Civic Ballroom North

In this fireside chat, youth authors share their experiences in the virtual writing project, As I Live and Breathe. The project produced a collection of short stories published and launched on December 1, 2022, in celebration of International Day of Persons with Disabilities. The stories cover a wide range of topics and highlight how, even though disability is a deeply personal experience, there are common themes within individuals’ experiences. 

This personal and interactive discussion will allow the audience to gain insight into authors’ experience growing up with a disability, and will also include a reading from the collection.

3 Key Takeaways
1. Hear personal stories from Holland Bloorview’s youth leaders
2. Youth Leaders are current and former clients of Holland Bloorview
3. The stories cover a wide range of topics and highlight how, even though disability is a deeply personal experience, there are common themes within individuals’ experiences.
 

Dolly Menna-Dack, Clinical Bioethicist, Youth Engagement Strategy Lead, Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital
Samantha Alfaro, Storyteller, Youth Leader, Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital
Gabriella Carafa, Storyteller, Clinical Risk Specialist, Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital
Heather Burns, Storyteller, Youth Leader, Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital