Gina is on a Roll

05/09/2021

Kylie this one is for you!!! How do I chop? This is how.

05/06/2021

Truth. 😏

Truth. 😏

05/06/2021

Can opener for Quadriplegics

The most amazing can opener for people with limited hand function. The brand is Kitchen Mama and I got it on Amazon.

05/02/2021

Story time (picture in association):

Yesterday was a rough day. In my frustration with life I exclaimed “what else have you got for me universe?” BIG MISTAKE. My car started making a noise literally less than 10 minutes later and then this happened...

So I go the Sprouts near me. Mind you, I didn’t really wanna get ready for the day so I put on little short spandex shorts with lace on the side, a black T-shirt, and I tossed on a hat. I always wear my hat backwards, I feel like I look goofy if I wear them any other way. So you get the picture, I’m not exactly glam. Whatever, it’s a grocery store.

As a wheelchair user there is absolutely no way in God’s green earth that you will live a life without hearing ”Don’t get a speeding ticket in that thing.” Yesterday was no exception. HOWEVER...plot twist.

As soon as I rolled in the door an older gentleman was standing there near the section of weakness, breads and pastries. His eyes locked on my chair. He HAD to interact with me. His brain spinning as he thinks to himself he’s got a good one and says to me, “don’t get a speeding ticket in that thing...YOUNG MAN.” My head whipped around faster than a spinning top. 

Young, man? Young...MAN?! YOUNG MAN?! Oooooooouch. 😂😂😂😂  I see you universe, and I raise you a glass. You win. I’m sorry. Flowers are on the way. 😘

Educational moment: Most wheelchair users do not want to hear you ask them if they want to race or that don’t get a speeding ticket. I’m just wanting to do my grocery shopping, sometimes it’s nice that I forget I’m different or disabled, but statements like that are a swift reminder. 

*read the hat.

Story time (picture in association):

Yesterday was a rough day. In my frustration with life I exclaimed “what else have you got for me universe?” BIG MISTAKE. My car started making a noise literally less than 10 minutes later and then this happened...

So I go the Sprouts near me. Mind you, I didn’t really wanna get ready for the day so I put on little short spandex shorts with lace on the side, a black T-shirt, and I tossed on a hat. I always wear my hat backwards, I feel like I look goofy if I wear them any other way. So you get the picture, I’m not exactly glam. Whatever, it’s a grocery store.

As a wheelchair user there is absolutely no way in God’s green earth that you will live a life without hearing ”Don’t get a speeding ticket in that thing.” Yesterday was no exception. HOWEVER...plot twist.

As soon as I rolled in the door an older gentleman was standing there near the section of weakness, breads and pastries. His eyes locked on my chair. He HAD to interact with me. His brain spinning as he thinks to himself he’s got a good one and says to me, “don’t get a speeding ticket in that thing...YOUNG MAN.” My head whipped around faster than a spinning top. 

Young, man? Young...MAN?! YOUNG MAN?! Oooooooouch. 😂😂😂😂  I see you universe, and I raise you a glass. You win. I’m sorry. Flowers are on the way. 😘

Educational moment: Most wheelchair users do not want to hear you ask them if they want to race or that don’t get a speeding ticket. I’m just wanting to do my grocery shopping, sometimes it’s nice that I forget I’m different or disabled, but statements like that are a swift reminder. 

*read the hat.

04/20/2021

Keto quesadilla or omelette?

Happy 4/20 friends. 😏 Would you call this a keto quesadilla or an omelette?

Serious discussion in the house.

04/20/2021

What life is really like when you’re a quadriplegic...

Wait until the end. 😂 I wanted the beans at the top... but obviously I can’t reach. I decided to be Wheelchair MacGyver and give it a shot.

Watch and feel my stress...


04/17/2021

Nick Springer Dies: Gold Medal-Winning Paralympic Athlete And Team USA Member Was 35

A lot of hearts are breaking with the news of Nick’s passing. For those of us that had the pleasure to spend any time with him, you knew immediately his personality was larger than life. Nick was accomplished, funny, talented, and bold.

My condolences go out to his friends and family. The world is a little less bright after losing one of our stars. ❤️

Nick Springer, a Paralympics medalist for Team USA and son of entertainment publicist Gary Springer, died at age 35 on Wednesday, April 14. No cause of death was given, but his demise was described…

04/08/2021

Sorry for the confusion, the live discussion will be starting at 4 PM MST.

Hope you are still able to join us over @capableconnections!

The fun will begin in less than 45 minutes!

Sorry for the confusion, the live discussion will be starting at 4 PM MST.

Hope you are still able to join us over @capableconnections!

The fun will begin in less than 45 minutes!

04/06/2021

You can catch me Live! on Instagram @capableconnections this Thursday talking about S*X with three other lovely ladies!

My favorite topic!!! 🥰

You can catch me Live! on Instagram @capableconnections this Thursday talking about S*X with three other lovely ladies!

My favorite topic!!! 🥰

04/03/2021

Nice try though...

