20 Years of Adaptive Sports

Hey Everyone!

20 years ago, in 1999, I was introduced to the Children's Lightning Wheels by one of my physical therapists who's also one of the assistant coaches. I participated in the sports of track & field, table tennis, and archery (even fencing for a couple years).

Joining the team was one of the best things that I could've done. Over the years, I've met many great people (teammates, coaches, parents, officials, volunteers, competitors, and many more). I've also competed at 12 National Junior Disability Championships (New Jersey, Connecticut, Florida, Minnesota, Michigan, Illinois, Arizona, Missouri, and Iowa) as a member of the Lightning Wheels.

As a member of the Lightning Wheels, I learned about independence, confidence, teamwork, friendship, sportsmanship, and so much more. I've also became stronger while taking part in the gym program and different practices. They have helped me strengthen my core muscles, as well as my other muscles.

I aged out of the Lightning Wheels in 2015 but still compete as an adult adaptive athlete. I decided to no longer do track (since track and I had our differences lol) but still do field events (shot put, discus, and javelin), table tennis, and archery.

Even though I aged out from the Lightning Wheels, I still help out with the team from time-to-time whether it's archery or if I'm at their track & field practices. I also help out whenever and wherever I can at sports meets (timing track events, helping the coaches with heat sheets, answer any questions members of the team have, etc.).

Adaptive sports has taught me a lot over the years and I wouldn't change a thing. I've made life-long friendships. I have a different point-of-view than many do. It's given me many opportunities that I definitely wouldn't have if I was never introduce to sports in 1999.

I always say that I know who I would be or where I would be if it wasn't for being a part of the Children's Lightning Wheels and adaptive sports. I still believe that til this day.

There is so much more that I can say about my 20 years of adaptive sports but instead of writing it all down here, I will be doing a video for my YouTube channel so STAY TUNED!

Until Next Time

CGoerlich <3

#InclusiveBitmojis

Hey Everyone!

I think it's time to start talking about #InclusiveBitmojis again! If you don't know what I'm talking about - here is some background:

#InclusiveBitmojis started about six months ago when I was planning to update my Bitmoji. And I did. I changed out of the winter clothes and into summer clothes. BUT there was something missing that I should've really noticed earlier (I think I did but didn't think too much of it at the time) and that was a wheelchair! I searched & searched the whole Bitmoji app for it, and there was nothing which got me thinking...

Bitmoji really need to add disability options and I'm not just talking about wheelchairs, I'm talking about all different kinds of options like prosthetics, orthotics, breathing tubes, canes, and more. So I had a thought of doing a video for my YouTube channel:

THEN, I also started a change.org petition to raise even more awareness towards getting Inclusive Bitmojis and hopefully to get a response from Bitmoji themselves.

After posting the video and petition, I received some feedback.  I believe I had about 50-100 signatures after a few days but to me, it still wasn't enough feedback. This is an important topic and needs more push towards it.

SO I took it to Instagram and posted the following picture with more info about the reasoning behind the importance of wanting Inclusive Bitmojis (diversity being the main reason):

View this post on Instagram

This is my #bitmoji and I love the app BUT there's something missing. And that is a wheelchair! Bitmojis are supposed to be a representation of who we are but for the disability community, we don't have the same feel for representation because @bitmoji doesn't have any disability options. 20-25% of the population have a disability and aren't being represented. I would love to be able to add a wheelchair to my Bitmoji because that is a better representation of me. I posted a video on #YouTube about my thoughts on wanting disability options for Bitmoji. I also started a petition and hope to reach a wider audience so we, the disability community, can represent ourselves better when we share our Bitmojis. The link to the petition is on my bio so please sign and share! 😀❤♿ #disability #awareness #representation #representationmatters #disabiityawareness #change #love #life #live #important #petition #inclusivebitmojis

A post shared by Caitlin Goerlich (@cgoerlich) on Apr 27, 2019 at 5:37pm PDT

REPRESENTATION MATTERS!

That's basically the main point of my Instagram post because it does. We see talks about representation mattering when it comes to other minority groups but there's never a huge talk when it comes to the disabled community (remember my Oscars' controversy post).

BUT anyways back to the Instagram post. After I posted it, I started getting more feedback and even more signatures towards the petition. AND it wasn't all me as it took one more person to see the post for it to really start reaching more people and that was one of my former teachers who helped a lot with the campaign, as well as one of my friends who too would like to see himself represented in his Bitmoji.

Ever since the initial Instagram post, we have done more videos - a PSA on Facebook & Instagram and a couple update videos on my YouTube page.

With all this push, the petition now has 1,600 signatures and I'm ecstatic about it! We even received a couple responses from Bitmoji on Twitter. The first response was a generic one (similar to one they've been giving for the past three years to others who have asked):

That was definitely a generic answer and they say they're "actively working" on it but they've been saying that for almost three years now and haven't shown any movement of having disability options for Bitmoji. So we kept at it and tweeting #InclusiveBitmojis, and after (I believe) a week, they responded again with a more real answer:

It's still NOT a great answer but it's a better one than their previous answer. But I still have a question: Is it really that hard? I mean...you have cars, you have lounge chairs (and other kinds of chairs), and more. It's not like we're asking for every sticker in the app.

We know some of the disability options won't work for some of the stickers. We just want to be able to see that we're included and that there are options & stickers for us. I no longer use the stickers where my Bitmoji is standing because I feel it truly wouldn't represent me if she's standing and I'm not.

It's time, Bitmoji! Even if is just one option...for now. Show us that you are serious about adding disability options. And remember, it's not just wheelchairs we want - we want ALL disabilities to be represented.

Now - the reason why I'm writing this post is to bring the #InclusiveBitmojis campaign back to life because it has slowed down over the last couple months and we need to pick it back up! Bitmoji hasn't shared any new disability options yet and I feel we should remind them that we are still waiting for those options.

As I'm writing this post, the petition has 1,607 signatures and I would LOVE that number to go up. So if you haven't signed the petition yet, please do so and if you have signed it, SHARE it everywhere you can: Bitmoji Needs Disability Options Petition

Along with sharing the petition, you can share this blog post or any of the videos that we have posted. There are a couple videos on Twitter, a couple on my YouTube channel, and Instagram. And don't forget to use the tag #InclusiveBitmojis in your posts. Also tweet Bitmoji on Twitter using #InclusiveBitmojis!

