July is Disability Pride Month – an occasion to hear the stories of those who have learned to live life to the fullest, despite the obstacles they have faced. At Brown & Brown Absence Services Group, we know that it can be difficult for many of our claimants to find self-acceptance when faced with an illness or injury that could hinder their abilities and leave them out of work for months, years, or permanently. The (sometimes sudden) onset of a disability can leave one feeling hopeless, anxious, and vulnerable – all of which is compounded by the financial strain that may result from job loss.

Our team has the unique opportunity to help disabled individuals navigate a particularly emotional and challenging time in their lives as they apply for disability benefits in efforts to replace lost income and help keep their family’s future secure.  While we take great pride in our subject matter expertise, we know that this is not the only way we deliver value to our clients; they are also in need of compassion, understanding, and guidance as they learn to accept and adapt to their new diagnosis and look to build a bright future for themselves and their family.

We asked our teammates to share what advocating for disabled individuals means to them, and here were some of their responses:

“Being an advocate for those who have mental and/or physical disabilities provides me with the opportunity to be their voice, strength, and listening ears at a time when they need them most. Unfortunately, many of our clients report having been mistreated, judged, or disadvantaged due to their disability. As their advocate, I get to be their support system through all of this and help them tackle the challenges that they may struggle to face alone.” – Maria

“To me, advocating for those with disabilities means belonging to something bigger than myself. The work [Brown & Brown Absence] does with disabled individuals, and the value we can bring to their lives, means that each day at work is a new opportunity to help someone. That is something I value and is a huge reason why I’m proud to work here.” – Michael

According to America’s Disability Community, Disability Pride Month is a special time to honor each person’s uniqueness as “a natural and beautiful part of human diversity.” We are excited to take advantage of this opportunity to share what disability pride means to us and to celebrate the stories of people who have faced the challenges of disabilities head-on. Click here to read a recent USA Today article that features personal and inspirational stories from incredible people who are making a name for themselves and for disability pride nationwide.

Nothing in this post is intended as advice or a suggestion to elect or not elect to claim benefits of any kind, including Social Security benefits, nor is it intended as financial advice in any way.  The decision to claim benefits is a personal one that is contingent upon each individual’s unique circumstances.