Articles by Amy Shinneman

Disability defined

Many of us have likely heard the phrase “my disability doesn’t define me.” What comes to mind when you hear this? This is one of those phrases that can spark…

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Ripple effect

I was eight years old when a lady at our church approached my mom and I and took a chance – a chance that ended up changing my life. She…


Body image

As a person who has lived in a disabled body her whole life, there have been some major struggles with body image. As an elementary student, I was always self-conscious…


Finishing the Boston Marathon

So, we celebrated briefly and got a picture snapped to document this incredible moment in time. As soon as that picture was taken, it felt like my mind reconnected with…




The same, but different

My husband is my “editor in chief” – as I jokingly like to call him – for all my blog posts. Really, he just reads through what I’ve written to…


Strong because I am weak

A few weeks ago, I was once again headed to my regular neurology appointment. I dread those appointments because it’s a hike from the car to the office. Often, I…


The kindness of a stranger

Have you ever been in a situation where you were unable to move or speak because you were so terrified? It is a horrific feeling, and one that can bring…


I’m fine!

I often feel like it’s hard to come up with the right words to talk about all the complexities of my thoughts I have surrounding my disability. As a lifelong…