Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, known as the birthplace of American democracy, is a city that’s rich in history, culture, and lively urban life. Philadelphia is like a second home to me.  I’ve been going to Philadelphia (aka – Philly) since I was a little kid.  My parents would take my brother and I to Philly on Black Friday to visit Santa and Santa’s Village at Gimbels, a well-known department store and staple in Philly for decades.  Little did we know that our parents were just distracting us while they did their Christmas shopping while we were in the Village! Years later, I spent 7 months in Thomas Jefferson Hospital and then Magee Rehab after I broke my neck and became paralyzed at the age of 18.  I also worked as a corporate executive at two major companies in Philadelphia for more than 15 years – driving from my home in Delaware each day. 

All to say, Philly is close to my heart in many ways.  I’ve experienced firsthand the progress Philly has made to become more accessible over the years.