Disability in the Media - Changing the Narrative with Cam Wells

"Do you think how communities are portrayed in the media impacts how they are accepted? And what if a community is portrayed in a way that is meant to be helpful, but is actually harmful?"In this episode, we dive head-first into these two thought-provoking questions as we talk to disability advocate and radio host, Cam Wells. Cam is a childhood stroke survivor, the host of the syndicated radio program Handi-Link, and passionate about how disability is portrayed in the media. He is also a man of faith and we get real about what is helpful and what is hurtful regarding disability and church too. Let me tell you, this interview is chocked full of things that will make you think more deeply and change your perspective. Cam Wells Bio:Cam Wells is a stroke survivor and a four-time graduate of St. Clair College with a strong passion for disability rights and inclusive storytelling in the media. He started the show over 18 years ago to change how disability stories are typically portrayed, advocating for a middle ground perspective rather than only portraying people with disabilities as either "bitter or really inspirational". His work has been recognized at both local and national levels in Canada.More From Cam - Listen to Handi-Link on CJAM 99.1 in one of these ways:Live Broadcast: It broadcasts on CJAM 99.1 FM in Windsor, Ontario, every Thursday from 11:00 am to 11:30 am (GMT-5/EST) Syndication: The show is syndicated and available on various community radio stations and platforms across Canada.Online: Episodes and links to specific interviews can be found here.If you think your story would be a great feature for Handi-Link please email Cam at [email protected] and put "Interview Request" in the subject line.A quick note on disability terms:Before you listen, I wanted to talk to you about something important about our podcast, and that is how we will be referring to disability during our discussions. We want you to know that at Wonderful Works Ministry, we know that words matter. We will strive to use preferred language regarding disability. But we also understand that preferred terms change over time and also can be subjective and vary from person to person, even among those with a shared diagnosis. With this in mind, we ask that you understand that we, here at Wonderful Works, and our guests may use a variety of terms on this show and in our resources. Please know that we will always approach language with inclusion, dignity and respect, and we hope you will too. Thank for listening! One more quick note:The views and opinions expressed in our show are those of our guests and do not necessarily reflect those of Wonderful Works Ministry. Wonderful Works Ministry does not provide medical, legal, or therapeutic advice or services. Rather, we provide general information regarding disability ministry. The information provided in our content does not replace the advice of medical, legal, or educational professionals. Wonderful Works Ministry is not responsible for any information or services provided by third parties. It is recommended that you use independent judgement when considering any resource associated with serving those who have been impacted by disability. Thank you.