Episode #131: Open Book with Ms. Wheelchair America 2025 Tamara Blackwell

In this episode of Open Book, we hear from Tamara Blackwell, Ms. Wheelchair America 2025. Tamara is a dedicated advocate, passionate about accessibility and inclusivity. Born visually impaired in Kansas City, Missouri, Tamara moved to Wichita, Kansas at 11. For over a decade, she tirelessly advocated for herself, ultimately leading to her diagnosis of limb-girdle muscular dystrophy. This journey has profoundly shaped her mission to ensure that every space and opportunity is accessible to all.

As Ms. Wheelchair America 2025, Tamara is taking her advocacy to the national stage, continuing her work to dismantle barriers and promote a culture of inclusivity. Her story is one of triumph over adversity, and she remains dedicated to ensuring that no one else has to ask themselves, “Am I going to fit?”

To learn more about Tamara and Ms. Wheelchair America, please visit the following links:

Instagram: @ya_girl_tam
Website: https://www.mswheelchairamerica.org