Category: Uncategorized

Disabled and Deserving of More Than Scraps

CW: Poverty & Fraud Whenever discussions about disability benefits occur, I frequently hear the same comments: “It must be nice not having to work,” or “People just want handouts.” These criticisms rarely single out individual people; instead, they reflect a deep-seated cultural reflex that emerges whenever SSI, SSDI, Medicaid, or the idea that disabled people… Continue reading Disabled and Deserving of More Than Scraps

A Setback, Not a Stop Sign

Yesterday, I finally opened a letter that I had been waiting on for what felt like forever. I knew the outcome could go either way. I clung to a faint hope that this time, the system would acknowledge everything I’ve tried to explain.  Instead, the letter informed me that my request for a fair hearing… Continue reading A Setback, Not a Stop Sign

Independence, Interrupted

CW: Institutional Bias In September 2025, Ravi Mehta went to the hospital anticipating a routine visit—a simple adjustment to the settings on his ventilator. It was something he had done many times before. The doctors treated him, monitored him, and gave him the okay to return home.  However, it never happened. Instead, Ravi found himself… Continue reading Independence, Interrupted

Politicians Talk About Fraud; Disabled People Talk About Staying Alive

Discussions surrounding Medicaid are frequently simplified into political rhetoric focused on budgets, political disputes, and fraud. However, for millions of older adults and disabled people, Medicaid is not merely a policy issue; it allows them to live at home. It is the difference between living at home and being forced into a nursing home or… Continue reading Politicians Talk About Fraud; Disabled People Talk About Staying Alive

Olmstead’s Legacy Is Under Threat

CW: Institutionalization The fight for disability rights in the United States is entering a critical new stage, with potential repercussions that could affect how millions of disabled people live and access care. Eight states (Alaska, Florida, Kansas, Louisiana, Missouri, Montana, South Dakota, and Texas), have petitioned a federal court to roll back essential protections related… Continue reading Olmstead’s Legacy Is Under Threat

COLAs and the Real Cost of Disability

Social Security and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) beneficiaries could see their monthly benefits rise again in 2027, as early projections indicate a higher cost-of-living adjustment (COLA). Current predictions suggest benefits may increase by about 3.9%, more than the 2.8% increase recipients received in 2026. This anticipated increase is driven by ongoing inflation, which is impacting… Continue reading COLAs and the Real Cost of Disability

Losing Hours, Losing Independence: What Medicaid Cuts Mean for Disabled People

CW: Fraud & Institutionalization Nationwide, disabled people and older adults are increasingly worried as the federal government ramps up its efforts to cut Medicaid funding for home and community-based services. In California, over a billion dollars for In-Home Supportive Services was abruptly withheld. Unfortunately, this is not an isolated incident. It’s part of a larger… Continue reading Losing Hours, Losing Independence: What Medicaid Cuts Mean for Disabled People

A Flag Above the Capitol, and A System in Crisis

CW: Death, Abuse, & Neglect Having the American flag over the U.S. Capitol in one’s memory is a prestigious honor. This honor is usually reserved for military heroes, dedicated public servants, and people whose contributions have impacted the country. This month, that prestigious gesture was done in memory of Justin McCafferty, a 22-year-old from New… Continue reading A Flag Above the Capitol, and A System in Crisis