Our Greatest Strength Lies from Within
What is it that you want to change in your life? In your organization? Within your family? Within yourself?
Whether you are looking to make lasting professional changes or improve your quality of life through work life balance or simply find 30 minutes a day to take care of yourself – it all comes down to learning how to adapt to the unknown through consistently iterating your life or your organization through adapting to our circumstances and remaining committed to your purpose. Success involves learning to move from failure to failure without lack of enthusiasm with a purposeful plan, and the ability to navigate within complex situations.
We first have to master becoming your own self advocate and pushed beyond our limits to the power of persistence in overcoming adversity.
At the young age of 27, Ali’s life took an unexpected turn when a tragic diving accident left her a C6 quadriplegic, paralyzed from the chest down. While she grappled with feelings of hopelessness through battling 7 years in hospitals with multiple life altering diagnoses, she was convinced her life had reached its end. However, through her journey, a new self-discovery sparked within where she learned how to shift her thinking and navigate her physical limitations in a new light.
Rather than succumbing to despair, she found the courage to embrace her paralysis as a catalyst for transformation and uncovering unforeseen opportunities as a professional speaker, corporate disability consultant, and fierce disability advocate in her community. As her newfound purpose in empowering others to adapt to the unknown and advocating for inclusivity continued to grow, she would ultimately be crowned Ms. Wheelchair America.
Ali believes her powerfully authentic story serves as a testament to the power of resilience and the boundless potential that lies within each of us, regardless of the challenges we face. Through her own adversity, she not only has discovered strength but also a profound sense of purpose, driving her to inspire and uplift others on their own paths to Always Move Forward.
Until we embrace diversity of thought nothing is going to change.
Compassion is a fundamental quality that we must cultivate when considering the trials faced by individuals who move, sense, and think differently. One size does not fit all, and we need to learn how to adapt to increase inclusion with the ultimate goal of learning how to create a society with a sense of belonging for all people.
Through compassion, empathy, and understanding that we can truly understand the unique challenges so many of us encounter on a daily basis. Whether it be physical limitations, societal barriers, or the emotional toll of navigating a world that often overlooks our needs – it all begins with empathy. Empathy and kindness toward oneself and others.
By embracing the concept of belonging, we can foster a more inclusive society that values and respects the worth and dignity of every person, irrespective of their abilities.
By changing your mindset , you can break free of your comfort zone.
It is easy to remain within the confines of what is familiar and comfortable, but true growth and progress lie beyond those boundaries.
Transforming visible challenges into unlimited opportunities means questioning our preconceptions, biases, limitations, and actively seeking opportunities to extend a helping hand to under-represented in under-served communities.
It requires us to educate ourselves, engage in meaningful conversations, and actively listen to the voices of those affected. By embracing discomfort, we open ourselves up to new perspectives, experiences, and possibilities.
Let us be courageous and willing to learn, adapt, and unlearn outdated beliefs and attitudes. Together, we can create a more inclusive and supportive world where all individuals are empowered to thrive and contribute their unique gifts within our society
What People Are Saying About Ali…
“Ali Ingersoll is a force of nature—a true Renaissance woman. Ali brings an uncommon strength of character and sense of purpose to her disability advocacy—she is the kind of person who makes us all proud to be disability advocates.
She is tireless in her pursuit of justice, but in a way that brings the rest of the room with her: a true rock star. Ali is an electrifying speaker who can appeal to diverse audiences.
She’s a formidable strategist, and the future of movements for inclusion is bright with Ali involved. Most of all, she is deeply kind. I am proud to call her my colleague and friend.”
Vincenzo Piscopo, CEO for United Spinal National
“Ali Ingersoll is a force of nature—a true Renaissance woman. Ali brings an uncommon strength of character and sense of purpose to her disability advocacy—she is the kind of person who makes us all proud to be disability advocates.
