A Billion People in the Shadows: The Ultimate 1-hour Guide to Understanding Disability
In a world that often excludes or overlooks the wealth of experiences and perspectives of individuals with disabilities, A Billion People in the Shadows emerges as a compelling exploration of the world's largest and most misunderstood minority group. With 15-20% of the global population living with disabilities, Doug McCullough's narrative delves into the profound impact of societal perceptions and self-imposed stigma on those facing all types of disability, including sensory, physical, intellectual, developmental, and mental health.
McCullough utilizes his journey with a degenerative neuromuscular disease (Spinal Muscular Atrophy) to candidly reveal the shame and marginalization often experienced by those in the disability community. Despite academic, professional, and social successes, McCullough wrestles with how to "show up" as a person with a disability. His turning point comes with the realization that the key to reshaping perceptions - both his own and others' - lies within himself. McCullough emphasizes this is a critical step individuals must make to live their best life, and asserts that self-doubt and low expectations can be more crippling than any disability.
McCullough concisely dissects and counters misconceptions routinely encountered by the disability community. Encouraging readers to broaden their view of disability, he establishes that disability is not a hindrance but a vibrant form of diversity, offering valuable skills and perspectives. That disability inclusion is not about being nice but being better. We are all in this life together, we all have abilities and challenges, and we all have a collective responsibility to uplift each other physically, mentally, and emotionally. McCullough calls for full inclusion rather than mere accessibility and provides practical insights on how society can better do this on multiple fronts to truly bring "a billion people out of the shadows."
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"An essential read for leaders, A Billion People in the Shadows sheds light on the immense potential within the disability community. As a leadership coach, I have found Doug's insights invaluable in empowering disabled leaders to reach new heights, benefiting both themselves and their organizations. Doug's candid, humorous, and humble approach offers a fresh perspective for leaders to champion the disability community with understanding and empathy. This book is a game-changer for anyone looking to make a positive impact in the world of leadership."
Scott A Zellner - Johnson & Johnson Executive (retired), Leadership Coach
"Diversity makes businesses stronger, yet many organizations struggle to attract and retain diverse talent. This is especially true regarding people living with disabilities. Fortunately, Doug McCullough brings his sharp mind, lived experience, and dry wit to create a roadmap for all of us-from individuals to Fortune 500 companies-to unlock the potential of the disability community. I was privileged to work with Doug in promoting disability inclusion at our company and across industry associations, and I know you will enjoy and learn from this book, with its echoes of the many times I saw him coach a colleague, comfort a friend, or confront a CEO with passion, integrity, humility, and humor."
Craig Kramer - Mental Health Ambassador (retired), Johnson & Johnson
"Doug McCullough has written a deeply personal narrative that combines both social commentary, personal triumph, and practical advice on how to improve the lives of people with disabilities. A Billion People in the Shadows changes the way you think about disability and inclusion by challenging you to be more creative in your approach in a positive and uplifting way. Doug shares his inspirational ability to live life to its fullest and provides guidance for all of us to create a more inclusive and respectful society for everyone."
Michael Marquis - CEO of Raw Sugar; Board of Directors of the LUNGevity Foundation
"A Billion People in the Shadows is an important work that provides a full-circle vantage point of the challenges and many gifts of those with disabilities. Our healthcare and social systems are woefully inadequate in serving those with special needs. As a society, we are failing to reap the rewards of better enabling individuals with disabilities. I applaud Doug McCullough for his passion, insights, and advocacy. He is making a difference in the lives of many!"
Denice Torres - Healthcare Executive; Podcast Host of Flip the Tortilla; Mom to a Most Amazing Daughter with Cerebral Palsy
"If you care about inclusion, this book is simply a must-read. McCullough takes us into his day-to-day world and gives a mix of sage and humorous examples of ways we can show up better for our friends, colleagues, and neighbors in the disability community."
Steve Garguilo - CEO and Founder of Cultivate
"McCullough's A Billion People in the Shadows is essential reading for anyone looking to better understand disability and disability inclusion. It is a compelling story packed with useful information learned from a lifetime of experience living with a disability."
Chad Jerdee - General Counsel (retired), Accenture; Board Chair, Disability: IN
