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 worked for the Easter Seal Society (now Easterseals), which helps disabled individuals in a multitude of ways. She asked if I would consider applying to become the Hamilton County Easter Seal Child. It sounded like a great opportunity for me, and we decided to do it. I was chosen to represent Hamilton County for the Easter Seals that year and went on to become the Indiana State Easter Seal child for two years after that.
I was able to meet other kids who also had a disability, though none just like mine. I was involved in many exciting activities around the state and met some cool people along the way. One of the highlights for me was the relationship I formed with Paul Page, who at the time was the voice of the Indianapolis 500. He was the Indiana Easter Seal Chairman, and we got to collaborate several times on various projects. He always made me laugh, and joking around became our thing. I got to visit the Governor’s office on a couple of different occasions to present the first sheet of Easter Seals during those years.
Doing these things gave me a sense of belonging, and a boost of confidence that I desperately needed. At the time, I didn’t realize the magnitude of that question that my mom’s friend from church asked and how it would shape my life. It sparked a passion for helping others, even at such a young age. I saw it as something I was capable of doing.
More recently, I also served as the Indiana state ambassador for the Muscular Dystrophy Association and then as their National Ambassador for two years following that. Those roles came at a time in my adult life when I really needed that boost of confidence, and reminder that I do have a lot to offer because of the life I have lived. Because of Carolyn S. from church, I ended up serving my county, state and country representing those with disabilities for several years. That’s a pretty awesome ripple effect.
Most importantly it was a good reminder for me that we all can help shape other’s lives in a positive way. It doesn’t have to be a big grand gesture. It could be a word of encouragement, or a suggestion to someone to try something new.
The ripple effect can reach far and wide. I think most of us underestimate the power within us to help guide someone’s life in a positive direction. Even teachers I had long ago still have an impact on me to this day. I can sometimes still hear their kind, encouraging words. They believed in me, and the key was that they shared that with me. If they thought it and never said anything, clearly it wouldn’t have meant anything to me. If you are thinking something kind about someone, tell them!
Through my writing and service roles for the last several years, I have been able to be someone who has the opportunity to create a ripple effect in other’s lives – not because I’m special, but because I put myself out there and in turn have had others reach out to me. That gives me an opportunity to share my personal experiences of living life with a disability, and offer some wisdom learned along the way, while also encouraging others.
I would like to think that I’ve caused a few ripples in my life, to pay back those that caused ripples in mine. The effects are so impactful, and so simple to give.
Until next time …
Amy Shinneman is a former National Ambassador for the Muscular Dystrophy Association, disability blogger, wife, and mom of two boys. You can find her blog at humblycourageous.com and reach her on Instagram @ashinneman.