Representation can be subtle, but inclusion can make a big difference.
- Kaitlyn Salonga, Patient
- Aug 7, 2025
- 1 min read
Taking in stories over this Disability Pride Month has left me both humbled and hopeful. A few weeks ago, I started doing some work for a disability advocacy-focused NPO. And though it is exactly where my heart lies, I’m very aware that the cause is never-ending; there will always be societal improvements to be made, but that’s what makes it even more important to celebrate the wins.
I have an incurable lung disease called Pulmonary Hypertension, and though it may have shortened my life in some ways, it has created a path to full, genuine experiences and relationships, that my old life wouldn’t have necessarily given me.
I model, because I want someone else with tubes to see themselves instead of feeling like they need to hide away.
I talk about it, because with awareness, and research, science, there will be a time where someone who’s as sick as me, doesn’t need to live with a life-support machine attached to their body. And they will swim, and travel, and bathe, and breathe, freely.
I’m disabled, but that’s not all of who I am. The disabled community is just that, no matter the difference, the diagnosis, the identity, we find commonality with each other, and that’s exactly how it should be with our able-bodied peers. Without it being about tokenism, we can participate in the conversation, and realize that we’re all closer than we know.
Contributed by Kaitlyn Salonga, living with PAH, Richmond, BC
Photo credit: @toshalobsingerismyphotographer
This is a powerful and thought-provoking reflection, stories like these highlight the importance of dignity, visibility, and understanding in everyday life. Many people with disabilities continue to face social and systemic barriers that affect their quality of life and inclusion.
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Your story is powerful and inspiring, highlighting how representation and inclusion change lives. Sharing lived experiences like yours contributes to awareness and meaningful research, often reflected in platforms like the web of science journal. Your voice not only empowers others but also pushes society toward empathy, progress, and genuine understanding.
Being seen and included matters in quiet ways. It brings hope and respect for everyone. Like cv experts help shape clear profiles, real stories show that people are more than their health condition.
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Thank you for sharing this powerful and important reflection, dignity and visibility make such a meaningful difference in how we understand and support one another. Whether someone is advocating for change or pursuing opportunities in their own life, presenting their experience clearly can help others see their strengths and journey. For those thinking about career moves, accessing London resume writing help services can be a useful way to ensure their skills and story are communicated in a way that feels true to who they are. Thanks for highlighting such thoughtful perspectives.