Personal Narrative: Working With People With Disabilities

Throughout the years things have change, some for the better and some for the worse, and the way people look at and feel about those that are different or have disabilities is no different. In the past, if you had a disability, you were a "stupid" or "weird." You were labeled with words like "retarded" or "freak." There was no right to an education, as many felt as though these individuals could not learn anyway. They felt as though these people could not do the same things or would not live up to society's expectation's. Through the years though, things have changed. Legislation has passed bills and individuals have fought the courts in order for their loved ones to be treated as equals. So that the people they love and care about could
I started off working a camp for the disabled called Camp Wonderland. This camp was amazing! Campers of all ages, from little kids to full grown adults, were able to come to camp as long as they wanted. They were around others like them as well as around nondisabled people like myself. The campers got to experience a real, worry free life for a week or longer for those that chose to stay longer. Campers played games, went swimming, boating, hiking, and so much more. I was worried before going to my first day of work. I didn't discriminate against those with disabilities, but I had not really been around anyone with one. I was afraid I would stare or unknowingly do or say something to offend someone, but I was wrong. From day one I got there and worked and played alongside some of the most amazing people I have ever met. One autistic boy took a liking to me, encouraging me to open my heart and help others. From that day on I wanted to be a teacher and touch as many hearts as I could for as long as I could. Through the years I have worked at daycares and schools with kids with autism or down syndrome and to me they are no different than anyone else, except they are willing to fight harder to get what they want. My experiences have always been good ones, so there is no need to change anything in the future, but there is always room to grow and learn, so that is what I tend to do. I intend to be the best teacher I can be and hope to touch the hearts of as many kids as I