There's no doubt that social media has changes us, and there's no going back. While I won't comment on whether that change has been for the better or worse, I do believe there have been several positive aspects of social media as it relates to the disability community. Social media has not only allowed us to connect with others in the community in a way we've never been able to before, but it has also given a platform to voices otherwise not heard.
And now, we face an even newer concept than social media itself: influencers. The rise of social influencers has shaped the way we interact both online and off. Whether you're looking for helpful advice or just some camaraderie, social influencers help give a voice to a community.
Here are just a few of the rising social influencers in the disability community that I think you may want to check out and start following yourself:
Squirmy and Grubs
Shane Burcaw and Hannah Aylward post regular videos on their YouTube channel, Squirmy and Grubs, to challenge the ignorance facing many interabled couples today. What started as a fun foray into documenting their lives as a couple has turned into a full-on movement. Boasting more than 488,000 subscribers on their YouTube channel, Shane is also the founder of the blog Laughing at My Nightmare, author of three books, and co-founder of a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing adaptive technology to those living with muscular dystrophy.
Curb Free with Cory Lee
Cory Lee is an expert traveler who also happens to have SMA. But he doesn't let his disability get in the way of exploring the world. His goal is not only to show you how and where to travel, but why you should travel, even with a disability. As the leading travel blogger focusing on accessibility, Cory is a two-time Lowell Thomas Award winner for Best Travel Blog, was named 2018 Person of the Year by New Mobility Magazine, won a 2019 Webby Award for best Personal Blog/Website, and has been featured on Travel Channel, CBS News, National Geographic, Forbes, and so much more.
Earle the Service Dog
Chris Slavin travels the world with her service dog Earle, a yellow Labrador Retriever Service/Assistance Dog, trained through N.E.A.D.S., Dogs for Deaf and Disabled Americans, in Princeton, MA. Along the way they see great sights and make new friends, but the road isn't always smooth. Follow all of Chris and Earle's global adventures on their Facebook and Instagram pages.
Roll with Cole & Charisma
This "Stay Positive" interabled and interracial couple has quickly gained momentum and there's no sign of slowing down. Boasting a YouTube following of more than 200,000 followers, Cole & Charisma's videos have inspired others to put themselves out there for a chance at love. In addition to their positive messaging, the couple is also a passionate advocate for the community. Be sure to catch their regular videos posted twice weekly on their YouTube channel.
Wheels2Walking
Creating both entertaining and educational content for wheelchair users, Richard Corbett creates regular videos on his YouTube channel featuring his tips and tricks for everything from traveling, to dating, and more. After his life changes forever due to a 50-foot fall, Corbett is on a mission to experience the world around him and encourage others to do the same. As a recent winner of the Sports N' Spokes "Wheels Up! Photo Contest," Corbett shows no signs of slowing down.
We Carry Kevan
Featured in Forbes, USA Today, CNN, and more, Kevan Chandler inspired a movement of people helping people, all starting with a backpacking trip to Europe in 2016. Born with spinal muscular atrophy, Kevan's adventures on the backs of his friends has taken him to the English countryside, Ireland's Skellig Michael, and even the Great Wall of China. As the founder of the nonprofit We Carry Kevan, Kevan continues his mission to redefine accessibility as a cooperative effort between the disabled and able-bodied communities.
The Life of K & K
With more than 37,000 subscribers on their YouTube channel, Kevin and Kassandra (Kassy) give fans a glimpse into their lives with weekly videos. At first glance you may just see a fun couple in love sharing their journey. But behind the laughs and entertaining videos are lives that are not without hardship, or challenges along the way and not without overcoming real issues faced by many within the community.
Wheelchair Daddy
This husband and father with Cerebral Palsy noticed a lack of resources for parents with disabilities, particularly from a father's perspective. His blog, wheelchairdaddy.com, features tips and trucks spanning family life, wheelchair life, and tech gadgets - because what dad isn't going to highlight those helpful tech gadgets?!
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