Jessica Denise Grono: Author, speaker, educator, and advocate
Helping people see disability through the lens of hope, faith, accessibility, and purpose.
My story: A journey of resilience and advocacy
My life has been a tapestry woven with diverse experiences, from living with athetoid mixed cerebral palsy to teaching, motherhood, and faith, all culminating in breast cancer survivorship and disability advocacy. Each thread has shaped my perspective and deepened my commitment to serving others.
i might use a motorized wheelchair and move a bit differently, but I don’t allow anything to stop me from having a joyful successful life. I’m a mother, teacher and writer who enjoys sharing my experiences with others. My goal is to help others be the best version of themselves despite any obstacles in their way.
Accomplishments
- Former Ms. Wheelchair Pennsylvania
- Public Speaker since 1994
- Bachelors of Science in Education
- Dancer
- National pageant finalist
- Special education teacher/substitute teacher for 7 years
- Wheelchair Hockey Goalie
- Disability advocate
- Author of Where Is the Ramp? - hopefully out soon
- Breast cancer survivor
- Mother / Wife
- 16 Years Teaching Faith Formation
- Speaker with lived experience
My mission: Empowering through education and inclusion
Through my work as an author, speaker, and educator, I strive to foster understanding, promote inclusion, and advocate for accessibility. My goal is to empower all people in communities to embrace access and create a better world for everyone.
Featured works
Blog is updated on a weekly basis regarding issues that pertain to disabilities, education, and life overall.
Find more information about being a parent with cerebral palsy on my Cerebral Palsy Mommy site.
Coming soon: Explore my published memoir, Where Is The Ramp? and upcoming literary projects.
Speaking Topics
This is a sample of speaking topics, but I’m open to more specific topics.
Faith Through Life’s Challenges
Finding hope when life doesn’t go according to plan.
Living with Cerebral Palsy
Breaking stereotypes and discovering ability over disability.
Accessibility & Inclusion
Creating communities where everyone belongs.
Teaching with Heart
Lessons from years in the classroom that inspire students and educators.
Breast Cancer Survivor
Choosing courage over fear.
Purpose Beyond Limitations
How obstacles can become opportunities.
Speaking Events
- Schools
- School districts
- Churches
- Women’s groups
- Disability organizations
- Conferences
- Teacher in-service programs
- Community organizations
- Rotary clubs
Blog
Blog- features personal stories, tips, and encouragement. You can also request speaking topics based on my blog.
My books: Sharing my story, inspiring change
My memoir, Where Is the Ramp?, invites readers into my world, offering a candid look at my experiences and insights. It's a testament to resilience, advocacy, and the power of the human spirit. I'm actively working on having my book published.
"Jessica's blog offers a comforting blend of personal reflection and profound wisdom. A must-read for anyone seeking encouragement."
— Community advocate
"Jessica's blog offers a comforting blend of personal reflection and profound wisdom. A must-read for anyone seeking encouragement."
— School principal
"Jessica's blog offers a comforting blend of personal reflection and profound wisdom. A must-read for anyone seeking encouragement."
— Dedicated reader