Let's get ALL people represented.

Until Next Time

CGoerlich <3

National Spinal Cord Injury Awareness Month

Hey Everyone!

As most of you know, I have a spinal cord injury and became a wheelchair user due to complications in major surgeries. Well guess what? It's September! And September is National Spinal Cord Injury (SCI) Awareness Month! :)

At first, I had no idea that there was a National Spinal Cord Injury Awareness Month until a few years ago and the color for the awareness is lime green (check out the ribbon above). I was happy to find out that SCI had an awareness month because it should be celebrated and help raise awareness towards spinal cord injuries.

There's an average of 17,000 new SCI each year and no, they aren't all from accidents (something many believe to be the case). Having an awareness month brings different kinds of awareness towards SCI: different kinds of causes of SCI, the aftermath of a SCI, finding out cures, and more.

Every year, I can't wait for September because that's when I post throughout the month different pictures for SCI awareness month. Here is a picture of one:

During this month, many think back and wonder the 'what ifs' and the hopes of a cure so they can have the life they once knew upon a time back while others take this month as a reflection & celebrate their SCI. I am one of the ones that celebrate my spinal cord injury. 

I always say without the SCI and becoming a paraplegic, I wouldn't be who I am today. I wouldn't have participated in adaptive sports. I wouldn't have the friends I have today. And I wouldn't have the kind of view of the world I have today. It helped shape me to the person I am and I wouldn't change a thing. 

I always look forward to September and hope that there will be more awareness towards future National Spinal Cord Injury Awareness Months. If you would like to learn more about spinal cord injuries, you can click on the following links:

Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation

NSCISC Facts & Figures

United Spinal

I will close this post by sharing the video I posted on my YouTube channel where I spoke about National Spinal Cord Injury Awareness Month. You can watch it below:

Until Next Time

CGoerlich <3 

See You Again - First to THREE Billion Views?

Hey Everyone!

As many of you know, "See You Again" by Wiz Khalifa featuring Charlie Puth has taken over the #1 spot on the "Most Watched YouTube Videos" list!  They are now ahead of "Gangnam Style" by Psy which has been #1 for about FIVE years.

Unfortunately, it won't be #1 as long as "Gangnam Style" as "Despacito" by Luis Fonsi featuring Daddy Yankee (Justin Bieber is not in the music video) will be taking that over in no time as they are getting about 25 million views a day.

But it's still a great feat to be able to be #1 at all.

Remember to read my older posts about "See You Again" so you can remember why I'm in such a support for this song and music video:

Song of the Week - Week Three - See You Again
See You Again song Update
See You Again Hits TWO Billion Views

NOW, even though "See You Again" will be back to #2 soon. There is one thing that can still be done for this music video and records. It can be the FIRST music video to hit THREE Billion videos. At the moment, the video is about 52 million views away.

Doing the math, if the video continues to receive about four million views (it has picked up since taking the #1 spot) a day, then it could reach three billion in about 13 days. BUT, with how many views "Despacito" is getting, that can also reach three billion views in about 13 days.

I'm all good with "Despacito" taking the #1 spot because let's face it, it's going to happen no matter what. BUT, we need to try and get "See You Again" to three billion FIRST because again the song has more meaning than other songs that is Top 10 on YouTube.

Remember, any one can relate to the song as everyone has lost a loved one and thinks about seeing them again. So do you think we can get "See You Again" to three billion first???

Make sure you click HERE for the music video and watch the video as many times as you can in a day!! Let's try and get the video to reach at least five millions views a day.

Today is July 22nd. The video could reach three billion on August 4th.

I'll probably post another post when "See You Again" reaches three billion and that may be my last post about that music video.

LET'S DO IT! Go watch it now! 😄

Until Next Time

CGoerlich <3

Thank You to My Public School Teachers

Hey Everyone!

As you all may know, today Betsy DeVos was confirmed as Secretary of Education. There has been many who have been AGAINST the idea of her being the Secretary of Education, me being one of them. Why? Well there are many reasons why.

But the main one is the fact that she doesn't know that the Individual with Disabilities Education Act is a federal law. This post isn't about going on and on at how this decision is not the best decision to be made so please watch the video of Senator Cory Booker's speech on his DeVos Opposition who goes in great detail about students with disabilities.

So what is this post really about? Well you can look at the title. I am writing this to thank all my teachers that I've had while I was in public school from Kindergarten to Senior Year, as well as my college professors.

I have spoken highly of the Township of Union's Board of Education many times. From the very start of my education, I have been included and treated with the same respect as my classmates.

When I raised my hand, I was picked on. When I wanted to take part in gym classes, I did. When my teachers needed to accommodate the classroom in anyway where I can take part, they did. When I had questions about what we were learning, they helped.

For so many years, I knew I was lucky to have grown up in this town but when I got older - I realized just how lucky I was as I heard many students with disabilities don't have the same opportunities in their school district as I did.



To My Teachers,

Thank you. Thank you for always including me in discussions. Thank you for moving desks around to make sure that I can get around the classrooms. Thank you for always picking on me when I raised my hand. Thank you for allowing me to speak in front of the class for speech assignments.

Thank you for letting me lead the class in the hallways (back in elementary school, we walked on the line to go to the next class). Thank you for listening to me when I needed help. Thank you for respecting me as you would any other student.

Thank you for teaching me English, Math, Science, History, Business, Music, different languages, Journalism, and so many more subjects.

Thank you to my gym teachers who always pushed me in gym class. Thank you to my case managers who were always there for me if I needed any new accommodations or needed something changed. Thank you to my guidance counselors for helping me make decisions about my classes and next step in my education.

Thank you to all my classroom assistants who were there for me when I needed help with moving chairs, taking my backpack off the back of the chair, going through the hallways, and so much more. Thank you to all the nurses who helped me when I was sick, needed to take my medications at lunch time, and so much more.

Thank you to my transition coordinator who pushed me to open myself to speak in front of over 200 people. Thank you to all the security guards for making me laugh and for protecting our schools. Thank you for all substitute teachers who filled in for my one-on-ones & our teachers.

Thank you to all the principals who were there if I needed you and to make sure that all students were getting the same respect from our teachers. Thank you to my bus drivers & aides for getting me from home to school and school to home safe & sound.

