She is a mother, a professor and a strong disabled woman. These are just some of the roles that Dr. Kara Ayers has embraced. Although she has many interests, Kara is most passionate about disability advocacy. She believes that all individuals with disabilities must have access to healthcare and the equipment they need to live their lives fully.
Born with osteogenesis imperfecta, Kara’s bones break easily. Previously, she used a manual wheelchair for mobility. As she got older, Kara discovered the benefits of different types of mobility equipment, including power wheelchairs. Today, Kara uses a Stretto Power Chair with iLevel® technology.
Why She Loves Her Power Wheelchair
“I love the iLevel option for reaching things and the chance to change my height according to what I’m doing,” Kara said. “I like that I can hold or pull things while I drive my power chair.”
With iLevel on her power wheelchair, Kara has been able to organize things around her home. She can access many areas of her kitchen, including the top of the refrigerator and the stove.
“I’m seeing things I’ve never seen in my own home,” Kara said. “It’s so cool!”
iLevel has provided Kara with many social benefits as well. She can participate in conversations and look family and friends in the eye. Best of all, Kara loves hugging her daughter while she is standing next to her.
Making a Difference for People with Disabilities
As an associate professor at the Cincinnati Children’s Hospital and Medical Center, Kara appreciates how her job is different every day. In her role, Kara analyzes disability policy, teaches and mentors students and conducts research. Kara is very proud of her professional accomplishments, which include presenting a Tedx Talk in December of 2019. In 2021, Kara spoke to the Biden-Harris COVID-19 Equity Taskforce about the need for people with disabilities to access the COVID-19 vaccine.
As for her personal life, Kara is most proud of her family.
“My greatest accomplishments are my three kids and the life my husband and I have built and are building for them,” Kara said.
