Abilene Man Raising Wheelchair Accessibility Awareness

It's just another day in the office, but once Casey Hertel leaves those four walls, he never knows what obstacles he may face.

"I realized that we need buildings that are all wheelchair accessible, and not just the few that are," says Hertel.

He can tell you better than anyone this is an obstacle for individuals with disabilities.

"I did try to get into ACU and I noticed they had a few things that weren't accessible," he continues.

That is not the only place Hertel had some trouble. He says other establishments include a number of local restaurants that have restrooms that are hard to maneuver around in.

When Hertel decided to speak up and do something about it, his story attracted someone that could help, a local organization called "Not Without Us".

"Part of what we do here at the center is provide avenues for people in the community who have disabilities to come and talk to us about the issues that they have in regard to accessibility," says Leah Beltran.

In addition to organizations like Not Without Us, the city of Abilene is also doing their part.

David Sartor, the Building Official for the City of Abilene, says, "It's an ongoing thing. As permits are applied for, for alterations, or additions, then that's when we would look at it to make sure it complies with TAS (Texas Accessibility Standards)."

Although the fight for change is an ongoing one, Hertel and Beltran both know a change will come, in due time.

Beltran says, "The more awareness there is about the issues, that concern people with disabilities, the better the situation will be."

"It'll take some time, but I think eventually it'll work out," says Hertel.