College Student with Cerebral Palsy Advocates for Disability Accessibility

Helena Schmidt shares her experiences and advice for fellow students with disabilities on 'Enable: The Disability Podcast'

Published on Feb. 4, 2026

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Helena Schmidt, a student with cerebral palsy, speaks with 'Enable: The Disability Podcast' about the challenges college students with physical disabilities face, becoming an advocate for herself and others with special needs, and working to improve accessibility on campus. She emphasizes the importance of self-confidence, finding support, and not giving up when advocating for change.

Why it matters

This story highlights the ongoing need to improve accessibility and inclusion for students with disabilities in higher education. By sharing Helena's personal experiences and advocacy efforts, the podcast aims to inspire other students with disabilities to speak up and work towards creating more inclusive college campuses.

The details

Helena Schmidt, who was born with cerebral palsy, discusses her experiences navigating college life with a physical disability. She emphasizes the importance of advocating for oneself and not being deterred by those who say change is impossible. Helena encourages students to build a support network, manage their emotions, and celebrate small victories, as even minor improvements can have a significant impact.

  • The 'Enable: The Disability Podcast' episode featuring Helena Schmidt was released on February 4, 2026.

The players

Helena Schmidt

A college student with cerebral palsy who serves as a SUNY Student Disability Ambassador and advocates for improved accessibility and inclusion on campus.

Geoff Herbert

The co-host of 'Enable: The Disability Podcast' who was born with a profound binaural hearing loss and has worked as a reporter, SEO lead, and content supervisor for syracuse.com | The Post-Standard.

Kurt Hower

The co-host of 'Enable: The Disability Podcast' who has worked at Advance Local for over 35 years and serves on the Central PA Chapter Arthritis Foundation Board of Directors.

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What they’re saying

“Advocating is not easy, but it is super important to help bring about change for yourself and others. You have to be confident in yourself and believe in yourself.”

— Helena Schmidt, SUNY Student Disability Ambassador (Enable: The Disability Podcast)

“You can't let others tell you that you are wrong, or that you should give up, or that it will never work. There are people who are on your side; you just have to find them and work together. Having support from others is vital.”

— Helena Schmidt, SUNY Student Disability Ambassador (Enable: The Disability Podcast)

“I hope more people learn NOT to judge others just because they look different, move differently, or speak differently.”

— Helena Schmidt, SUNY Student Disability Ambassador (Enable: The Disability Podcast)

What’s next

The 'Enable: The Disability Podcast' plans to continue releasing new episodes weekly, highlighting the stories and experiences of people with disabilities.

The takeaway

This podcast episode underscores the importance of self-advocacy, building a support network, and persisting in the face of challenges for college students with disabilities. It serves as an inspiring call to action for improving accessibility and inclusion on campuses nationwide.