Id gone in for a spinal tap the day before it took the resident 12 tries.

By age 7, I didnt believe in magic and knew fairy godmothers didnt exist.

I asked for atrip to Disney World, a computer, or a meet-and-greet with the Backstreet Boys.

Author, Ashley Couto

Credit:Courtesy of Ashley Couto

But not at Disney.

I was a VIP at Disney World the second I sat in my rented wheelchair.

I was a VIP at Disney World the second I sat in my rented wheelchair.

Author, Ashley Couto, seen at Disney World in the 90s

Courtesy of Ashley Couto

My favorite human experience is looking at the clouds below me in a window seat.

I do everything I can to be in that scenario regularly.

I dont like beaches.

Author, Ashley Couto, seen at Disney World in the 90s with her family

Courtesy of Ashley Couto

I use the same letter no matter where I am in the world.

At the Louvre, disabled visitors get an as-close-to-unobstructed view of the Mona Lisa as possible.

You dont go into the constantly stuffed queue but rather drive or walk up.

Author, Ashley Couto, seen at Disney World in the 90s with Mickey Mouse

Courtesy of Ashley Couto

Youre let into the disability area several feet in front of the usual line by a guard.

Its just you and the Mona Lisa, and theres no pressure to rush your visit.

Having a disability is impossibly hard.

Author, Ashley Couto

Courtesy of Ashley Couto

Mona Lisa at the Lourve

Courtesy of Ashley Couto