NDEAM Profile: James LaBelle, Lawyer & Author, Quadriplegic

For today’s daily disability employment profile in honor of National Disability Employment Awareness Month, we’re profiling James LaBelle, a lawyer and author from Washington. He’s retired and recently published his memoir 50 years post-injury, Wheelchair Bound?

And in the comments, please share if you are ❤ working post spinal cord injury, 💚 when you started, and 💙 what you love most about your job 👍

Name?

James LaBelle

Age?

72

Where Do You Live?

Bainbridge Island, Washington

How and When Were You Injured?

“In September 1969, I dove into Lake Independence in Hennepin County, Minnesota. My injury level is C 5/6.”

Were You Employed Pre-Injury?

“I worked part time in gas stations and then for a year running a press at a factory making parts from rubber.”

What is Your Current Job and What Do You Do?

“I am retired. I worked for Dakota Plains Legal Services in 1984, Housing Service Center in San Jose, Ca, Then taught a few years at St. Petersburg College.”

How Did You Find Your Job?

“I found my first job (post-injury) at DPLS through U of Minnesota Law School.”

How Long Did You Search for Your Current Job?

“NA. but I spent many months job searching throughout my life.”

Please Name Any Programs That Supported You Finding or Maintaining Your Current Job:

“NA.”

What Kind of Disability Accommodations, If Any, Have You Requested and Received from Your Employer?

“Flexible hours and days. Parking.”

Do You Have Tips for Getting Hired?

“Be persistent. Keep trying.”

Do you have any tips or tricks to share on maintaining employment for the long term?

“Don’t forget to maintain your health. Ask for time off when necessary.”

If You Could Go Back in Time, What Advice Would You Give Yourself Before Pursuing Your Career Path?

“Stick with a job longer. Work part time if necessary.”

Is there anything else you’d like to add about you job search or employment experience?

“Watch out for social security and Medicare rules. Always keep detailed records.”

— Follow James on IG (and buy his book) at https://www.instagram.com/54.years.wheeling/