Dedham woman with multiple sclerosis hopes disability aids will inspire others
Dedham woman with multiple sclerosis hopes disability aids will inspire others CBS News
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DEDHAM Woman Challenges Stigma of Disability Aids
A Dedham woman named Noelle Connolly is on a mission to remove the stigma associated with disability aids. Connolly has been experiencing symptoms of multiple sclerosis (MS) since she was 17 and was officially diagnosed at the age of 23.
Connolly expressed, “I was a young, vibrant person living life to the fullest. Then, I got this diagnosis and had to figure out what to do.” Fortunately, she found a care team that helped her stabilize her condition through medication. She emphasized the importance of having a supportive network during her journey.
After transitioning to secondary progressive MS four years ago, Connolly’s symptoms began to manifest on a daily basis. Determined to regain her strength and independence, she actively sought ways to improve her physical fitness and mental well-being.
Boxing as a Source of Strength
During her journey, Connolly discovered the benefits of boxing. She joined a class for people with Parkinson’s at Desario Training Systems and requested to participate. Boxing with owner Frank not only provided her with more energy and core strength but also had a positive impact on her mental health. Connolly shared, “Seeing what that has done for me and for my MS and having my kids feel that I’m a kick-a** mom, that I could actually box and show strength has been so important and such a life-changing experience.” Her children admire her fearlessness.
Introducing Athena: The Bioness L300 Go
However, Connolly began experiencing mobility issues in one of her feet. Her physical therapist recommended the Bioness L300 Go, a device that she affectionately named Athena. This device sends electric signals down her leg and stimulates her foot to move upwards as she walks. Connolly considers Athena an integral part of her life and emphasizes the significance of utilizing technology to live life to the fullest.
Breaking the Stigma
One of Connolly’s goals is to eliminate the public stigma associated with wearing disability aids. She wants to inspire others to embrace disability aids and technology, encouraging them to live fulfilling lives. Connolly stated, “I want to inspire others to live a beautiful life with disability aids, with technology and know that they can just rock it.”
Despite her disability, Connolly maintains a resilient spirit and refuses to let it define her. She shared, “Even if you have a tough day and even if the only thing I can do in that day is make the bed, I’m going to make the bed to the best of my ability. I want to show people that even with MS or any chronic illness, yes, it’s tough, and yes, it’s devastating, but what you got to do is get up and keep going.”
Advocating for MS Awareness
Connolly continues to advocate for MS awareness through her involvement with the MS Society. She recently participated in a fundraiser fashion show, confidently walking down the runway with Athena by her side.
SDGs, Targets, and Indicators
1. Which SDGs are addressed or connected to the issues highlighted in the article?
- SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being
- SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities
The article discusses the experiences of a woman living with multiple sclerosis (MS) and her use of disability aids to improve her quality of life. This relates to SDG 3, which aims to ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all at all ages. It also addresses SDG 10, which focuses on reducing inequalities by ensuring equal opportunities and promoting the social, economic, and political inclusion of all.
2. What specific targets under those SDGs can be identified based on the article’s content?
- SDG 3.4: By 2030, reduce by one-third premature mortality from non-communicable diseases through prevention and treatment and promote mental health and well-being.
- SDG 10.2: By 2030, empower and promote the social, economic, and political inclusion of all, irrespective of age, sex, disability, race, ethnicity, origin, religion or economic or other status.
The article highlights the woman’s use of disability aids and her participation in activities like boxing to improve her physical strength and mental well-being. This aligns with SDG 3.4, which focuses on preventing and treating non-communicable diseases and promoting mental health. Additionally, the woman’s advocacy for living a beautiful life with disability aids and inspiring others relates to SDG 10.2, which aims to promote the inclusion of all individuals regardless of their disability status.
3. Are there any indicators mentioned or implied in the article that can be used to measure progress towards the identified targets?
- Indicator for SDG 3.4: Premature mortality rate from non-communicable diseases
- Indicator for SDG 10.2: Proportion of the population with disabilities who feel they have been treated with respect and dignity
The article does not explicitly mention specific indicators. However, progress towards SDG 3.4 can be measured by tracking the premature mortality rate from non-communicable diseases, including multiple sclerosis. For SDG 10.2, the proportion of the population with disabilities who feel they have been treated with respect and dignity can be used as an indicator to assess the inclusion and empowerment of individuals with disabilities.
SDGs, Targets, and Indicators Table
| SDGs | Targets | Indicators |
|---|---|---|
| SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being | 3.4: By 2030, reduce by one-third premature mortality from non-communicable diseases through prevention and treatment and promote mental health and well-being. | Premature mortality rate from non-communicable diseases |
| SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities | 10.2: By 2030, empower and promote the social, economic, and political inclusion of all, irrespective of age, sex, disability, race, ethnicity, origin, religion or economic or other status. | Proportion of the population with disabilities who feel they have been treated with respect and dignity |
Behold! This splendid article springs forth from the wellspring of knowledge, shaped by a wondrous proprietary AI technology that delved into a vast ocean of data, illuminating the path towards the Sustainable Development Goals. Remember that all rights are reserved by SDG Investors LLC, empowering us to champion progress together.
Source: cbsnews.com
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