On Thursday, we visited Galway City Partnership. One of my biggest takeaways was the importance of money in supporting quality of life for people with disabilities. People might say that money isn’t everything, but it does make a significant difference in one’s ability to thrive and meet essential needs. It also provides the opportunity for individuals to take control of their lives without having to rely solely on family or limited social welfare systems. People with disabilities often face higher costs of living due to expenses involving increased medical and accessibility-related expenses. Financial resources can open doors to inclusive higher education, enabling people with disabilities to pursue academic interests and personal goals. My younger brother, who has a disability, discovered a love for music as a result of my family’s financial support. He has been enrolled in band camps and has his own drum set at home, which has helped nurture his confidence and creative talent. This coming fall, he will be attending community college and taking an introductory music course; an instance that demonstrates how money can transform dreams to reality. He is overjoyed to be in college, just like I am. My hope is that one day he finds a job that aligns with his love for music so that he can live a fulfilling, self-driven life. Ultimately, for people with disabilities, money plays a critical role in achieving happiness and enhanced quality of life. While money can’t bring back lost time, it serves as a powerful means for unlocking opportunities and gaining equal access to the fundamental rights that others never think twice about.