That’s a Wrap

Hello and welcome! I’m glad you are here. Wow, 2023 seemed to go by in the blink of an eye! This is my 47th and final blog post of 2023. 

This year has been full of ups and downs, as is life. A life that’s full of challenges with good sprinkled in here and there. I have had some difficult moments regarding my disability this year. I’ve definitely noticed a downward trend in strength, but I’ve also noticed my will to fight continues to grow stronger, for which I am grateful. For me personally, I spend a lot of time leaning on my faith, and believing that my purpose on the earth is orchestrated by my disability. It’s just my story. 

I have continued to get my stem cell treatments every 4 months or so. It’s hard to say how much they are helping. I do think they help with endurance and overall stamina. Plus, fighting against the beast that is Muscular Dystrophy, I need every little bit of help and hope I can get. I plan to continue them for the time being.

Love my Dr. J!

I’m proud to say that another year of solid workouts and consistent exercise is in the books. I kept my no excuses policy with myself, which is when I start to let those excuses run through my head, I immediately shut them down and do the workouts anyway. There is always an excuse not to exercise. I know it helps me, so that’s what I will continue to do. 

Running the Boston Marathon for MDA’s Team Momentum, with our boys there cheering us on, was certainly a highlight of 2023. What an incredible experience in so many ways!

Advocating in Washington, D.C. was a highlight this year. Having the opportunity to link arms with some amazing individuals/advocates and fight for more airline accessibility was certainly an experience I won’t soon forget.

Incredible group of people ❤️

Turning 49 was meaningful, and I am embracing my last year in my 40’s. Hard to believe I’m this old, haha. My body definitely reminds me of this on a regular basis. I am making the most of being able to say, I’m in my 40’s! The day before my birthday, I wrote what I think is my best writing to date titled “Dear Muscular Dystrophy”. It was wonderful to watch that piece reach and resonate with so many. My heart and soul live in that piece. A writer’s biggest hope come true!

I conquered the “big hill” a couple of times in 2023. Each time felt harder than the last, but what a gift to be able to take on a challenge like that and succeed! We will see what 2024 brings with the big hill.

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Getting fitted for and receiving my first custom made, manual wheelchair was both heartbreaking and a gift at the same time. It has made my life easier in many ways, and I’m thankful to have it. We have become one.

Celebrating my 24th wedding anniversary in NYC with my wonderful husband made for some incredible memories. A trip highlight was meeting up with my National Ambassador partner Leah and her family. Special memories were made, and what an honor it was to serve alongside of her in that role. The dynamic duo forever! 

Leah and her mom ❤️

Never gets old

Being a mom to the two best boys a mom could ever ask for is always a highlight of the year. Watching them make their way in life is a gift. I’m so honored to be their mom. 

Lucky 🍀 

Wrapping up two years serving as the National Ambassador with the Muscular Dystrophy Association was bittersweet. I will miss being in that role, but what I’ve gained these last two years and seeing how much I’ve grown is amazing. What an incredible, once in a lifetime opportunity! I connected with SO many amazing people.

Have grown to love public speaking!

Immediately following that exit, I have stepped into a new role as a columnist for a local newspaper where I am the first regular columnist writing from the view of a disabled person. My column is named “Disability in the City”. I’m ecstatic for this new adventure! Continuing to help raise awareness surrounding disabilities is at the top of my list, and what fills my cup the most at this point in life.

Humbly courageously, sharing my story about life with a disability is the fulfillment I never knew I needed. I’m beyond grateful for all of you who show up here each week. Thank you hardly seems like enough, but THANK YOU from the bottom of my heart for all the encouragement along the way. Your words keep me going and give me the courage to keep writing from such a vulnerable space. You have blessed me immensely! 

Cheers to 2024, and looking forward to new opportunities and growth, focused on serving others.💚

For more on my story, follow me on Instagram @ashinneman, and check out my column in the Hamilton County Reporter. https://readthereporter.com/