Becoming Disabled: Narratives of Managing and Accepting Disabilities Created by an Illness

Session Submission Type: Panel Discussion

Abstract

By focusing on the disabling results of an illness, this panel expands on research conducted on dialectical tensions introduced by the onset of a disease. The panelists will interrogate the personal, organizational and cultural constructions of illness disabilities, including the (re)negotiation of identities. Using a narrative framework, we engage communicative discourses of survivorhood, punishment and shame, and organizational identity. After presentations, the respondent will synthesize the panelists’ ideas and facilitate a conversation with the audience.

Sub Unit

• Disability Issues Caucus

Presenters

• Laura Ellingson, Santa Clara University

• Michael Pagano, Fairfield University

• Kallia Odette Wright, Illinois College

Respondent

• Elaine Jenks, West Chester Univ

Session Organizer

• Kallia Odette Wright, Illinois College