Experience truly is a good teacher. One of those experiences has been that not everyone understands what accessibility really is. We have traveled out of town on a number of occasions, expecting to be comfortable in our accessible hotel room and being met with disappointment.
Calling ahead and requesting an accessible room is not enough. Experience has taught me that you must discuss your expectations and needs with a representative at the facility [not the world wide toll free number] and go through your list. For me, besides being able to get in the door, I need to know if they have an ADA or 'comfort height' toilet, grab bars around toilet and in shower, and a roll in shower. If that person doesn't know, find someone who does. Don't make your reservation until you are sure.
I have been researching accessible rooms in a resort town. I'm not sure if these folks know what the ADA is. My ADA has nothing to do with my teeth. Understand your needs and don't take for granted that anyone else does.

Deb and I realized several years ago that making our home the hub of recreational opportunities is the most practical and enjoyable way for us to get our 'kicks'. Three years ago, we had an above ground pool installed. We usually gasp for air when we discuss costs, but, we don't incur the annual vacation road trip expenses, so, it really does equal out quickly.

As it is with EVERY endeavor, my situation ALWAYS creates special challenges and issues. However, we do a great job discussing these issues, our feelings and our concerns before we take the plunge [yes, that was on purpose]. For example, the special challenges for me with the pool:

Admittedly, Deb enjoys the convenience and ability to jump in the water at any time. She makes cleaning the water part of her swim routine and does an excellent job with maintenance. The water always is clear and inviting. Stop by for a dip anytime!

     March 7th - 16th are the dates for the Winter Paralympic Games in Sochi. Of course, the Ice Sledge Hockey is my favorite event. However, I respect all the athletes because I understand the effort and sacrifice needed to compete. I have not been able to find any specific times for broadcast coverage here in the U.S., but, I'll pass the info along when I do...

        I am involved with a local organization that provides recreational opportunities for people with disabilities. We are currently kicking off the snow skiing season which is very popular. We provide equipment, instructors and volunteers to help skiers with disabilities enjoy the slopes.

        We also continue to sponsor bowling night every Tuesday evening. This is a great activity that the whole family can get involved in. There are plenty of activities out there for folks who have a disability, AND, for those who do not have a disability. Get out there and try something different.

Outdoor Buddies is an all volunteer nonprofit organization, relying on  able bodied volunteers to help disabled individuals and disadvantaged youths enjoy the best of what Colorado's natural resources have to offer.  

Outdoor Buddies was founded by representatives of Craig Hospital and Colorado Parks and Wildlife who wanted to provide outdoor adventure experiences to mobility-disabled outdoor lovers. The founding president was Sid Sellers, a hunter safety instructor with the Colorado Division of Wildlife. The organizational efforts were initiated primarily because of a need to find therapeutic recreational opportunities for patients who had suffered debilitating spinal cord injuries. Through the years, Outdoor Buddies has
expanded its programs to include all mobility-disabled persons and a youth program.

        Whether it's a  handicapped parking spot or enjoying the attractions at Disney World, it amazes me how hard people work to abuse every system on the planet.
        Disney has to  adjust how they allow people with disabilities and their companions access to
attractions because: 
        "The move was a response to the phenomenon of disabled “tour guides” who  charge money, sometimes hundreds of dollars, to accompany able-bodied  guests and allow them to avoid long lines"
        Disney had been permitting people with disabilities and their companions to move to the front of the line because of conditions that prevent people from being in a long line. This was such a wonderful and heartfelt move by the Disney Corporation; nice try, folks!! Naturally, there are times when SOME people want to be selfish and self centered.
        Every other comment I have and the vocabulary I want to use, well, this will be a short blog entry. Shame on everyone who is a scammer!

People with disabilities face barriers daily. Often, according to research the most difficult barrier to overcome is dealing with the attitudes of other people regarding people with disabilities. Whether born from ignorance, fear, misunderstanding or hate, these attitudes and perceptions can become barriers to achievement for people with disabilities. The most pervasive negative attitude is focusing on a person's disability rather than on the person's talent.
 
Some attitudinal barriers encountered by people with disabilities include the following: 
 
Inferiority 
Because a person may be impaired in one of life's major functions, some people believe that individual is a "second-class citizen." However, people with disabilities may have skills
that compensate for and/or take priority over the impairment.
  
Pity 
People feel sorry for the person with a disability, which tends to lead to patronizing attitudes.
People with disabilities generally do not want pity and charity, just equal opportunity to earn their own way and live independently.
 
Hero worship
People consider someone with a disability who lives independently or pursues a profession to be brave or "special" for overcoming a disability. But most people with disabilities do not
want accolades for performing day-to-day tasks. The disability is there; the individual has simply learned to adapt by using his or her skills and knowledge.

        I just received a flyer for the Barber Bay Beast Adapted Obstacle Course Event, Erie PA, Sept. 7, 2013. The event benefits the Barber National Institute, an organization that "makes dreams come true" for children and adults with developmental and physical disabilities.
        According to the flyer, the event is a 1.5 mile course with 6 obstacles that incorporate challenges like pushing, pulling and navigating ramps. Click on the image for the flyer, or, visit BarberBeast.org/adaptedcourse/.
   
     There continues to be more opportunities for people with disabilities, I call that inclusion.