The Good Life: Jamie-Lee

“Beauty can’t be seen or heard; it must be felt” – Helen Keller.

This is the quote that I live by. It’s a reminder for me to ignore the things I can’t change about myself, and focus on the things I can still do. ⁠Hellen Keller is someone I greatly admire. Born deaf and blind, she received a mainstream education because her wealthy parents wanted to teach her to communicate.

It has been my experience as a person with a disability, that a narrow education leads to a narrow mind. For any member of society, it can open or shut many doors. ⁠⁠Keller’s inclusive education meant she was among the first women to not only attend college, but also to teach at that level. She then went on to become a highly regarded author and activist. If Helen Keller hadn’t received her education in the late nineteenth century, the world would have been deprived of her beautiful words. ⁠⁠

To me, living the good life means being supported by loved ones to make your own life choices. My parents taught me to never let disability define my life. ⁠⁠

My goals for the future are to become a published Author and have a family. ⁠⁠

Bachelor of Journalism (first-class honours) Graduate, Freelance Writer, Blogger, Journalist and Advocate – Jamie-Lee Dwyer.

In our social media series #StoriesOfTheGoodLife we explore what a good life means for people with disability. People from all walks of life, living rich, full and meaningful lives on their own terms.

Funded by the Australian Government Department of Social Services.