07/26/2026
Marilou is a marketing coordinator here at ARBI who suffered a brain injury in 2023 who is sharing her experience with her disability today in honor of Disability Independence Day! 💜
On this Disability Independence Day, I’m reflecting on what independence truly means to me.
Disability independence is not about doing everything alone. It is about having the support, accessibility, and opportunities that allow me to pursue my goals, contribute, and live life as my authentic self. ✨
After suffering a brain injury, I had to relearn how to do many things I once took for granted. I had moments where I thought my life was over, and I heard people tell me what they thought I could and couldn’t do. But the truth was, I was still me.
My body and abilities changed, but my passion, determination, and drive remained. My disability is a part of me, but it does not define all of me. My needs and goals may look different, but I am still the same person who wants to learn, grow, and make an impact.
As a working disabled person, disability independence means having the opportunity and support to be part of my community and workplace. Because of that, I am able to work at ARBI, continue building my future, and show that disability does not limit what we can achieve. 🧠
This Disability Independence Day, I celebrate the ability to define my own path and be proud of everything I can do. 💚
Learn more about ARBI and how you can support brain injury and stroke recovery at
https://www.arbi.ca/