As a C4–5 quadriplegic paralyzed below my shoulders, technology isn’t a luxury—it’s independence. Every switch, command, and adaptive tool I use each day helps me live, work, parent, and connect on my terms. Over the years, I’ve built a home environment where I can control nearly everything—from my bed height to my front door—through my voice, computer, or phone. Now I’m excited to share a list of accessibility solutions that have changed my life. They’re great examples of how accessible design and innovation can empower people of all abilities.
Accessibility meets the holidays
With the holidays approaching, I’ve been reflecting on how accessibility doesn’t just make life easier for people with disabilities—it makes life easier for everyone. Accessibility means being able to access businesses, nonprofit services, and digital experiences, and as Community Relations Manager at accessiBe, I’ve seen firsthand how accessibility opens doors—online and off.
For nonprofits, accessibility means ensuring that fundraising campaigns and services reach everyone. I shared my top tips for running a high-impact fundraising campaign. For businesses, it’s about creating seamless, inclusive experiences that turn customers into lifelong supporters.
You can learn more about how eCommerce businesses can benefit from accessibility on accessiBe’s industry research of 300+ eCommerce leaders.
As we enter the biggest online shopping season of the year, with Black Friday and Cyber Monday driving millions of purchases, web accessibility matters more than ever, especially for the eCommerce and retail sectors.
Accessibility should guide every purchase, year-round
For many people with disabilities, shopping online isn’t just convenient—it’s essential. I rely on assistive technology to browse websites, compare products, and complete purchases. Using voice dictation, a mouth‑controlled mouse cursor, a screen reader, and an on‑screen keyboard, I navigate tabs, links, and forms—without using my arms or hands.
When drop‑downs aren’t accessible, buttons are unlabeled, or checkout forms can’t be completed with a keyboard, a simple transaction becomes impossible. That’s why accessible e‑commerce matters.
When product pages have clear descriptions, forms are labeled correctly, and websites are screen‑reader friendly, everyone benefits. According to accessiBe’s AI Chat Search Report, the same structure that makes websites accessible for assistive technologies also improves visibility in AI-powered search. In other words, the rules that make websites inclusive are the same ones that make it discoverable.
Whether you’re a business leader, a donor, or a family member choosing the perfect gift, accessibility is what makes participation possible. If you’re a business owner preparing for holiday sales, now is the time to test and improve accessibility to make every shopper feel welcome.
The technologies that empower my independence
Below are devices that have had the biggest impact on my independence, organized by price to help you find the perfect accessible gift or upgrade this season.
Stocking Stuffers (Under $50)
SwitchBot Smart Switch Button Pusher
Small, wireless button pushers that I attach to elevator controls, my wheelchair lift, and my computer power button. With a simple voice command—“Alexa, press basement elevator button”—a SwitchBot takes care of it.
Smart Wall Plugs (Kasa/TP Link)
I use these everywhere: lamps, fans, and heaters. Once a device is plugged in, I can turn it on or off with my phone or voice. They create simple on/off circuits that give full control without touching a switch.
TP Link Kasa Smart Light Switches
These switches connect to my Wi Fi and let me control any light in my house—individually or by group. Through the TP Link app or with Alexa, I can turn off every light on a floor with one command.
Amazon Echo Devices
Echo Dots and Echo Shows tie everything together. They control lights, thermostats, music, and connect with most third party accessibility products.
Manfrotto Super Clamp & Adaptive Mounting Arms
Accessibility often requires customization. With articulating arms and gooseneck mounts secured by a Manfrotto Super Clamp, I position my QuadStick, phone, tablet, or water cup exactly where I need them—durable, adaptable, and (with the right parts) doable on a stocking stuffer budget.
SwitchBot Smart Water Leak Detector
Whenever there’s a water leak, I get an instant phone notification. I place these under sinks, near the water heater, and by laundry units for peace of mind.
Everyday game-changers (Under $200)
Google Nest Smart Thermostat
Comfort at my command. I adjust temperature by voice or app—no reaching required.
Blink Doorbell & Security Cameras
Instant notifications, cloud recordings, and live views help me see who’s at the door from anywhere.
Amazon Fire TV Cube
My entertainment hub. I can turn the TV on/off, open apps, control volume, and launch streaming services—hands free.
Independence essentials ($200 and Up)
Smart Blinds & Shades (3 Day Blinds)
Few things compare to starting the morning by opening my bedroom blinds with just my voice.
Schlage Encode Smart Wi Fi Deadbolt Lock
I assign custom codes for regular caregivers, short term access for visitors, and get notifications when someone enters or exits. Independence with security built in.
QuadStick
A sip and puff adaptive controller that lets me move my cursor, type, and play games with precision.
Augmental MouthPad
A head‑ and tongue‑controlled “invisible trackpad” I wear like a retainer. I use it to play iPhone games with my kids, flip pages while reading stories, and quietly control my phone in loud or no‑speech settings. It gives me precise control without using my voice—like having an eleventh finger.
Expanding digital access
All of these tools work together to create what I call my ecosystem of accessibility. The same principles that make assistive technology transformative also apply to the digital world. Whether it’s through Alexa, accessWidget, my computer, or my phone, a truly inclusive shopping experience starts long before checkout—it begins with an accessible website - when I can control my environment with minimal effort and maximum independence.
accessiBe’s one-stop-shop platform helps businesses make their websites accessible to more people — faster and smarter.
- accessScan identifies accessibility issues instantly
- accessWidget improves usability for all visitors
- accessFlow empowers developers to integrate accessibility at the source code
Accessibility is the best gift
Accessibility changes lives—it certainly changed mine. I encourage businesses to think beyond sales: make your websites accessible, design your products with inclusion in mind, and for shoppers, consider giving gifts that empower independence. Because accessibility isn’t just for people with disabilities—it’s the best design for everyone.
