Cathy McAdam

She was born on September 21, 1946, and lost her sight completely at the age of 10. What could have limited her instead became a source of strength. From a young age, she learned to navigate the world on her own terms. As an adult, she made it her mission to ensure others with disabilities had the same chance to live fully, independently, and with dignity.

She earned her master’s degree in social work from Wayne State University and began her career at Kirkwood Hospital in Detroit. She later joined the Rehabilitation Institute of Michigan at Detroit Medical Center, where she dedicated roughly 25 years of service. There, she worked closely with individuals and families navigating life after injury or diagnosis, offering not only professional expertise but empathy grounded in lived experience.

After retiring from clinical work, Cathy’s advocacy only grew stronger. She co-founded Diversibility, a company focused on disability awareness, diversity training, and corporate education. Through this work, she partnered with major companies such as Ford Motor Company and Chrysler, helping leaders and employees better understand accessibility and inclusion in meaningful, practical ways.

Cathy also volunteered her time teaching individuals with disabilities how to use accessibility features on computers, smartphones, and other technology. She believed that access to technology meant access to opportunity. She was a strong supporter of Detroit Disability Power and a tireless advocate for disability rights across Michigan. She also championed diversity, equity and inclusion as an active member of the League of Women Voters of Grosse Pointe.

One cause especially close to her heart was braille literacy. Cathy believed deeply that braille was essential for independence and true literacy, especially in situations where audio access was not available or practical. She spoke often about the importance of preserving and teaching braille to the next generation.

Cathy was also a devoted dog mom throughout her life. She was partnered with nine service dogs over the years, each one helping her navigate the world with confidence and independence. These dogs were not just working partners; they were companions, protectors, and family. In her final years, her faithful golden lab, Betty, rarely left her side. Betty was more than a guide. She was a steady presence, a source of comfort, and a constant reminder of the deep bond between them.

Outside of her professional and advocacy work, Cathy embraced life fully. She was a devoted fan of the Detroit Tigers and rarely missed a chance to follow the season. She loved music, especially performances by the Detroit Symphony Orchestra and traditional folk music. She even played the guitar herself.

Cathy was an avid reader of mystery and suspense novels and had a love for travel. She especially enjoyed cruising, always choosing a balcony room so she could sit quietly and listen to the ocean. Of all the places she visited, Tanzania held a special place in her heart. There, she experienced the thrill of touching a baby elephant and listening to the sounds of wildlife in their natural habitat.

Cathy’s life was defined not by the loss of her sight, but by her vision for a more accessible, inclusive world. She leaves behind a legacy of advocacy, education, friendship, and love. Her voice, her determination, and her steady belief in the power of inclusion will not be forgotten.

A visitation will be held on Sunday, March 1, 2026 beginning at 12:00 PM until 7:00 PM, with a sharing of memories to begin at 4:00 PM at A.H. Peters Funeral Home in Grosse Pointe Woods.

She is preceded in death by parents, Louis & Margaret Mosier; brother, Harry Mosier; and her first husband, Bill McAdam.

She is survived by her partner, Michael Patten; siblings, Butch Mosier, Joanne Herzog, and Margaret Glass; as well as many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins, friends, and so many that she made a lasting impact on.

In lieu of flowers, Cathy wanted donations directed to the Greater Detroit Agency for the Blind (https://www.lifebeyondsight.org/), as she was the Board Chair prior to her passing.