Being paralyzed because of a severe injury or illness may cause people to become unable to work due to disability. People who become paralyzed who are well enough to use a wheelchair can lead very fulfilling lives despite day-to-day challenges.

Unfortunately, however, those who use wheelchairs often find themselves being treated differently than able-bodied people. Many people make assumptions about those who are disabled, and a new reality show, believe it or not, is attempting to change that.

"Push Girls" is a reality series that debuted recently that follows the lives of four female friends, ranging in age from 28 to 42, who all use wheelchairs. They are all paralyzed due to a variety of problems, from car accidents to a ruptured vessel in the spinal cord. What they have in common, though, is their spirit and their willingness to show it off on the air.

Not only that, but they hope to dispel myths and stereotypes regarding disabled people who use wheelchairs. They want people to know that they pump gas, do everyday chores, date and aspire to have their own children just like everyone else.

The Christopher and Dane Reeve Foundation is promoting the Sundance Channel show in the hopes of raising funds for research relating to spinal cord injuries. And the president and chief executive of United Spinal Association says, "We want to be treated like everyone else. Well, everyone else has a reality show."

It is the hope of those involved that the show can make a difference in changing the way people think about the disabled.

Source: KansasCity.com, "'Push Girls' tries to dispel notions about the disabled," Sandy Cohen, June 1, 2012