This is only some of my thank you's to all of you. You all have done so much for me over the years and I wouldn't be the same if I didn't have you all as my support system in school.

No matter what happens in the public education with this new change, just know that you have touched many lives and you will continue to touch more lives.

                                                               Caitlin


I would love for every student with a disability to have the same experience as I did. Now all we have to do is wait and see what happens with the new Secretary of Education.

Until Next Time

CGoerlich <3

Happy New Year!

Hey Everyone!

Happy New Year! It's time for a new year ---> 2017. Hope you all had a great year in 2016 even with the unfortunate amount of deaths that came through the year.

I know I haven't written anything on here for a few months but I wanted to wish you all a Happy New Year and hope you all have a GREAT 2017. I also wanted to let you know that I will try and update more on the blog this year (new goal - write more on here than I did in 2016 = more than 38 posts).

So have no worries, I haven't given up on Wiki-Wheelz and won't stop writing on here. I have a good feeling 2017 is going to be a great year and I will give you more information on exactly why (and what I have planned for the year) I believe that when the time comes.

I am working on something and you will all know about it soon enough. But for now I hope you all had a great Holiday (Christmas, Hanukka, Kwanza, and other holidays) and have a Happy New Year!

Until Next Time

CGoerlich <3

See You Again Hits TWO Billion Views

Hey Everyone!

Just a quick update on a couple of my previous posts. Back in January, I did an update on the song "See You Again" by Wiz Khalifa featuring Charlie Puth going by the numbers to see how long it would take for it to reach two billion views: See You Again song Update.

My numbers were off slightly as there were days where the video didn't get three million views a day BUT on September 3rd of 2016, See You Again has reached two billion views. According to the wikipedia  page, it was the fastest to reach the milestone (516 days).

Now there are two videos with two billion views (Gangnam Style being the first one) and there are a few behind that look to be close to the number as well.

So like I said this is just a quick update on "See You Again" and if you read my update post ^^^ then you will know why I wrote about this song and why it was important for me to talk about it reaching the two billion mark. Next up: Getting more than Gangnam Style! It is possible.

That's it for now but I feel another post building up inside of me so stay tuned for that one.

Until Next Time

CGoerlich <3

Don't Forget to Support the Rio 2016 Paralympics!

Credit: Paralympic Games, Rio 2016,
and creators of logo

Hey Everyone!

A couple weeks ago, the Olympics took over our televisions as we watched athletes from across the world compete in different sporting events like track & field, table tennis, gymnastics, archery, swimming, rugby, tennis, rowing, etc.

In the end, United States had the most medals of any other nation (thanks to swimming and track & field which were two of the most winning sports for our country). The Rio Olympics were one of the biggest Olympics as there were many records broken, medals won, and even drama [Ryan Lochte anyone? green water? and more].

The games came to a close with countries coming together (closing ceremonies) and the world celebrating their elite athletes as they return home to their respective countries. So what's next for these sports? Is that it for another four years??

Not at all.

In six days, another round of Olympic sports (games) will start again! This time - it's the Paralympics (Olympics for elite athletes with physical disabilities). Did you know that? No? Well...it's coming and be prepared to watch!

Because for the first time, in Paralympics history, the 2016 Rio Paralympics will be airing LIVE - specifically 70 hours. Remember when I first posted about it when it was first announced? Check out my previous post (from a couple years ago): Finally. The Paralympics to be Aired Live in U.S.

The 2014 Winter Paralympics were the first time NBC (and NBCSN) aired LIVE events from the Olympics and this year's Summer Games will get about 20 more hours than the previous Paralympics and it would mark about 65 more hours than the 2012 games where NBC only aired one hour highlights each of the five days.

With so much talk about diversity, equality, and more - it is IMPORTANT that you tune in and watch the games because this is a great deal for people with disabilities and the elite athletes who are competing. We need many viewers to watch the games because it will show our kids (with or without disabilities) that anyone has the capabilities of being an athlete.

The Paralympics help break down barriers between the disabled and abled. It is a step that helps bring equality towards all people (remember "disability" has their own group but not brought up in conversations). The following Facebook post is one of the ways Paralympics help bring awareness towards disability and help remove obstacles for people with disabilities (Tatyana McFadden is a great advocate for disability rights and adaptive sports.



Please take part in the Paralympic Movement (watching the Paralympics, sharing about the Paralympics, and more). Talk about the events you're watching and tell NBC that you want more for the future games. Paralympics deserve to get the same amount of air-time as the Olympics do!

Ready to watch some awesome athletes? Then check out NBC's schedule of the events, as well check out other places you can watch the games: IPC selects Dailymotion to live stream 680 hours of the Paralympics Games.

Then come back here and let me know what you're favorite sporting event is!!

Go Team USA. Bring home the gold!

Until Next Time

CGoerlich <3

Dear Gap Inc. (Old Navy Update #3)

Hey Everyone!

So I'm sure you're probably tired of these Old Navy update posts but like I've said before I'm going to continue writing them until well I guess until there's a change? Honestly I don't know when. But this post is going to be different then the ones previously. 

Now before I go into what this post is about. If you're new to this Old Navy ride, make sure you read the previous posts:

Old Navy

Old Navy Update

Old Navy Update #2

Old Navy: Trending on Twitter for the Wrong Reasons

Alright so yesterday, I went shopping at Menlo Park Mall and as always - Old Navy is one of the stores I go to (not because of this). So what I'm hoping you're going to ask is - how was the fitting rooms there? Any better than previously? Or the same?

Well...it was about the same and then not the same. What do I mean? Well yesterday in particular, this store seemed to have more clothing racks not only in the fitting room section but around the corners. They are doing better with leaving one of the rooms open and not blocked but they are still keeping the other one blocked, locked, and full of clothes (I'm guessing).

I also noticed that for the accessible rooms, they are allowing just about anyone to use them whether they are disabled or not. Can we please get it through everyone's head that when it says accessible, it's for those who need it (this isn't just for fitting rooms but also parking spots, bathrooms, arena seats, etc.).

But anyways I will say that Old Navy is ahead of where they were during my first post about it but again there is still more to be done - cleaner fitting rooms, keeping both accessible rooms accessible, and configuring the actual accessible room because hello, I still can't turn in the room to look in the mirror!

