Jamie & Crew
Hello…my name is Jamie. I am 25 years old. At the age of 18, I had an accident falling off of a yacht in Newport, Rhode Island. Hitting my head on a floating dock and being immersed underwater for 10 minutes has left me blind, non verbal and in a wheelchair. I have been diagnosed with “Locked in Syndrome” which basically means I am all here inside –“trapped in my body” and only able to use eye blinks for communication. Doctors said I would never survive…God has another plan for me.
My mom and I relocated from Destin, Florida in 2005 due to Hurricane Ivan. I now reside in Plymouth in my own accessible home. Lucky me! That I have a terrific family and a great staff that gives their all to help me to live my life to the fullest!
My hobbies are sailing, traveling, comedies, concerts, museums and hanging out at the canal. Max, is my 8th month old golden doodle companion. During the week I still receive therapy and training on my computer using switches to help me communicate.
Kenny and I have known each other for over 3 years now. I feel very honored and excited to become part of “The Traveling Wheelchair”. This is a great opportunity to make a difference for us “four wheelers”.
My mom has been advocating for years………I remember one incident in Birmingham, Alabama. Trying to enter Banana Republic Store and they had the accessible door not only locked but blocked with a rack of clothing. Good ole Mom would not let it pass! Mom actually rearranged the store for me to have access and slapped a non accessible sticker on the window!
We have always used the “ten second look approach”! The public is allowed ten seconds to look and after that we approach them and ask if they would like to meet me and hear my story. I have met many wonderful people this way! Remember, it is our responsibility to educate the general population.
Our accessibility reviews will be posted on the main web page under the category of ‘Jamie and Crew’ as well as under the other categories they fall under such as recreation, restaurants, shopping, etc..
Here is to making the world a more accessible place!
My favorite quote I live by is “Ain’t Scared”!
Respectfully,
Jamie and Crew
