Frequently Asked Questions

all of the answers in one place

Why don't you use the terms handicap or disabled?

I have never liked those terms. I have never considered myself handicapped even though the world does. Those words will not appear on this blog. Those words, to me, are derogatory and condescending. I am a person. I am not a classification of ability. I strongly believe that accessibility and inclusivity are needed in this world -- and how can we do that when we put labels on everything?

What scooter and wheelchair do you use?

Go Go Elite Traveller scooter and a Jymni 9000 wheelchair (I had to get fitted for the wheelchair) 

What camera do you use?

Currently a Canon 5D Mark III with a 24-105mm lens (kit lens) But I learned on a Canon Rebel T1i for 7 years and I highly recommend it as an introductory camera. My favorite lens for the T1i was my 55-250mm Canon zoom lens... great lens for portraits!

What are you referring to when you mention a "back lot tour?"

Short answer: a wheelchair accessible entrance that is usually a back entrance. Long answer: There used to be a ride in Hollywood Studios at Disney World that was called Backlot Tour -- it was a ride that showed you the behind the scenes of how movies are made and the ride took you through the workings of a studio. My friend Jennie and I use "back lot tour" to describe a wheelchair accessible entrance and it is usually a back entrance. It is an entrance that most people don't get to see unless you need an accessible entrance. Sometimes these entrances are sketchy and makeshift and sometimes these entrances are pretty cool. For example, in Paris at the Louvre, we were taken through a secret gold door to get to the Mona Lisa. 

Jennie is mentioned a lot... who is she?

Short answer: college roommate, BFF, travel buddy, fellow Disney nerd, my wheelchair pusher, and sister (I'm an only child but I consider her my sister!) Long answer: We met in 2010 at Winthrop University where we both were freshman. It was luck of the draw/divine intervention because we both did not pick a roommate on our application. We were randomly assigned to be roommates. I am eternally grateful to God and to Winthrop University for putting us in the same dorm room. We both share a love of travel and have been fortunate to travel together. Our most recent trip was to Africa in January 2018.