“We’re gone in a blizzard of seconds. Love the body human while we’re here. Give thanks or go home a waste of spark.” ―Marty McConnell

I was in Special Ed from elementary through middle school, and all I learned was how to eat pizza—lots and lots of pizza.

My parents advocated for me to get tested in third grade. My mom, in particular, noticed I was struggling in school, and she had become worried about my low self-esteem. She said I kept getting quieter (not my nature), and more subdued. My dad worked for the Department of Vocational Rehabilitation, so he had some knowledge around disabilities and advocacy. I know what a privilege it is to 1) have parents who advocate for you, and 2) have parents who have the time, energy, and resources to do so. This is obviously not the case for a lot of kids.