03/13/2021

What did I do while I was gone? Art. Lots of art.

03/11/2021

Home

I was asked by a doctor “were you ever suicidal?” I thought deeply...

No. I haven’t been. I know that is surprising for a lot of people, as I have been told numerous times by insensitive individuals that they would kill themselves should they be in my position. However it’s true, I’ve never wanted to kill myself.

That being said, this question triggers a lot of emotions. I could see the surprise in his face when I genuinely said no. I went on to explain that I have always had purpose after my injury. My body is broken, but my mind deserves to live life to the fullest.

Su***de is an all too common topic in the private spinal cord injury groups. My heart aches for those genuinely contemplating su***de. I can’t even imagine the sadness some of the people in these groups are feeling. We as a society have failed people with disabilities. We have failed to provide them with transportation, housing, and opportunities.

Having this conversation reminded me what a serious issue this is. I just wanted to take this moment to let those of you who are not in the best place know you are not alone and there are so many opportunities out there. It may not seem like it in the present, but the future can hold such wonderful happiness.

You deserve joy. You deserve happiness.

❤️

We can all help prevent su***de. The Lifeline provides 24/7, free and confidential support for people in distress, prevention and crisis resources for you or your loved ones, and best practices for professionals.

02/26/2021

My buddy Mike adapted his RV with a $1,200 lift. Of course this doesnt work for everyone, but may give some an idea.

Wheelchair RV lift for $1,200?!

02/14/2021

“So can you have s*x?” WELCOME TO ONLINE DATING. 🤣😂🤣

Happy Valentine’s Day my loves! I just want to give you guys my pretty honest assessment of dating with a disability. It’s not easy, you have to be extra awesome and try extra hard to catch people’s attention. It gets exhausting.

As a woman I can count on the usual gamut of questions like “can you have s*x and can you feel” after they have pretty much just said hello. Men are curious what it’s like to be with a wheelchair user because men are curious in general...but this is new territory.

That being said I love it. I FRACKING love it. I highly encourage online dating for anyone, especially people with disabilities. You’re able to put that out there on the forefront and you don’t have to deal with as much rejection directly.

That leads me to my next point. Then you meet someone. From past relationships and insecurities related to my disability I often put up walls. Those are times that I just have to remind myself it’s worth the risk and that heartache can build character.

Recently I started seeing someone. It seems like at the beginning of a relationship I am reminded more often of what my limitations are. I often would like to do things with my partner that I simply cannot do. Guess what? He’s cool with it! He accepts me as I am.

This is just a little reminder that if you are looking for someone, that someone is out there. Just remember that you have to take the risk and put yourself out there in the first place.

You can’t win if you don’t play.

(Please share your experiences below)

“So can you have s*x?” WELCOME TO ONLINE DATING. 🤣😂🤣

Happy Valentine’s Day my loves! I just want to give you guys my pretty honest assessment of dating with a disability. It’s not easy, you have to be extra awesome and try extra hard to catch people’s attention. It gets exhausting.

As a woman I can count on the usual gamut of questions like “can you have s*x and can you feel” after they have pretty much just said hello. Men are curious what it’s like to be with a wheelchair user because men are curious in general...but this is new territory.

That being said I love it. I FRACKING love it. I highly encourage online dating for anyone, especially people with disabilities. You’re able to put that out there on the forefront and you don’t have to deal with as much rejection directly.

That leads me to my next point. Then you meet someone. From past relationships and insecurities related to my disability I often put up walls. Those are times that I just have to remind myself it’s worth the risk and that heartache can build character.

Recently I started seeing someone. It seems like at the beginning of a relationship I am reminded more often of what my limitations are. I often would like to do things with my partner that I simply cannot do. Guess what? He’s cool with it! He accepts me as I am.

This is just a little reminder that if you are looking for someone, that someone is out there. Just remember that you have to take the risk and put yourself out there in the first place.

You can’t win if you don’t play.

(Please share your experiences below)

01/29/2021

Gilbert woman wins big on The Price Is Right, speaks up for people with disabilities

As some of you know I had a pretty amazing opportunity and was picked while attending The Price Is Right in LA last year (pre-covid).

While I was very ecstatic about my winnings, I am most excited about the opportunity I had to shout out Elon Musk.

Vehicle options for people who require adaptive additions are living in the Stone Age when it comes to what’s available. Luxury and technological advancements are not available when looking for ramp vehicles. Options are ridiculously limited and the price is astronomical. 

Aftermarket manufacturing is not the answer, we need car manufacturers to consider wheelchair users when offering designs. Many major car companies could easily offer one or two models with ramp options. 

This is a battle that needs to be continuously fought until it’s won. Transportation is truly the key to independence. 

Gina Schuh won big on the iconic gameshow in California, raking in money, prizes and more importantly, a chance to advocate for change on a national stage.

01/29/2021

Window Shopping Dating Apps in the Time of Coronovirus; Rolling with Gina

With Valentine’s Day fast approaching, many people will turn to dating apps to find someone to spend the romantic holiday with.

