For quite some time I had a desire to travel, to learn about other cultures and disability rights, and to learn how to help myself and others with disabilities.

Most of all, I had the desire to learn more about myself and my capabilities. I did not think that all of these things could be accomplished in my life until I received information from Mobility International USA (MIUSA) about the exchange opportunities for persons with disabilities.

To apply to be a delegate for the Mexico Leadership, Minority and Disability Rights Exchange sponsored by MIUSA, I completed the application and then was given a telephone interview. After a few weeks, I received a letter saying that I was selected to participate in the exchange. That is where my journey began.

I left home for Los Angeles, California where I met the other delegates. I was nervous and full of excitement at the same time, but my nervousness was soon laid to rest as I met the others I would become so close with over the next three weeks. After everyone had arrived, we had our first discussion about what to expect, the program schedule and the rules and procedures. The next morning we left for the airport and we were soon on our way.

Upon arriving in San Luis Potosi, Mexico, I received my first glimpse into what this experience would come to mean to me by meeting a few of the people who would soon touch my life forever. A welcoming party greeted us in the hotel and we met many of the Mexicans involved in hosting our group that night. From the beginning, communicating with them was creative, fun and entertaining.

Next, I met my host family and I found them to be some of the most loving people I have ever met. I immediately felt like a part of the family and was treated as such. There were many instances during the trip that I felt eyes and hearts were opened by those around me.

During our daily activities, I was always excited to share my experiences with others so that we might learn from each other. Sharing our experiences gave me the opportunity to see things from a different perspective. When the time came to leave this place I knew I had grown to love these people who had touched my life so deeply. There were many tears from everyone.

My comfort was in the fact that my journey was not over. I was on my way to city of Tepic in the state of Nayarit where there was more to learn, different people to meet, and more experiences to share. We arrived as before, spending the night in a hotel before meeting our host families. My new family was wonderful and caring and again I was instantly treated as if I was always a part of the family.

In Tepic, our program activities were very diverse. We met with other delegates, spoke with Mexican governmental officials, and built a ramp into a local rehabilitation center. We even participated in a climbing challenge course. Our time in Tepic passed quickly but I came away with a lifetime worth of experiences and knowledge I will carry with me always.

The hardest part of the journey was saying goodbye to those with whom we had grown so close to and shared so much. I thank Mobility International USA and I recommend this experience to everyone.