Catarina Wright Email & Phone Number

Trois-Rivières, Quebec, Canada

Greece

In this youth exchange, although only 8 days long, I was educated on the myriad of visible and invisible disabilities that people experience; through the "Labyrinth of senses" I managed to learn about the different types of ableism and how I can contribute to change this in our everyday life, as well as, one day, apply this inclusive mindset in my medical practice. An educational trip filled with workshops related to human rights, shared by strangers who now share a life-long connection and I´m… Show more In this youth exchange, although only 8 days long, I was educated on the myriad of visible and invisible disabilities that people experience; through the "Labyrinth of senses" I managed to learn about the different types of ableism and how I can contribute to change this in our everyday life, as well as, one day, apply this inclusive mindset in my medical practice. An educational trip filled with workshops related to human rights, shared by strangers who now share a life-long connection and I´m proud to call my friends. In all our differences we learnt everyone was united by the same emotions of regret, sadness, happiness, vulnerability... Harnessing and sharing our experiences pushed us to move forward and keep going, each crafting their own journey knowing that momentary bonds and fleeting connections would, one day, serve as weapons when fighting our battles, be that our own or that of matters that concern every human being. Learning about methods that aim to create a more comprehensive and accessible society is everyone´s responsibility but, perhaps, the road to achieve an understanding and caring world starts by acknowledging our own limitations as humans and how we can learn to take a step forward no matter how hard it is. We don't owe kindness to anyone but to ourselves, but, in this painful whirlwind of a life, where our suffering is undeniable and unknown to others, recognizing we all have our burdens and flaws can, maybe, soften the feeling of loneliness and dread we feel. Sometimes, just lending your presence, just being there and validating someone's feelings is enough. One day, when we look back in our short lives in this "pale blue dot" memories become the only home we´ve ever known. Show less