Siblings Day is celebrated on April 10 to honor the special bond between siblings—a connection filled with love, support, and lifelong meaning. For Leah, having a brother with a disability didn’t just shape her childhood—it shaped her career. See how growing up together shaped Leah’s passion—and why their story matters.
Q: Can you share a childhood memory with Brian that still influences the way you see the world today?
A: Even though he is four years older than me, he went to a different elementary school because the one I attended couldn’t provide the specific educational support he needed. We did attend the same junior high and high school, but his experience at a different elementary school opened my eyes to the importance of diverse educational settings and environments. I may not have fully understood it at the time, but as an adult, I now see why my parents had to find a school that could support all of my brother’s needs—both medical and educational—so he could succeed.
Q: What are some small but powerful ways families can support their loved ones with disabilities?
A: Families can support their loved ones by being present and involved, but truly allowing them to have a voice in shaping their own lives. It’s important to stay open to technology and resources available to families. While it can be scary and intimidating to think about someone else caring for your loved one, preparing for the future is essential. Future planning is especially important when it comes to adulthood and meeting your loved one’s medical and financial needs.
Q: What’s something you wish more people understood about the sibling experience?
A: No matter what, we are still siblings. Even if our relationship doesn’t follow the typical sibling dynamic—like fighting or keeping secrets from our parents—he is my brother, and I am his sister, and nothing will ever change that. I will always be his biggest advocate and his annoying younger sister, whether he likes it or not.
Q: Brian communicates in unique ways—how has that changed how you listen, observe, or connect with others?
A: Since my brother is nonverbal, I’ve learned to pay close attention to nonverbal communication—like body language and facial expressions—to better understand his emotions and how he’s feeling. He may also bring us items, like a cup, when he’s thirsty. I’ve found that observing body language and facial cues helps me better understand others too, even when they use verbal communication.
Q: Brian enjoys being outdoors and in the sunshine—what’s one of your favorite outdoor moments with him?
A: Brian loves going to the lake and tubing, but he usually prefers to go alone. One time, I decided to join him—and the entire ride, he used his legs to try and kick me off the tube! Ever since then, I’ve let him enjoy his solo tube rides in peace.
Q: When did you first realize that advocating for and supporting people with disabilities would be part of your career path?
A: I knew Brian was different from a young age and have always supported him, but it wasn’t until high school that I realized I wanted to advocate for others with disabilities as well. I was a camp counselor for a summer program for youth and young adults with disabilities, a “buddy” in college, and a job coach for summer programming during the years I wasn’t teaching. Eventually, I left the teaching world altogether and became a part of the disability community—and I haven’t looked back since.