NDEAM Profile: Katie Banister, Author, Speaker, Playwright & Quadriplegic

Every day during October, we’re sharing employment stories of people with spinal cord injuries to in honor of National Disability Employment Awareness Month. Today we’re profiling Katie Banister, a speaker, author, disability educator, poet, playwright and songwriter.

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?

Katie Banister

Where Do You Live?

St. Louis, Missouri

How and When Were You Injured?

SUV roll-over in 1990.

Level of Injury?

C6

Employment History Pre-Injury:

“Latch key Director, showed apartments, various job in the field of Recreation.”

Post-Injury Jobs & Current Job?

“Post-injury, I worked for a public recreation dept and school district.” “In 1997, I started my own company Access-4-All for Freedom to do what I want to.” “I am a speaker, author, disability educator, poet, playwright and songwriter.”

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

“I would not be where I am without VR assistance- a lift for my van a computer and psychological support.”

Do You Have Tips for Getting Hired?

“If you don’t find what you’re looking for- create it!”

Advice for Maintaining Employment Long-Term?

“Ask for help and ask in a way you’re going to get it.”

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

“Slow down girl. You will find your way.”

Is There Anything Else You’d Like to Say About Employment After a Spinal Cord Injury?

“Think bigger.”

— Follow Katie at https://www.instagram.com/achickinachair/