tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27771490896802351672024-03-13T12:18:08.613-04:00theSeedAdvocate, Blogger, Mother!
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12626482643150419473noreply@blogger.comBlogger71125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2777149089680235167.post-35023949962355370292015-03-27T10:04:00.000-04:002015-03-27T10:04:09.183-04:00Mental illness and the PoliceShould police be expected to handle the arrest of violent suspects with mental illness differently?<br />
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When considering public safety, there is a fine line between individual rights and public safety at large. Right now, the United States Supreme Court is deciding whether the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) affords extra protection to people who have a mental illness and are being confronted by the police. Many in the disability community would say it does. But, playing devil’s advocate here, how far can we reasonably expect officers to go when their lives and the lives of the people around them is being threatened by a knife-wielder or gun-toter?<br />
<br />
WHAT DO YOU THINK?<br />
The ADA requires “reasonable accommodations” be made available for individuals with disabilities in order to access public services and programs. Do you think police officers should be required to give individuals “reasonable accommodations” when those individuals are presenting a serious threat? Or should violence be treated the same in all cases, whether or not the suspect has a mental illness?<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJlt0s-ryCgtIsW287BW_MJQvq4NuqguAWmN7wveWu0FP5sBFltjYdz-xx8A5zWtChL8xLVJm8jAeVdjMaJ99FoznEf74EneyQWmud_Ji-lwwqKW2keyvVHbrtEIDQtgVHV-Bso1b9M6SJ/s1600/what+do+you+think.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJlt0s-ryCgtIsW287BW_MJQvq4NuqguAWmN7wveWu0FP5sBFltjYdz-xx8A5zWtChL8xLVJm8jAeVdjMaJ99FoznEf74EneyQWmud_Ji-lwwqKW2keyvVHbrtEIDQtgVHV-Bso1b9M6SJ/s1600/what+do+you+think.jpg" height="203" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12626482643150419473noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2777149089680235167.post-77674027831162251112015-03-09T11:18:00.000-04:002015-03-09T11:18:18.969-04:00Disability can happen to YOU!<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
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We don't like to think about bad things happening to us
personally but the likelihood of you becoming sick or injured and unable to
work is higher than you probably imagined. The <i>Personal Disability Quotient</i>, or PDQ, will calculate your odds of
eventually becoming disabled. If you do become disabled, you can be out of work
for weeks, months or even years, and that can be disastrous to individuals and
families. To find out your PDQ in just a few minutes, go here: <a href="http://www.disabilitycanhappen.org/chances_disability/pdq.asp">http://www.disabilitycanhappen.org/chances_disability/pdq.asp</a></div>
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<o:p></o:p></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMNmDyoGrHf8A0LcDBwVLHW78iLOemFkLZFidB8lEmF-q7Jc-fzLlkBbHdGTG0TH4kH16hUVlusqD2JSFekc4yGPOIVEZekyxWEQpL-XVr_8Fq35T2-jAvbRktn6RdmMTWxdPG_pZ3-vcn/s1600/PDQ.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMNmDyoGrHf8A0LcDBwVLHW78iLOemFkLZFidB8lEmF-q7Jc-fzLlkBbHdGTG0TH4kH16hUVlusqD2JSFekc4yGPOIVEZekyxWEQpL-XVr_8Fq35T2-jAvbRktn6RdmMTWxdPG_pZ3-vcn/s1600/PDQ.PNG" height="110" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">From www.whatsmypdq.org/</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<b>Disability Statistics<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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<i>It happens more often than you'd imagine</i>:<o:p></o:p></div>
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<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="mso-list: l2 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->Just over 1 in 4 of today's 20 year-olds will
become disabled before they retire.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l2 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->Over 37 million Americans are classified as
disabled; about 12% of the total population. More than 50% of those disabled
Americans are in their working years, from 18-64.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l2 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->8.8 million disabled wage earners, over 5% of
U.S. workers, were receiving Social Security Disability (SSDI) benefits at the
end of 2012.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="mso-list: l2 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->In December of 2012, there were over 2.5 million
disabled workers in their 20s, 30s, and 40s receiving SSDI benefits. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<i>Don’t think Social Security or Workers' Compensation will
cover your expenses</i>:<o:p></o:p></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpkxLyozTWiOeRxc6Slrm5Zi588lZdcgA4eNGu6WONRzTYBntOdWmpY0p0EM-WxBhiDxbqbwyd33fOOgDGFA9ZO1Gv88z0IGbasvlrguNFNtH-yC-SdIMAh_vvNNHChTLN4zU_BkM8ljjS/s1600/SSDI.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpkxLyozTWiOeRxc6Slrm5Zi588lZdcgA4eNGu6WONRzTYBntOdWmpY0p0EM-WxBhiDxbqbwyd33fOOgDGFA9ZO1Gv88z0IGbasvlrguNFNtH-yC-SdIMAh_vvNNHChTLN4zU_BkM8ljjS/s1600/SSDI.jpg" height="133" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">photo credit: <a class="_ZR irc_hol" data-ved="0CAYQjB0" href="http://www.simonattorneys.com/social-security" jsaction="mousedown:irc.rl;keydown:irc.rlk" style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.2); background-color: #f1f1f1; color: #7d7d7d; cursor: pointer; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 16px; text-align: left; text-decoration: none;"><span class="irc_ho" dir="ltr" style="margin-right: -2px; overflow: hidden; padding-right: 2px; text-overflow: ellipsis; unicode-bidi: -webkit-isolate;">simonattorneys.com</span></a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="mso-list: l1 level1 lfo2; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->65% of initial SSDI claim applications were
denied in 2012.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l1 level1 lfo2; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->Can your family live on $1,130 a month? That's
the average monthly benefit paid by Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI)
at the end of 2012.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l1 level1 lfo2; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->The average SSDI monthly benefit payment for
males was $1,256<o:p></o:p></div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->The average SSDI monthly benefit payment for
females was $99316<o:p></o:p></div>
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<i>At the end of 2012</i>:<o:p></o:p></div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->7.3% of SSDI recipients received less than $500
monthly.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo3; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->46% received less than $1,000 per month.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo3; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->93% received less than $2,000 per month.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo3; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->Less than 5% of disabling accidents and
illnesses are work related. The other 95% are not, meaning Workers' Compensation
doesn't cover them.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<o:p>For more information go to:</o:p></div>
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<a href="http://www.disabilitycanhappen.org/">http://www.disabilitycanhappen.org/</a><o:p></o:p></div>
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<i>Forward RISE is a NYS nonprofit dedicated to the real inclusion of people with disabilities through forward-thinking workshops and rewarding, inclusive social events. </i><a href="http://forwardrise.org/" target="_blank"> Forward RISE</a></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12626482643150419473noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2777149089680235167.post-48656090428007756442015-02-27T09:27:00.000-05:002015-02-27T09:27:23.779-05:00Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)On July 26, 2015, we will celebrate the 25th anniversary of the passage of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) signed into law by President George H.W. Bush in 1990. It is one of the most comprehensive pieces of legislation for the disability community. It prohibits discrimination on the basis of disability in employment, public services provided by state and local governments, public services operated by private entities, transportation, commuter authorities, or telecommunications.<br />
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An excerpt from the National Council on Disability (NCD) report:<br />
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<blockquote class="tr_bq">
Living in the community with family and friends, working at a typical job in a regular business, and participating in community affairs is a right of citizenship, not a privilege for individuals with disabilities, as for all Americans. This right was confirmed with the passage of the Americans with Disabilities Act in 1990, affirmed with the 1999 Supreme Court’s Olmstead decision, and repeatedly reaffirmed in the years since that landmark decision. </blockquote>
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Disability rights are a <b>CIVIL RIGHTS</b> issue. Accessibility to public places & social programs, equality in employment practices and education – these are all federally protected rights for <b>every</b> person in the United States, including those with disabilities. We must stop viewing individuals who are disabled as subhuman or charity cases. Having ramps and elevators installed at rec centers; having ample aisle space at department stores and restaurants; providing larger stalls with handrails in public bathrooms – these are not things that people with disabilities should <i>feel grateful</i> for. It is not a <i>privilege</i> to have appropriate supports or removals of barriers. It is the <b>LAW</b>.<br />
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<i>Forward RISE is a NYS nonprofit committed to the real inclusion of
people with disabilities </i><i>through knowledge-sharing workshops and inclusive social experiences.</i></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoFooter" style="text-align: center;">
<i><a href="http://forwardrise.org/">http://forwardrise.org/</a></i></div>
</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12626482643150419473noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2777149089680235167.post-80075288090773746052015-01-23T10:03:00.000-05:002015-01-23T10:03:00.475-05:00 Achieving a Better Life Experience Act (ABLE)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnQcQkf0D6xjsB0CoDOLfVGis_Puo_2eu-uSXZRJh-QJGnKbuzMpvi4NCyd7UQx6kFO4sBf0U6e1R_m1ebG8kg4yapOIZ6SlxWw6ESQLqPMBm9AtvzKEJfBDtshzlgHZ3XA4XWFTa7eKkU/s1600/ABLE+Act.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnQcQkf0D6xjsB0CoDOLfVGis_Puo_2eu-uSXZRJh-QJGnKbuzMpvi4NCyd7UQx6kFO4sBf0U6e1R_m1ebG8kg4yapOIZ6SlxWw6ESQLqPMBm9AtvzKEJfBDtshzlgHZ3XA4XWFTa7eKkU/s1600/ABLE+Act.jpg" height="173" width="320" /></a></div>
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The Achieving a Better Life Experience Act (ABLE) was
finally signed into law by the President on December 19, 2014. Tax-free savings
accounts can now be built for a population that has historically been forced to
live in poverty. Up until now, in order to be eligible for SSI and Medicaid, a
person could not have more than $2,000 in cash and property ($3,000 for couples)
or make more than $700 <i>monthly</i> (!) in
order to be eligible for Medicaid or SSI. This means they can’t save money for
things that Medicaid and SSI don’t cover like education, housing, a job coach
or transportation. While the rest of society is encouraged to save for
emergencies, unforeseen expenses and rainy days, people with disabilities – who
have naturally higher expenses and higher medical needs – were forced to scrape
pennies and do without due to archaic laws and discriminatory notions held by
society in general. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>What is the ABLE Act?<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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<b><br /></b></div>
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Once enacted by the States, this bi-partisan piece of
