Uncategorized

VOTE on 11/6 if you haven’t already

This will probably be my last political post until next year. Or not. In last Tuesday’s blogpost, I said I was going to vote for Minnesota Democrats Tim Walz and Peggy Flanagan, Tina Smith, Amy Klobuchar, Betty McCollum, and Ami Wazlawik. But, I want to be clear that I am not voting for Democrats because… Continue reading VOTE on 11/6 if you haven’t already

Uncategorized

Another typical week: Part deux video

Hi all, Had a great question about how I charge my DBS stimulator last week and why I watch movies while I’m charging. So, my dad, mom, and I made a video. Here’s the thing, it’s tricky to get the charger lined up and staying in one place next to the stimulator that’s implanted in… Continue reading Another typical week: Part deux video

Medtronic DBS programmer and charger device
Uncategorized

Another typical week

Just a reminder – my typical weeks are why we need to protect Medicaid and make sure we have access to good, affordable healthcare! Speech therapy on Tuesday. Communication device fell off my chair but fortunately seems to be working just fine. My speech therapist made some brilliant changes so that I can’t accidentally hit… Continue reading Another typical week

Back of Justin in his wheelchair covered with pins for MN DFL candidates looking at yard signs for DFL candidates
Uncategorized

Midterms on Nov 6: Clear choice for me in Minnesota

The DFL candidates all are more supportive of disability rights and issues that impact my ability to choose where I live with the supports that I need to be included in my community. Social services that support people with disabilities to be able to live in their communities are critical. This means fighting for: Affordable… Continue reading Midterms on Nov 6: Clear choice for me in Minnesota

Uncategorized

I’m not asking for a miracle

One of the songs I like by CHRVCHES is Miracle. I’ve been listening to it over and over. And over. And over lately. I'm not asking for a miracle but I, and my parents, are struggling with what comes next. What does my adult life look like? Especially socially, because right now, I’m feeling kind… Continue reading I’m not asking for a miracle

Ami Wazlawik and Justin Smith smiling
Uncategorized

GOTV and CHVRCHES

GOTV Busy week this week. For the first time ever, I went door-knocking with my mom. I’m hoping to get out more in the next month for Ami Wazlawik for MN State House 38B and my other favorites like Tim Walz for Governor, Amy Klobuchar, and Tina Smith for US Senate. Each of these candidates… Continue reading GOTV and CHVRCHES

Justin looking at computer
Uncategorized

Anyone else have this problem?

I am currently writing a young adult book and I want to let you know that it is totally tough to get your ideas out. I use one finger on my adaptive keyboard and there is the schedule. My work schedule is something I need to figure out because the schedule I have isn’t working… Continue reading Anyone else have this problem?

18-year old Justin with I voted sticker on next to Vote Here sign and US Flag
Uncategorized

Governor’s Forum on 9/13 cancelled

I just got this cancellation yesterday for the Governor's Forum that I was looking forward to going to on Thursday. "Unfortunately, event cosponsors have had to cancel the event due to lack of confirmation from the candidates. We are still working to ensure that candidates for Minnesota Governor address and prioritize issues of importance to members of… Continue reading Governor’s Forum on 9/13 cancelled

Justin with Tim Walz
Uncategorized

Why it matters

Governor Candidates' Forum on 9/13 There are some key issues that impact people with disabilities that I think everyone should be thinking about as they decide who to vote for in the midterm elections. I’ve said this in previous posts and will say it again – SHOW UP! It’s important to show up now and… Continue reading Why it matters