The Hidden Strength

A couple of years ago I was asked by a client to conduct a series of focus groups targeted on the challenges of employing youth with disabilities. Throughout this process I had an opportunity to talk to numerous employers, parents and youth, all connected to this issue. While many opportunities for improvement were uncovered throughout our discussions, a strong overriding theme resonated to me on a personal level. Someone who faces adversity on a daily basis actually brings hidden strength to the table.

In order to provide credibility to this statement, let me use a personal example near and dear to my heart. Many years ago I accompanied my father to Craig Rehabilitation Hospital. We were there to see my cousin, Jeff, who had recently been involved in a tragic motorcycle accident. Two nights earlier he was driving home from his job at a local dairy. While crossing through an intersection on his motorcycle Jeff was struck by a motorist who ran a red light. My cousin who was once a budding prep star on the high school athletic scene would now be facing the rest of his life in a wheelchair.

Jeff used this event as a wake up call and upon completing rehab he enrolled at Metro State University. Following graduation he entered the accounting field and excelled. Several years later Jeff served in the role as chief comptroller for two major medical centers, one in Dallas and one in Pennsylvania. I later learned that Jeff was an active member of his trade association and served as planning chairman for their national conference, not a bad resume for anyone. While completing his Master’s program in health administration a few years ago, Jeff succumbed to cancer. My cousin was in his early 40’s but he accomplished more than many people do in their lifetime.

While listening to my focus group participants I kept on thinking of that overriding theme. Someone who is challenged by a disability brings tenacity, resiliency, courage and a strong sense of humor to the job every day. It is worthy of note that no one saw Jeff’s wheelchair as a barrier to his performance, rather, they saw him as a top performer in his field.

A wise person once said that he who wants a place in the sun should expect a few blisters along the way. Through Jeff’s example I learned that lesson, and I often think about the hidden strength he brought to the table every day.

Rich Wagner is the founder and President of Dynamic Achievements Inc., a Metro Denver company focused on helping its clients increase their competitive edge by adding strength to their people, plans and processes.