legislation will give people with disabilities and their families freedoms and
security never before experienced. It amends the IRS code of 1986 to allow
savings accounts to be set up for individuals with disabilities much like the
college tuition accounts known as “529 accounts” that have been around since
1996. The Treasury Department is currently writing all of the regulations.
There will then be a period of time where public comments on the proposed rules
will be allowed. Before the end of 2015, every State is expected to establish
and operate an ABLE program. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="mso-list: l1 level1 lfo3; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Wingdings; mso-bidi-font-family: Wingdings; mso-fareast-font-family: Wingdings;"> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Wingdings; mso-bidi-font-family: Wingdings; mso-fareast-font-family: Wingdings;"> ü<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->Allows savings accounts to be set up for
individuals with disabilities<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l1 level1 lfo3; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Wingdings; mso-bidi-font-family: Wingdings; mso-fareast-font-family: Wingdings;"> ü<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->Recipients do not have to count funds as income<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="mso-list: l1 level1 lfo3; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Wingdings; mso-bidi-font-family: Wingdings; mso-fareast-font-family: Wingdings;"> ü<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->Recipients do not have to pay taxes on funds if
they are used for disability-related expenses<o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>How does it work?<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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In a nutshell, once enacted by a State, an ABLE savings account
can be opened up by an individual with a disability or by someone else on their
behalf. Up to $14,000 may be deposited yearly untaxed, with that amount to be
increased as inflation rises. If an account surpasses $100,000, the owner of
the account will no longer be eligible for SSI but would not be in danger of
losing Medicaid. When a person dies, Medicaid will be reimbursed first from the
account before it is dispersed to the person’s estate. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo4; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Wingdings; mso-bidi-font-family: Wingdings; mso-fareast-font-family: Wingdings;"> ü<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->Can be opened up by an individual with a
disability or by someone else on their behalf<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo4; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Wingdings; mso-bidi-font-family: Wingdings; mso-fareast-font-family: Wingdings;"> ü<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->Up to $14,000 may be deposited yearly<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo4; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Wingdings; mso-bidi-font-family: Wingdings; mso-fareast-font-family: Wingdings;"> ü<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->Up to $100,000 can be accrued without affecting
SSI<o:p></o:p></div>
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<b><br /></b></div>
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<b>Who is eligible?<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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Individuals with a disability wanting to establish an ABLE
account must have acquired their disability before turning 26. If an individual
is over the age of 26 but their disability onset was prior to turning 26, they
will be still be able to establish an ABLE account. Individuals who meet this
requirement and receive SSI or SSDI are automatically eligible to establish an
account. Individuals who do not receive these services may still be eligible if
they meet SSI criteria regarding who is eligible. The Treasury Department will
further explain standards of proof in the regulations they are currently
completing.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="mso-list: l2 level1 lfo2; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Wingdings; mso-bidi-font-family: Wingdings; mso-fareast-font-family: Wingdings;"> ü<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->Onset of disability must have occurred prior to
turning 26 years of age<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="mso-list: l2 level1 lfo2; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Wingdings; mso-bidi-font-family: Wingdings; mso-fareast-font-family: Wingdings;"> ü<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->Must meet SSI eligibility criteria <o:p></o:p></div>
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<b><br /></b></div>
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<b>What can the funds be
used for?<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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While the details are still being finalized, it is
anticipated that the funds will be allowed to cover any disability-related
expenses, including:<o:p></o:p></div>
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</span></span><!--[endif]-->Education<o:p></o:p></div>
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</span></span><!--[endif]-->Housing<o:p></o:p></div>
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</span></span><!--[endif]-->Transportation<o:p></o:p></div>
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</span></span><!--[endif]-->Employment training and support<o:p></o:p></div>
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</span></span><!--[endif]-->Assistive technology and personal support
services<o:p></o:p></div>
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</span></span><!--[endif]-->Health, prevention and wellness<o:p></o:p></div>
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</span></span><!--[endif]-->Financial management and administrative services<o:p></o:p></div>
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</span></span><!--[endif]-->Legal fees<o:p></o:p></div>
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</span></span><!--[endif]-->Funeral and burial expenses<o:p></o:p></div>
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This is a great step forward in the right direction for this
community. Let’s hope the regulations are completed sooner rather than later so
that individuals and families can begin saving for a better life!<o:p></o:p></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12626482643150419473noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2777149089680235167.post-6388863757444376152014-10-08T08:46:00.001-04:002014-10-08T08:46:44.622-04:00Disability History Series - Part I<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;">
In honor of
Disability Awareness Month, I would like to share with you the history of
disability beginning with the housing of individuals with disabilities in
institutions, referred to as institutionalization, and ending with what we see
today in the 21st century. This trip we are taking is a difficult one, there is
no doubt, but it is important to know where we came from so that we never go
back there again. This series will be comprised of 4 parts:<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;">
<i>Part I</i>: Institutionalization, Eugenics
and Deinstitutionalization <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;">
<i>Part II</i>: Legislation and the Disconnect
between Law and Life<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;">
<i>Part III</i>: Disability Awareness - who
"they" are and the impacts disability has on individuals<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;">
<i>Part IV</i>: The Present and the Future<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;">
<b><i><u>WARNING</u></i></b>: This
article talks about very abusive situations forced upon people with
disabilities. Please be aware that it may be upsetting to some readers. The
stories that follow are true and absolutely heart breaking. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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<br /></div>
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<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: center;">
<b>INSTITUTIONALIZATION<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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<br /></div>
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When we think of
civil rights movements the plight of African-Americans, women's suffrage and
gay rights immediately spring to mind. However, there is another group of
individuals who have been fighting for their fundamental rights for even longer
and who have not yet attained the respect of the general population. The
history of the disabled population in the United States is a long and sad one.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;">
Individuals who
either were born with their disabilities or acquired them later in life from
injury or disease were largely ignored and hidden away in institutions. What
began as an attempt by a physician in the late nineteenth century to educate
and train them quickly turned into a movement towards automatic
institutionalization. A stigma never before felt by this population developed
and they became the targets of chronic abuse by their families, the medical
community, and society en masse. Not until the middle of the twentieth century,
or thereabouts, were the disabled regarded important enough to be protected and
supported. The civil rights movement of the disabled brought the atrocities and
low living standards they bore to the forefront of society’s awareness. Through
government legislation, improvements in medicine, journalistic exposés and a
massive public outcry, deinstitutionalization was finally set in motion.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;">
We will see,
however, that often there is a lack of correlation between law rhetoric and the
concrete application of policy. We see that legislation passed with the intent
of assisting a whole class of people does not always work in the way it is
expected to. Unintended consequences are not uncommon and are in fact quite the
norm; what looks good on paper does not translate to affectability in real
life. Furthermore, the way in which the U.S. political system is set up allows
for loopholes to be built in to policies.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;">
Disability
awareness is important to understand how and why this population has suffered
as a result of being segregated from the rest of society. An individual’s
disability can have profoundly disastrous effects on a family and can lead to
isolation, mental health problems that would otherwise not be present and
abuse. Discrimination and stigmatization are the byproducts of a society based
on the concept that everyone must be “normal”.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;">
In order to make
changes, we must first look back to see where things went wrong. We must then
look at what has been done to change this and how we can continue defending the
rights of those that may not have the ability to advocate for themselves, but
deserve to have that protection just as much as non-disabled citizens.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;">
<b>THE BEGINNING<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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<br /></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwJCe-ScvNJ21___acO6AIyHenIIZr9xULthMhl7Wlm_qRoi0-noHh2B2-2ETZHI12kopLCtnnon2kVHezAatey0zo6bRmue-0xnKc2UPz5JDeP5cxNwmxhDmNyKe3M1vCngiNhfQ_vNjO/s1600/samuel-gridley-howe.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwJCe-ScvNJ21___acO6AIyHenIIZr9xULthMhl7Wlm_qRoi0-noHh2B2-2ETZHI12kopLCtnnon2kVHezAatey0zo6bRmue-0xnKc2UPz5JDeP5cxNwmxhDmNyKe3M1vCngiNhfQ_vNjO/s1600/samuel-gridley-howe.jpg" height="200" width="166" /></a></div>
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Dr. Samuel
Gridley Howe was a very important historical figure in the mid-19th century.
An abolitionist and physician, he also advocated for the blind and
"feeble-minded". He believed in the idea that these individuals could
be educated and that they could serve a valuable function within society. He
started a small school in his father's home by gathering a handful of local
youths who were blind. It proved successful and soon outgrew the walls of his
family's home. In 1832, he established the Perkins School for the Blind in
Massachusetts. He was its first superintendent and continued to be so,
tirelessly, until his death. He is also seen as the precipitator of what is now
known as the institutionalization movement that began in the 1850's. <o:p></o:p></div>
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The
industrialization of society in the early nineteenth century called for a
more-educated population. Those who did not do well in the newly developed
public education system were labeled "feeble-minded". They were
ridiculed and typically experienced horrific living conditions. Dr. Howe was
sensitive to their lives and headed a legislative commission in 1846 to study
their situation. In all, over 700 "idiots" were identified, half of
whom Dr. Howe felt could be helped with teachers and education geared towards
their specific needs. He believed they could be taught self-care and to do
simple labor. In 1849, his dream was realized and the Massachusetts School for
Idiotic Children and Youth was established in Boston with the use of public
funds. Over the next ten years, similar schools were established in several
states. These schools were intended to have a family feel to them. The objective
was to teach the students skills they could use, such as farm or household
chores, to earn a living when they returned to their original communities.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Although
institutionalization began as a humanitarian effort, it soon took a turn in
another direction. The communities from which these individuals came were not
accepting of them upon the completion of their schooling. The feebleminded were
viewed as a social burden and “normal” society felt they were better off living
at the schools permanently. Dr. Howe staunchly opposed permanent
institutionalization. In his final report to the trustees of the Massachusetts
School for Idiotic Children in 1874 when he retired, Howe warned of the
permanent segregation of the "feebleminded," insisting that they
should be integrated into society. "Even idiots have rights . . . !” he
wrote. It would be another half-century before others began to believe in
this vision. The school eventually came under direction of Walter Fernald who
was a supporter of segregating "idiotic" children from the rest of
society. The tragedy that unfolded resulting from the incarceration of
feeble-minded, mentally retarded, disfigured or otherwise abnormal individuals
was set in motion.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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<b>INSTITUTIONS</b><b><o:p></o:p></b></div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg23_wHBaGx2NWLyFI1xpZGrlZ1j3g_eXkihIVx3Dby_GJmP3aZgyWrgDGMKzIrAysq8VXHUe7lBzMvNJI-ZbnXB-ro7zJH5gMVWvoHBwAt817uJZkmWyC2BuYG4h-blk56CHDofxNbco7P/s1600/neglect.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg23_wHBaGx2NWLyFI1xpZGrlZ1j3g_eXkihIVx3Dby_GJmP3aZgyWrgDGMKzIrAysq8VXHUe7lBzMvNJI-ZbnXB-ro7zJH5gMVWvoHBwAt817uJZkmWyC2BuYG4h-blk56CHDofxNbco7P/s1600/neglect.jpg" height="131" width="200" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;">
Our history is
riddled with atrocities that the "hidden" population was subjected
to. One such story begins with Fernald and the Massachusetts School. It was
found that a large number of mentally impaired children being
"treated" at this school actually scored in the normal range in their
IQ tests (Walter E. Fernald State School). There were many reports of physical
and sexual abuse which were not exclusive to this institution. Throughout the
country, for the next fifty years, institutions initially intended to serve
those that had a disability became overcrowded, horrific institutions referred
to as "snake pits". States maintained these dilapidated monstrosities
through "legislative penny-pinching" (Maisel, 1946) under the guise
of public service when in actuality they cast aside the needs of those who
needed the most assistance. <o:p></o:p></div>
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The abuse
endured by this population stemmed from several causes. There was found to be
severe understaffing and high turnover rates at all of the institutions
investigated. The number of physicians, nurses and attendants available were
far below the minimum state standards.
At a hospital in Warren, Pennsylvania, for example, the average daily
patient load was twenty-three percent above what it was actually capable of
handling (Maisel, 1946). There were four physicians – one for every 640
patients – when the official schedule called for 12 and any decent standard
would require from 18 to 25 (Maisel, 1946). <o:p></o:p></div>
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The base pay of
attendants, less than $900 a year, was far below the beginning pay rate of
$1950 for prison guards even though the attendants' job was more dangerous and
less pleasant (Maisel, 1946). Many doctors were incompetents, alcoholics and
psychotics who could hold no position in well-run institutions where cure is
the objective (Maisel, 1946). It was extremely rare to find a case of a doctor
who was genuinely interested in curing or helping these patients; it was more
of a case of keeping these patients "in line".<o:p></o:p></div>
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These factors,
along with the stigma of being "feeble-minded", perpetuated the
accepted practice of shutting away these people by any means necessary.