Remember this picture? (from Old Navy Update)

In the accessible fitting room at Old Navy

Well, it's still the same. The mirror is in an awkward position and so is the bench. Again if I can't fit it in it right - how do you expect someone with a power chair (or just a bigger chair) to do so?? I will again say that this isn't just at one of the stores, it's everywhere. I think at the moment, I've gone to about four Old Navy's in the New Jersey and they each have the same problem.

I love shopping at Old Navy and honestly if they fixed these fitting rooms, I would love it even more and I guarantee you that there are others who will as well.

Now after I was done shopping there yesterday, I decided to go to Gap and Banana Republic. To be honest with you, at first I wanted to see how their fittings room were since I know they are owned by the same parent organization (Gap Inc.). But when I got there, especially at the Gap, I found about new five shirts to buy (which was awesome!)

I also found that their fitting rooms are SO MUCH better than the ones at Old Navy. Check back to the Old Navy Update post for the picture from the Gap fitting room (at the other mall). When I entered the fitting room at the Gap, it was like a breath of fresh air. The same at the ones at Banana Republic (see following pictures).

The back of the Banana Republic's accessible fitting room.

Banana Republic's
accessible fitting room

As you can see by the two pictures above, I'm able to turn around and look in the mirror. I can look at my front, the back, the side, everywhere pretty much in these fitting rooms. So much better than the ones at Old Navy which I question - Why?? 

Gap Inc. is the parent organization of Old Navy, Gap, and Banana Republic but why isn't Old Navy up to par with their fitting rooms like Gap and Banana Republic?? 

Another difference I noticed between Gap and Banana Republic from Old Navy is that for the accessible rooms at Old Navy, they let anyone use those rooms (back to the whole use accessible rooms only if you need them [disability, need extra space, etc.]. 

But at Gap and Banana Republic, they leave those rooms locked but when someone with a wheelchair comes, they ask if I need the accessible room and then they will unlock the room to let me in. And then they will lock it after I'm finished with it. At least this is what happened yesterday which I have to say is Bravo! Because then I know the accessible rooms are being used for who needs them (and not just for anyone).

Another thing is that I noticed that if the accessible rooms are being used, I would be able to use the other rooms at Gap and Banana Republic because they're big enough for my wheelchair which is another check in my books.

So I'm asking Gap Inc. to please look into what's going on in the Old Navy stores when it concerns the fitting rooms because believe me it can definitely be better and I'm 100% sure that customer ratings would jump rocket and more people with disabilities would come shopping at the those stores. 

Reconfiguring the actual accessible rooms (to make getting to the mirror easier) and seeing what to do with the extra clothing racks (and clothes in the other accessible room) are just two things that can make the fitting rooms much easier to use. I'm not telling you how to do your jobs, I'm just making suggestions on how you can better your customers' experiences. 

Because I for sure can see how if customers are able to try on clothes, the more they may buy. Because believe me I can get frustrated easily with trying on clothes and then not want to continue shopping. I'm sure I'm not the only one. 

One thing I would definitely love to see is someone in the leadership role of Gap to appear on Undercover Boss and they can see first hand the differences in how the stories are run. It's just another suggestion (which I'm sure I've suggested in one of my other posts). 

Again - I would definitely be willing to show or discuss with Gap Inc. Old Navy's leaders ways on how they can make things better for all.

For all my readers, what do you think of this?? Are you tired of my Old Navy Update posts?? If so, share this and maybe I won't need to write anymore because there are more positive changes. 

Until Next Time

CGoerlich <3

Why People Are Upset With "Me Before You"

Hey Everyone!

I am here to talk about the controversial movie "Me Before You," adapted from novel with the same name written by Jojo Moyes (who also co-wrote the screenplay), starring Emilia Clarke and Sam Claflin, and why people are upset about the movie (and novel). 

Now I don't know if you heard but there's been a lot of controversy with the movie and novel as it goes in discussion of disability and assisted suicide. There's also the controversy over the fact that the main character whose played by Sam Claflin isn't portrayed by a person with a real disability. 

You're probably thinking - oh here we go again, she's complaining about disability in Hollywood again. Well of course I am - it's a big problem that is going on. But for more on that, again please go read my other posts under the Disability Advocacy tab. 

Now back to "Me Before You." After you read the plot for the film and novel, you may question why there is such a controversy with the thought of it: 

"Young and quirky Louisa 'Lou' Clark (Emilia Clarke) moves from one job to the next to help her family make ends meet. Her cheerful attitude is put to the test when she becomes a caregiver for Will Traynor (Sam Claflin), a wealthy young young banker left paralyzed from an accident two years earlier. Will's cynical outlook starts to change when Louisa shows him that life is worth living. As their bond deepens, their lives and hearts change in ways neither one could have imagined." 

It sounds great, doesn't it? Believe me at first I was on board with the whole thing because "oh it's such a change and with a happy ending," well I was wrong after a few times watching the commercials. I was over it after the second commercial seen. It also doesn't help that the actor isn't someone who is disabled (yes I mentioned again). 

There's a lot I can say about this movie and situation BUT there are other writers who wrote up better articles about their thoughts than I probably could so I recommend you to read them: 

Why Are You Complaining? Some People Actually Feel That Way: A Critique of Me Befo...
Hollywood Promotes The Idea It Is Better To Be Dead Than Disabled
'I'm Not A Thing To Be Pitied': The Disability Backlash Against Me Before You

For this post I want to talk to those who question the backlash and make comments on those articles about us complaining. There's many who don't see what's wrong with the story or what's wrong with the movie and of course to them, there isn't.

But the main problem that we have with this is not necessarily just the movie but it's the idea that it's going to put in to its viewers and readers' minds: people with disabilities don't have a reason to live or the fact that we may actually feel that way (some may do but I know a lot don't, I don't). 

For your information, I love being in a wheelchair and there are many who feel the same way whether it's being in a wheelchair, being amputee, being blind, or so on. We see the world in a different way than others do but we don't see that on TV or in the movie theaters. 

We see the disappointments. We see the "bad" things about being disabled. We don't see the real story of the person in the chair. There's so much more that needs to be seen than the "bad" stuff. Yes it's good to see what they go through but how about showing the whole picture instead of just one?

