Welcome to our Agenda
Dedicated Wheel Influencer
After spending forty years in a wheelchair due to a motorcycle accident at the age of 15, I've transitioned into the role of an influencer. As an entrepreneur and the driving force behind numerous successful projects and programs, I now utilize my platforms to champion for accessibility, independence, and inclusion. Through my sincere storytelling and insightful perspectives, I've motivated countless individuals to embrace their individuality and work towards positive change. My journey has deeply resonated with my audience, fostering a community centered on independence and empowerment. My influence has transcended beyond my disability, showcasing the strength of resilience and authenticity to the world. Despite encountering challenges, I've exemplified strength and poise, leaving an enduring impact on the world.
With thirty-five years of experience.
In the early 90s, I was introduced to the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). At that time, I embraced the idea of change. As a passionate advocate, I not only considered my own perspective on barriers that restricted my participation but also sought to understand the perspectives of others with disabilities. As Gandhi said, we must be an example for change, and I have tried to embody that as an individual with a disability.
My Motto
Remember to seek Reasons to be present, not Excuses for absence. Ignorance is a curable disability. - Daniel Ruiz
Here's a photo of me with former General Norman Schwarzkopf at the Schwarzkopf Sporting Clays event. R.I.P.
"Ignorance Is a Curable Disability"
Adaptive Abilities
Walking is an overrated Verb, So roll with the punches!
This Life By: Daniel Ruiz
Living with a spinal cord injury is incredibly challenging physically, emotionally, and mentally. But amidst the difficulties, there is always room for gratitude and positivity. Let's explore the transformative power of appreciation in the face of adversity, a power that can empower you and put you in control of your journey.
When faced with a spinal cord injury, it's understandable to feel a range of emotions - frustration, sadness, anger, and regret. Depression is something that most, if not all, of us who have an SCI have experienced or are experiencing. It's okay to acknowledge these feelings, but it's also important to remember that you can still be grateful for the mere fact that you are alive and well today.
Gratitude can help shift your perspective. Instead of focusing on what you've lost, be grateful for what you still have. Be thankful for the people who support you, the medical professionals helping you on your journey, and the daily small victories and progress you make. This shift in perspective can fill you with hope and optimism.
Gratitude can also be a source of strength and resilience. By practicing gratitude, you cultivate a positive mindset that can help you navigate the challenges of living with a spinal cord injury. It can give you the courage to face each day with optimism and hope.
Moreover, gratitude can be the key to finding moments of joy and beauty even amid difficult times. Whether it's the warmth of the sun on your face, the laughter of a loved one, or the beauty of nature, there are always things to be grateful for if you look closely enough. Let these moments uplift and inspire you.
Remember, gratitude doesn't mean ignoring your pain or difficulties. It means focusing on the good, however small it may seem. So, embrace the power of gratitude in your life. Be thankful for the strength within you, the opportunities that lie ahead, and the chance to inspire others with your resilience.
Despite your spinal cord injury, you can cultivate a mindset of gratitude that can uplift your spirit and empower you on your journey. So, embrace gratitude and let it guide you toward a place of peace, acceptance, and greatness.
Life is short. We can't know for sure what happens after we die. Even if there is an afterlife, it's unlikely to be precisely as we imagine. Throughout history, no evidence has suggested that nearly one billion people who have lived on this planet will be reunited with their families and friends in heaven. So, why would we risk dismissing our life now and living as if there's a "redo" button?
"I believe that in my life, I will strive to experience everything to the absolute fullest. I am certain that when questioned about any potential regrets from not pursuing certain opportunities, my response will always be a resounding 'None.'"
"Try to start living your life and not merely existing as you may have been doing since your "different" life began. Focus on the positives in your life and build on that to start. We all have a beautiful story, so let's not have a gloomy and sad ending. Instead, let's make it a joyful and inspirational ending that will inspire many people long after we are gone... Peace, Love, and Paralysis, my friends."
God and SCI By: Daniel Ruiz
Over the last decade, I've written over five hundred blogs and short stories about the challenges, hardships, and victories of my life with a spinal cord injury. With subjects ranging from my experiences with wheelchairs to sex after SCI., From the sports that are available to us with disabilities to hobbies that lead to gainful employment and nearly everything in between.
However, the two subjects that I have sidestepped are the two subjects that can divide people right down the middle, including family and lifelong friendships.
What are these two subjects that I'm referring to? What can possibly come between the bond of family and friends? What could be so influential that it could destroy the love between two people? Well, I'm sure some of you already know and probably have experienced the ill consequences of entertaining the subject matter on a public stage.