Patients were confined to restraints for days and weeks at a time. These
restraints consisted of thick leather handcuffs, locks and straps, and
restraining sheets that were used to tie ankles, necks, and chests to beds,
benches and chairs. In a high number of hospitals, chemical restraints were
also used. Drugs that would normally only be prescribed and administered by
doctors and nurses even in those times were being used haphazardly by untrained
attendants. There was a reported case in a Pennsylvania state hospital of a man
in his mid-20's who was over-sedated by attendants as their method of keeping
him under control. He ultimately died because his sedation was not overseen by
a doctor; rather, there was a "free hand" administration of drugs
rampant in this particular hospital (Maisel, 1946). <o:p></o:p></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEim6nX3V0enHIP9YYAdC4jJ85mwKg5LO62Zzi1S62akTxkskenXtE0a3DPlVv_U02-ZMIFRw58Y8UGWfEmS8-BvkjEIvJSvqi8mdgEUysLoN1KbnwaM87ZkWrC_1SWvWGncd29xFp-6l-6-/s1600/malnourished.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEim6nX3V0enHIP9YYAdC4jJ85mwKg5LO62Zzi1S62akTxkskenXtE0a3DPlVv_U02-ZMIFRw58Y8UGWfEmS8-BvkjEIvJSvqi8mdgEUysLoN1KbnwaM87ZkWrC_1SWvWGncd29xFp-6l-6-/s1600/malnourished.jpg" height="189" width="200" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;">
Many hospitals
did not properly feed their patients. The food served was likened to what could
be found in garbage cans. At a New Jersey hospital an attendant noted that he
had "seen cole-slaw salad thrown loose on the table, [and] the patients
[were] expected to grab it as animals would…”(Maisel, 1946) There were many
cases where the patients starved to death because of not receiving the minimum
nourishment necessary to sustain life. Many could not feed themselves, and the
shortage of workers meant residents often did not eat properly (Dugger, 1993).<o:p></o:p></div>
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Byberry Mental
Hospital was an infamous institution known for its decrepit building conditions
and treatment of patients. The wards were overcrowded to the point that the
floors could not be seen through the rickety cots, while thousands more slept
on the bare floors (Maisel, 1946). Hundreds of patients were not given a stitch
of clothing and were forced to live in bare rooms with concrete floors. They
were not given anything to occupy their days or even have chairs or beds to sit
in. They lived in filth; the rooms smelled of urine and feces. Daylight was
their only source of light and even that was filtered in through half-inch
holes punched into steel-plated windows; cloudy days and nightfall meant hours and
days of blackness with no relief. The cries of the insane echo[ed] unheard from
the peeling plaster of the walls (Maisel, 1946). <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;">
Willowbrook
State School was a New York state-supported school for children with mental
retardation from the 1930's through 1987. An exposé in 1972 showed that it,
too, was overcrowded, housing over 6,000 children when the mandated maximum was
4,000. It became known as a warehouse for New York City's mentally disabled
children (Willowbrook State School). As many as sixty extremely disabled people
were packed into one big locked room during the day, for years on end, with
only a few attendants to supervise (Dugger, 1993). A close investigation showed
patients were forced to live with inadequate sanitary facilities which virtually
guaranteed the spreading of disease. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;">
A researcher
from New York University, Dr. Saul Krugman, proposed research that appeared
promising in distinguishing between strains of Hepatitis and in developing a
vaccine (DuBois). However, his study design involved feeding children local
strains of live Hepatitis – deliberately infecting them (DuBois). The claim
was, only children whose parents gave informed consent were used in the
questionable study. However, critics asserted that the dangers of the
experiment were downplayed to parents. Also, because the school was
overcrowded, the only rooms available were in the experimental wing which left
parents with no options other than to consent to subjecting their children to
the study (DuBois). A public outcry brought the study to a halt but not until
hundreds of non-infected children were made sick and were physically abused by
members of the school's staff (DeBello, 2008). The grandmother of a patient
there recounts seeing the condition of her four-year-old granddaughter who was
admitted there, "You could smell her. Her little toes would be so chafed I
had to pull them apart. I had to cut her hair short it was so matted."
(Dugger, 1993)<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: center;">
<b>EUGENICS<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;">
Eugenics is
another despicable part of the history of the disabled community. This trend,
which had its inception towards the late 1800’s, attempted to improve the
quality of American citizens by implementing restrictive social policies that
discouraged marriage and/or reproduction of individuals who were presumed to
have inheritable undesirable traits. This movement sought to link social ills
such as crime, prostitution, poverty, juvenile delinquency and promiscuity to
people with cognitive disabilities (Snyder & Mitchell 624-625). It is also
in this movement the term “feeblemindedness” was created. There was a tiered
hierarchy of defectiveness developed in order to be able to categorize
different levels of feeblemindedness. Idiots referred to individuals with a
mental age of two years or less; imbeciles represented those with an arrested
mentality of three to seven years; and morons referred to those attaining a
mental age of no more than twelve years of age (Snyder & Mitchell
624-625). <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;">
Using this pseudo-science as a
rationale, prominent figures of the early twentieth century attempted to purify
the American race by passing legislation legalizing compulsory sterilization of
individuals believed to be "feeble-minded", epileptic, or otherwise
“socially inadequate” individuals. Because this latter criterion was so broad
the number of people who were at risk of falling into this category was almost
infinite. Those who were institutionalized were almost guaranteed to be
sterilized. Approximately 60,000 Americans were sterilized due to compulsory
sterilization of institutionalized patients. Although it was a topic of
interest throughout the world, the United States was among the less than a
handful of countries most involved with this pseudo-science. Between 1907 and 1937 thirty-two states required
sterilization of various citizens viewed as undesirable: the mentally ill or
handicapped, those convicted of sexual, drug, or alcohol crimes and others
viewed as "degenerate"(McCarrick & Coutts, 2010).<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJ_cw-MC2QsIP_47ydjRqmIbNdpyPnWM2ZsXA3bxSLJwzZPVcaeNDYs9HR1S9AVp2XH1qGaSLfHAmbZ8Rd-l38qxQU0N97EHatKOlacJJJaBl1_8XeTbM9W6XmCDzbm8L_KmqIotit-xs8/s1600/carrie+buck.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJ_cw-MC2QsIP_47ydjRqmIbNdpyPnWM2ZsXA3bxSLJwzZPVcaeNDYs9HR1S9AVp2XH1qGaSLfHAmbZ8Rd-l38qxQU0N97EHatKOlacJJJaBl1_8XeTbM9W6XmCDzbm8L_KmqIotit-xs8/s1600/carrie+buck.jpg" height="200" width="77" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;">
The most
infamous case of eugenic sterilization was that of young Carrie Buck. Shortly
after her birth, her mother was placed in an institution for the feebleminded.
Carrie was raised by foster parents and attended school until the sixth grade.
At 17, she became pregnant. Her foster parents committed her to an institution
on the grounds of feeblemindedness and promiscuity. She gave birth to a
daughter who was adopted by her foster parents. The child died at the age of
eight due to complications resulting from the measles. Soon after being
committed, Carrie was picked as the first patient to undergo forced
sterilization after the enactment of the Eugenical Sterilization Act in
Virginia. Officials claimed that Carrie and her mother shared the hereditary
traits of feeblemindedness and promiscuity therefore Carrie was the
"probable potential parent of socially inadequate offspring."
(Lombardo) In Buck v. Bell (1927) the Supreme Court of the United States upheld
the sterilization law, with Justice Holmes infamously proclaiming in his
opinion “Three generations of imbeciles are enough.” Carrie Buck, along with
her daughter, Vivian, was sterilized.<o:p></o:p></div>
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But this
“justice” was in actuality an abuse of government and law which by extension
was abuse of “degenerate” citizens. Carrie was not promiscuous; she was raped
by a nephew of her foster parents who sought to cover up the family
embarrassment by institutionalizing her. At her trial, “experts” who had never
even met with Carrie testified to her feeblemindedness and moral inadequacies (Lombardo).
Not only was her defense attorney childhood friends with the prosecuting
attorney, he was also a longtime supporter of sterilization and a founder of
the colony to which she was committed (Lombardo). School report cards showed
that Carrie had passed each year with very good marks and Vivian had made the
honor roll (Pitzer, 2009). She and countless others were the victims of corrupt
individuals who used their education and standing in society to abuse the
judicial system in order to reach personal political ends. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Fortunately, we
have seen the end of compulsive sterilization albeit more than a little late
for the more than 65,000 people in the United States alone who were forced to
endure this procedure. The Nazis’ cited the American eugenics ideology as their
model behind their “ethnic cleansing”. The systematic murder of over 250,000
disabled people between 1939 and 1945 helped to finally dilute the fierce
support for engineering a master human race here in the U.S. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: center;">
<b>DEINSTITUTIONALIZATION<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;">
<b>SOCIAL MOVEMENT<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
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The population
of people with intellectual disabilities in public institutions peaked at
194,650 in 1967 (Community for All Tool Kit, 2004). Starting around the 1970’s,
we began to see the deinstitutionalization of what is regarded as the disabled
population. Between 1970 and 1984, 24 institutions in 12 states were closed, by
1988, 44 institutions in 20 states had been closed, and by 2000, there were 125
closures, or planned closures, in 37 states (Community for All Tool Kit, 2004).
One reason for this new trend is that in the first half of the 1940’s,
psychiatrists treating war veterans for combat-related mental illnesses began
to realize that treatment for mental illnesses in civilians would be best
treated outside traditional institutions (United States). Also, conscientious
objectors during World War II refused to serve in the military based on
religious and moral reasons. As alternatives, roughly two to three thousand
were sent to work in institutions and asylums that were understaffed (Deinstitutionalization).
They witnessed firsthand the abuse suffered by the institutionalized and began
to log their experiences. If not for them, the reality of institutional life
described earlier would likely not have been brought to the forefront of
people’s awareness. In 1946, Life magazine printed an explosive account,
“Bedlam 1946: Most U.S. Mental Hospitals are a Shame and a Disgrace”, that
depicted the atrocities endured by the institutionalized. This particular exposé
was based on photos and information gathered by the conscientious objectors and
on the firsthand witnessing of the reporter Albert Q. Maisel. <o:p></o:p></div>
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At the same time
the exposé was published, a public campaign to improve the living situations
and overall care and treatment of people with mental illness was launched by
the National Mental Health Foundation (NMHF), an extremely influential entity
to the cause. Articles announcing prominent figures such as former Supreme
Court Justice Owens and Eleanor Roosevelt as supporters of this movement were
sent to newspapers across the nation (Taylor, 2003). Mrs. Roosevelt even met
with the Conscientious Objectors personally and supported them through her
national newspaper column, “My Day” (Taylor, 2003). Throughout the late 1940s
and into the 1950s, NMHF conducted aggressive public awareness campaigns to
change public attitudes toward people with mental illness (Taylor, 2003). <o:p></o:p></div>
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A social
movement sprung to life. More and more exposés in the following years peeled
back the layers of secrecy shrouding these abominations of our country’s
history such as the one at Willowbrook Hospital by Geraldo Rivera. Furthermore,
doctors and parents outraged over the treatment of patients in this institution
began going public. They picketed the administration building, blocked traffic
on the street and talked to reporters (Dugger, 1993). Communities were shocked
to learn of the horrific environments the disabled were being forced to live
in. Public sentiment towards the disabled began to change. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;">
<b>GOVERNMENT ACTION<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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<br /></div>
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The powerful
philosophy of the Civil Rights Movement of the 1960’s opened up the eyes of the
United States government. By this time important political figures, such as
Senator Robert Kennedy and President John F. Kennedy, were formally denouncing
the revolting circumstances of the nation’s asylums and called for federal
policy changes in the treatment of those with mental illnesses. Rosemary
Kennedy, one of the President’s sisters, was described as slow and possibly
dyslexic and mentally retarded. Her family chose to place her in an
institution. Perhaps this was the strongest motivator in the Kennedys’ fight
for equal rights for the disabled. “The time has come for a great national
effort,” stated President Kennedy (Kennedy, 1963). <o:p></o:p></div>
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In his first
year in office, President Kennedy established the President’s Panel on Mental
Retardation. Six task forces were created and charged with conducting an
“intensive search for solutions” to the problems experienced by people with
mental retardation (Minnesota Governor). The 1962 report of the Panel on Mental
Retardation heralded the beginning of federal involvement and fiscal aid to
states (Minnesota Governor). The report contained 112 recommendations under the
headings of research…a new legal and social concept of mental retardation,
increased educational opportunities to learn about mental retardation, and
public education and information programs (Minnesota Governor). <o:p></o:p></div>
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The Community Mental Health
Act of 1963 (CMHA) was legislation passed by Kennedy’s administration
which played a large part in the deinstitutionalization trend. The CMHA
provided grants to states for the establishment of local mental health centers,
under the overview of the <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/National_Institute_of_Mental_Health" title="National Institute of Mental Health">National Institute of Mental Health</a>
(Community Mental Health Act). In 1965, an Intermediate Care Facility
(ICF) program was set up for the elderly and disabled adults under the Social
Security Act (Lakin, Larson, Salmi, Scott, 2009).<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;">
Three outcomes were intended by
proponents of this legislation: 1) to provide substantial federal incentives
for upgrading the physical environment and the quality of care and habilitation
being provided in large public ID/DD facilities; 2) to neutralize incentives
for states to place persons with ID/DD in nonstate nursing homes and/or to
certify their large state facilities as SNFs; and 3) to provide a program for
care and habilitation (“active treatment”) specifically focused on the needs of
persons with ID/DD rather than upon medical care. Although the population of
state facilities continued to decrease on a yearly basis states overwhelmingly
certified their public institutions to participate in the ICF program (Lakin et
al., 2009). <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;">
Proponents of community based
services used statistics generated by the ICF program to propel their argument.
