Guest Lecture, Dr. Bruce Kiesling - The History of Disabilities

Today, I had the opportunity of listening to a presentation delivered by Dr. Bruce Kiesling on the History of Disabilities. The information provided was very informative in the way of helping me realize how disabilities used to be conceived as, how they still are and what we should do in order to change the stigma. Those with disabilities used to be pushed to the side, disregarded and looked at as less than just because of something they were born with or something they had no control over. Today, we are moving past this ideal that those with disabilities are not able to live a functional, meaningful life, yet it is still prevalent today. We are seeing a decrease in those being institutionalized, which is coming to an end completely, and more acceptance of those with disabilities in the "real world." 

Earlier on in the semester, we did Era Presentations where we talked about the history of OT and the history of health care. In Dr. Kiesling's presentation, there was a man who went on to receive his Ph.D. who had polio and had to use an iron lung for the most of his life. In our presentations, it was presented that when polio was prevalent, the iron lung was of utmost importance for those with polio to survive.

There are many ways myself and my classmates, as future clinicians, can use the information presented today in order to be a better rounded and culturally responsive occupational therapist. First, we can be advocates for those with disabilities. We can be a part of the change, and the voice, of how others should perceive and treat those with a disability. We can create a positive outlook within those around us to ensure that those with disabilities have every right to an equal opportunity as myself. This includes work, education, public access and even health care. 

I cannot wait to ensure those that I cross paths with in my future as a clinician are treated all just the same and that they know they are getting my best possible care.