Being sick just sucks, right? As someone living with Osteogenesis Imperfecta (OI)—commonly known as Brittle Bone Disease—even a seemingly minor cold can become a significant health challenge. For me, illnesses like colds or the flu often turn into a battle for my health, especially when they threaten my compromised respiratory system. How Colds Escalate with Osteogenesis Imperfecta […]
As a New Orleans artist with Osteogenesis Imperfecta (OI)—commonly called Brittle Bone Disease—my relationship with the French Quarter is a complicated one. On one hand, it’s an iconic part of the city, bursting with life, art, and music. On the other, the lack of accessibility poses significant challenges for someone with a disability. The Allure of the French Quarter […]
Parents of children with Osteogenesis Imperfecta are often charged with child abuse, simply because their kids always turn up with broken bones. My muscles can break my bones when they contract, making it seem like my bones break at random. You can see where, especially if a child has a lower severity of OI, parents […]
Living with Osteogenesis Imperfecta (OI)—also known as Brittle Bone Disease—comes with unique challenges, particularly for those of us with short limbs, limited mobility, and fragile bones. Over time, adaptive technologies have made navigating these challenges more manageable. Here are ten game-changing gadgets that have made a difference for me and others in the disabled community. 1. Electric Wheelchairs […]
Anyone who knows me will tell you that my idea of a perfect evening involves music, a live concert, and getting as close to the stage as possible. Even though I’m a disabled artist living with Osteogenesis Imperfecta (OI)—often referred to as Brittle Bone Disease—music has always been my escape, my happy place. And let’s face it, painting (though I love it) […]
When I share that I have Osteogenesis Imperfecta (OI), often called Brittle Bone Disease, people are surprised to learn I attended mainstream schools my entire life. As a disabled artist who thrived in these environments, I’ve seen firsthand how school inclusion benefits not just the student with a disability, but the entire community. Early Challenges and the Search for Inclusion By […]
Living with Osteogenesis Imperfecta—often called Brittle Bone Disease—comes with daily challenges, especially when it comes to managing simple tasks. As a disabled artist navigating the realities of art and disability, I’ve discovered that a well-trained service dog can make all the difference. Meet Lexie, my 7-ish-year-old Sheltie/Border Collie mix who transformed from a rambunctious rescue into a skilled service dog—and […]
When you think of summer vacation, the beach likely springs to mind—sun, surf, and sand appeal to most people. Families build sandcastles, dogs romp in the waves, and adults lounge under umbrellas with a cold drink. It’s a near-perfect getaway for many—but not for me! As a disabled artist living with Osteogenesis Imperfecta (also known as Brittle Bone Disease), I face unique […]
Living with Osteogenesis Imperfecta (OI), commonly referred to as Brittle Bone Disease, means constantly navigating physical limitations, chronic pain, and the need to rely on others for everyday tasks. As a disabled artist, I’ve come to realize that art and dependence intersect in countless ways—some more challenging than others. Whether you’ve lived with a disability all your life or suddenly find […]
As a disabled artist living with Osteogenesis Imperfecta (OI)—also known as Brittle Bone Disease—I’ve encountered my fair share of awkward interactions. While most people mean well, some just don’t know how to act around a wheelchair user. Over the years, I’ve collected a handful of helpful etiquette tips that can make everyday encounters more respectful, comfortable, and enlightening for […]