I am referring to politics and religion. However, for the sake of convenience, I'll only address one of the two topics to keep the reading and clarity uncomplicated. That in itself is an oxymoronic statement at best. However, it's the best description that I have at this time.
Before I begin, I must confess that I am not an expert in either of the subjects. I don't have any academic background on either topic, with the exception that I have a spinal cord injury that has left me a paraplegic who uses a wheelchair going on forty-one years. I only have the basic knowledge that I share with a majority of individuals who have a disability.
Why is this important, and how does it have anything to do with religion? Well, for starters, I was raised with Roman Catholic values even before my SCI. I remember going to church every Sunday with my brothers. I remember when going to my grandparents for a visit, I would see the statues of Saints and Jesus that had offerings of money and fruits at the base, the lighting of candles, and the roseries that would be used in times of uncertainty.
As an adolescent, I did not question the validity of the existence of God or gods. The power of an unforeseen harmony and its influence on good over evil were questions of faith and faith alone. To do so was an act of blasphemy and would warrant a swift slap on the ass of reassurance. I am not alone when saying that my beliefs are those of my parents' influences and nothing more. They, indeed, weren't of my personal experiences as a living and breathing person at the time.
As I grew older, that would all change, as I would question faith and the power of this suggested invisible force, especially soon after my accident that left me without the use of my legs. To not have sensations below the level of my injury was something that I could not imagine having at the time. To not have control over my bodily functions as I once had was something that left me bewildered. To be labeled a "cripple" by the standards of the Bible was something that would keep me awake at night, thinking that I may have committed an injustice to someone or something.
As I went through the different phases of denial and being someone with a disability, I would look for answers to questions that would surface daily. The more I looked for these answers, the more confused I became about what questions I was asking. So, in time, I started to use a process of elimination that would lead me to where I am today.
I went from a devoted Catholic to a New-Born Christian, from a New-Born Christian to a non-denominational Christian, from a non-denominational Christian to an agnostic, from an agnostic to an atheist, from an atheist back to a Christian, and finally to where I am today. Where I am today is less important than where you are. However, for the sake of argument, something much more significant than myself plays a part in my existence.
Religion is essential for scholars and experts in the field to debate, not for someone with limited education on the subject matter beyond believing in something other than man's mere existence. However, there's no denying the role that religion plays in the lives of mortal humans and its influence on society. How can you when, even today, you can see that there are more churches and worship facilities than institutions of academia?
As long as this is the norm, we must understand and respect those who believe in something greater than themselves. Whether their religion is true or false, it's alive and well in their minds, which should not be ignored or disregarded. For those who find rhyme and reason with a disability, it is for them and them alone to contemplate their beliefs and no one else. What may work for someone may not for others, and that's okay as long as it's not hurting anyone. Some may beg to argue, but that's for another entry and not this one.
Religion has played a vital role throughout the millennia, impacting millions of people in a just and positive way. Some argue that it has also negatively affected others, and while this may hold water, it's not for me or you to say anything about it, one way or another. Religion is or should be a personal journey without the influences of others. You, as an individual, should wrestle with this notion whether you have a disability or not.
We can all agree that being good and truthful to others is essential and that lying and cheating are truths that no one should applaud. I have learned throughout the years that giving is much more rewarding than taking, honesty is much more acceptable than dishonesty, and having a moral compass pointed North is greater than one pointed south.
Let's revisit the topic of disabilities and how they are linked to religion and the Church of Christ. One may think that, how can a disability be a blessing in the eyes of anyone with half a brain? What many don't take into consideration is the alternative. What I mean by an alternative is actually quite simple, and that is death. I can speak for myself that I would rather be in this predicament of being in a wheelchair than that of not being here at all.
I wake up in the morning to a day with my family. I take a deep breath and let the brisk morning scents fill my soul. I can turn on the television and accurately see what is happening on the other side of the planet. I can jump in my car and drive to my local favorite fishing hole. I can go shopping with a friend or even alone if I choose to. I can order a pizza or cook my favorite dish. I can pick up the phone and call any number of people that I wish to speak with. I can log onto my favorite social media pages and participate with whom I choose—the activities I am involved with are satisfying and fulfilling, no matter my physical status.
So yes, a disability can be seen as a blessing in disguise and shouldn't be viewed as a curse, especially if it's an SCI. You still have your mind, and when it comes down to it, that's genuinely the most essential facility we have—bar None!
Have a beautiful day, my friends. Peace, Love & Paraliys!