This archive report was first published on 25 December 2019.
Published on December 25, 2019, in The New York Times Opinion section, this essay explores the author's fascination with walking and its impact on their life as a person with a disability.
As a disability advocate, I've often been told to accept and adapt to my limitations. However, I find myself drawn to the human ability to walk, which I believe is extraordinary. From infants taking their first steps to individuals recovering from injuries, walking is a remarkable feat that continues to inspire and awe.
My own experience with disability has been marked by a desire to walk again. After a serious injury, I was left with limited mobility and had to rely on assistive devices. However, I've always been driven to regain my independence and walk without assistance.
My friend Brad, who helped me build a wheelchair ramp, knows me well and often smiles at my determination. He's aware of my 'fight' and the importance of walking in my life.
As I continue on my journey, I'm reminded of the significance of walking in human history. From the first steps of our ancestors to the complex biomechanics of the human body, walking is a remarkable achievement that continues to fascinate scientists and researchers.
