Readers says BLOOM sparks 'new ways of thinking about disability'
By Louise Kinross
Eighty-seven per cent of readers who filled out our 2026 BLOOM survey said our content gives them “new ways of thinking about disability.”
Fifty-eight per cent said BLOOM gives them “practical information I can use parenting (or working with) a child with a disability,” and 50 per cent said it provides “a community of support.”
The survey, offered online and at a family advisory meeting at Holland Bloorview, was filled out by 117 people.
Fifty per cent of respondents identified as parents, 35 per cent as health professionals, 16 per cent as a person with a disability, and 24 per cent as “other.” Respondents could check all that apply.
Most were from Ontario, but we did have submissions from other parts of Canada and the United States, as well as Mekelle, Ethiopia and Copenhagen, Denmark.
When asked to pick three types of BLOOM stories they like most out of nine categories, 70 per cent chose Parent Talk, 63 per cent chose Research, 38 per cent chose Clinical Care, 34 per cent chose Health Equity and 34 per cent chose Staff Stories.
Here are a few responses to the open-ended question “Why do you read BLOOM?”
“I really appreciate the breadth of perspectives shared. As a critical disability studies researcher, it is so refreshing to see disability studies perspectives coming out of a rehab affiliated publication.”
“I find it helpful how it centres both the disability and caregiver lived perspectives.”
“I look forward to every issue. I am never disappointed by the depth and breadth of the information captured… What is discovered is not one lens but a panoramic view of ideas, opinions, experiences, and strength to be all we can be.”
“I don’t feel alone and isolated when I read BLOOM.”
“To learn and share resources on how to best care for my two autistic sons.”
“I work in marketing in the disability space and am always looking to Bloorview for inspiration!”
“You have a unique way of looking at disability, ability and seem to be on the cutting edge/pulse of what is happening. Great articles, love knowing the new research, what advocates are working on, even the news articles that share what is happening in different parts of the country and world. I always find something new to share with my colleagues, so you make me feel like a leader in my field.”
“Great writing on important topics not frequently covered in other media.”
"I feel seen."
“The editor is not afraid to address topics that challenge the reader and society to find new ways of understanding the field of disability.”
“Always a new and engaging topic.”
“I enjoy the stories from parents about their children and about staff (what inspired them to take the path).
"My program feeds off the lived experiences, stats and real-life stories, accordingly I update our resources and source the new ones. It's an invaluable resource of information nicely and neatly consolidated."
“This award-winning blog is a rich educational resource which builds community, enhances understanding, and facilitates empathy.”
One respondent said they no longer read BLOOM, explaining: “Same old stories of seeing disability through a super parent or charity lens, which is not rooted in equity. It does not talk about the sad reality of disabilities or ever talk about disablement or barriers. Does not talk about the lack of resources or poor resources.”
Here are some suggestions to “How can we make BLOOM better?”
“Audio and podcast version.”
“Short, quick to read articles.”
“Love the recent columns from Anchel and Robin—would love to see more columnists added to the fold.”
“Information about social connections and opportunities for individuals and families.”
“BLOOM is already the best. I can’t think of anything.”
“Highlight family stories and the impact Holland Bloorview has made in their lives.”
“There is possibly too much content.”
“More disabled joy. Would be cool to revisit former clients when they are adults to speak to what they are currently up to.”
“I look forward to opening the newsletter every time as it is the only form of information-gathering that is quick and very easy to navigate.”
“Make it less depressing.”
“Broaden the topics to include issues in education, Long COVID, POTS. These conditions have huge impact on children and teens and no one wants to talk about it.”
“I would like to read more success stories for children, youth and families.”
“It is perfect.”
“More frequent newsletters and more on the transition to the adult system. Rough!!”
“Wide range of disabilities.”
“I can’t think of anything at the moment. I love the diversity of voices included. I always learn something.”
“Sometimes stories are critical or blame health professionals. Nice to see a balance when things go well sometimes too.”
“I’d like to hear more from children and youth with disabilities.”
“Maybe a yearly panel event.”
“Simplify the structure – a list that can be quickly looked through vs the various blocks of info.”
“Keep your focus on those disabled children who need your voice.”
“Helping out early childhood educators and resource consultants with skills and knowledge through webinars, videos, giving tours of Holland Bloorview through YouTube videos.”
“Send more often.”
“More ways to engage with others through BLOOM.”
“Reviews from parents about the programs and services at Holland Bloorview and events.”
“Talk about clinical trials that are not autism [related].”
“Ways we can help out and get more involved?”
“More connections for transitioning youth to adulthood, i.e. what developmental doctors and supports are available.”
“Perhaps you can do some in-person events, interviews. This is a fabulous magazine. It’s very human, easy to read and so full of heart and compassion. Thank you!”
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