Shane and Hannah Burcaw, known for their encouraging work in raising awareness about disability, will be headlining Abilities Expo in both Los Angeles and New York, on Friday and Saturday of each show. The couple’s YouTube channel with over a million subscribers, Squirmy and Grubs, gets its name from Hannah’s habit of moving a lot in her sleep (Squirmy) and Shane’s nickname (Grubs) that he gave himself because of his self-proclaimed “sweaty hand problem.”
In an exclusive episode of the Abilities Zone podcast, host and Abilities Expo ambassador Paul Amadeus Lane connects with Shane Burcaw for a candid and entertaining conversation. The two dive into Shane’s experiences navigating life with Spinal Muscular Atrophy, discuss the importance of breaking down stereotypes, and explore how humor can shift perspectives on disability.
Shane and Hannah Burcaw’s Journey: Advocating for a More Inclusive Future
Shane and Hannah Burcaw are a couple who have been recognized for their candid, humorous and educational portrayal of life in an interabled relationship. Shane, who has Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA), a rare genetic disorder that causes muscle weakness, is an advocate for dismantling judgements that surround the disability community. He has embraced his disability with humor, resilience, and in the process has become a huge voice for disability rights. Laughing at My Nightmare, a memoir that chronicles his life with SMA, offers insight into the challenges he has experienced, and how humor has helped him navigate his experiences with more joy and perspective.
Hannah Burcaw, who has been Shane’s partner for several years, plays a big role in advocating for individuals with disabilities as well. While being able-bodied, Hannah has become an outspoken ally, fighting for inclusion and equality, while also challenging people to rethink the way they view relationships and disability as a whole. Together, they recently published another book, “Interabled,” which is a heartfelt memoir of their relationship, the misconceptions of interabled relationships and marriages, and the powerful impact of mutual love, support and accessibility.
Check out Squirmy & Grubs Online
Part of their work is co-hosting a popular YouTube channel “Squirmy and Grubs,” where they share their journey as a couple. Whether it’s documenting their daily lives or discussing the unique joys and challenges of being in an interabled marriage, they continue to be honest, funny, and relatable, and through that they have grown to have a dedicated following. Their channel also focuses on discussing topics such as accessibility, inclusion, and the importance of empathy and curiosity.
Find them at Abilities Expo!
Shane and Hannah’s advocacy extends beyond social media, and we are excited to announce that they will be speaking at the Abilities Expo in LA (March 7-9) and NY (May 2-4)! On both Friday and Saturday at each show, the couple will share their personal experiences as an interabled couple and take questions from the audience.
In addition to being at the show, Shane recently had the opportunity to be interviewed for a podcast with Paul Amadeus Lane, one of the Abilities Expos ambassadors, offering insightful conversation and as always, a laugh or two. For anyone interested in learning more about the topics they discussed, this podcast is a must-listen! Be sure to check it out below!
The Abilities Expo is thrilled to welcome them as speakers at both events and to hear them share their message of inclusion and love with our attendees.