They argued that the program provided an incentive to maintain large state
facilities by offering federal funding. Funds that could have been diverted to
develop and support community services and programs were instead used to
renovate large facilities in order to receive these federal funds. This model
also promoted a single standard for care for ICF residents regardless of the
nature of their disability or degree of capacity for independence. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;">
Section 2176 of
the Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act (OBRA) of 1981 created the Medicaid Home
and Community-Based Services (HCBS) waiver program. This was passed in order to
provide non-institutional services to individuals who are disabled that were in
or at risk of being placed in institutions. However, many in the advocacy field
began to get a sense that there were many more people with ID/DD living in
nursing homes than were appropriately served in them (Lakin et al., 2009).
Congress attempted to rectify the situation by passing the OBRA of 1987 which
restricted the criteria for patients permitted to enter a Medicaid approved
nursing facility to ensure that only individuals needing the nursing and
medical services offered would be admitted. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;">
The OBRA of 1986
proved to do very little as the barrage of court cases of the 1990’s suing
facilities in violation proved. There have been court cases over the course of
the last half century that has given rights to those who are disabled and their
families. There have also been cases in which people or entities have been
found guilty of discrimination based on disability even after legislation has
been passed in order to end this type of discrimination.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWlNH10ytrzw2ucttaCgGp0IzE2oXKveXruNb2vdDGcKkCiqTkN5Pk7I2EZ-kmSljjB559iRXlOu1j1yuFBRKsVsRiBEaQaYkGxFG6ipbwa3WGhgHT2Sx_UrD-bHD4FWme2TGaf2_XvLMx/s1600/justice.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWlNH10ytrzw2ucttaCgGp0IzE2oXKveXruNb2vdDGcKkCiqTkN5Pk7I2EZ-kmSljjB559iRXlOu1j1yuFBRKsVsRiBEaQaYkGxFG6ipbwa3WGhgHT2Sx_UrD-bHD4FWme2TGaf2_XvLMx/s1600/justice.jpg" height="136" width="200" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;">
A landmark
example is the Olmstead decision (<a href="http://supct.law.cornell.edu/supct/html/98-536.ZS.html">Olmstead v. L.C
and E.W</a>). In 1999, two women, institutionalized by the state of Georgia,
fought for their right to live in their own home in their community without
losing government benefits. Georgia claimed that by allowing these women to
move into the community, it would lead to the closing of state-run facilities
and disrupt government funding to individuals in these facilities. However, the
Supreme Court found that forcing individuals to remain in institutions in cases
where their attending physicians felt it was unnecessary violated their rights
as written in Title II of the ADA. The 'integration mandate' of the Americans
with Disabilities Act requires public agencies to provide services "in the
most integrated setting appropriate to the needs of qualified individuals with
disabilities." (Supreme Court Upholds ADA 'Integration Mandate' in
Olmstead decision) The Court noted that confinement in an institution severely
diminishes the everyday life activities of individuals – including family
relations, social contacts, work options, economic independence, educational
advancement, and cultural enrichment. (United States, 2000) It further found that
it was a violation of a person’s rights as written in Title II of the ADA to
force them to be institutionalized in order to receive their Medicaid benefits.
Medicaid is the largest health insurance program used by low-income persons
with disabilities. Approximately twenty percent of the American population with
severe disabilities has no other health coverage. This means that Medicaid
serves over five million consumers who have no other way of covering their
life-sustaining needs. This ruling increased the momentum of
deinstitutionalization and began a trend towards home and community-based
services (HCBS) (Stroman, 2003). <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;">
However, it was
apparent that not enough had been done. Society made disabled people
"invisible by shutting them away in segregated facilities" Rep.
George Miller (D.-Calif.) said in a Congressional debate on the ADA bill in
1989. (Supreme Court Upholds ADA 'Integration Mandate' in Olmstead Decision)
Out of sight, out of mind had been a long time standard for how to “deal with”
individuals with mental and physical disabilities. Medicaid has been referred
to having an “institutional bias” because it has historically preferred
nursing-home facilities, such as ICF’s, to community-based long term care
(LTC). In 2005, Medicaid paid $101 billion
for LTC services, the majority of which was for institutional care (63
percent). (Coffey, 2008) In 2008, nationally, HCBS recipients made up 84.9
percent of the total HCBS and ICF recipient population but used only 65.1
percent of total HCBS and ICF-MR expenditures (Lakin et al., 2009). The
per-person expenditures for recipients of HCBS services were lower in every
state than those for ICF recipients (Lakin et al., 2009).<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;">
The Deficit
Reduction Act of 2005 (DRA) helped to further deinstitutionalization by making
very significant changes to state Medicaid coverage of long-term care services.
States now have the option to provide home and community based services (HCBS)
as a state plan benefit (Coffey, 2008).<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;">
States can
provide HCBS benefits in three ways: <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="line-height: 150%; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">An optional
1915(c) HCBS waiver<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="line-height: 150%; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">A mandatory home
health benefit<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="line-height: 150%; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">An optional
state plan personal care services benefit<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;">
Since its
inception, the number of people requesting HCBS has steadily risen. In 2006,
280,176 individuals were on a waiting list for HCBS services, up from 206,427
individuals in 2004 (Crowley & Risa, 2003). <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;">
The DRA also enacted the Money
Follows the Person program (MFP) which is a program intended to help
individuals currently receiving services in institutions transition into their
communities and allow them to self-direct their care plan. The government
provides a cash incentive for states to expand their HCBS program funding. The
Medicaid dollars will “follow the person” so that these individuals will be
able to retain their Medicaid coverage and have it delivered through HCBS
programs. It already matched at least half of state Medicaid expenses. Under
MFP, states will receive an enhanced match for the HCBS services provided for
the first twelve months to each individual transitioned under the program
(Coffey, 2008).<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;">
A state plan option allows for states to
provide HCBS waiver services without needing to get a waiver for individuals
with disabilities up to 150 percent of the poverty level. As promising as these
options appear to be, they are very narrow in scope and do not allow for all of
those who wish to live in their communities to do so. Furthermore, few states
have taken up the state plan option to date (Crowley & Risa, 2003).<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;">
However, there is still an institutional bias
in the Medicaid system. What this means is that the way Medicaid has been set
up promotes the institutionalization of individuals as opposed to home and
community based services (HCBS). In June 2008 an estimated 51.8 percent of HCBS
recipients received services in settings other than the home of natural or
adoptive family members (Lakin et al., 2009). While there has been a trend for
wanting deinstitutionalization the numbers show that a large number of disabled
individuals have no choice but to enter an institution. In 2005, 59 percent of
Medicaid spending on long-term care and support services was spent on
institutions whereas the national average of the same type of spending on home
and community based services was only 37 percent (Crowley & Risa, 2003).<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;">
There is currently a large movement towards person-centered planning, where the individual chooses what to do, where to go and who to be with. We will discuss this further in Part IV. Next week, Part II, we will look at legislation that has been passed in the areas of accessibility and education. </div>
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<br /></div>
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<u1:p>
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Photo credits: </div>
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theladdschool.com</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
http://www.exceptionalcatholicmn.com/we-remember.html</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Sources:<o:p></o:p><u1:p></u1:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
DeBello, Vanessa.
"History." Willowbrook State School – A Voice Behind the Wall.
Blogspot,<o:p></o:p><u1:p></u1:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
03
October 2008. Web. 4 May 2011.<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><a href="http://willowbrookstateschool.blogspot.com/2008/10/willowbrook-state-school-lesson-for.html"><http://willowbrookstateschool.blogspot.com/2008/10/<u1:p></u1:p></a><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span class="MsoHyperlink"><a href="http://willowbrookstateschool.blogspot.com/2008/10/willowbrook-state-school-lesson-for.html">
willowbrook-state-school-lesson-for.html></a></span>.<o:p></o:p><u1:p></u1:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
DuBois, James. "Hepatitis
Studies at the Willowbrook State School for Children with Mental<o:p></o:p><u1:p></u1:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Retardation." Ethics in Mental Health Research. Saint Louis
University and Missouri<o:p></o:p><u1:p></u1:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Institute of Mental Health, n.d. Web. 20 May 2010.<o:p></o:p><u1:p></u1:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><span class="MsoHyperlink"><http://www.emhr.net/download.php?id=4></span>.<o:p></o:p><u1:p></u1:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Dugger, Celia. "Big Day for
Ex-Residents Of Center for the Retarded." New York Times (1993):<o:p></o:p><u1:p></u1:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
n.<span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="font-size: 9pt; letter-spacing: 1.5pt;"> </span></span>pag. Web.
14 October 2010.<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><a href="file:///F:/BACKUP%202_2014/Documents/Documents/CW%20POST/THESIS%201/%3chttp:/www.nytimes.com/1993/03/12/nyregion/big-day-for-ex-"><http://www.nytimes.com/1993/03/12/nyregion/big-day-for-<u1:p></u1:p></a><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span class="MsoHyperlink"><a href="file:///F:/BACKUP%202_2014/Documents/Documents/CW%20POST/THESIS%201/%3chttp:/www.nytimes.com/1993/03/12/nyregion/big-day-for-ex-">
ex-residents-of-center-for-the-retarded.html></a></span>.<o:p></o:p><u1:p></u1:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Maisel, Albert. "Bedlam 1946:
Most U.S. Mental Hospitals are a Shame and a Disgrace." Time<o:p></o:p><u1:p></u1:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Life Magazine. 6 May 1946: Print.<o:p></o:p><u1:p></u1:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Pfeiffer, David. "Samuel
Gridley Howe and 'Schools for the Feeble-minded'." Ragged Edge<o:p></o:p><u1:p></u1:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Online. Advocado Press, 2003. Web. 4 September 2010.<o:p></o:p><u1:p></u1:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><a href="http://www.ragged-edgemag.com/0103/0103ft2.html">http://www.ragged-edgemag.com/0103/0103ft2.html</a>.<o:p></o:p><u1:p></u1:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
"Samuel Gridley
Howe." FamousAmericans.net. Appleton's Cyclopedia of American
Biography,<o:p></o:p><u1:p></u1:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
2001. Web. 14 September 2010.<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><a href="http://www.famousamericans.net/samuelgridleyhowe/">http://www.famousamericans.net/samuelgridleyhowe/</a>.<o:p></o:p><u1:p></u1:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Willowbrook State School.” In<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><i>Wikipedia</i>. Retrieved 5 Oct.
