At FIL we often say that we don’t like talking about people’s disabilities but their abilities. Still, when Elisa approached Executive Direct Mark Jacoby with an idea to tell the story of her disability so people could better understand, the team at FIL was thrilled to help her out.
Elisa was born with a severe form of Spina Bifida, resulting in many surgeries – including one when she was only 3 days old.
For those unaware, Spina Bifida is a condition where the brain can begin to push down on the spinal chord causing tremendous challenges.
Many times surgery is even attempted while the fetus is still in the mother’s womb. However, in Elisa’s situation, this was not possible and her spine actually began to grow outside of her body.
Elisa felt it was important for people to understand better why she was often in pain, why she has trouble walking some days and why some of her activities were limited.
So, Elisa put together a Power Point and then presented it to the residents and staff at one of our recent Business Meetings.
She then proceeded to take a variety of questions from our residents who clearly gained new understanding and shared their love and support for Elisa.
Finally, Elisa played what she considers her theme song: Whitney Houston’s “I Didn’t Know My Own Strength.”
Thank you Elisa for being so brave and doing such a tremendous job!
