Meet Kristi. This up-and-coming self-advocate has found her passion--disability advocacy. She has recently realized that her voice does matter and that she can make a difference in the world. She encourages others to “just go for it!”  We’re so fortune to have her as a member of the Network!       

What's your story?  Tell us a little bit about yourself.

Kristi is 30 years old and was born with Spina Bifida.  Due to this, she is paralyzed from the waist down. “Even though going through all of the medical issues associated with Spina Bifida hasn’t been easy, I feel like it has made me a stronger person and really what led to my calling to become a self-advocate,” she says. She has started joining different advocacy groups and is a Self-Advocate Leader with the Board for People with Developmental Disabilities (BPDD). She’s passionate about making this world more accepting and accessible to people with all different abilities.  

How are you involved with self-determination? Why did you join the SD Network?

While Kristi is new to the Self-Determination Network, she has been in a few videos for the Self-Determination YouTube channel.  She joined the SD Network because she saw a post on Facebook from a friend, asking if anyone would be interested in answering some questions for an upcoming Member Spotlight.  She jumped at the chance because she wanted to get out there and share opinions on disability related topics. “Again, I feel like bringing awareness to different abilities and helping individuals overcome the obstacles that may arise is my purpose in life.  Everyone has a story and I want to help people tell theirs from a position of power and strength rather than a position of pity and others feeling sorry for them,” she explains. She points out a quote from Dr. Seuss: “Why blend in when you were born to stand out?” 

Tell us some good news - what's the most exciting thing happening for you (or in Wisconsin) in terms of self-determination?

The best thing happening for Kristi is that she’s building up her self-determination skills.  She explains that she’s gradually learning how to make her voice heard and that the value of what she has to say. She tells us, “before joining all of these self-advocate groups I was shy and reserved.  I didn’t really give my feelings or opinions because I felt like no one was listening to me anyway so why should I bother?” In terms of self-determination, she’s learning that she does matter and she has the right and responsibility to get her thoughts and feelings recognized. “I’ve become more aware of the thought that if I don’t share my story, thoughts, and feelings, who will?” she says.       

What tip or resource would you like to share with people who want to be more self-determined?

The advice that Kristi would give to others who are looking to become more self-determined is; even though it will be scary and you’ll have doubts, just go for it!  She explains that if you don’t like how something in your life is running, let someone know who can help you make the changes you want.  “Yes, you may not solve the issue or get the exact result you wanted, but you will make it known that you do have an opinion and need to be asked about different choices rather than having someone just make the choices for you.  It’s your life, live it how you think is best for you,” she exclaims!

What are some of your hobbies?

Kristi likes going out with friends and scrolling through Facebook.  She also enjoys attending a Pound fitness class on Tuesdays and Thursdays.

***We love hearing the views and opinions of Network members. We need to mention that the views and opinions expressed on this site are those of the person who is sharing them. They do not necessarily reflect InControl Wisconsin or any of our supporters and funders.