Life goes on. It doesn't stop because we're injured. We want to tell me that but movies like "Me Before You" doesn't let us. I know you're thinking - it's just one movie. But it's not. It's what's in the news. It's what you see trending on social media. It's everywhere. There's so much more negativity towards people with disabilities than there is of positivity and that needs to change. 

You may think we're "picking" on this movie but it's what needs to be done because we  need to get our point across. One. Stop casting non-disabled actors. Two. Do more research when you're writing about real people and a disability. Three. Listen to the complaints.

Now I have to say there have definitely been movies that have shown positive thoughts about living with a disability (and how to keep on living with one). 

Support those movies:

Miracle in Lane 2
Soul Surfer
Tru Confessions

Yes, these movies' actors aren't disabled but they do the movies the right way. There's also another movie about living with a disability that should be getting more recognition and that's The Fundamentals of Caring and ABC has red lit a new sitcom called Speechless (who in fact does have a disabled person playing a disabled character). 

I'm hoping that this is a sign that it's moving towards the way it should be. But there still needs a lot to be done. Also I have a question - how come it's ok for groups of people to complain when they are being misrepresented in movies and television but when it's the disabled group, we're seen as complainers (and should be lucky that they're even covering a story like that)?? 

I don't think that's right. Do you? Think of it that way. Remember read those articles that I recommend above. I hope they make you see the side we're coming from. Because again - enough is enough. We should be treated the same as everyone and get the same opportunities. 

Let me know what you think!

Until Next Time

CGoerlich <3 

Graduation!

Hey Everyone!

How's everyone doing? I hope the weather isn't too bad for you. It's been going up and down (warm and cold, mostly cold) for me. It's the end of May and some days are still in the 50s. Crazy! Alright, I'm not here to discuss the weather even though that would be a great conversation to have.

Anyways, I'm here to tell you that I have officially graduated from Kean University. Yes, I know I posted a post earlier this year about me receiving my degree in the mail. But this past Thursday (May 19th), was the 2016 Commencement and I walked (wheeled) with the rest of my class.

It was a great day. Our commencement speaker was Brandon Stanton (Founder of Humans of New York) and he the main thing that I got out from his speech is if you have a plan now, do it now rather than when you think the plan will be "perfect" because there will never necessarily be a "perfect" time for the project and it may turn out differently than it should've been. Something like that.

The overall day was great even after needing to wake up at 5 am to get ready so that we can be at the Prudential Center by 7 am. It commencement started at 8 am and lasted about 3 1/2 hours which wasn't too bad (considering having about 2,900 graduates).

Here are some pictures:



It was definitely worth the wait to take part in the Commencement and it was very accessible and everyone worked together to make sure that I took every part in the Commencement like my classmates. The ramp to the stage was useful and thank you to those who helped me to get up and down the ramp.

I also want to thank some of my fellow graduates who helped move the chairs so that I can get through the row to get to the other side for the line towards the stage. It was very helpful (especially since I didn't even have to ask)!

Always surround yourself with the right people and go to the right school that you feel is right for yourself. I am proud to call myself a Kean University alumni. Wow that sounds crazy after 4 1/2 years of taking classes there.

I want to thank my parents, family, friends, professors, classmates, and others who have helped form me who I am today and stood by through the years at Kean University! It was a great ride and I'm glad that I had every single one of you to be involved.

Now you're probably wondering - what's next? Job? Graduate School? Well I can tell you for sure that I will not be going to graduate school and I am job searching at the moment. There's also other things going on through my head that you may hear about soon? Who knows?

I will also be trying to update my blog more often.

Until Next Time

CGoerlich <3

Old Navy: Trending on Twitter for the Wrong Reasons

Hey Everyone!

If you have been following my blog, you know that I have been posting about Old Navy and the issues they have with their fitting rooms.

Well today (May 1st), they were trending on Twitter and I don't know if you know or not but if you're trending on Twitter then it's either a negative or positive thing. And well with Old Navy trending, it was for a negative reason. Negative reason behind the reasoning for why they are trending but a positive thing for Old Navy themselves.

Why were they trending? Well it was definitely not for the issues with their fitting rooms (wish it was) but it was because they shared a new ad of theirs for their "Thank You Event." Have you seen the ad? Well take a look at it:

Oh, happy day! Our #ThankYouEvent is finally here. Take 30% off your entire purchase: https://t.co/nGQ9Pji1pN pic.twitter.com/vq4mIczm6A

— Old Navy Official (@OldNavy) April 29, 2016

I don't see anything wrong with it. Do you? Well the reasoning for the title of this post (Trending on Twitter for the Wrong Reasons) is because Old Navy was. The reason why it was trending was because there was "controversy" over the picture. What exactly was that controversy? Well...it was the fact that they have an interracial couple in the ad.

Oh my goodness! What is wrong with them?! How could they do that? Don't they know it's completely wrong to have an interracial couple on the ad? Don't they know that it's so terrible to show a couple who love each other even though they're "different"? It's not right! How dare they?!

Please. I hope you know the previous paragraph is all sarcasm. Like seriously? You're complaining that they put a couple of different color on an ad?? It's the 21st century!!! Get over it. It's life. People should be happy to be with each other no matter if they are "different." If they love each other, shouldn't that be what's important??

I still can't believe that it's 2016 now and we're still talking about interracial couples not being right and the fact that people believe that white should always be with white, black should be with black, green should be with green, and so on. You get my point. That's also saying that someone who can walk shouldn't be with someone who is in a wheelchair. Don't even get me started on that.

The whole point of this post is that Old Navy is being trended on Twitter for a wrong reason. There are those who hate the ad because of the interracial couple and then there are those defending it. BUT, there's a bigger picture here.

They are still being trended for the wrong reason. I'm going back to my reason why they should be trending - the usage of their fitting rooms. There are more important issues going on here but no is talking about them. Again, it's the 21st century and 2016, it's all about love. Get over the race, sexual orientation, disability, etc. issues when it comes to relationships.

Focus on what's important and that's the fact that there are still issues with the fitting rooms at Old Navy but you would never see that trending on Twitter? Why? I still don't know. It's the fact that media will always play the race card or the gender inequality card or any other card instead of the inequality between disabled and abled card because it's what gets the viewers.

Again, there needs to a be a change here. Go click the Disability Advocacy link above to see my other "rants" about disability in media and other discussions because it's time for that controversy to be talking.

