Access-4-All
We teach what we experience. An SUV rollover gave me an unexpected job and introduced me to my husband. Our mission is to educate on the culture of disability, empower others though our personal journey and entertain while doing so. Access-4-All’s programs and publications are designed for both people with and without disabilities. Our vision is of full inclusion where everyone counts and has access to a fulfilled and truly accessible life.
We promise an intimate disclosure on living with disabilities and resources that have helped us do so. We share a personal coping strategy that anyone can use to overcome and be successful in their lives. Our stories bring you into our world, and make audiences laugh and cry. We are engaging, honest and funny and we’ve done so since 1997.
Katie and Steve Banister
New Song Release
Lyrics: Katie Rodriguez Banister and Sandra Levy Smith, Music: Sandra Levy Smith, Vocals: Katie Rodriguez Banister, Grace Bellinger, Grace Herbek, and Laura Loise, Recorded at Sawhorse Studios, Engineering: Chris Turnbaugh, Low Muse Productions, Mastered by: Justin Fisher, The Glitch Factor, Creative Contribution: Jim Scott, PLYRZ Studios, Graphic Design: Jen Newmark, Support Staff: Steve Banister, Toria Higgins, Danielle Jones
Everyone knows someone affected by cancer.
I was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2021, which later spread to my lungs and spine. My cancer progresses slowly, and as a "minimalist" patient, I selectively undergo treatments.
For 35 years, I've used a power wheelchair due to a spinal cord injury at age 25 that left me a quadriplegic, paralyzed from the chest down. In 2022, I developed Charcot, an incurable bone-hardening disease at my upper spine, managed only by medication.
Despite these challenges, I became a disability educator, motivational speaker, writer, poet, inventor, and award-nominated playwright. When asked if I would erase my injury, I say no—my experiences shape who I am.
We Educate
Access to information is vital to living a healthy and successful life. When we know more we make more thoughtful decisions. You are the captain of your being and knowledge gives you an edge.
We Entertain
Our story is presented through PowerPoints, Q & A, music videos, handouts and interactive presentations. Katie was voted “Most Likely to Win an Oscar” by her 1983 high school graduating class.
We Empower
When we are lucky enough to wake up to another day we are given another opportunity to keep playing the game of life. It is up to us to find the beauty in it.
Roll With It! Play
A new play by Katie Rodriguez Banister & Michelle Zielinski, Directed by J. Michelle Rebollo