Ali Rheaume is a speaker, author, artist, and accessibility specialist who is deeply passionate about supporting the disability and brain injury community. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Movement Science and a Master’s degree in Health, Physical Education, and Recreation. Ali is the owner of 199 Accessibility Consulting and her art business, Embracing Unique Art. She serves on the Brain Injury Council of Massachusetts, the Franklin Commission on Disability, and the NASHIA (National Association of State Head Injury Administrators) Education Committee. She is also the founder and facilitator of two community groups: a virtual support group called Life After Concussion and an in-person social hour for individuals with disabilities called Rise Up. Ali is a passionate advocate for inclusion, accessibility, and bringing people together to increase awareness and support for brain injury and disability. In this uplifting and insightful episode, host Bethany Lewis reconnects with previous guest Ali Rheaume (from Episode 46) to catch up on the developments in her life and work since they last spoke. Ali shares the heartfelt inspiration behind her new children's book, "Buddy the Brain," which she wrote and illustrated to help children understand brain injuries, helmet safety, and how to support loved ones who may be different after a brain injury. She also highlights the book's accessibility features, including large print, braille, ASL, audiobook, and e-book versions. The conversation then shifts to Ali's accessibility consulting business, where she offers a practical mini-masterclass on creating accessible digital content. She shares her top tips, including using left-aligned text, sans serif fonts, alt text, captions, and avoiding all caps or decorative fonts. Ali also shares about her advocacy work, the importance of digital compliance, and the power of community. She discusses her two support groups and offers profound, practical advice on navigating relationships and dating after a brain injury—emphasizing authenticity, setting boundaries, and taking small, celebratory steps forward. Finally, Ali leaves listeners with a powerful reminder: everyone's journey is unique, and progress happens one small step at a time. Whether you're a survivor, a caregiver, or a clinician, there is hope and a path forward. 📚 Resources Mentioned by Ali Rheaume1. "Buddy the Brain" Children's Book An educational, interactive book for children (K–2nd grade) that teaches about the brain, helmet safety, and brain injury in a kid-friendly way. Written and illustrated by Ali Rheaume, available on Amazon Accessible formats available: Large print, braille, ASL, audiobook with character descriptions, and e-book. Uses Ali's own accessible handwriting font on a clean white background for easy reading. Ali shared her top tips for making digital content more inclusive: Left-align text (not centered or justified) Use sans serif fonts (avoid script, decorative, or serif fonts) Avoid all caps and italics for long text Include alt text (image descriptions) for screen readers Add captions to videos (full sentences, not flashing single words) Place text on a solid background for better readability A monthly, growth-mindset support group for adults (18+) whose lives have been affected by concussion. When: Second Wednesday of each month, 2:00–3:30 PM Eastern Time. Where: Virtual (Zoom) Focus: Real, vulnerable conversation with a focus on moving forward, sharing tips, and mutual support—not just complaining. How to join: Sign up for emails via Ali's website to receive the Zoom link and monthly topic. https://alirheaume.com/ A monthly, free in-person social hour in Franklin, Massachusetts, for anyone navigating disability. Activities include casual conversation, guest speakers, games, and crafts (e.g., flower arranging). Open to all, including friends and family. All activities are adaptive and accessible.
