National disability employment awareness month: Shifting the conversation with Matt Swinton

Living with a disability has shaped the person I am today in profound ways. Throughout my life, I’ve embraced Sabre’s five values, which have guided me through challenges and triumphs.

be united
As an infant, when I began missing developmental milestones, my parents sensed something. Soon after my first birthday, I was diagnosed with Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA), a rare genetic disease that, at the time, had a grim prognosis. Doctors warned my parents that I might not live past the age of two. Fast forward 33 years, I’m fortunate to lead a fulfilling life thanks to my incredible family, friends and medical team. My journey has shown me that it truly takes a village.

be driven
SMA affects the nerves that control voluntary muscles, meaning I never crawled or walked. At 18 months, I learned to drive my first power wheelchair. When I reached high school, I aspired to take driving a step further and drive a car. With a trip to Atlanta, weeks of specialized training and the technology NASA used to power the lunar rover, I became a licensed driver. My independence was important to me, even early on, and I was determined to overcome every obstacle.

be brave
Growing up, I dreamed of attending the University of Notre Dame. In 2007, I was accepted, which meant moving 1,000 miles away from home and learning to live independently. While there may have been easier paths, I chose courage. My bravery led to four transformative years, filled with incredible experiences and people who helped me grow in mind, body and spirit.

be ambitious
The summer after my freshman year at Notre Dame, I cold-called five companies in the DFW area, seeking meetings with their Chief Financial Officers (CFOs) to learn more about finance. Sabre answered the call, and I was able to meet with the CFO at the time. This conversation led to a summer internship in the accounting department! After a successful internship, I returned to Sabre the following summer for a role in Financial Planning & Analysis (FP&A). These experiences solidified my desire to build my career at Sabre.

be empowered
This past June, I celebrated 13 years at Sabre. In just over a decade, I’ve had the opportunity to explore different facets of the business, enhance my skillset and take on larger responsibilities. In every position, I’ve been surrounded by passionate, empathetic and collaborative colleagues. I feel grateful to be a part of a company that recognizes and celebrates our differences.

Through each chapter of my life, Sabre’s values have illuminated my path, empowering me to embrace my journey with strength and resilience. While having a disability is part of who I am, it is not everything I am. With hard work, determination and the right team, any obstacle can be overcome.