In my dream world, there are no barriers

When I close my eyes, I see the world as it should be — a place where accommodation isn’t something to fight for; where people with disabilities don’t have to plan every step, hoping the next doorway isn’t too narrow, the next curb isn’t too high, and the next space isn’t too crowded. In my dream world, barriers don’t exist.

But that’s not the world I live in. Every trip outside my home requires careful planning: double-checking if a place is accessible, wondering if my wheelchair will fit through a doorway, hoping people won’t see me as an inconvenience rather than a person.

When it exists, accessibility often feels like an afterthought rather than a given. And that’s what needs to change.

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Chiseling away at inaccessibility, slowly but surely

Living with spinal muscular atrophy (SMA), I spend a lot of time in my head, navigating not just physical barriers but also the weight of these constant challenges. Some days, my thoughts drift into dark and intrusive places, the kind few would want to hear about. But on other days, my mind sparks with creativity, imagining a world where accessibility isn’t a battle, inclusion is effortless, and people with disabilities aren’t seen as exceptions but as equals.

Having SMA means that independence often looks different for me than it does for others. I rely on caregivers for daily tasks, but that doesn’t mean I want to be excluded from life. In my dream world, support is always available, but it never comes at the cost of dignity or personal choice.

In this world, people with disabilities aren’t seen as “inspirations” just for existing. We aren’t treated as burdens. Instead, we’re seen for our strengths, ambitions, and contributions. The world doesn’t separate or categorize us based on what we can or can’t do. It embraces each person’s unique abilities.

And in this world, I wouldn’t have to navigate social stigmas or fight for opportunities. I’d be recognized for my mind, my voice, and my dreams — rather than my diagnosis.

Although this world may not exist yet, that doesn’t mean we can’t take steps toward making it real. We can design spaces that welcome everyone, push for policies that make accessibility a standard, and change how we talk about disability — from something to “overcome” to something that is. We can create communities where no one is left behind, where inclusion isn’t just a legal requirement but a deeply held value.

And maybe, one day, my dream world won’t just exist in my mind. Perhaps it will become a reality for those who come after me. Until then, I’ll keep dreaming. And I’ll keep fighting to make that dream a reality.

Note: SMA News Today is strictly a news and information website about the disease. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website. The opinions expressed in this column are not those of SMA News Today or its parent company, Bionews, and are intended to spark discussion about issues pertaining to spinal muscular atrophy.