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Lisa Byrd

My ADA Story: Having My Own Voice

By Lisa Byrd, former NCCDD Council member

My mom always said that I have my own voice and can make my own decisions.  Not everyone else thinks that, though.  I was told I couldn’t live on my own or be in a relationship.  Well, that’s simply not true.  I have the same dreams and rights as everyone else.  The ADA gave me the courage to advocate for the things I want in life – a job, to live on my own, to have a relationship, and to get married.  I do have a few supports from a community living program, but they simply help me stay on track.  I now live in an apartment with my boyfriend, and we are very happy.  I enjoy getting out in the community, and I love to bake.

Quotes from Lisa Byrd:

“The ADA gave me the courage to advocate for the things I want in life – like a job, to live on my own, and the right to be in a relationship with someone.”

“The ADA ensures the rights of all people, especially those of us with disabilities.”            

Celebrating the 30th Anniversary of the ADA

Read all the stories here or share your own ADA story.

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This project was supported, in part by grant number 2001NCSCDD-02, from the U.S. Administration for Community Living, Department of Health and Human Services, Washington, D.C. 20201. Grantees undertaking projects with government sponsorship are encouraged to express freely their findings and conclusions. Points of view or opinions do not, therefore, necessarily represent official ACL policy.

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