2010.<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Willowbrook_State_School">http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/<u1:p></u1:p></a><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span class="MsoHyperlink"><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Willowbrook_State_School">
Willowbrook_State_School</a></span><span class="apple-style-span"><span style="letter-spacing: 1.5pt;">.</span></span><o:p></o:p></div>
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</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12626482643150419473noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2777149089680235167.post-67026092010753237292014-10-02T10:36:00.001-04:002014-10-02T10:36:03.260-04:00Sheltered Workshops: A Thing of the Past in Vermont<b><span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 21.4666652679443px;">Workshops - Yay or Nay?</span></b><br /><div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
There is a great debate taking place on whether or not
sheltered workshops should still be an option for people with disabilities who
are out of school. <span style="background-color: white;"><a href="http://theseed9811.blogspot.com/2014/05/what-this-new-proposal-will-do.html" target="_blank">Read my pros and cons on workshops here. </a></span>One of the main arguments people have
against closing down workshops is the fear that the individuals working there
will have no place to go since businesses don’t tend to hire people with
disabilities. The numbers seem to back that up since the unemployment rate of
people with disabilities is twice that of people without disabilities, according
to the Department of Labor (as of August 2014). You can <a href="http://www.dol.gov/odep/" target="_blank">find more informationon that here.</a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
However, the state of Vermont is
an example of contradiction to this argument. <a href="http://www.disabilityscoop.com/2014/09/30/what-sheltered-workshops-close/19717/" target="_blank">According to this article </a>:<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 11.5pt; line-height: 115%;">“The
sheltered workshops that are still prevalent across much of the country were
shut down in Vermont more than a decade ago. And now, the employment rate of
people with developmental disabilities in the New England state is <b>twice the national average</b>.</span>”
(emphasis added)<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyCZ8qsOM9QRvfKoJEWnJGHAHTFxI45S9BlyvmrzjEVZE2yHFbAo3gkv8_sQLGaVY73wdmqnHhz52-j3aNHzfWgkdU2dikScx2s_KGqxX-DsPUAy8XS7VolYbKr9_1J-UYDspOxIY1ddop/s1600/playtime.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyCZ8qsOM9QRvfKoJEWnJGHAHTFxI45S9BlyvmrzjEVZE2yHFbAo3gkv8_sQLGaVY73wdmqnHhz52-j3aNHzfWgkdU2dikScx2s_KGqxX-DsPUAy8XS7VolYbKr9_1J-UYDspOxIY1ddop/s1600/playtime.jpg" height="106" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Inclusion in play and work</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<b><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">How did Vermont do it? <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"></span></b><br /><b><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The University of Vermont received
a grant to build programs for integrated employment in the 1980’s. They worked
with state disability agencies and its success over time was enough for Vermont
to realize that sheltered workshops were not how the state wanted their
citizens with disabilities to be treated. Workshops were phased out over a
4-year period: new entries into workshops were no longer allowed and their
funding was incrementally cut. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Of course there were fears from
the families who would be directly affected by this and rightly so. As parents,
we want our children to be safe and secure, accepted by peers and part of
something bigger than themselves. Could these desires be realized if workers
with disabilities don’t have contact with others who are also disabled? Is
there a job out there they could actually do <i>and</i> feel good about doing? Would society in general accept them? <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
It turns out, the answer is yes! In
Vermont, about 80% of the people who used to be in workshops found employment
in an integrated setting. The rest found other community-based services. According
to the article, “In fiscal year 2013, the average wage for supported employees
was $9.26, more than 50 cents above the state’s minimum wage and $2 above the
federal minimum wage.” How incredible is that?! <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
And Vermont shows no signs of
slowing down. It has increased its numbers of employed disabled individuals
yearly. To continue their success rate, ongoing support is available in each
county and doesn’t fade over time, which is common in most other states. There are
also education programs with businesses that ease fears and answers questions
for potential emplo<o:p></o:p></div>
yers. <br />
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Looking to the future<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Some argue that the reason Vermont
was able to be so successful is because it’s a small state. But isn’t that a
cop out? As a parent to <a href="http://theseed9811.blogspot.com/2012/06/little-411-on-girl.html" target="_blank">a teenager whose CP severely impacts her</a>, I worry about
her future all the time. What will she do when she ages out of school? Today, I
can’t picture a job where she can be independent because of the extremity of
her physical disability but who knows where we’ll be in terms of technology and
employability six years from now? My greatest hope is that all states work
towards achieving the successful model Vermont has realized so that our
community has as many options as it can. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 65.25pt; text-align: center;">
<b><span style="color: red; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Let’s not continue to set the bar so low for
our people!<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12626482643150419473noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2777149089680235167.post-21233617167997095612014-09-19T12:19:00.001-04:002014-09-28T07:18:22.855-04:00Wells Fargo seems to have humans with hearts running it! <div class="MsoNormal">
<br />
<b style="background-color: yellow;">UPDATE!</b><br />
<b>Wells Fargo has agreed to cancel her eviction and is in talks with her attorney. There have been numerous calls and letter of support as well as donations to help Sandra. Her attorney is setting up a fund for her. If you care to help, you can call 203-324-7744 or email Sandra Weiler at mrsweiler@aol.com.</b><br />
<b><br /></b>
*****************************************************<br />
<b><br /></b>
<b><br /></b>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEU_4lq00xoTgc3jgLAWvZdz65G8_VSVPyFKqdgz4_U0KlGt4h7yRpik52p3cSDCbc41rc6ndpWpYczbQyB2CRLB_UFKgua35bfyWg8lE3O1xEOC07DfDgxS60mFrLcju_2tVI0JNesB8w/s1600/MONEY.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; display: inline !important; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEU_4lq00xoTgc3jgLAWvZdz65G8_VSVPyFKqdgz4_U0KlGt4h7yRpik52p3cSDCbc41rc6ndpWpYczbQyB2CRLB_UFKgua35bfyWg8lE3O1xEOC07DfDgxS60mFrLcju_2tVI0JNesB8w/s1600/MONEY.jpg" /></a><br />
So far, cerebral palsy and cancer hasn't stopped Sandra Weiler. Will Wells Fargo follow suit? Could it be that the banking industry is doing the right
thing? Taking what seems to be a "human-centered" approach rather
than a "dollar-centered" approach, Wells Fargo has agreed to review a
particular case and put their decided eviction of Sandra Weiler, a woman
with cerebral palsy, on hold.<br />
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
At first glance, automatic assumptions would run rampant
through many people's minds about how this woman ended up getting an eviction
notice. Things like "government assistance" and "moocher"
might occur to some people (ok, LOTS of people) reading this. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
But before you make up your mind, let me tell you that <a href="http://wtnh.com/2014/09/16/eviction-on-hold-for-woman-living-w-cerebral-palsy/" target="_blank">the woman you see in the still of this video</a> has her PhD, has owned a daycare and is a special
education teacher who currently teaches at a university in Connecticut. She was also fighting cancer and has recently lost her medical coverage.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Yes, I know banks are in it for the money but aren’t there
times where a person could actually just be going through a rough patch and be
given an extension? I’m so glad Sandra Weiler was given an extension and I hope
that Wells Fargo will allow her to stay in her accessible home which she has
customized to her particular needs to give her the independence every human
being deserves!<o:p></o:p></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12626482643150419473noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2777149089680235167.post-84833262184101212692014-06-11T11:00:00.000-04:002014-06-11T11:00:42.902-04:00More 411 on the ABLE ActIn May, I posted <a href="http://theseed9811.blogspot.com/2014/05/able-act-savings-for-people-with.html" target="_blank">"ABLE Act - Savings For People With Disabilities"</a> which explains what the ABLE Act is and why it's so important to the disability community. I just came across this other article that also explains what it's about in very real terms. I wanted to share it because I can't stress enough how important it is that this piece of legislation become a reality! Here's the link to <a href="http://m.washingtonpost.com/blogs/wonkblog/wp/2014/04/22/how-medicaid-forces-the-disabled-to-be-poor/?utm_content=buffer50bde&utm_medium=social&utm_source=facebook.com&utm_campaign=buffer" target="_blank">"How Medicaid Forces the Disabled to be Poor"</a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12626482643150419473noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2777149089680235167.post-44990460230944844712014-05-28T08:59:00.000-04:002014-05-28T09:05:52.396-04:00Sheltered Workshops: A Good Thing Or A Bad Thing For People With Disabilities?<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Workforce Investment Act</b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Currently, most students with disabilities are referred to
sub-minimum wage jobs (often times <i>substantially
</i>less than the $7.25 minimum wage rate) at workshops when they graduate
from high school. There is new legislation under consideration in both Houses
of Congress that would alter their pathway into the workforce. Under Section
511 of the Workforce Investment Act, people under 24 years of age could not be
employed by workshops unless they have sought employment in other settings
first. This legislation also requires that state vocational rehabilitation
agencies provide “pre-employment services” to students at schools in their
area.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Pros/Cons </b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2y_IKe1J8iagGyYuMx9yo8w7FSiOqfaIDAxggwhXQ93NuXJTtt-esCdOAoF1uAzVUMbKqJXSaxs2X6aqNC1e3l-vER3GCMa5txkeh5MN358LwhC6abgQ3dtsynB2NaoItLeSYVi-7wWgu/s1600/workforce.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2y_IKe1J8iagGyYuMx9yo8w7FSiOqfaIDAxggwhXQ93NuXJTtt-esCdOAoF1uAzVUMbKqJXSaxs2X6aqNC1e3l-vER3GCMa5txkeh5MN358LwhC6abgQ3dtsynB2NaoItLeSYVi-7wWgu/s1600/workforce.jpg" height="133" width="200" /></a></b></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
There are many who are supportive of passing this
legislation. They believe it will re-route youth into more fulfilling career
paths who may have otherwise been automatically steered toward subminimum wage
employment. Christopher Danielsen, a spokesman for the National Federation of
the Blind, is quoted as saying that this proposal is an “important first step
toward eliminating wage discrimination against people with disabilities.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
However, there are those who fear the passage of this
legislation will only hurt the disability community. Parents and caregivers of
individuals with severe cognitive and developmental disabilities feel that
sheltered workshops are the only option for certain individuals because of the
limitations their disability puts on them. By taking away the option of
workshops, Congress is taking away these individuals’ ability to “have
something to do”, be out in society, make friends and have a sense of
self-worth. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Desegregation</b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><br /></b></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1tcZhM46zWhd2K38HNRoEwEGkgk_YSgF7GjTgNHMOJHlRjwNznMeb74dhqHeMEJc6-x_qu5B6sg0adDZqIYmj_El1vzgGQM5ObHAXL72jqh25dUsq495aUOjxBg9-UbBuhyphenhyphenZBAwTVYQPZ/s1600/forward+rise+logo+smaller.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="ForwardRISE.org" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1tcZhM46zWhd2K38HNRoEwEGkgk_YSgF7GjTgNHMOJHlRjwNznMeb74dhqHeMEJc6-x_qu5B6sg0adDZqIYmj_El1vzgGQM5ObHAXL72jqh25dUsq495aUOjxBg9-UbBuhyphenhyphenZBAwTVYQPZ/s1600/forward+rise+logo+smaller.png" height="200" title="ForwardRISE.org" width="186" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Forward RISE Logo</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I’d be interested to see exactly how this would work. In my
opinion, this proposal has great potential for getting people with disabilities
into society in a very real way. At <a href="http://forwardrise.org/" target="_blank"><span style="background: yellow; mso-highlight: yellow;">Forward RISE</span>,</a> we are committed to inclusion, and the passage of
a proposal like this is a great step towards this goal. There is a significant
segregation between the two communities of people with and people without
disabilities and the only way to fix this is through <i>real</i> inclusion. State vocational rehab agencies can begin their
work with students when they reach high school age so that they can prep for
transition to life after school. <a href="http://www.northjersey.com/news/new-bergen-county-school-district-program-offers-life-skills-for-special-needs-students-1.1015202#sthash.rmsIDfAe.dpuf" target="_blank">This school in New Jersey</a> has a great program
for its students with developmental disabilities that offers real-life skills
and industry certifications to help them land a job or to succeed in college. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
When I was in high school, I remember taking a questionnaire
that narrowed down my interests into possible career paths. There could be a
modified version of this for people with disabilities. If a person only has one
option – sheltered workshops – they will never learn if they have the potential
to do something different. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Why is this so important? We have to consider the bar that
we set for people with disabilities. Are we setting the bar too low by assuming
that the best place for anybody with a disability is a sheltered workshop? I
say yes! Too often, assumptions are made on people with disabilities. <a href="http://theseed9811.blogspot.com/2014/01/people-with-disabilities-have-right-to.html" target="_blank">It is presumed that they are incapable of making decisions</a>, keeping a schedule or
following directions, let alone having higher-thinking qualities needed for
employment. <a href="http://www.disabilityscoop.com/2014/05/20/food-truck-jobs/19376/" target="_blank">Destination Desserts changes the game</a> by assuming that people with
disabilities <i>do</i> have the ability to
hold down a job outside of a sheltered workshop. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
But we also have to realize that there are certain
individuals for whom sheltered workshops would be the best environment. Taking
away that option completely would devastate many individuals and families who
rely on these places.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
As with anything, change can be scary and difficult,
especially when we are talking about a community with such a varied group of
people. This proposal can be the beginning of the desegregation of disabled and
able-bodied people. I can’t wait until the word “inclusion” is no longer a part
of our conversation because at that point, it will just <i>be</i>.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
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<br /></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12626482643150419473noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2777149089680235167.post-42381086198140171482014-05-19T15:49:00.000-04:002014-05-19T15:52:48.046-04:00Bullied Boy Gets Charged After Recording Bullies In Action<div class="MsoNormal">
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgR8LC1thVGc2PbXDaMwTw2mI8g2YDC1mJPsqIqlggjH6OSp-CmcBq5DzF6PBAZr6pz1-KNTuWqKp5IeQYuVGopLPuBvldfrwxTj7wPTXidy9kJ4CBuwkozqTzwMsn5od_dqD0YEJwUEg3u/s1600/sticks.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgR8LC1thVGc2PbXDaMwTw2mI8g2YDC1mJPsqIqlggjH6OSp-CmcBq5DzF6PBAZr6pz1-KNTuWqKp5IeQYuVGopLPuBvldfrwxTj7wPTXidy9kJ4CBuwkozqTzwMsn5od_dqD0YEJwUEg3u/s1600/sticks.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br />
A 15-year-old boy with a comprehension delay disorder, ADHD, and an anxiety disorder complained to his school and parents that there were bullies who were intimidating him and physically attacking him yet the school failed to intervene on behalf of their student. He decided to take action and use his school-issued iPad to record an incident with the (rational) thought that if he had proof he could stop the bullying. Boy, was he wrong! Instead what happened was he, himself, was charged with disorderly conduct for secretly recording individuals who didn’t give consent to being recorded! If you’re thinking, “Surely this can’t be happening now, in today’s society” you are very wrong, my friend. He was just found guilty on March 19, 2014. You might also be thinking, “This must have happened somewhere outside of America because this type of unfairness would not be allowed in an advanced country such as ours”, and you would be wrong on this account, as well. This happened in the great state of Pennsylvania, one of 12 states that require the consent of all parties when making a recording. The bullies have never been punished.<br />
<br />
<br />
Thankfully, the DA eventually decided not to pursue this case and dropped the charges after it gained public attention. But there is something seriously wrong with Lt. Robert Kurta, the officer who made the decision to file a citation against the teen, and the legal system if a teen who isn’t being protected by their school takes matters into their own hands in a non-violent way. You can watch an<a href="http://www.inquisitr.com/1216349/christian-stanfield-bullied-boy-sent-to-court-over-illegal-wiretapping-speaks-out/" target="_blank"> interview of the teen here</a>.</div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Thanks to The Mobility Resource for bringing this story to my attention.</span></div>
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<o:p></o:p></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12626482643150419473noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2777149089680235167.post-17560110197593115542014-05-13T09:35:00.000-04:002014-05-13T09:35:43.256-04:00ABLE Act - Savings for People With Disabilities<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjY0FjcC5GEVzLfX60VxWSC_0Db5uyc0GPtJw1NXe5IaHdGGuBD62P1H0STwtTTR_uJcc5WtgS6BGS_-Izo9OAAgzf7WzUZBJ2Eqr71acCaXbtzfYVQhx3Bo3VTIbpfMuK-bHE8LK8Y7erQ/s1600/ABLE+act.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjY0FjcC5GEVzLfX60VxWSC_0Db5uyc0GPtJw1NXe5IaHdGGuBD62P1H0STwtTTR_uJcc5WtgS6BGS_-Izo9OAAgzf7WzUZBJ2Eqr71acCaXbtzfYVQhx3Bo3VTIbpfMuK-bHE8LK8Y7erQ/s1600/ABLE+act.jpg" height="133" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The <i>Achieving a Better Life Experience (ABLE) Act</i> was
introduced in Congress in February 2013 and it has recently been analyzed by
the Congressional Budget Office (CBO), a nonpartisan federal agency that that
provides budget and economic information to Congress. If and when it is finally
passed, it can make a huge positive impact on the lives of people with
disabilities. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>ABLE Act – What it
means<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The ABLE Act would amend the IRS revenue code in such a way
that would allow savings accounts to be set up for individuals with
disabilities much like the college tuition accounts known as “529 accounts”
that have been around since 1996. The money accrued in that account is not considered
taxable income to the individual and their eligibility for SSI or Medicaid is
not at risk, which are often times the only income and medical coverage people
with disabilities have. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>A real life example:<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>Tony’s sister has a
beautiful little girl who was born with cerebral palsy. Little Maggie is the
light of her mother’s eye but she has a long road ahead of her. Tony sees how
much it costs to get the equipment Maggie needs and deserves in order to be
included in the rest of the family’s daily life. Maggie’s mom works very hard
but can’t possibly cover all the expenses on her own. Medicaid only covers the very basics and even
those things are often a fight to get. Tony decides to help out by setting up
an ABLE account for Maggie’s needs. He knows it won’t count as income to
Maggie’s household so there’s no risk that the SSI and Medicaid Maggie and her
family rely on will be affected. Family members & friends regularly deposit
money in Maggie’s account for holidays & birthdays and Maggie’s mom is able
to pay for the expenses that Medicaid doesn’t cover.<o:p></o:p></i></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Key Characteristics</b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="text-indent: -0.25in;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<ul>
<li><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">Anybody (including the individuals with
disabilities themselves) can set up an ABLE account and multiple accounts in
different states can be set up for one individual</span></li>
<li><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">Qualified expenses include education; housing;
transportation; employment support; health, prevention, and wellness;
miscellaneous expenses (such as financial management or legal fees); assistive
technology and personal support services</span></li>
<li><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">Earning and distributions from the account would
not count as taxable income to the owner</span></li>
<li><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">Contributions would be made using cash from the
contributor’s after-tax income</span></li>
<li><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">Assets in these account would be disregarded
when determining the individual’s eligibility for most federal means-tested
benefits such as medical coverage</span></li>
<li><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">The first $100,000 would be disregarded when
considering the eligibility for SSI</span></li>
</ul>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>ABLE Act – Impact on
SSI<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
In order to quality for SSI, an individual cannot have more
than $2,000 in assets (for couples it’s $3,000). If their assets exceed this
maximum amount, they must spend down the excess before they can qualify. Think
about what this means! A person with disabilities cannot have a “rainy day”
fund or a savings account for fun vacations like the rest of society. Doesn’t
every financial expert say that we should have at least 6-8 months of expenses
saved in case of an emergency? I guess people with disabilities don’t have
emergencies like people without disabilities! Why would they need to have money
saved up? The reality is, people with disabilities have higher medical expenses
but are expected to live in poverty before they can qualify for government
assistance which covers the very, very basics! And I hope that you, dear reader
who doesn’t have a disability, will not <i>become</i>
disabled due to an accident or illness because any money you’ve worked so hard
to save up until then will have to be handed over until you have almost nothing
left. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>Another real life
example:<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>Joe has always been a
hard worker. He got his first job as a cashier at age 16 and was taught to save
by his parents. By the time he turned 26, he managed to save over $15,000 in a
savings account. For his 27<sup>th</sup> birthday he and his friends decided to
go bungee jumping. That decision cost him his legs. After a freak accident, Joe
became paralyzed from the waist down. He had to stop working because of his
injuries and no longer had medical coverage. He applied for SSI and Medicaid
but because he had so much money saved – money he was saving to buy himself a
home – he didn’t qualify. Joe had to spend all that money he worked so hard for
before he could find any assistance. A man who was independent and always
worked for the things he wanted now had almost no money left and had to depend
on the government for what little they could do for him. <o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Support is growing</b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 13.5pt; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
Thankfully, the list of people and organizations that
are behind the ABLE Act is steadily growing. The passage of this Act is crucial
to people with disabilities and their loved ones. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 13.5pt; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 13.5pt; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
Congressman Crenshaw states it well:<span style="line-height: 13.5pt;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoQuote">
<i>"No longer would individuals with disabilities have to
stand aside and watch others use IRS-sanctioned tools to lay the groundwork for
a brighter future. They would be able to as well, and that's an accomplishment
we can all be<span style="color: #646464; font-family: "Helvetica","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> </span>proud
of."</i><span style="color: #646464; font-family: "Helvetica","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoQuote">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
To see if your state’s Representatives and Senators support
the ABLE Act you can check the following websites:<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 21pt;">
<a href="http://beta.congress.gov/bill/113th-congress/house-bill/647/cosponsors?q=%7b%22search%22%3A%5b%22HR+647%22%5d%7d">House
of Representatives 113th Congress (2013-201</a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<a href="http://beta.congress.gov/bill/113th-congress/house-bill/647/cosponsors?q=%7b%22search%22%3A%5b%22HR+647%22%5d%7d">4)</a><o:p></o:p><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 21pt;">
<a href="http://thomas.loc.gov/cgi-bin/bdquery/z?d113:SN00313:@@@P|/home/LegislativeData.php|" target="_blank">Senate113th Congress (2013 - 2014)</a><br />
<!--[if !supportLineBreakNewLine]--><br />
<!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 21pt; text-align: center;">
<b>It’s time for the government and
certain populations in our society to expect those with the least to give the
most!</b><o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 21pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: red; font-size: x-large;">Equality for all, ALWAYS!</span><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 21pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: red; font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 21pt; text-align: center;">
