Disability Pride Month: Amber Joy

This interview was completed and then written by DSAmd volunteer, Lisa Ungar

Amber Joy is an active woman who loves to give back.

She works at YogaMouth Studio, an organization that hosts classes and pushes into schools to teach yoga, exercise, mindfulness and games. Among other things, Amber Joy helps the students feel comfortable participating in the activities.  The Down Syndrome Association of Maryland introduced Amber Joy to YogaMouth!

In addition, she works on a farm, planting and harvesting crops, weeding and learning more about nature.

Amber Joy loves to do arts and crafts. Recently, she made a tambourine which she plans to use together with other musicians in a local arena to bring entertainment and joy to other people. She also likes to paint and make jewelry for friends.

She fundraises significantly for Best Buddies, Inc. and propagates plants to sell to raise funds for the organization. Her house is full of plants that she is growing for this purpose.

Amber Joy loves to swim. She has been swimming since she was a toddler and is experienced enough in the pool to swim underwater and spend hours in the deep end. She is so good at it that her nickname is “the mermaid.”  She uses some of her time to do water exercises with seniors. She enjoys taking cardio dance classes and spending time with friends.  She also enjoys exercising at Planet Fitness.

Amber Joy loves to spend time with her family. They have an RV and frequently go camping with friends. She helps prepare their dinners which are cooked on the campfire. Her family has a second home on the beach where she enjoys swimming in the ocean.

She has a dog named Benji, a pit bull/lab mix, who she loves being part of her family. Amber Joy leads a busy and meaningful life, and we are proud to tell you about her for this Disability Pride Month!