Disability, Identity, and Independence, Rachael on Life in the Bow Valley

In this episode of the Overheard Podcast, we sit down with Rachael, a young adult living with Cerebral Palsy and Spastic Diplegia who grew up in Canmore and became Mount Allison University’s first disability representative. As the International Day of Persons with Disabilities approaches on December 3rd—and Para World Cup events unfold in the Bow Valley—Rachael offers an honest, in-depth look at what accessibility, inclusion, and independence really mean in a mountain community. We explore Rachael’s experiences navigating employment barriers, changes to AISH and the new ADAP program, the challenges behind the Canada Disability Benefit, and the realities of housing and food security for people with disabilities in Alberta. She also shares her perspective on living in Canmore with Cerebral Palsy, why representation matters, and what the Bow Valley can learn from IDPD and international para-sport events. This conversation highlights the intersection of disability, policy, community, and personal resilience. For anyone interested in disability rights, life in the Bow Valley, or the stories behind IDPD, this episode offers essential insight and powerful lived experience. Topics include:• Life with Cerebral Palsy and growing up in Canmore• Accessibility challenges in the Bow Valley• IDPD on December 3rd and the importance of disability representation• Para World Cup events and the impact of para-sport• Employment barriers and workplace inclusion• AISH cutbacks, the ADAP program, and disability benefits• Rachael’s advocacy, education, and personal journey Watch the full episode for an important conversation about disability, community, and meaningful change in the Bow Valley.