<i>Be sure to Like me on Facebook at <a href="https://www.facebook.com/theseed9811" target="_blank">theSeed</a> and at <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Forward-RISE/216943915165121" target="_blank">Forward RISE</a></i></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12626482643150419473noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2777149089680235167.post-44384475862293784802014-04-23T12:54:00.000-04:002014-04-23T13:02:13.881-04:00Fundraising Event in NY - Proceeds to Benefit People With Disabilities<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: red;">Forward RISE, a nonprofit committed to the inclusion of people </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: red;">with disabilities, is sponsoring a fun afternoon of </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: red;">bowling at East Islip Lanes (NY). </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Check out our website at <a href="http://forwardrise.org/">Forwardrise.org</a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Like us on Facebook at <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Forward-RISE/216943915165121" target="_blank">Forward Rise Facebook</a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="background-color: white; color: #404040; font-family: Roboto, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13.333333969116211px; line-height: 20.22222328186035px;"><b>WHEN</b>: May 17, 1 pm</span></div>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #404040; font-family: Roboto, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13.333333969116211px; line-height: 20.22222328186035px;"></span><br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="background-color: white; color: #404040; font-family: Roboto, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13.333333969116211px; line-height: 20.22222328186035px;"><span style="font-size: 13.333333969116211px;"><b>WHERE</b>: East Islip Lanes </span></span></div>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #404040; font-family: Roboto, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13.333333969116211px; line-height: 20.22222328186035px;">
</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #404040; font-family: Roboto, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13.333333969116211px; line-height: 20.22222328186035px;"></span>
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="background-color: white; color: #404040; font-family: Roboto, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13.333333969116211px; line-height: 20.22222328186035px;"><span style="font-size: 13.333333969116211px;"> 117 East Main St. </span></span></div>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #404040; font-family: Roboto, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13.333333969116211px; line-height: 20.22222328186035px;">
</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #404040; font-family: Roboto, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13.333333969116211px; line-height: 20.22222328186035px;"></span>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="background-color: white; color: #404040; font-family: Roboto, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13.333333969116211px; line-height: 20.22222328186035px;"><span style="font-size: 13.333333969116211px;"> East Islip, NY 11730 </span></span></div>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #404040; font-family: Roboto, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13.333333969116211px; line-height: 20.22222328186035px;">
</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #404040; font-family: Roboto, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13.333333969116211px; line-height: 20.22222328186035px;"><div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: 13.333333969116211px;"><b>COST</b>: $25 for 2 games & shoe rental, lunch, </span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: 13.333333969116211px;"> unlimited soda and </span><span style="font-size: 13.333333969116211px;">coffee & dessert</span></div>
</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #404040; font-family: Roboto, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13.333333969116211px; line-height: 20.22222328186035px;">There will also be a 50/50 raffle and the highest score wins a prize!</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #404040; font-family: Roboto, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13.333333969116211px; line-height: 20.22222328186035px;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Roboto, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13.333333969116211px; line-height: 20.22222328186035px;"><span style="color: red;">All proceeds will go towards workshops and events that </span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Roboto, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13.333333969116211px; line-height: 20.22222328186035px;"><span style="color: red;">promote the acceptance of people with disabilities.</span></span></div>
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Roboto, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13.333333969116211px; line-height: 20.22222328186035px;"><span style="color: red;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Roboto, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13.333333969116211px; line-height: 20.22222328186035px;"><span style="color: red;"><br /></span></span>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: large;">Tickets are now on sale!!</span></b></div>
<div>
<b><br /></b></div>
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Roboto, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13.333333969116211px; line-height: 20.22222328186035px;"><span style="color: red;"><br /></span></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoCLtofnFH_OpPK5879uFGVEkCn4Dj_-JfSAiYmXUJJoS-0skE3U0F1Uju3432wD6TgQgTG6y1CNEWD0Hb4G2yTTN5Nwq6lik48yQ_o-Emp7PKnvM7IBuGPXE88e1jw3upg-w77dFO7sYM/s1600/Bowling.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoCLtofnFH_OpPK5879uFGVEkCn4Dj_-JfSAiYmXUJJoS-0skE3U0F1Uju3432wD6TgQgTG6y1CNEWD0Hb4G2yTTN5Nwq6lik48yQ_o-Emp7PKnvM7IBuGPXE88e1jw3upg-w77dFO7sYM/s1600/Bowling.jpg" height="400" width="306" /></a></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12626482643150419473noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2777149089680235167.post-70544719173141075482014-04-01T09:03:00.001-04:002014-04-01T09:03:14.621-04:00New York Gets Inspired - Work Incentive For People With Disabilities Passes the Senate<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b>GOOD JOB NEW YORK!</b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaDP8aJM9pnj8IUeK6fU8E5UQYa0xEKo8BoSUxPVgaHYGk7Wsy2uY9zfPfDJn7aEJwpIxBNwmyMWPBuIQCtK16PX7cbORot_8Ry057DvlVZa0HwB1ZDOBLdw0Of6CGpq693xCisiJOrqDy/s1600/nys.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaDP8aJM9pnj8IUeK6fU8E5UQYa0xEKo8BoSUxPVgaHYGk7Wsy2uY9zfPfDJn7aEJwpIxBNwmyMWPBuIQCtK16PX7cbORot_8Ry057DvlVZa0HwB1ZDOBLdw0Of6CGpq693xCisiJOrqDy/s1600/nys.jpg" height="199" width="200" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Inspire NY is a tax incentive spearheaded by Senator David
Carlucci (D) that encourages businesses to hire people with developmental
disabilities. It just passed the Senate! This legislation helps thousands of
New Yorkers gain a sense of belonging and inclusion in their own community.
Businesses will receive up to $5,000 for hiring each full-time employee and up
to $2,500 for hiring each part-time employee.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Follow Senator Carlucci on Facebook at <a href="https://www.facebook.com/davecarlucci">https://www.facebook.com/davecarlucci</a><o:p></o:p></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12626482643150419473noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2777149089680235167.post-74327881965577006192014-03-09T20:55:00.000-04:002014-03-10T08:00:52.330-04:00Disability Awareness Month - 5 Influential People of the Civil Rights Movement For People With Disabilities<div class="MsoNormal">
For Disability Awareness Month I’ve put together a list of five
influential people of the disability rights movement in the United States. This
is just a short list of some people who have made a tremendous impact on how
people with disabilities are able to live today. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
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************************************************</div>
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<br /></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgccqrRuy7FBsB4C1n12WhlWymtuYUWPDzhQnkqrXYeE7wy28S1sjn4GM6Nrzwv6OhRaYpFsoczDARWKsl9EjrCyXSkODzxjE6RCwOu4czhISiIJFsCpeL1By3ClHnRdrH7P14sdO3p1F_5/s1600/keller.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgccqrRuy7FBsB4C1n12WhlWymtuYUWPDzhQnkqrXYeE7wy28S1sjn4GM6Nrzwv6OhRaYpFsoczDARWKsl9EjrCyXSkODzxjE6RCwOu4czhISiIJFsCpeL1By3ClHnRdrH7P14sdO3p1F_5/s1600/keller.jpg" height="200" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hellen Keller</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
1. <b><i>Hellen Keller</i></b> – Born in 1880, Helen was struck by a
mysterious illness called “brain fever” by a family physician at 18 months and
became deaf, blind and mute. At the age of 7, her parents found a young teacher
who would teach Helen how to communicate and they would become life-long
friends. Helen graduated from Cambridge School for Young Ladies and went on to
become a well-known speaker doing lectures and working on behalf of people with
disabilities. She testified before Congress, advocating for an improvement in
the welfare of the blind. She co-founded Helen Keller International to combat
the causes and consequences of blindness and malnutrition. In 1920, she helped
found the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU). Helen tackled many social
issues including women’s suffrage, pacifism and birth control. She traveled to
35 countries on five continents, including a five month trip across Asia at the
age of 75 in order to improve the lives of people with disabilities. She died
in her sleep in 1968, just a few weeks before her 88<sup>th</sup> birthday.<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwzZQ1vImWHNyU7z4soihm0nSCjsWf9kIGCMUK69PGM_mL5mp1fkU5EDyiUTe6RqKi3_G3x-qMIehS_C0DNTXYJ7NwvzSpg3eb-YB2J6oIysccc_HV4rxD1az5Bl9AiwAfH_ClFh_314Z1/s1600/laurie.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwzZQ1vImWHNyU7z4soihm0nSCjsWf9kIGCMUK69PGM_mL5mp1fkU5EDyiUTe6RqKi3_G3x-qMIehS_C0DNTXYJ7NwvzSpg3eb-YB2J6oIysccc_HV4rxD1az5Bl9AiwAfH_ClFh_314Z1/s1600/laurie.jpg" height="200" width="142" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Gini Laurie</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
2. <b><i>Virginia “Gini” Grace Wilson Laurie</i></b> – She is considered
one of the “grandmothers” of the independent living movement. A year before her
birth in 1913, two of her sisters died from poliomyelitis and her brother was
left severely disabled. As an adult, she volunteered with the Red Cross in the
Cleveland Toomey Pavilion rehab center during the 1949 polio epidemic. In 1958,
she took the unpaid job of editor of the <i>Toomeyville
Gazette</i>, a newsletter put together by patients who recovered at the rehab
center after contracting polio. The <i>Gazette</i>
published articles on legislation, activism and what would become known as the
independent living movement. In 1970, Gini wrote an article in the newly-named <i>Rehabilitation Gazette</i> where she stated
plainly that for people with disabilities, the most important thing “is the
right to freedom of choice to live as normal a life as possible within the
community…Segregation is unnormal.” In 1977, she wrote <i>Housing and Home Services for the Disabled: Guidelines and Experiences
in Independent Living</i>”. It pointed to the fact that it is more
cost-effective for people with disabilities to live in their community than
being put into institutions or nursing homes, an important point still being
driven in the disability movement today. She died in 1989 of cancer.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhldHmHkaBTz6_sHJusV4Yb6RtOs_uoN8LE3E7uOeyR4QCajvfzNx5ythQQ6mKIiAxD7I7eDt3gAUsKAx6XGgKWI35iIngFCsk_a0eRm-XnziE0w9MVeWEXyLgwYIuWqvONIIDqUOJSuyNk/s1600/roberts.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhldHmHkaBTz6_sHJusV4Yb6RtOs_uoN8LE3E7uOeyR4QCajvfzNx5ythQQ6mKIiAxD7I7eDt3gAUsKAx6XGgKWI35iIngFCsk_a0eRm-XnziE0w9MVeWEXyLgwYIuWqvONIIDqUOJSuyNk/s1600/roberts.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ed Roberts</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
3. <b><i>Ed Roberts</i></b> – After contracting polio at age 14 and living
in the hospital for two years, Ed was finally able to move back home. But
things were very different. Because of the polio, he was only able to move two
fingers and slept in an iron lung. His struggle against discrimination began
immediately when school administrators did not allow him to attend school with
his classmates. They felt it was best to have teachers instruct him privately
at home. The family fought back and they won him the right to attend school
with his classmates. After graduating from a junior college, he had to go
through another battle in order to be allowed to attend the University of
California in Berkeley. He eventually won this fight as well and went on to
study Political Science. Because of Ed, more disabled students were allowed to
attend Berkeley and they eventually formed a disabled student organization on
campus. Their focus was to make the university more accessible and provide
trainings on daily support techniques. In 1972, Ed helped the group form the
first Center for Independent Living which was considered radical at the time
because it was run by people with disabilities rather than medical
professionals. He became the first person to serve as the Director of
California’s Office of Vocational Rehabilitation. In 1981, he and Judy Heumann
and Joan Leon started the World Institute on Disability (WID) which studies
legal rights issues for people with disabilities around the world. Often
referred to as “the father of the disability rights movement”, he was president
of WID until his death in 1995.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYmGMAKcRSzqnSHo4m_c91u206__xLFbNbJ1Z2-3TrwfQQpyASg_GIRa9aJJ4nlwkt8FF92kW5-a9IPYkD2OF_MxGoD2bFwAK6hFuZ__i_sR13cQCEJVeXvKpcdV1uzbE46C-8TmanKove/s1600/dart.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYmGMAKcRSzqnSHo4m_c91u206__xLFbNbJ1Z2-3TrwfQQpyASg_GIRa9aJJ4nlwkt8FF92kW5-a9IPYkD2OF_MxGoD2bFwAK6hFuZ__i_sR13cQCEJVeXvKpcdV1uzbE46C-8TmanKove/s1600/dart.jpg" height="200" width="158" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Justin Dart</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
4.<b><i> Justin Dart</i></b> – At the age of 18, Justin contracted polio
which left him unable to walk. He came from a wealthy family in Chicago and in
1967 he and his wife devoted their lives to helping people with disabilities.