She is tireless in her pursuit of justice, but in a way that brings the rest of the room with her: a true rock star. Ali is an electrifying speaker who can appeal to diverse audiences.
She’s a formidable strategist, and the future of movements for inclusion is bright with Ali involved. Most of all, she is deeply kind. I am proud to call her my colleague and friend.”
Vincenzo Piscopo, CEO for United Spinal National
“I have known Ali for over five years and continue to be amazed at the qualities she exhibits in every facet of her life. Ali is intelligent, articulate, very well liked, persuasive, well-educated and is a good listener. She has always exhibited great leadership skills and has demonstrated how to bring people together to achieve a common goal. She has not let her spinal cord injury limit her desire to improve the quality of life of others who may have limitations as well.
In fact, she has immersed herself in numerous local, statewide and national organizations to relentlessly work through the complicated landscape of insurance challenges, government bureaucracy while educating our representatives who vote on critical legislation and all the while maintaining her poise and calm demeanor.
Ali has helped so many in positions of influence to better understand the needs of people with disabilities and has earned a reputation of someone who succeeds despite overwhelming odds.
Ali won Ms. Wheelchair NC and later won Ms. Wheelchair America where she uses that platform to advocate for all women in particular those with disabilities. Ali Ingersoll is an asset to any organization or group whose interest is improving the quality of life of other citizens.”
Jerry Stalls, Owner of Stalls Medical & Adaptive Vans
“I have known Ali for over five years and continue to be amazed at the qualities she exhibits in every facet of her life. Ali is intelligent, articulate, very well liked, persuasive, well-educated and is a good listener. She has always exhibited great leadership skills and has demonstrated how to bring people together to achieve a common goal. She has not let her spinal cord injury limit her desire to improve the quality of life of others who may have limitations as well.
In fact, she has immersed herself in numerous local, statewide and national organizations to relentlessly work through the complicated landscape of insurance challenges, government bureaucracy while educating our representatives who vote on critical legislation and all the while maintaining her poise and calm demeanor.
Ali has helped so many in positions of influence to better understand the needs of people with disabilities and has earned a reputation of someone who succeeds despite overwhelming odds.
Ali won Ms. Wheelchair NC and later won Ms. Wheelchair America where she uses that platform to advocate for all women in particular those with disabilities. Ali Ingersoll is an asset to any organization or group whose interest is improving the quality of life of other citizens.”
Jerry Stalls, Owner of Stalls Medical & Adaptive Vans
“Brilliant, bold, and courageous: these are the words I associate with my friend Ali. Her understanding of healthcare disparities for the disabled community, accompanied by deep expertise in leveraging data to drive outcomes serve as a bedrock for her advocacy.
But most of all, Ali’s gift for storytelling, connecting the facts to the heart and building bridges of empathy means that by the time you finish listening to her, there will only be one question left. When do we start?
If you want to spark change, Ali’s message, words, and presence will be your fuel.”
Mary Fernandez, Lead Disability Inclusion Consultant for Cisco Systems
“Brilliant, bold, and courageous: these are the words I associate with my friend Ali. Her understanding of healthcare disparities for the disabled community, accompanied by deep expertise in leveraging data to drive outcomes serve as a bedrock for her advocacy.
But most of all, Ali’s gift for storytelling, connecting the facts to the heart and building bridges of empathy means that by the time you finish listening to her, there will only be one question left. When do we start?
If you want to spark change, Ali’s message, words, and presence will be your fuel.”
Mary Fernandez, Lead Disability Inclusion Consultant for Cisco Systems
“Ali Ingersoll absolutely brought the house down as our keynote speaker for Permobil Foundation’s, Roll the Dice Casino Night. Her unique blend of humor, personal anecdotes, and genuine passion created a speech that was as inspiring as it was entertaining. Ali has an incredible gift for public speaking and the ability to engage an audience from start to finish. We were absolutely honored to have her as our speaker for a truly inspirational event.”