Now going back to Old Navy - can we please stop talking about what's "wrong" with the ad they posted because Ha Ha Ha, there's NOTHING wrong with it. What's wrong is more needs to be talked about than that ad. Like fitting rooms or other situations.

I love Old Navy and I'm on their side with the ad they posted because it's a family that love each other but I'm here still wanting a change in their accessibility of the accessible fitting rooms in their stores. Please READ and SHARE my previous posts about Old Navy's fitting rooms:

Old Navy
Old Navy Update
Old Navy Update #2

This is what needs to be discussed. Not the ad. Yes there is still a problem with people believing that "different" people can't be together and the fact that there are those who are planning to boycott Old Navy because of it. Like come on.

Again even though I've been against the fittings rooms issue at Old Navy, I still support them because they have great clothes and items.

I don't know if you agree or disagree with what I have written and I'm all for different opinions so if you have a different opinion or don't like what I wrote; or you do agree, please leave a comment below!

In order for us to come together, we need to be open and listen to other people's opinions and have a conversation on how we can make things better for everyone.

Until Next Time

CGoerlich <3

Old Navy Update #2

Hey Everyone!

Alright so if you have been following, you know that I have written about different experiences at one of the Old Navy (first post & second post) mostly being about the way their fitting rooms are set up.

Well I thought - why not do another update?? I have been asked to keep everyone in the loop by someone who commented about my last Old Navy update post so here I am.

This isn't going to be a huge ordeal type of update as there isn't really much to update. However, yesterday, I found that after going to multiple different Old Navy's over the last few months - that it's not just one Old Navy in particular that is a problem.

I have been to at least three different Old Navy's and each one had the same problem. Blocking the 2nd accessible fitting room with clothing racks and probably having it full of clothes. Lately, there has been one accessible fitting room open (which is better than what it once was when I first wrote about Old Navy).

And you're probably wondering - ok there is one open, what's the problem? Well the problem is that we need to have both accessible fitting rooms clear and open because what if there are two people in wheelchairs (or multiple people with disabilities) that need the room but there's only one? Because guess what - there can be more than one person with a disability shopping at the same place at the same time. (I mentioned this in the last post)

No only having the clearance of both rooms important but he usage of the fitting rooms. Again, I can not fit my chair by the mirror as there is a sitting bench in the way (see Old Navy update post for pictures and more on that). I'm sure that a little rearranging can be done to make things more accessible.

More accessibility = more customers.

So this update post is just to update that there is still one of the two accessible fitting rooms is still being blocked and not being able to be used. And that is NOT just at one Old Navy, it's at MOST of them (at least the ones I've been to) so I believe something needs to be brought up with the company leaders.

I think Old Navy should do an episode of Undercover Boss and the CEO (or whoever does it) takes a moment to focus on the fitting rooms and see if there's a "problem" during the filming of the episode.

I would definitely be willing to show or discuss with Old Navy's leaders ways on how they can make things better for all.

Again, thanks for reading and feel free to share and comment one what you think! (Also share the other two posts while you're at it.)

Until Next Time

CGoerlich <3

Recommend You to Watch This Important Video!

Hey Everyone!

It's been awhile but I haven't known what to write in the last few weeks and I still don't but I saw a video that I wanted you all to watch (and share)!!!

I highly recommend you to watch it because it has a great message. A message that is for everyone to know about (unlike the last video I wrote about). It's one that should have millions of views but doesn't but let's help!

Check it out here:

Credit: The Disability Film Challenge and

everyone who took part in the making of video.

Message is very clear that I don't think I necessarily need to write what the message is. But if you're not 100% sure of what it is. Here are my thoughts: it's about including all even those who tend to be "different" than who you are. Inclusion. 

I enjoyed watching the video because it made people think. Because honestly it is what goes on. People stare at those who are different and have a chance of not including them in conversations. I liked that they turned this around so that it was a group of people in wheelchairs staring at someone who isn't in one.

It's a nice change and I'm hoping that this will start a conversation and possibly change the way people see wheelchairs or "different" people. 

Click that play button. Share the video. Show your friends and family. (You can go here, copy the link from your browser and then share it on your social media accounts) 

What did you think of the video? Do you like what the message says? Does it make you think about inclusion and how you act when you see someone who looks different?

Comment below your thoughts!

Until Next Time

CGoerlich <3 

It's Official!

Hey Everyone!

I just wanted to do a quick post and let you all know that yesterday, I received my Bachelor of Arts Degree in English in the mail which would make it official that I have graduated!

Here it is:

Look what arrived in the mail today! It's official. 🎓❤🎓 Can't wait to walk in May!!! 😃 #Bachelors #EnglishDegree #degree #BachelorsDegree #graduation #KeanUniversity #Kean #KeanU

A photo posted by Caitlin Goerlich (@cgoerlich) on Mar 21, 2016 at 2:53pm PDT

Now there's a few things left to do: picking up my cap & gown, walking with the rest of the class on May 19th, and finding a job.

Everything's coming together at least it seems to be. I will most likely write another post when the commencement happens in two months. Wow two months. Crazy.

Well that's it. I told you it was going to be a quick post.

Until Next Time

CGoerlich <3

Bright Side's "Be Grateful For What You Have" Video

Hey Everyone!

So I know it's been almost a couple weeks since my last post as I wasn't completely sure of what to write but now I have a topic to write about. It's about a video that has gone viral for the past couple weeks and I just watched the video myself.

It's the "Be Grateful For What You Have" video made by Bright Side:

Look on the Bright Side
Posted by Bright Side on Wednesday, March 2, 2016

Now you're probably wondering why I'm dedicating a post to this video. Well it's because of the message behind the video.

Look, I was enjoying the video because it is a great message. We should be grateful for what we have. We can't look at what others have and need the want to have what they have. It is an important message that we all need to look at.

The first 48 seconds was the best part of the video. At the end of the video, you will notice that the last person they show is a person in a wheelchair saying "He can go wherever he wants." This is the part of the video that had upset me.

In the past few years, there's been talks and talks about the disabled group as I'm sure you know (especially since if you read my blog). Some of those talks aren't positive and some are. The end of this video with this character is one of those negatives moments.

I know you're probably thinking or wondering, what's exactly wrong with it? You're always writing and talking about being included and here it is, you have a disabled character in a video. Ok yes I'm happy that there's a disabled character in this video but it's the way they are portrayed.

