In recognition of Muscular Dystrophy Awareness Month in September, the Muscular Dystrophy Awareness Month campaign features a series of stories highlighting the real-life experiences of people affected by muscular dystrophy, written in their own words. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, or X for more stories like this, using the hashtag #MDAwarenessMonth, or read the full series.
My name is Jake Levin. I am 23 years old, and I live with Duchenne muscular dystrophy. I graduated from college in May 2025 with a major in journalism and a minor in sports media.
Levin, who has a degree in journalism, is seeking employment in sports media.
Life after college is especially difficult with high unemployment rates and very few jobs available for disabled adults. When I apply for jobs, I disclose that I have a disability. Although it is not necessary to disclose this information in my home state of Colorado, I think it is important to be honest and open about my limitations — and my skills.
I also use the Department of Vocational Rehabilitation (DVR) through Colorado’s workforce program. Every state has a DVR, and mine paid for part of my college education! When I find work, the staff will help me develop a list of reasonable accommodations to share with my employer. Federal law under the Americans with Disabilities Act mandates that steps be taken to modify the work environment for me. This helps me to apply to a wider range of employment opportunities.
Even with these things in place, I have faced discrimination. I recently attended an in-person interview, and upon seeing my power wheelchair, the interviewer abruptly ended it. I will not be deterred, as this job is only one of many available.
As I move forward, I am questioning my skills, my intelligence, and my capabilities. I am frustrated, but I also know that my determination, as well as my schooling, gives me an advantage. I can and will show perseverance daily.
I have been looking for a full-time job for a little longer than a year now, and I have a clear message to employers out there, as well as other adults living with muscular dystrophy: Disabled people can work; we want to work, and we look forward to a future in which adults using wheelchairs are not the exception to corporate hiring practices, but instead are simply part of our society’s workforce.
I am looking to be a writer for a sports team or a sports publication. Writing is my passion, and I hope to someday do it for a living.
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