Ashley Davis, Executive Director Permobil Foundation
“Ali Ingersoll absolutely brought the house down as our keynote speaker for Permobil Foundation’s, Roll the Dice Casino Night. Her unique blend of humor, personal anecdotes, and genuine passion created a speech that was as inspiring as it was entertaining. Ali has an incredible gift for public speaking and the ability to engage an audience from start to finish. We were absolutely honored to have her as our speaker for a truly inspirational event.”
Ashley Davis, Executive Director Permobil Foundation
“Ali Ingersoll is a dynamic advocate for people with disabilities. Her life experiences make her the perfect consultant to life planning for people with disabilities and those who love and support them.”
Vicki Smith, Executive Director for Alliance of Disability Advocates
“Ali Ingersoll is a dynamic advocate for people with disabilities. Her life experiences make her the perfect consultant to life planning for people with disabilities and those who love and support them.”
Vicki Smith, Executive Director for Alliance of Disability Advocates
“Ali brings a powerful story and inspirational message when she speaks. She spoke at our Annual MedTech Conference in Anaheim California with over 4000 attendees to Becton Dickinson (CEO) Tom Polen for a fireside chat on health equity access. Comments and feedback were overwhelmingly and enthusiastically positive. She quite frankly was the highlight of our conference day. Thank you for sharing your personal journey and conveying it in a way that uplifted, educated, and motivated. I hope many others will have the chance to meet and be touched by you.”
Ray Briscuso, Executive VP, Conference & Events Advamed / Advanced Medical Technology Association
“Ali brings a powerful story and inspirational message when she speaks. She spoke at our Annual MedTech Conference in Anaheim California with over 4000 attendees to Becton Dickinson (CEO) Tom Polen for a fireside chat on health equity access. Comments and feedback were overwhelmingly and enthusiastically positive. She quite frankly was the highlight of our conference day. Thank you for sharing your personal journey and conveying it in a way that uplifted, educated, and motivated. I hope many others will have the chance to meet and be touched by you.”
Ray Briscuso, Executive VP, Conference & Events Advamed / Advanced Medical Technology Association
“”When Ali takes the stage people listen and find themselves living more actively and with a newfound purpose. Her story and voice pull you in, wishing to learn more, and simultaneously she transfers her perspective and energy into audience action. It’s both magical and empowering to witness how she catalyzes an audience to find their voice.”
Josh Basile | Trial Attorney at Jack H. Olander & Associates | Community Relations Manager at Accessible | United Spinal Association Board member
“”When Ali takes the stage people listen and find themselves living more actively and with a newfound purpose. Her story and voice pull you in, wishing to learn more, and simultaneously she transfers her perspective and energy into audience action. It’s both magical and empowering to witness how she catalyzes an audience to find their voice.”
Josh Basile | Trial Attorney at Jack H. Olander & Associates | Community Relations Manager at Accessible | United Spinal Association Board member
“Ali Ingersoll is a passionate disability rights advocate whom I have had the pleasure of working with for several years. Ali possesses the drive and passion that can light up a room. She infuses her intelligent analysis of situations with energy and humor. Having Ali as a friend and fellow advocate brings me great joy and I hope you get the opportunity to hear her speak!”
Karen Roy, LCSW | Disability Advocate | Numotion Brand Ambassador | Ms. Wheelchair America 2019
“Ali Ingersoll is a passionate disability rights advocate whom I have had the pleasure of working with for several years. Ali possesses the drive and passion that can light up a room. She infuses her intelligent analysis of situations with energy and humor. Having Ali as a friend and fellow advocate brings me great joy and I hope you get the opportunity to hear her speak!”
Karen Roy, LCSW | Disability Advocate | Numotion Brand Ambassador | Ms. Wheelchair America 2019
“Ali provides a powerful and eye-opening message about successfully navigating both providers and payers in the submission of insurance claims for disability services. Honesty, persistence, and perseverance are her trademarks as she creates a pathway for obtaining fairness of coverage for individuals with disabilities. A must-have speaker!”