Again, I understand the true meaning behind the video is to be grateful for what you have but the way the disabled character is portrayed isn't right. I mean, it has him sitting on the balcony looking out towards a person walking and he says "He can go wherever he wants."

You know what that's telling people who are in wheelchairs? That they have to stay put. That they don't get to wherever they want. And you know what? That's wrong. Just because you're disabled or have something in your way, it doesn't mean that you can't do what others are doing.

I've read so many comments under the video and there are some who say the same as I'm saying and there are others who don't understand those who are complaining about the ending of the video.

Have you ever thought that maybe there are those who are in wheelchairs or have a disability do more than what you do in your life? That they go farther and more places than you can ever imagine? You wouldn't if if you looked at this video. because there's no one after the disabled character. It's just them.

If I truly thought "he can go wherever he wants" the way the video is portraying that we (disabled people) do then I would've never joined the Lightning Wheels, started this blog, go to college, go across the country for the National Junior Disability Championships, and others. I wouldn't change a thing about my life and that includes being in a wheelchair. Because you know what? I and many others who have a disability can go wherever HE wants.

(Of course there was a time when I was younger where I wondered if I could be able to walk again and do what those who can walk but as I got older, I appreciated the life I live and continue to do so. I also realized that I can do what "he" wants. Just do it in a different way. My way.)

We may not be able do what you do exactly like how you do it but we do it our way. I have friends who have traveled to other countries whether it's for sports or not. I have friends who are working towards their dream jobs. I have friends who do what they want to do because they can. It's time to end this stigma about people with disabilities.

How about we get included the right way rather the wrong way? Check out my other posts under the Disability Advocacy tab above and think about how to make videos the right way and why you're truly sharing this video.

It's a great video and for a good meaning but it could've been done with a better ending. So I ask the 100+ million viewers, 4+ million sharers, and the 2+ million those who liked the video - what do you think of the video? How do you see the ending of the video? Re-look at the comments made by those who complain about the video - do they have a point to their comments?

Do I think we should be grateful for what we have? Of course. Do I think the ending of this video could've been better? Duh, I wouldn't have written this post if I didn't.

Please let me know what you think about the video and this post.

Until Next Time

CGoerlich <3

Keep On Writing

"Write. Remember, people may keep you (or me) from being a published

author but no one can stop you from being a writer. 

All you have to do is write. And keep writing.

While you're working at a career, while you're 

raising children, while you're trout fishing - keep writing!

No one can stop you from you." - Katherine Neville

For as long as I can remember, I loved to write. Writing is something that always been there. Whether it's writing in a diary (when I was younger), free writing in a notebook (before and after classes), writing stories (novels, Fanfiction, scripts), and other types of writing.

But there's always that one moment where writing wouldn't be there. Or I don't know what to write. So there's that part of me that sometimes thinks about not writing at all. Because I mean, what's the point if there's nothing to write? 

But I've been thinking. What's the point? The point is to put words down on paper (or document) to build up something that can maybe become something. The point is to get out of everything that's inside of me (whether it's true or fiction). The point is even if it doesn't make sense, they are still letters that turn into words and mean something. So of course there's a point. 

Anything you (I) write means something even if it doesn't turn into something else. It doesn't matter what the words are, they are words that came within yourself (myself) and should be let out. I mean they're eventually coming out - don't need to hold them inside. 

So what I have learned is that I need to write. No matter what. Just write. It doesn't matter what I write, I just write. Whether it's just random words, it's still considered writing. So now when I'm stuck with writing or have that thought of not wanting to write, I do it anyways. I open a fresh new document or piece of paper and just start writing. 

And you can do that to. Are you having trouble with writing? Are you stuck? Do you want to write but don't know what? Well all you have to do is write. Don't let anything get in the way. If you work, keep a pad in your pocket, then take it out when you have a free moment and just write. If you're watching television - grab your laptop, tablet, phone, or notebook and start writing whether it's about what you're watching or anything else. There is a lot that you can do to keep on writing.

That's all you (I) have to do: Keep on writing. Don't stop for anything. It doesn't have to make sense. It just has to be you (I) doing what you (I) love and that's writing (even if you don't love writing). Everyone writes even if you don't think you do, you do. 

So what I'm suggesting for writers and non-writers: Keep on Writing.

Until Next Time

CGoerlich <3

Adaptive Clothing for People with Disabilities

Hey Everyone!

For years, shopping for clothes were and still are a hassle. Why? Because it's hard to find clothes that fit, finding clothes that were age appropriate, trying clothes on in the fitting rooms, and then changing in and out of them at home.

Growing up, it's always been difficult on trying clothes on at stores. Not just because the fitting rooms were tight (there were many accessible rooms not tight) but because it was difficult trying on pants. Had to transfer out of chair, lie down on the table and try sliding off the pants and then slide the others on. My back may hurt on the table or I may bang my head on the wall.

After dealing with the troubles with trying on pants, I just gave up altogether and started guessing which pants would fit and then buy them. I learned what worked and what didn't. I don't wear jeans anymore because they don't go all the way up (and there are many other type of pants that don't).

The hard time of trying on clothes had made shopping not that great of experience so I believe it may have made me somewhat against shopping for clothes but I knew that I had to in order to get new clothes. I'm better with shopping now but there's still more to be done.

Trying on shirts weren't as difficult as trying on pants, as I can stay in my chair to try on those shirts. However, the part that was hard was finding the right shirts with the right fitting. With having a hard time to make sure shirts fit, it led to having a hard time to find clothes that are age appropriate.

What do I mean? Well, it means that when I should be wearing clothes in the Junior department, those clothes may be too big for me which would make me needing to wear clothes from the Kids' department. Not necessarily being age appropriate. I want to wear clothes that fit my age, not kiddy clothes which made me look extra hard that Kid clothes that were "too kiddy" for me.

As I got older, it got easier to find clothes from the Junior and Women's department. Extra small or small would be the sizes that I need to fit my short body structure. I no longer have to wearing Kids' department clothes which I'm happy with.

I've always wondered how it would be if pants were easier to put on, if shirts and clothing were tailored better to fit all body types (as there are many different ones), etc.

So when it was announced yesterday that Tommy Hilfiger was partnering with a nonprofit organization, Runway of Dreams to launch an adaptive clothing collection for children, I was thrilled. It was the start of something big happening for those with disabilities and different body types.

