English: AXSchat with Ileana Rodriguez

Ileana was born and raised in Matanzas, Cuba where she was diagnosed at the age of 13 with a malformation of the spine that left her paralyzed from the waist down. In the year 2000 she moved to United States with her family looking for better medical treatments than those offered on her natal country. Although walking again seem hardly possible therapists encouraged her to have an independent life something that Ileana considers her must valuable treasure.

Ileana pursue a Bachelor and Master degree in Architecture at Florida International University, with the goal of improving accessibility and promoting independent living for those with a disability. During her years at FIU, Ileana had another passion, swimming and the Paralympic games, thanks to friends and family and the encouragement and support of a coach, she made it to the London Paralympic Games in 2012 representing the United States. “It is an Honor for me to say that I am a Paralympian and must importantly that I represented such a great nation the one that has given me many opportunities” Ileana has stated many times. She has worked in architecture firms where her design solutions are always driven by inclusion where spaces give equal opportunities to all users. Today she is the founder of I Design Access, LLC, a design and accessibility consultancy for architects and clients that see inclusion and accessibility at the core of their business.

In the Houston community she currently volunteers as one of the Commissioners for the Urban Planning Commission of Houston, since it is very important for her to continue giving back and be active in the community to improve the life of all citizens regardless of abilities.

Ileana also volunteer with the United States Paralympic/Olympic committee as an athlete ambassador, where she serves in communities promoting the importance of sports. Also, she seats as a member of the Americas Paralympic Committee Executive board as the athlete representative.