Disability Advocate Miles Forma Inspires Fifth Graders

Fifth grade students at Midland, Milton and Osborn schools recently welcomed disability advocate Miles Forma as a special guest, where he shared an inspiring message about inclusion and empathy.
 

Forma, who was born with cerebral palsy that affects his ability to speak, communicates using an Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) device. During his visit, he shared his personal story, discussing the challenges and joys he has experienced while living with a disability.
 

“We were very fortunate to have Miles visit us,” Osborn School Principal Angela Garcia said. “He did a beautiful job of showing pictures and telling his story of growing up with a disability and the challenges he faced. He also helped the students understand that having a disability doesn’t mean you don’t like the same things as others – he loves going to the movies, and pasta is his favorite food.”
 

As a conclusion to his presentation, Forma invited the students to try out his communication board, giving them a firsthand understanding of how the device works.
 

“The most endearing moment was when a small group of students asked to stay a little longer with Miles to ask questions,” Garcia said. “One student thanked him for helping her understand how frustrating it can be for people with disabilities when others don’t show kindness and patience. She shared that she has a sister with a disability and that Mile’s visit changed the way she plans to speak with and support her sister.”