The Remarkable Story of Judith Heumann: Triumph Over Polio and a Legacy of Advocacy

As an attorney, I make it a point to stay informed about developments in medicine. While my reading doesn’t make me a doctor—and I would never claim otherwise—it does give me a broader understanding of the challenges many of my clients face. Unfortunately, some Administrative Law Judges seem to believe that by simply reviewing medical records, they can substitute their judgment for that of a trained physician—someone who has completed years of rigorous study, clinical training, and often a medical fellowship.

Discovering a Trailblazer Through The Lancet

One of the unexpected benefits of reading medical journals is learning about remarkable individuals who have shaped the world in ways beyond the clinical realm. Recently, I came across an obituary in The Lancet, a respected British medical journal, similar in stature to the New England Journal of Medicine or JAMA. It honored the life of Judith Heumann, a prominent disability rights advocate who passed away earlier this year at age 75. Although not a physician, her contributions to public policy and disability rights were profound and enduring.

A Life Shaped by Polio—and Resilience

Ms. Heumann contracted polio at the age of 18 months, long before a vaccine was available. The disease left her reliant on a wheelchair for life. Polio was once a devastating illness in the United States, with many survivors facing lifelong disability or later complications like post-polio syndrome. The virus can linger in the body and reactivate decades later, much like shingles. It’s deeply concerning that vaccine hesitancy is on the rise—especially when vaccines like the one for polio have nearly eradicated such tragic outcomes.

Her early life was marked by discrimination: at five, she was denied admission to kindergarten because she was considered a “fire hazard.” Later, after earning her college degree, she was denied a teaching license solely because she used a wheelchair. Having attended public schools in New York City myself, I can confirm how inaccessible many of the buildings are—even today. But Judith Heumann was not deterred. She sued for the right to teach—and won.

A Legacy of Legal Action and Leadership

Her fight for inclusion didn’t stop there. When President Nixon attempted to block the Rehabilitation Act—which included protections against discrimination for people with disabilities—Ms. Heumann helped lead a 28-day sit-in that ultimately pressured Congress into passing the legislation. Her tireless advocacy helped pave the way for countless others.

She went on to serve as Assistant Secretary for the Office of Special Education and Rehabilitative Services under President Clinton, helping to shape national programs in education and independent living. Later, she served as a Special Advisor on Disability Rights for President Obama.

An Inspiration for All

Judith Heumann’s life is a testament to perseverance, courage, and the power of advocacy. Her legacy continues to inspire not only those in the disability community, but all of us who believe in equal rights and access for everyone.

If you’re interested in reading more about her, the article I referenced appeared in The Lancet on April 8, 2023. It’s well worth the read.