Starting college is always a daunting experience. However, for me, it was particularly challenging as I faced post-traumatic stress disorder, depression, and anxiety. Even though law school was always my dream, I constantly doubted my ability to pass the character and fitness examination.
Like many, I second-guessed myself repeatedly. Then, a week before my freshman year of college, fate intervened in a way I could never have imagined.
A drunk driver struck me head-on. It left me partially paralyzed due to spinal damage, suffering from brain damage that caused transglobal amnesia, and enduring facial disfigurement, among other injuries.
I remember two things from that time: the look on my boyfriend’s face when he saw me in the hospital and the doctor telling him to start taking pictures because “a lawyer will need them.”
It took six months to regain my memory and more than a year to walk with a walker, which I still use. The brain damage caused ADHD and severe memory issues, including forgetting the number seven for more than a year. My world had been turned upside down, and my dreams of attending law school seemed further away than ever. But I refused to let these challenges define me. I was determined to overcome them and pursue my dreams.
However, things began to change when a personal injury lawyer came to my aid. This so-called “ambulance chaser” became my guardian angel, helping me navigate many challenges. I had to postpone college for a year and underwent a minimum of one spinal surgery each semester. I used my walker to carry my backpack and navigate the campus.
Memory issues made subjects like German and philosophy of law even more challenging, and I missed half the classes due to surgeries, including a tumor removal. During this time, I was also diagnosed with cancer. The support and guidance of my lawyer were instrumental in my journey.
In the United States, approximately 11 percent of college students have a disability, yet many struggle to receive the accommodations they need. This statistic became very real to me as I navigated my undergraduate studies.
I was in an accelerated law program and had three years to prepare for law school. I aimed to complete all my surgeries during undergrad, even having a machine implanted in my back to help me walk. Despite my efforts to get as healthy as possible, I am disabled and will always be. I had to figure out how to manage law school with my disability.
I was terrified to email my professors about my disability before orientation week. I feared how my colleagues would react to my walker. However, I received an unexpected response: an email from the student service office and a professor offering to tour the classrooms with me and assign a suitable seat for my walker and disabilities.
The machine in my back, operated by a device resembling a cell phone, worried me. I feared professors might think I was inattentive. But they never questioned my motives. Their understanding and support were crucial in my journey. They trusted me and allowed me to sit where I had easy access and space for my walker. I had help, support, and assistance when needed.
Despite this support, it was still hard. Muscle spasms and machine malfunctions meant I often had to leave class, missing parts of lectures. I pushed through even when my kidneys started to fail and when I had a heart attack a week before my first semester finals. I went to the bathroom, had a heart attack, returned to class, and went to the hospital after the day was over.
The second semester involved another surgery and multiple doctor appointments outside of town, which caused me to miss many classes. My boyfriend drove so I could attend class via Zoom from the back seat.
Law school isn’t easy; anyone who says otherwise is lying or a genius. For someone with a disability, it’s even more challenging. However, I was fortunate. My school supported me, rescheduled exams, allowed me to Zoom into classes, and provided necessary accommodations.
Despite the challenges, there were positives. Overcoming these obstacles proved I was strong enough for law school. If I had the perseverance to walk again, I’d have the perseverance to complete three years of schooling. My experiences gave me a unique edge and a strong why for pursuing law. As a first-generation lawyer, I had some insight into the legal world through my lawsuit.
My journey demonstrated that you can achieve your dreams with a disability, be an intelligent lawyer with brain damage, and overcome anything with hard work and spirit. These experiences have fueled my determination and motivation to succeed in the legal field.
I urge institutions to continue and expand their support for disabled students. We need to create environments where everyone, regardless of their physical or mental challenges, can thrive. My story is just one of many, and it’s time we recognize all students’ strengths and potential.
It’s not just about me or any individual student. It’s about creating a more inclusive and supportive educational system for all.
Together, we can build a more inclusive and supportive educational system. Let’s ensure that every student has the opportunity to succeed, no matter the obstacles they face.
