My ADA Story: Every Person Has Potential

By R.V. Kuser

Marlene and R.V. Kuser

I have been thinking about the ADA and its 30th anniversary. The ADA is a very integral part in our society. It can foster a greater quality of life for differently abled individuals - to live independently in their home, but this is just one example. There have been many advances for differently abled persons, but we still have a long way to go for equality. The question that comes to my mind is, how has the ADA made a positive influence for me?

I live with autism, and I have made advocating a priority. One of the ways for me to advocate means helping individuals living with autism know that there are alternative ways to achieve their goals. My wife and I have expressed this concept in our presentations to various communities and organizations. 

Years ago when I was in the workforce and applying for a position in a school district, I found the process of applying for employment very daunting. I have a hidden disability - no one knows I have it unless I tell them. When I was being interviewed, I was not very good with social dialogues. I know I would have been protected against discrimination because of the ADA, but I came up with a plan of action. I would still interact with them the best way I knew how, but also communicated to them what I did very well and how I would be a great asset to their organization. Even though you may not converse well or conduct yourself in a “typical” way for the job you are applying for, you still have a valued quality. Every person has potential, but sometimes it needs to be harnessed.

Now that I am not as active in education, I found another way to educate people. I have recently written my second book, “Weight A Minute! - Lessons a Family Learns Thru the Gift of Autism.” My goal with this book was to demonstrate that people living with autism have a unique way of seeing the world and to instill the idea that they may be a little “quirky” (as I know I am or as others maybe in some way!), but they can rise above their challenges and help people find solutions to their problems. The focus of the book is on the Weight family with three children who are on the autism spectrum. Each member of the family struggles with, and celebrates, their own unique strengths and challenges. The discovery - everyone can be a hero!

In closing, I want to say that over the years the ADA had changes to the act, all for the betterment of a greater quality of life. The health crisis we are in now is changing the way we live. Change is very difficult for people on the autism spectrum. The following toolkit about “Supporting Individuals with Autism through Uncertain Times” might help children and young adults who are on the spectrum. The website is: afirm.fpg.unc.edu.

Also, I am always accessible for you to reach out to me, contact me at kusertalk.com.

Celebrating the 30th Anniversary of the ADA

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