On struggles and privileges of being “abled-passing disabled,” and deciding to BaristaFIRE in 2020.
Is the ability to say “I beat Rheumatoid Arthritis” worth the pain and detriment of quality of life? I had a long talk with myself this month.
As a disabled young adult, I don’t have the luxury of “working forever.” I need Financial Independence to save my life.
I began my “adult” life by moving to New York City at 25, straight out of graduate school without a job or career. Thankfully, I had no student debt (thanks, mom and dad!), and armed with a non-stem master’s degree. Having gotten disillusioned with the reality of public education system, special education in particular, I …