THE MISSION OF LOVE DISABLED LIFE

Love Disabled Life is an advocacy platform that seeks to empower disabled identity and promote disability pride. We do this by honoring our history, celebrating the Disability Rights Movement, and fighting systemic ableism.

I am motivated to advocate for positive disability identity through my online presence and Love Disabled Life Etsy Shop to prompt new ways of thinking about being disabled. I hope through doing this work, we will challenge the stigma of disability that perpetuates the discrimination and marginalization of disabled people. Because even though there has been historic milestones and accomplishments in the Disability Rights Movement, more advocacy is needed. Our promise of full equality and integration has not been fulfilled.

In my Love Disabled Life Blog, I write posts with the goal of not only sharing my own perspectives of disabled life, but also amplify the voices of the disabled community so that we may be better understood and accepted in society.

Lastly, I believe that true disability empowerment begins with self-love. This process is a journey for many. And that is okay. There are going to be hard days living a disabled life. The institutions and attitudes of ableism and prejudice almost guarantee this fact. But even with this fact, our movement will only truly succeed when we accept ourselves as we want the world to accept us.

ABOUT LOVE DISABLED LIFE’S FOUNDER, JODY YARBOROUGH

Hi! I’m Jody Yarborough, a writer and graphic designer living in the beautiful Bay Area of California. I majored in Journalism in college and then went on to study graphic design, which led to a wonderfully fun, creative, and flexible freelancing career. Recent innovations in digital creative tools, resources, and social media have accelerated my creative output and entrepreneurial spirit.

In addition to my creative endeavors, I am a disability advocate and volunteer. When I’m not being creative or volunteering my time, I enjoy spending time with my husband Andrew, doting on our golden retriever fur-son, Alton, caring for our home, and watching re-runs of 90’s comedy television.

You’ve probably noticed that I look a little different. You might be curious. You might even have some questions. That’s okay! Questions are welcome! I believe that celebrating our diversity and sharing what makes us different makes the world a better place.

I was born with a rare neuromuscular condition called Congenital Trilaminar Myopathy. This one-of-a-kind condition caused me to develop severe scoliosis and other orthopedic problems that required surgeries when I was growing up. I’ve always been short for my age, and as an adult, I am 4’ tall.

I do not define disability as limiting, or inspirational, or something to be “overcome.” Instead, I challenge cultural stereotypes about disability as being “less than,” “tragic,” “broken,” or “abnormal.” I believe disability is a natural part of human diversity, and I embrace every aspect of my life with gratitude and grace. I am incredibly proud to be a part of the disabled community. I believe that we need to be unapologetically proud of our lives-- our DISABLED lives-- if we continue to demand full and equal access and participation in all areas of daily life and society.

The fine print: All writings unless otherwise credited are by Love Disabled Life/Jody Yarborough ©2021+ All Rights Reserved. Don’t be a jerk and copy without permission. (But I really appreciate sharing and back-link love :)) All images are either original of Jody Yarborough, are stock purchased, or are Creative Commons license downloads from sites like Pixabay, Pexels, or Unsplash. This site is not monetized in any way. Unless explicitly stated otherwise, there are no advertising, sponsorships, or affiliate links. All content (unless otherwise credited) is the opinion and creative expression of Love Disabled Life/Jody Yarborough and is not, nor should it be construed as, any type of professional, legal medical advice.