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Rejection, Frustration, Hope

Laura Kirsch was born three years after the Americans with Disabilities Act became law.

"Everything must be so much better," now than before the 1990 legislation, she said.

But, said the 17-year-old, "Nothing is where it should be." Eighty percent of the 54 million Americans with disabilities are unemployed, for instance.

Dozens of people from several states shared stories of frustration, success and hope Thursday at an ILR event marking the 20th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act.

Held at the ILR Conference Center, "Celebrate, Contemplate and Collaborate" was sponsored by the Disability and Business Technical Assistance Center-Northeast Americans with Disabilities Act Center, located in ILR's Employment and Disability Institute.

Kirsch, a resident of Setaucket, Long Island, attended with professionals in the disabilities and diversity fields, researchers, people with disabilities, state education and human rights officials, and others.

Her mother, Iris Kirsch, also attended and asked if the act could help establish more public restrooms designed for people who are accompanied by caregivers.

John Robinson, one of Thursday's speakers, talked about the four years it took him to get a job in broadcasting after graduating from Syracuse University in 1990.

"If I didn't have hope, I wouldn't be standing here," said Robinson, now general manager of AXXESS Productions, a public broadcasting business owned by WCNY, Syracuse.

The 41-year-old father of three climbs mountains in the Adirondacks north of his Albany home, golfs and travels about every two weeks to tell his story, recounted in a book and television documentary "Get Off Your Knees."

Born without hands, forearms, knees and thighbones, he talked about learning to get dressed alone, driving a car, rejection by peers and potential employers, encouragement of wife Andrea and his parents, fun with college friends, professional success, a physical stature that attracts the attention of children.

Sometimes, they knock him down.

Robinson said he tries to diffuse the startled awkwardness many express when meeting him by first telling them he is less than four feet tall.

Robinson said it is difficult to look at himself in a mirror, but he does it.

"If I can look at myself … you can do it, too," he said.

Through speaking engagements around the country during the past two years, Robinson said he hopes to serve as a role model, to show others one can adapt to life, despite obstacles.

"I'm happy, comfortable and content with the body I have and the person I am."

"Oftentimes, opportunities are disguised as challenges," he said.

"I ask you to have hope. What you’re doing matters."

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