How is it, though, that some people […] The post The First Step To Getting Unstuck When Life Throws a Curve Ball appeared first on Kristin Smedley ..read more

Let’s dive right into the mega, profound theme that lies at the heart of Eye Openers: the transformative power of altering our perceptions. It’s about transcending disability and disadvantage, recognizing the remarkable ability, and boundless potential within each individual. How We See Things Matters As the saying goes, the lens through which we view the […] The post Beyond Boundaries: Visionary Artist and the Power of Shifting Disability Perspectives appeared first on Kristin Smedley ..read more

When it comes to academic success for students with visual impairments, there’s a powerful secret that often goes overlooked—the Individualized Education Plan (IEP). In my journey as a mother of two blind sons, Michael and Mitchell, I’ve witnessed firsthand how the IEP has played a pivotal role in their remarkable achievements. Typically, the IEP meeting […] The post Unveiling the Secret to Success for Blind Students: IEP Facts You Might Not Know appeared first on Kristin Smedley ..read more

"What I Can Be Is Up To Me" is a story that will have children cheering for themselves while teaching valuable life lessons. Join us as we explore this inclusive and engaging read that nurtures young minds and sparks meaningful discussions in classrooms and homes. The post Empowering Young Minds: Unveiling ‘What I Can Be Is Up To Me’ – A Book That Celebrates Diversity, Empowerment, and Success Lessons appeared first on Kristin Smedley ..read more

Imagine that you are working in the job of your dreams. What are you doing? Who are you impacting? How does it feel to be doing the work you prepared to do, serving the people you love to serve, having the time of your life doing what you love to do. Now, imagine that I […] The post Imagine You Find The Job of Your Dreams and Then THIS Happens… appeared first on Kristin Smedley ..read more