“It’s not a death sentence to be a wheelchair user.”

What does it mean to build a joyful life when the world doesn’t always make room for you?

On this episode of Bounce Back Stronger, I’m joined by Jenna Udenberg, disability advocate, accessibility educator, author, and founder of the nonprofit Above and Beyond With You. Diagnosed with juvenile idiopathic arthritis at age eight, Jenna has spent her life navigating disability while building a career as a music educator, community leader, and author of Within My Spokes: A Tapestry of Pain, Growth, and Freedom.

This is an honest, funny, and thought-provoking conversation about disability, resilience, accessibility, and the power of human connection.

In this episode, we explore:

• How a strong support system can help us navigate life’s challenges.
• Why representation matters and how seeing someone like yourself can open up new possibilities.
• The assumptions and language that can make people feel included.
• How small acts of kindness can create a greater sense of belonging.
• Why we should strive to leave people better than we found them.

You don’t have to have the same life experiences to make someone feel seen, respected, and welcome.

Listen in, and consider: What is one small thing you can do to help someone feel they belong?

Learn more about Jenna’s non-profit and her book at aboveandbeyondwithu.org

If you’re navigating a loss/transition, wondering what’s next, or simply ready to create more joy, purpose, and connection in your life, I’d love to stay connected. Visit donnayferris.com to sign up for my newsletter and learn more about my books, coaching, and other resources.

If you enjoyed this episode on disability advocacy, you might want to listen to Episode #45 “The Power of Grit” with Cindy Ross and Todd Gladfelter and Episode #15 “Breaking Broadway Barriers” with Madison Ferris.

And if you’re looking for mental health resources, please click here or reach out to your insurance provider. If you are in crisis, please dial 911, go to your nearest emergency room, or dial 988 for the suicide hotline (US only). If you are transgender, the 24/7 Trans Lifeline in the US is 1-877-565-8860, and in Canada, it is 1-877-330-6366.

#BounceBackStronger #DisabilityInclusion #AccessibilityMatters #DisabilityAdvocate #Belonging #HumanConnection #Resilience #InclusionMatters

Background music is “Some Kind of Wonderful” by NuAlkemi$t