STATE COLLEGE — Dru Conroy had a life-changing decision to make. Having lived with cerebral palsy from birth, she had two options. Use all her energy to meet her basic needs through hygiene, cooking, and cleaning, or enlist assistance with these tasks so she can use her limited energy to focus on pursuing a career.
Conroy chose to pursue a career in accounting at Easterseals Western and Central Pennsylvania. Thirty-seven years later, Dru is counting her blessings.
October is National Disability Employment Awareness Month.
Over 40% of adults with disabilities are employed throughout Pennsylvania, including Conroy, Easterseals Western and Central Pennsylvania’s accounting clerk. Conroy uses a wheelchair for mobility and a trackball mouse to use her computer.
“I have a good head on my shoulders. I pay my own bills and live independently,” Conroy said. Her strengths are in math and computer skills, with a keen eye for detail. Conroy’s motto is to find a way to make it work even if an adaptive product is not available.
Conroy’s advice for young adults with disabilities pursuing a career path applies to everyone: “Have the determination to do what you can, but don’t feel bad if there are things you cannot do. Figure out what you can do for yourself to be more independent and don’t let anger or frustration take over. Don’t give up.”
Conroy thanks God for putting people in her life who have helped her, and she’s grateful for times she has been “a little voice,” to help others with disabilities.
Dan Whigham, Vice President of Finance and Conroy’s supervisor, admires her work ethic: “Dru is what makes Easterseals special. We are supposed to help change people’s lives for the better, and she is the best example I know. She doesn’t let her disability slow her down, and she gives her all every day in whatever job she works on.”
Equity, inclusion, and access for all — that is what Easterseals Western and Central Pennsylvania stands on.
Learn more about Easterseals Western and Central Pennsylvania and employment opportunities for adults with disabilities at www.wcpenna.easterseals.com.
Established in 1935, Easterseals Western and Central Pennsylvania is leading the way to 100% equity, inclusion, and access for people with disabilities, families, and communities.
