76 - His Perspective: Stay True to Yourself

 “Joey” Pagano,  a Central New York-based journalist, columnist, and writer. He recently obtained my masters degree in Cultural Foundations of Education and certificate of advanced study in Disability Studies from Syracuse University’s School of Education. He graduated from Syracuse’s S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications in May 2021, one year early, and am pursuing a career in journalism and politics. Currently a research assistant at SU’s Burton Blatt Institute and a legislative correspondent in the office of New York State Senator John W. Mannion, he is seeking freelance opportunities.

Since graduating, he's been a guest columnist for Syracuse.com/The Post Standard, writing columns on a variety of topics. He also written for Yahoo Life and contributed to work at Syracuse’s Center on Disability and Inclusion.” (Website: wheelchairqb.com)

We chat about:

• His experience in dating, relationships, and disabilities.
• The particular challenges for people with disabilities in dating and relationships.
• As a person who communicates in alternative ways, how that poses particular challenges or possibly advantages when it comes to dating.
• The challenges he needs to consider n dating regarding needing help with the logistics of a date, such as getting there, but then naturally,  wanting privacy once you’re with your date. 
• Why he sometimes wonder if dating is worth the effort. 
• How he thinks society can change to be more open to seeing people with disabilities as dating and relationships partners.
• The most helpful advice you can give for someone with a disability in search of dating success and healthy relationships.

Follow Joey on Instagram

Check out our Dating Memberships:

Dating Made Easier (for all people wanting to date) - is a monthly membership for anyone (with or without disabilities) who wants support and guidance in dating skills and getting the RESULTS you want in dating and relationships. Click here to learn more.

Supporting Dating and Relationships membership (for special educators and professionals in disability services) - is for professionals in the disability field who are looking for training and resources to effectively help students/people with disabilities in developing dating and relationship skills. Click here to learn more.

Music by Successful Motivation |
Artwork photo by Elevate