This Is Actually Happening What if you woke up and couldn’t move? [Rebroadcast #242]
Aug 26, 2025
Guest John Killacky, a former Vermont politician, artist, and disability advocate, shares his powerful journey of identity and resilience. He reflects on growing up queer in the 1960s and the impact of the AIDS crisis on his life. After waking up from surgery unable to move, he discusses his battle with quadriplegia and the challenges of finding purpose through art. Killacky also highlights the importance of community and inclusivity for marginalized groups, weaving personal stories with broader societal themes.
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From Chicago To Dance In New York
- John Killacky discovered modern dance on a school trip and left Chicago for New York to pursue it passionately.
- That move opened him to queer community and launched his lifelong arts career.
Waking Up Paralyzed After Surgery
- In 1996 John awoke after surgery to find he couldn't move and realized a tumor had been compressing his spinal cord.
- He expected a short recovery but instead faced sudden quadriplegia and intense disorientation.
Horizon Removed By Sudden Disability
- Losing bodily control removed John's horizon of progress and forced him into an unmediated 'now' of recovery.
- That lack of future-oriented agency caused deep emotional collapse early in rehab.
