From Anxiety to Advocacy: My Journey Towards Accessibility

My Name is Bobby Bailey

A passion for people. A passion for belonging. A passion for ensuring that every voice is heard, valued, and empowered. These aren’t just ideals—they are the very heartbeat of who I am. My journey has been shaped by an unshakable belief that no one should ever feel invisible, that no one should have to fight to experience the world in the way they deserve. I refuse to accept a world where barriers dictate who gets to participate, where someone’s potential is limited by a lack of accessibility.

I believe in a world where accessibility isn’t an afterthought but a foundation. Where every person—regardless of ability—can navigate life with dignity, independence, and confidence. This isn’t just a passion; it’s a calling. It’s the fuel that drives me every day to break down barriers, challenge the status quo, and build a future where accessibility isn’t optional—it’s expected. Because everyone deserves to feel like they belong. Everyone deserves to be heard. And I won’t stop until that vision becomes reality.

The Early Struggles

Once upon a time, I navigated a journey filled with the complexities of anxiety disorders—generalized anxiety, social phobia, post-traumatic stress, and panic attacks, with heart rates reaching unsettling heights, surpassing 220 beats per minute. Yet, this story is not just about the struggles; it's about the triumphs that emerged from the shadows.

Picture a young child with no teacher and no structured curriculum, filled to the brim with anxiety. That child was me. But I had a hunger for knowledge and a strong determination to make an impact. So, I embarked on my own course. I taught myself to read, write, and even spell. It was a hard, uphill battle, but I refused to be defeated by circumstance.

The Role of Assistive Technology

In my path of self-education, assistive technology became an integral part of my life. Tools like voice-to-text and screen readers not only assisted with my educational pursuits but also became essential in managing the challenges brought on by my anxiety disorders. Assistive technology helped me bring my thoughts to life and allowed words to speak to me. These tools became essential for my education.

A Change in Career Path

As I pursued a career in law enforcement, studying criminal justice with a focus on strategic intelligence, a subtle but persistent feeling tugged at my heart. It was a calling to take a different path, one that would allow me to help others in a unique and impactful way. I decided to explore this call, and it led me to a surprising destination.

Diving into Technology

I dove headfirst into the world of technology, seeking to solve problems through innovation. I dedicated myself to learning and working in front-end development and visual design. Yet, as I honed my skills in these areas, I couldn't shake the feeling that something was missing. I realized that truly understanding people's needs, challenges, and experiences was the missing piece in making a significant difference.

Discovering UX Research and Design

During this introspective phase, I discovered the field of user experience (UX) research and design. This discipline was the bridge between my love for technology and my passion for understanding and helping people. It was a revelation, and I eagerly embarked on this new journey.

Over the next ten years, I immersed myself in UX research and design. I delved into user interviews, usability testing, and crafting user-centered designs. With each project, I gained a deeper appreciation for the power of empathy and user-centered design in creating digital experiences that truly resonated with people.

Finding My True Calling in Accessibility

But my journey didn't stop there. Along the way, I stumbled upon a field that would become my true calling—the world of accessibility. It was a moment of serendipity that altered the course of my career and my life.

The world of accessibility opened my eyes to the incredible impact that equal experiences could have on individuals with disabilities. I recognized the need to ensure that digital experiences were inclusive and accessible to all. This newfound passion ignited a fire within me, and I knew I had found my calling.

Embracing Accessibility Advocacy

My transition into the field of accessibility felt like a natural progression. The people who had already spent years in this field welcomed me with open arms. Accessibility was an opportunity to combine my technical skills with my empathy-driven approach to design. I embraced this new path with unwavering determination.

Becoming a Powerful Force in Accessibility

As my career evolved, I became a powerful force in the accessibility field, working alongside the government and helping teams achieve groundbreaking success. One of my proudest accomplishments was contributing to My HealtheVet on VA.gov, which won the Digital Health Transformation Award. I played a crucial role in helping development teams, designers, and researchers achieve 100% 508/WCAG compliance while also going beyond compliance to create truly inclusive experiences for all.

Through my advocacy, leadership, and technical expertise, I have helped organizations embed accessibility at the core of their digital strategies, ensuring that no one is left behind. My work has directly impacted the way accessibility is integrated into large-scale projects, shaping policies and standards that influence the future of inclusive design.

Reflecting on the Journey

Today, I stand as an accessibility advocate and specialist, tirelessly working to break down digital barriers and champion the cause of inclusivity. My journey, though unexpected, has been remarkable. It's a testament to the idea that life's twists and turns can lead us to our true calling and that our deepest passions can shape the world in ways we never imagined.

As I reflect on my journey, I'm grateful for the winding road that brought me here. From aspiring police officer to accessibility advocate, my path has been a testament to the power of following one's heart and the transformative impact that a single decision can have on the lives of others.