Easier zippers, ways to pull over sweatshirts, easier ways to fit pant legs, etc. This is a great thing to happen for those who have difficulty getting clothes on and it's a great start to start another conversation (I'm very big on conversation as you probably can tell) on bettering clothes to fit all people.

For more information on the new collection, click here.

If one company starts doing it then other companies will follow the trend which will hopefully not stop at children and go up to adults as well. Not only do we need an easier way to try on clothes and then putting them on at home, but also to be trendy for our ages. There is so much that can be done and there is so much that is being done that we should start looking at every thing.

All companies should follow Tommy Hilfiger and start creating items that fit all needs (not just clothing). It's time that we think of all not just a group. What's your target market? Does it include people with disabilities? It should. Test your products. Put yourself in their shoes (speaking of shoes, can they fit over someone's prosthetic or orthotics?).

I would like to thank Tommy Hilfiger for  launching this collection and I hope that this collection is the start of many! Also the start of noticing other products that are there but not well-known - yet.

What do you all think about this collection? Do you think this is just the beginning?

Until Next Time

CGoerlich <3

Update

Hey Everyone!

So, it's been awhile since I have updated what has been going on in my life. Now, usually I would separate them in different sections (education, sports, writing) but instead, I'm just going to write.

The only big thing that has really happened is I have finished all my classes! 4 1/2 years have come and gone. I should be receiving my degree in the mail next month and then will be walking (wheeling) with the rest of Class 2016 in May.

I can't believe that it's over. It's crazy. Feels like I just graduated high school. But now that I have finished with school (not planning to go to graduate school), I am looking at different jobs to apply for (have applied at a few places but no reply yet) and I'm also working on a writing project (that I used for my senior writing project).

Another thing that I did this year was in January where I spoke to a group of high school students (you can see that video on the side bar to the right [under social media]). I spoke about high school and transitioning into college with a disability. Check it out!

I feel confident that 2016 is going to be a successful one and we'll see how that goes as the year continues.

Now is there anything else going on besides being done with classes and working on my writing project? Hmm not necessarily except the sports season will be starting soon which will be my first one as an adult athlete.

Again, I will be participating in field (shot put, discus, javelin), table tennis, and archery as an adult. I will not be doing track as I've decided that last year would be my last season on the track. It is going to be weird that I won't be on the track but it's a decision that I had made.

So basically what I'm doing with my life is this: looking for a job, writing (and blogging), and preparing for a new season of sports.

Make sure you keep on coming to Wiki-Wheelz as I'm continually writing on here (as you can see I've written more this year than I have in the recent years together).

If anything big happens this year, I will be sure to update you all again!

(By the way - how do you like the new layout and template??)

Until Next Time

CGoerlich <3

Two of the Best Moments of the 2016 Grammys

Hey Everyone!

Last night were the 2016 Grammy's and while there were many different Grammy moments (as they call them), there were two that stood out the most to me and were probably the most important ones as well (if you agree or disagree).

The first moment was after Stevie Wonder and Pentatonix did a tribute to Earth, Wind & Fire's Maurice White. It all started with making fun of others who can't read braille as they were also presenting the award for "Song of the Year," and the words on the card was in braille so only Wonder could read it.

But before he announced the winner, he made a statement that touched many. Watch below:

Credit: Deafinit Models, Grammys, Stevie Wonder, and others

If you couldn't hear what he said - "We need to make every single thing accessible to every single person with a disability."

The first thing that came to my mind when he said this was, "About damn time." It was time for someone to mention the group of people with disabilities. As you know by reading my previous posts  about including disability and the Oscars. 

What made me happy was when there was a photo with the quote written on it, it received so many shares and started going viral. Other websites shared the quote and the importance of his statement. A few of those website were: Huffington Post, People Magazine, Entertainment Weekly, and more. Stevie Wonder also was trending on Twitter, all night, for his statement. 

"We need to make every single thing accessible to every single person with a disability." -- Stevie WonderTHANK YOU.

Posted by The Huffington Post on Monday, February 15, 2016

Because like I said, it was about time. For years and still in 2016, the word "disability" is hardly brought up in discussions as you have read in my previous posts. I'm hoping that with what Stevie Wonder has said, it will bring up more talks about disability.

This is only the beginning and there's more to be done. But thank you, Stevie Wonder for starting the conversation. Make sure you share the photo on your social networks (whether it's Huffington Post's or the others that you find). Let's continue the conversation!
___________________________________________________________________________

Now, let's talk about the second moment of the Grammys that I thought was one of the best of the show and that's when Taylor Swift accepted her 2nd Album of the Year Grammy.

I don't know if you have been following what's been going on with Kanye West this week but it all started when he was talking about his new album and he was hosting his 3rd fashion show for his fashion line.

In one of his new songs, Kanye speaks about Taylor Swift and claims that he made her famous (he also said some other words, but I will not put them in the post as they are explicit). I have words for Kanye and that is: You didn't make Taylor Swift famous. She did it on her own. (You already know how I feel about Kanye if you have read my Kanye West... post).

The reason why Kanye believes he made her famous was because of what happened back in 2009 at the MTV Video Music Awards when he interrupted her acceptance speech. But, again Kanye you didn't make her famous because uh hello, she was accepting an award!

Anyways, there has been many who were supportive of Taylor and are taking her side as they should be because it's time to put a stop to Kanye's antics.

Well, last night Taylor decided to put an end to what's been going on as she accepted her award for Album of the Year and she told young women to not let anyone else take credit for what they have done on their own.

Check out the video below:

Credit: Grammys, Taylor Swift, and others

Go Taylor Swift! What she said is so true. You can't let anyone else claim the credit that YOU did for yourself. This goes for anyone.

This was my 2nd favorite moment of the night because it was time for her to stick up for herself and others. So, I'm guessing their "friendship" from last year may be over? Again. We'll have to wait and see.

Just remember, work hard for what you want to do and don't let anyone else take the credit.

Let me know what you thought of the Grammys last night and which moment of the night was your favorite. Was it one of these or another one? and what do you think about Stevie Wonder's statement about disability? What do you think about Taylor Swift's acceptance speech? Leave your thoughts below!

Continue with the conversations of disability and self-worth. There is importance for both.

Until Next Time

CGoerlich <3