Kenneth W. Vance, President 2022-2023, NC Chapter of Health Financial Management Association
“Ali provides a powerful and eye-opening message about successfully navigating both providers and payers in the submission of insurance claims for disability services. Honesty, persistence, and perseverance are her trademarks as she creates a pathway for obtaining fairness of coverage for individuals with disabilities. A must-have speaker!”
Kenneth W. Vance, President 2022-2023, NC Chapter of Health Financial Management Association
“Working and collaborating with Ali has been a pleasure. She is always well-prepared, extremely knowledgeable, and a highly influential advocate for the disability community. I highly recommend Ali to speak to your group about some of the most difficult issues that many of us in the disability community have to navigate.”
Annie Streit, Grassroots Advocacy Manager, United Spinal
“Working and collaborating with Ali has been a pleasure. She is always well-prepared, extremely knowledgeable, and a highly influential advocate for the disability community. I highly recommend Ali to speak to your group about some of the most difficult issues that many of us in the disability community have to navigate.”
Annie Streit, Grassroots Advocacy Manager, United Spinal
“I’ve had an opportunity to work with Ali on several advocacy projects over the past three years. The focus of our work has been on Health and Wellness initiatives for the Spinal Cord Injured community and overall inclusion for the disability community. Ali is creative and incredibly organized. She’s very thorough in her research and well-prepared for her projects. Ali’s candor and willingness to share her personal realities as a woman with a disability has helped open the line of communication among her peers.
It’s been a pleasure to work with Ali and I look forward to future projects together.”
Debbie Myers, Executive Director of North Carolina Spinal Cord Injury Association
“I’ve had an opportunity to work with Ali on several advocacy projects over the past three years. The focus of our work has been on Health and Wellness initiatives for the Spinal Cord Injured community and overall inclusion for the disability community. Ali is creative and incredibly organized. She’s very thorough in her research and well-prepared for her projects. Ali’s candor and willingness to share her personal realities as a woman with a disability has helped open the line of communication among her peers.
It’s been a pleasure to work with Ali and I look forward to future projects together.”
Debbie Myers, Executive Director of North Carolina Spinal Cord Injury Association
“I have listened to Ali speak in front of Congress, and in front of crowds, and she is simply a motivator that has brushed off her difficulties and got back in the game. Ali has visible challenges but works harder than others to overcome her challenges. She can teach you what it takes to motivate yourself and others.
It is not always easy to communicate. I find it is one of the most difficult items I have worked to master and to watch Ali, who has overcome obstacles and challenges, motivate herself, and have the passion to push past any pain and difficulty to make a difference, is impressive.
You will find only a few people in life who must overcome great challenges and become someone that you can respect a great deal. Ali has a great deal of intelligence as well as a high level of wisdom and knowledge and that is why I have looked forward to speaking to Ali and listening to her pass motivational info on each time I hear her speak.
In conclusion, Ali is a high-quality, high-performance person, who each day motivates herself and others around her to be their best.”
Greg A Packer, President of US Rehab
“I have listened to Ali speak in front of Congress, and in front of crowds, and she is simply a motivator that has brushed off her difficulties and got back in the game. Ali has visible challenges but works harder than others to overcome her challenges. She can teach you what it takes to motivate yourself and others.
It is not always easy to communicate. I find it is one of the most difficult items I have worked to master and to watch Ali, who has overcome obstacles and challenges, motivate herself, and have the passion to push past any pain and difficulty to make a difference, is impressive.
You will find only a few people in life who must overcome great challenges and become someone that you can respect a great deal. Ali has a great deal of intelligence as well as a high level of wisdom and knowledge and that is why I have looked forward to speaking to Ali and listening to her pass motivational info on each time I hear her speak.
In conclusion, Ali is a high-quality, high-performance person, who each day motivates herself and others around her to be their best.”
Greg A Packer, President of US Rehab
