March is Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month, a time to raise awareness, promote inclusion, and celebrate the contributions of people with developmental disabilities. In recognition of the month, Blue Yonder associate Kurt Kneeshaw shares how raising his son Jonah profoundly shaped his understanding of advocacy, inclusion, and the importance of seeing people beyond labels—encouraging us all to connect with others openly and without hesitation.
The Merriam‑Webster dictionary defines awareness as “knowledge and understanding that something is happening or exists.” For a long time, my awareness was limited to that definition. I often felt unsure of myself when interacting with people with disabilities—not from a lack of respect, but from uncertainty about how to engage meaningfully or start a conversation. That perspective began to change in ways I never expected when I met my wife, who at the time was working as a special education teacher, and whose work and compassion opened my eyes to a deeper understanding of connection and inclusion.
When we were dating, I spent time in her classroom, even attending field trips. That experience helped me realize that I had been the one missing out on opportunities to truly get to know people with disabilities. Each person is just as remarkable and individual as anyone else. I quickly learned the importance of approaching every person as a unique individual. Even when communication looks different, everyone brings their own stories, interests, and strengths—especially when you take the time to listen and connect. Little did I know that the future would lead to me being more active with the disability community than I had ever imagined.
On January 24, 2011, our family welcomed home an 18-month-old boy, Jonah, who had a list of various diagnoses which meant a lifetime of support and care. As we have navigated the doctor’s appointments, therapies, and school meetings, I have learned to advocate and be a voice for those who may not be able to express themselves in a way the rest of the world can understand. What a change in my life, one I am so thankful for because I get to be a dad to an amazing, resilient, curious, and funny young man.
While awareness of disability has grown, stigma still exists and can sometimes create barriers to connection. It’s understandable that uncertainty can play a role, but my hope is that more people will choose curiosity and openness—taking the time to connect with people with disabilities as individuals. At the core, everyone wants to be understood, included, and valued.
Jonah is in 11th grade now. He attends the local public high school (Ramona High School, go Bulldogs!) with an amazing program and dedicated teachers. He has friends in his class as well as peers who attend general education classes. We live in a small town which allows him to see all his friends from school in the community. Many of the kids recognize him and talk to him like any other friend. It is encouraging as a parent to see other students talking to Jonah without prompting or hesitation.
Imagine what our society would be like if we engaged with people without prompting or hesitation. What if we looked beyond someone’s disability, race, gender, political preference, socio-economic situation, or age to connect with them as a person. For me, it’s important to see the person for who they truly are, rather than focusing on their outward appearance or behavior.
Let’s challenge ourselves to truly connect with the people we encounter, taking the time to acknowledge and understand them.
