She told them about her Australasian adventures and wondered why more people with disabilities didn't participate in foreign exchanges and travel. Her partner, Tom, whom she also met that year, drove the bus on early exchanges. Its work with the U.S. government, universities, and private exchange programs has created an awareness of access in international education at the high school and university levels, giving thousands of students with disabilities the opportunity to attend their colleges' education-abroad programs and participate in other community programs. When Sygall moved to Oregon, Eugene was light years behind Berkeley in terms of accessibility and programs for people with disabilities. Visitors frequently note the number of people scooting around in wheelchairs - going to college, riding buses, even participating in athletics and recreation.
Many delegates return home determined to create similar opportunities there.
And then they can turn that around and say, 'I'm fine,' and then work to get more of what they deserve. They go from being a victim to being a change agent. I learned to be confident and say, 'It's all right to have a disability,' rather than apologizing for it, to work toward changing things. Now, thanks to her work, Perth has accessible buses and an employment service, which she managed, that helps people with disabilities get quality jobs and maintain their independence. The intimacy of Eugene-based exchanges also encourages relationships among delegates and the community, including the University.