Easterseals Western and Central PA Celebrate National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM)

Dru Conroy had a life-changing decision to make. Having lived with cerebral palsy from birth, Dru had two options. Use all her energy to meet her basic needs through hygiene, cooking, and cleaning, or enlist assistance with these tasks so she can use her limited energy to focus on pursuing a career. Dru chose to pursue a career in accounting at Easterseals Western and Central Pennsylvania. Thirty-seven years later, Dru is counting her blessings. 

October is National Disability Employment Awareness Month. Over 40% of adults with disabilities are employed throughout Pennsylvania, including Dru Conroy, Easterseals Western and Central Pennsylvania’s Accounting Clerk. Dru uses a wheelchair for mobility and a trackball mouse to use her computer. Dru states, “I have a good head on my shoulders. I pay my own bills and live independently.” Her strengths are in math and computer skills, with a keen eye for detail. Dru’s motto is to find a way to make it work even if an adaptive product is not available. When she was uncomfortable in bed at night and wanted to turn from her back to her side, Dru developed a method where she pulls on straps to move her body; there’s always a way. 

Companies that specialize in adaptive products for people with disabilities enable more people to live independently and pursue careers. Silverts and IZ Adaptive are adaptive clothing and footwear lines designed to make dressing easier for those with disabilities and at every stage of life. In honor of National Disability Employment Awareness Month, Silverts Adaptive Clothing and Footwear and IZ Adaptive, will donate 5% of every purchase from local ZIP codes to Easterseals Western and Central Pennsylvania. Customers can also round up their purchases at checkout, with 100% of proceeds supporting Easterseals' programs and services for people with disabilities.

Dru’s advice for young adults with disabilities pursuing a career path applies to everyone: “Have the determination to do what you can, but don’t feel bad if there are things you cannot do. Figure out what you can do for yourself to be more independent and don’t let anger or frustration take over. Don’t give up.” Dru thanks God for putting people in her life who have helped her, and she’s grateful for times she has been “a little voice,” to help others with disabilities. Dan Whigham, Vice President of Finance and Dru’s supervisor, admires Dru’s excellent work ethic: “Dru is what makes Easterseals special. We are supposed to help change people’s lives for the better, and she is the best example I know. She doesn’t let her disability slow her down, and she gives her all every day in whatever job she works on.” Equity, inclusion, and access for ALL – that is what Easterseals Western and Central Pennsylvania stands on. 

Learn more about Easterseals Western and Central Pennsylvania and employment opportunities for adults with disabilities at  Easterseals Western and Central PA's website. Established in 1935, Easterseals Western and Central Pennsylvania is leading the way to 100% equity, inclusion, and access for people with disabilities, families, and communities. 

About Silverts: Silverts is North America's leading adaptive apparel brand, dedicated to making dressing easier, more comfortable, and dignified for people with disabilities. For 96 years, Silverts has designed adaptive clothing with exceptional attention to functionality. Through partnerships with caregivers, healthcare providers, nursing homes, and consumers, we deliver innovative adaptive clothing and footwear solutions designed to improve everyday life.

About IZ Adaptive: Founded by award-winning designer Izzy Camilleri, IZ Adaptive is a pioneering adaptive fashion brand recognized for creating stylish, functional clothing specifically designed for wheelchair users and people with disabilities. The brand has helped redefine adaptive fashion by combining thoughtful design with innovative functionality.