Chris Richards is a story that unpacks so many of the modern elements of disability employment in Massachusetts. Chris’s story touches on the importance of Easterseals services for people with acquired disabilities, the growth of job opportunities via telecommuting and assistive technology, finding new passions in response to disability (creative writing), and finally the catch 22 of receiving disability benefits and competitive employment.
Chris was interviewed by Patti Freeman Evans for Life Over Pain, an NYC based podcast full of inspiring stories from people with chronic pain and/or traumatic brain injury.
Stories focus on how people are not defined by their pain or injury and describe how choices to adapt to present circumstances can create lives of value despite significant loss.
When Chris Richards was injured, he was left more than just chronic hip and back pain, he was left with a disability that stood in the way of his opportunity to continue working.
In response to his new situation, Chris designed a sit/stand station in his home office, which he found to be better than just sitting, but not perfect. Then, while undergoing vocational rehabilitation services with the Massachusetts Rehabilitation Commision (MRC), he learned about the Assistive Technology Program here at Easterseals MA.