My Story

Growing up with a severely disabled older brother, I witnessed firsthand what it meant to be marginalized. Daniel was six years older than me, nonverbal, wheelchair-bound, and feeding tube dependent. Although he could not speak, Daniel loved ABC picture books, Elmo videos, classical music, ballet, movement, laughter, and swinging on his special red swing at our local park.

Memories of Daniel sitting on the side in the park in his wheelchair, isolated, have never left me. Echoes of my brother's struggles creep into my daily life and even my dreams.

Writing allows me to explore my past observations and childhood memories. Since I was old enough to write, my diary has served as both a form of catharsis and a witness to moments that might otherwise be forgotten. As a student at the Dalton School in New York, I have observed the paucity of disability literature for children. Growing up, I found very few books that depicted other children who were either physically or emotionally disabled. In response, I created a children's picture book based on the red adapted swing that brought my brother laughter and joy. Ziggy's Red Swing will be self-published in the Fall of 2026.

To bring joy to other children with disabilities, I have advocated for a pilot program, Daniel's Swing Project, to install special-needs swings in New York City parks. The first swing was installed at Carl Schurz Park in April 2026. The red adaptive swing allowed my brother to experience freedom of movement and feel included, even if only for a moment. I hope this website can share information, raise disability awareness, and inspire people with disabilities, their families, educators, and professionals.