The Troubles - Shelley Cowan and Tracey Farry

Shelley Cowan is a disability advocate, speaker, and founder of Justus, a community organization creating inclusive social spaces and opportunities for adults with disabilities across Northern Ireland. After becoming severely ill at age fifteen, Shelley spent more than a decade confined to bed, unable to walk, eat independently, or continue her education. Through years of determination, family support, and rehabilitation, she gradually regained mobility, returned to school as a mature student, and earned a master’s degree focused on accessibility and inclusion.

Today, Shelley is known for transforming personal hardship into community impact. Alongside her close friend and caregiver Tracey Farry, she advocates for accessibility, disability awareness, and connection across social and cultural divides. Together, the pair have become known for their humor, honesty, and deep friendship—building spaces where people of all abilities feel seen, welcomed, and celebrated.

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