Internet Geek Girl

After getting up on Sunday morning, the first thing I do is make coffee, grab the NYTimes and go right to the Style section. There, I admit it. The Modern Love column happens to be my favorite, in case anyone’s interested. And yes, I do look at the wedding pics (religiously)! Bob Morris deserves a mention as well. I know, I’m so predictable.

This morning I was pleased to see my friend Sarah on the front page! OK - I had a small heads up, but still. How cool is that?

The article highlights the incredible accomplishments of Sarah and other disabled artists, entertainers and athletes. More importantly, the story explores the media trend of representing disability not as a “tragedy” but rather as secondary to the inherent success of those individuals that happen to have disabilities. Back in grad school, I worked for the University of Minnesota Disability Services. I was lucky to know so many people early in my life that taught me these lessons. Big shout out to Gene, Betty, Devora, Barbara & Sue! Wherever you are…

Sarah and I went to camp together when we were kids. On a personal note, my relationship with her as a child helped me wipe away fear of those that seemed physically different. We had so much fun at Camp Koinonia. Hiking the hills, carrying our water, pitching tents, etc. We “roughed it” big time. I should have known Sarah would end up being an Iron Man. Me - well, I’m lucky if I get my 30 minutes on the treadmill. I do know how to build a campfire though.

BTW, Sarah is the first female above the knee-amputee to win the IronMan. She was also on the show Amazing Race last year. Check out her sites: IAmSarah.org and AlwaysTri.net.

Sarah and I had a chance to catch up recently in California at the very awesome Wahoos. A Long Island girl and a Jersey Girl catchin’ up in SoCal, eating fish tacos. Whodyathunkit? We hadn’t seen each other in a really long time. It was so fun to learn all about Sarah’s life these past years and re-connect! Sarah told me all about her 4 different legs. My favorite is the “Barbie Leg.” But again, how predictable of me!