Speaker Carissa Garner Visits Nashville

A special guest in town today presented at both the Nashville Elementary school and Rotary Club. Carissa Garner is a 17 year old young lady with Spina Bifida. Yesterday she met with 4th, 5th, and 6th grade students and spoke about the importance of inclusion. The students participated with Carissa in a mock 5k, which is one of Carissa’s favorite things to do. That is – Racing. Carissa is a part of Ainsley’s Angels and regularly participates in events spanning from 5k, half marathon, full marathon, even triathlons. I asked Carissa how it makes her feel to be able to travel and speak to younger kids with her message. Here was her response:

With her yesterday was her mother who spoke about the importance of awareness & change not just for the impact directly seen today but for the difference it makes for those differently able that come after us.

Carissa has worked with lawmakers in Arkansas to help raise awareness for the need for accessibility within Arkansas schools. A product of her determination is seen in the passing of HB1863 which requires Arkansas schools to take steps to ensure their facilities are inclusive for those which are in need of such. Keep up the good work, Carissa.