Insights by Ira: Let’s Get Active This Summer!

It’s the most wonderful time of the year! The holiday’s season already? No! Summertime! That’s right! The time of year when the days are long and hot, the nights are warm and filled with fireflies, and the atmosphere is prime for active living. And for those in the neuromuscular disease community, summertime is the perfect time to be physically lively and involved.   Looking back in time during my adolescence, summertime always meant MDA Summer Camp and the annual family vacation, which would commonly be in a tropical environment. As an adult, I’ve taken what I’ve learned in those formative years and put it into practice.  For my 2^nd article in 2025, I want to share with you all of my thoughts, suggestions, and advice on how to get active in the summertime sunshine.

Engage in the great outdoors and foster social connections

Ira at a baseball game

One effective method to transition from winter to summer is by engaging in physical activity in your local area. During my time living in St. Louis, I found that visiting the park to ride along the paved paths was particularly enjoyable when the snow melted and the flowers began to bloom. These solo excursions allowed me to absorb the sun’s energy and rejuvenate both physically and mentally. As an extrovert, these outings also provided an excellent opportunity to interact with others, whether by exchanging greetings with fellow park-goers or engaging in friendly conversations with new acquaintances. Utilizing local parks and their paved paths is a highly beneficial and cost-effective way to embrace an active lifestyle during the summer months.

Engage in active travel and explore new destinations

Ira exploring his community

Living in 2025 offers numerous advantages for the neuromuscular disease community, particularly in terms of travel. Whether by airplane, train, bus, or accessible vehicle, traveling has become considerably more comfortable, convenient, and accessible. Being active in the summer is best achieved through exploration. There are many magnificent sights and sounds to experience within our country or abroad. Having enjoyed numerous trips and vacations, both domestically and internationally, I can assure you that with thorough research, consultation with fellow members of the neuromuscular disease community who have traveled, and a spirit of adventure, you too can find ways to be active this summer.

Here are some of my favorite travel destination suggestions:

• Washington D.C.: The nation’s capital is an excellent summer destination, offering numerous accessible and accommodating options for people with disabilities. If you have not yet visited Washington D.C., I highly recommend it. The city boasts many accessible (and free!) museums, smooth paved pathways, and a superior public transit system that makes navigating the area effortless.
• Denver, Colorado: For those who prefer mountain landscapes, Denver is a must-visit. Recognized by various travel magazines as one of the most accessible cities in the country, Denver features an eclectic and lively scene set against the backdrop of the Rocky Mountains.
• Southeast Florida: This region offers accessible beaches and boardwalks, a variety of shopping options, exceptional cuisine, and beautiful palm trees. Southeast Florida provides numerous ways for individuals with disabilities to enjoy fun in the sun during the summer.

These destinations offer unique opportunities for people with disabilities to enjoy travel and leisure activities. Conducting proper research and consulting with experienced travelers can help ensure a delightful and memorable experience.

Engage in activities that involve contributing to the community and volunteering

Ira in Washington, D.C.

I firmly believe that the greatest joy one can experience in life is derived from extending peace and happiness to others. One practical way to embody this philosophy is through volunteering. Summer is an excellent time to find meaningful and productive opportunities to contribute to your community. You can engage in outdoor community gatherings and activities or participate in missions or causes that align with your interests. Being active while contributing to a worthy cause is an honorable way to be part of society during the summer.

If you require suggestions on finding a suitable avenue for involvement, I advise conducting an online search for volunteer activities in your vicinity. Contact those that appeal to you the most. By explaining your unique situation and your aspiration to add value to their initiative, you will undoubtedly find an excellent means of participation. Additionally, consider engaging in the Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA) events and initiatives, which occur throughout the year, especially those outdoor activities during the summer. Actively participating in the improvement of our community and society, alongside good people, is a commendable way to stay engaged.

As I conclude and prepare my sunscreen for the glowing sunshine, I want to further encourage you to spend generous amounts of time this summer enjoying the fresh air of the great outdoors, get in the spirit of socializing and meeting new friends, grasp that adventurous spirit within, see the magical destinations of our land, and find ways to be create value added impact by serving and giving back.  As your MDA National Ambassador, I join with you in these aspects to have a wonderful and active summer season!   Cheers!