If you’re considering it, this is your sign to not be afraid!

So many people hold themselves back from the experience of online dating for whatever ridiculous stereotypes they apply to it, but the truth is there are thousands and thousands of very successful couples who have met online.

Do not be afraid! Put yourself out there and reap the benefits. Keep in mind do not be negative in your online profiles, focus on your self (not a list of standards for someone who doesn’t exist), and post pictures of you smiling. ❤️

Happy hunting. 😏

Talk about total s**t timing. My relationship ended right before quarantine. We didn’t officially live together so here I am spending hours upon hours alone, staring at the lizard who lives outside of my window (dude has mad pushup skills and his name is Larry). Anyone who knows me knows I’m a m...

01/22/2021

DID YOU FEEL YOU WERE TREATED POORLY BY NUMOTION?!

TIME TO FIGHT FOR JUSTICE! ✊🏽✊🏻✊🏿

As many of you are well aware, Numotion has recently had some pretty egregious claims regarding the level of care they have provided people with disabilities. 

If you or someone you love has been a victim of their carelessness, please take a moment to fill out the survey to provide much needed information that could result in positive change!

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfD6JCEZO2gJGZkCbQaQ0yvfkL8RsJWWjH30BLY3vXsqLllHg/viewform

DID YOU FEEL YOU WERE TREATED POORLY BY NUMOTION?!

TIME TO FIGHT FOR JUSTICE! ✊🏽✊🏻✊🏿

As many of you are well aware, Numotion has recently had some pretty egregious claims regarding the level of care they have provided people with disabilities. 

If you or someone you love has been a victim of their carelessness, please take a moment to fill out the survey to provide much needed information that could result in positive change!

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfD6JCEZO2gJGZkCbQaQ0yvfkL8RsJWWjH30BLY3vXsqLllHg/viewform

01/21/2021

Guess who’s back? Back again...Yup. Yours truly.

As previously posted I needed a break. Advocacy itself is a high burnout job as is, combine that with a breakup, Covid shut downs, and personal health issues...you’ve got a recipe for isolation.

I needed me time. A moment to just listen to the voice in my head and not those around me. I started dating again and chasing career goals. However, I miss advocacy. I miss fighting for rights and justice. It’s my passion.

It’s time to get back on that horse...I’ve got my armor and I’m ready for a fight.

Guess who’s back? Back again...Yup. Yours truly.

As previously posted I needed a break. Advocacy itself is a high burnout job as is, combine that with a breakup, Covid shut downs, and personal health issues...you’ve got a recipe for isolation.

I needed me time. A moment to just listen to the voice in my head and not those around me. I started dating again and chasing career goals. However, I miss advocacy. I miss fighting for rights and justice. It’s my passion.

It’s time to get back on that horse...I’ve got my armor and I’m ready for a fight.

07/17/2020

The time has come, it is time for me to step back and focus on myself for a little while. I will be back, but in the meantime I will be searching for someone to take over my place. It has just been exhausting, I am exhausted.

I am tired of the criticism without action, I am tired of always fighting someone else’s battle in addition to my own. Sometimes you just need a break, that time is now for me. Thank you so much to everyone who has been so supportive and shown so much interest. 

07/07/2020

UPDATE ON TODD: World’s Biggest Do*****ag

THANK YOU CSPD!!! 🥰

If you were one of the thousands of people who watched the video of Todd (available in previous post), you know he’s a jerk. Well not only is he a jerk, but he is a liar. Todd isn’t a cop, supposedly friends with cops.

This morning I spoke with Colorado Springs Police Department and I am so impressed by their response. They tracked him down, confronted him about claiming to be a police officer, and they will be ticketing him.

Thank you for dealing with this menace in such a swift manner Colorado Springs Police Department.

07/06/2020

UPDATE: CSPD contacted me and informed me that Todd is not a police officer, however they do you know him quite well. He sounds like a menace to society, but unfortunately he is also friends with police officers so he feels entitled. BEST PART? The PD tracked him down AND THEY ARE TICKETING HIM!!!

Original Post:

I know I have not been on here for a while, but every once in a while a pretty crazy situation happens that I feel like I have to share.

I’m with my caregiver and her sister, two women in their early 20s enjoying lunch outside. Two men on motorcycles pulled up to park in the access aisle adjacent to accessible parking (where another individual was parked illegally).  He got off his bike and referenced the car parked illegally next to him and said, “I should find this guy and rearrange his face.” I responded to him that he was parked illegally as well.  He proceeded to tell me he is a police officer, the restaurant said he can park there, and he is not parked illegally...then continued to challenge me to call because he said “I know they won’t give me a ticket.”

We were not rude or hateful, and this man is the perfect example of who we do not need on the police force.

To top it off, he yelled insults and made political rants on his way out saying, “I’m sure you are Democrat! You should vote Trump!”

Please share this so that people like this can learn a lesson.