Texas

In October, AgrAbility visited Robertson County to conduct an informal farm assessment for a local rancher who has been farming for nearly 20 years following a life-altering ATV accident that left him paralyzed from the waist down. Despite the physical challenges, his passion for agriculture remains strong, with cattle and hay as his primary enterprises.

One of his biggest hurdles is transferring from his wheelchair to his tractor and truck - an essential part of daily operations. AgrAbility is working closely with him to explore assistive technologies and modifications that will allow him to continue doing what he loves for decades to come.

This partnership reflects AgrAbility s mission: to ensure that disability doesn't mean the end of a farming career, but rather the beginning of new possibilities.

Texas AgrAbility recently participated in the Living Well Employee Wellness event where they staffed an informational table to raise awareness about injury prevention in agriculture. The team showcased a variety of ergonomic tools designed to promote safer work practices and reduce the risk of strain and injury for agricultural workers as well as for weekend gardeners.

In addition to highlighting safety solutions, AgrAbility introduced its statewide program that supports farmers and ranchers with disabilities. Their mission is to ensure that individuals facing physical challenges can continue to thrive in agriculture through adaptive equipment, technical assistance, and personalized support.

By connecting with attendees, Texas AgrAbility reinforced the importance of inclusive and safe farming practices and reminded everyone that disability doesn't have to mean the end of a farming career.

AgrAbility recently hosted an introductory session for occupational therapy students at the University of St. Augustine, offering insights into how the program supports farmers and ranchers with disabilities. As these students prepare for their capstone projects, the presentation highlighted the vital role occupational therapists can play in agricultural accessibility and rehabilitation.

The session sparked strong interest, with one student potentially pursuing an internship with AgrAbility in the near future. This collaboration marks an exciting step toward integrating clinical expertise with real-world agricultural challenges ensuring that future practitioners are equipped to help clients maintain independence and productivity in rural settings.

Submitted by Cindy Kovar