On his own dime, they travelled the across the United States in the early
1980’s which was quite an undertaking because many places were not wheelchair
accessible. Universal design was just beginning to be implemented in larger
cities but in smaller ones, it was practically unheard of. What was learned through conversations during
this tour was the basis for a policy that called for national rights for people
with disabilities. It would eventually become the Americans with Disabilities
Act (ADA) of 1990. Because of the national dialogue that took place during this
time and the subsequent passing of the ADA, Justin Dart is considered to be
“the godfather” of the ADA. In 1995, he founded the American Association of
People with Disabilities (AAPD) along with others. At the age of 71, he died in
2002 from congestive heart failure related to complications of post-polio
syndrome.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbAKlnAYgivyYcptt52lvYsBIFxLTR86fl70OLirkF4KfEBjFQw5pHBR7zDYxfOmjA7ByXGSXQvggbjWgN7-UMoszmXyl8OatxsBNtbrbPjqPFKCoLbD-qVJmV4Y4cxZrSZtGJB_IPXJYk/s1600/blank.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbAKlnAYgivyYcptt52lvYsBIFxLTR86fl70OLirkF4KfEBjFQw5pHBR7zDYxfOmjA7ByXGSXQvggbjWgN7-UMoszmXyl8OatxsBNtbrbPjqPFKCoLbD-qVJmV4Y4cxZrSZtGJB_IPXJYk/s1600/blank.jpg" height="200" width="185" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wade Blank</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
5. <b><i>Wade Blank</i></b> – emulating the great Dr. King, Wade began a
movement in the 1970’s within the disability community in Denver, Colorado that
would give rise to ADAPT, a national grass-roots community that organizes
disability rights activists to engage in nonviolent direct action. A former
minister, he saw the sad living conditions of individuals with severe
disabilities in nursing homes and took it upon himself to make changes. He not
only moved people from institutions into independent living centers but these
very same people became co-protestors in his fight against the discrimination
built into the public transportation system. They waged the first sit-in of
their kind and surrounded a bus with their wheelchairs in Denver. The group
quickly expanded to other cities around the US, holding demonstrations fighting
for accessibility in public bus systems. His group’s national recognition paid
off as accessible public transportation was included in The Americans with
Disabilities Act (ADA), a landmark law passed in 1990. He continued to be a
leader in the civil rights movement of people with disabilities until his death
in 1993.<o:p></o:p></div>
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************************************************</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Without these role models and others like them, people with
disabilities would not have the <i>right</i>
to a free and public education, public transportation and barrier-free public
places, among other civil rights. Although there is still much work to be done,
it is uncontestable that the foundation laid down by these pioneers sparked a
movement that is still growing today. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Can you think of any others who have made a major impact on the lives of people with disabilities?</b></div>
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<br /></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12626482643150419473noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2777149089680235167.post-91507359332025816592014-03-08T07:51:00.002-05:002014-03-08T07:51:51.250-05:00International Women's Day - 8 Ways We Can Treat Ourselves Better Immediately<div class="MsoNormal">
March 8 is International Women’s Day around the globe. It
started back in 1911 and has been getting stronger ever since. We all know we
should be sleeping 7-8 hours a night, exercising and surrounding ourselves with
happy, loving people. But let’s face it, sometimes we’re lucky to get 4 good
hours of shut eye and our closest friends are doing all they can to share their
misery. So what else can we do to realistically make a positive impact on our
daily lives as busy women?<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
In honor of International Women’s Day, I have put together a
list of 8 tips for us women to live a healthier life. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]-->1.<span style="font-size: 7pt;">
</span><!--[endif]-->Eat less salt – Half of women over the age of 45
have high blood pressure and a lot of that is due to a high salt consumption.
Rather than flavoring your meals with massive amounts of salt try other
seasonings like garlic powder, adobo, oregano, rosemary seeds or cumin. A bonus
to an aromatic dish is that by filling multiple senses (taste, sight AND smell)
you tend to eat less in one sitting!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]-->2.<span style="font-size: 7pt;">
</span><!--[endif]-->Increase blood supply to your heart and lungs –
Every night before going to sleep, hang your head and shoulders over the edge
of the mattress. This opens up your chest, increasing the blood supply to the
area and as a bonus can help with bad posture gained from sitting hunched over
a desk at work.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]-->3.<span style="font-size: 7pt;">
</span><!--[endif]-->Rinse your mouth after drinking soda – We’ve all
heard that we should eliminate or limit the amount of carbonated beverages for
other health reasons but have you considered what the sugar does to your teeth?
Rinsing with water will wash away the acids that erode tooth enamel.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]-->4.<span style="font-size: 7pt;">
</span><!--[endif]-->Walk extra steps each day – Instead of using the
elevator, take the stairs. Instead of circling the parking lot for the closest
spot possible, park far away from the store. Instead of sitting on the couch
after a large meal, head outside even if it’s just to take the trash down to
the curb. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]-->5.<span style="font-size: 7pt;">
</span><!--[endif]-->Change up your look – Did you have the same
hairstyle at your 20<sup>th</sup> high school reunion as you did when you
graduated? Too often, women try to hold on to their youth by never changing
their look when in fact, it does the opposite – it dates you. Try a new look
for the spring. If you wear it wavy, try a sleek look. Brunettes can try out a
few face-framing highlights and blondes can add in some low-lights. A new hair
style just may re-energize your spirit!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]-->6.<span style="font-size: 7pt;">
</span><!--[endif]-->Wear a hat – Using a facial moisturizer with SPF
30 and sunblock on the rest of your body is a good start to protecting yourself
from harmful UV rays but what about your scalp? That skin is just as prone to
skin cancer as any other part of you so show it some love by protecting it with
a cute sun hat or baseball cap.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]-->7.<span style="font-size: 7pt;">
</span><!--[endif]-->Apply lip balm – To piggy back on the last tip,
your lips are also often neglected in the sun-protection beauty regimen. There
are some great balms containing SPF 15 these days so pucker up and keep those
luscious lips kissable and free from dry cracks.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]-->8.<span style="font-size: 7pt;">
</span><!--[endif]-->Treat your eye-area gently – This is the most
delicate part of your face and shows aging the quickest. Cleanse with care –
always blot, never rub! Always use your ring finger to apply moisturizer and
concealer because it uses the least amount of pressure. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: large;">Now go out and have a great day!</span></b><o:p></o:p></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12626482643150419473noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2777149089680235167.post-79101875440135830472014-03-03T08:09:00.000-05:002014-03-03T08:09:51.037-05:00Top 5 Visitable Cities - Places Where People With Disabilities Have Great Accessibility<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Vacations are enjoyed by millions of people all over the
world but some people with disabilities can find planning a vacation a bit
daunting because of disability issues. Some may even think it’s impossible. I
say, with proper planning, you <i>can</i>
have a great vacation to remember. Here is a list of the top five most
accessible places to visit in the world.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXOo0GmlImL53r82zAhbMlwgEwBU1eVMGNyeRK8ITzudx262BitJqpJfkCie_QUIzqaYWYmLushGE4evL9ITwWhpSg7qxlgcmxACCbH8sxG5hYGGOJxTZ7Upviuu0co4G3ZXTaXeiqCk3Q/s1600/berlin.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXOo0GmlImL53r82zAhbMlwgEwBU1eVMGNyeRK8ITzudx262BitJqpJfkCie_QUIzqaYWYmLushGE4evL9ITwWhpSg7qxlgcmxACCbH8sxG5hYGGOJxTZ7Upviuu0co4G3ZXTaXeiqCk3Q/s1600/berlin.jpg" height="149" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Berlin, Germany</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>1. Berlin, Germany</b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
It was awarded the “Access City of the Year” in December
2012 by the European Commission due to its aggressive and forward-thinking plan
of creating a fully accessible public transportation system. Its plan also
includes broadening sidewalks and using tactile guidance systems at road
crossings. By the year 2020, the government plans on Berlin being 100%
accessible. A large majority of museums in Berlin are already accessible as are
most of the more well-known hotel chains but be sure to ask when making
reservations what accessible features are currently available. You can search
for places to visit at <a href="http://www.visitberlin.de/en/keyword/for-people-with-disabilities" target="_blank">Visit Berlin for People with Disabilities</a>. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1dCTl8LiRQ3sEf_cIc8R4fSKI4_g36USxZfwdTPyd04Ax3uTWHaRePSOkkykL9q816htwdmMis9XWZXwQmq6jahHWlFuzSJzMFxpDh4EljPpiO9ysgeSvNXC2X1gslVzvwJVoL5UAK3U_/s1600/vancouver.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1dCTl8LiRQ3sEf_cIc8R4fSKI4_g36USxZfwdTPyd04Ax3uTWHaRePSOkkykL9q816htwdmMis9XWZXwQmq6jahHWlFuzSJzMFxpDh4EljPpiO9ysgeSvNXC2X1gslVzvwJVoL5UAK3U_/s1600/vancouver.jpg" height="149" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Vancouver, British Columbia</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p> </o:p><b>2. Vancouver, British
Columbia, Canada</b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
One of the most diverse cities in the world, Vancouver offers
visitors a wide variety of cultural foods and experiences. With its great
public transportation system – buses are equipped with wheelchair ramps and the
Sky Train and SeaBus are also accessible – visitors have a variety of choices
when deciding how to get to where they’re going. Vancouver International
Airport is one of the world’s most accessible airports. Some barrier-free
features include amplified handsets at service counters, low-mounted
information monitors, services for the deaf and accessible washrooms. Travelers
can rent vehicles with hand-controls or use the Airporter shuttle bus service
to get to their hotels. For more information on where to go and what to do, go
to <a href="http://www.tourismvancouver.com/vancouver/accessible-vancouver/" target="_blank">Accessible Vancouver</a>.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxWLEeSt1MkAoXR0mbMELxQKr6vKF0-JS0m-MxFK0yLAbuNiusQIgu3F4azK6SAq-h44T3AXRQ0ShvHKzDv0Oc9DLZrPSeGW06eMJoR59v_c47Xvpmsvzd38bnU0Uv5t1mcimRsQJGPIjw/s1600/san+diego.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxWLEeSt1MkAoXR0mbMELxQKr6vKF0-JS0m-MxFK0yLAbuNiusQIgu3F4azK6SAq-h44T3AXRQ0ShvHKzDv0Oc9DLZrPSeGW06eMJoR59v_c47Xvpmsvzd38bnU0Uv5t1mcimRsQJGPIjw/s1600/san+diego.jpg" height="149" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">San Diego, California, United States</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>3. San Diego,
California<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
When you think “California” you should also think “beach”!
With its mild climate you can enjoy 70 miles of beach when visiting this city
year-round. At at least fifteen San Diego beaches, beach wheelchairs are
available for people with disabilities at no charge. Some even offer motorized
chairs. To find a list of beaches with phone numbers check out <a href="http://www.coastal.ca.gov/access/beach-wheelchairs.html" target="_blank">CaliforniaCoastal Commission</a>. You can also take accessible sightseeing tours via bus, boat
or old-fashioned trolley. Go to <a href="http://sandiego.org/">SanDiego.org</a> to plan your trip. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3o6iRToaKiBy0GEHDv7QDlx-1w-rcEx44ey2LTtxSE0TrlGSGRYF6WcF3Ur0M53h5Q39GbKQh7T2CbDax0Agm_LsBdUBUvAC9SpmNB2kavtIj8rxqaWH3AY6MAyfFOACfbtIuqa-BSizF/s1600/denmark.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3o6iRToaKiBy0GEHDv7QDlx-1w-rcEx44ey2LTtxSE0TrlGSGRYF6WcF3Ur0M53h5Q39GbKQh7T2CbDax0Agm_LsBdUBUvAC9SpmNB2kavtIj8rxqaWH3AY6MAyfFOACfbtIuqa-BSizF/s1600/denmark.jpg" height="124" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Denmark</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>4. Denmark<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Yes, the whole country. While all Scandinavian countries are
very disability-friendly, Denmark stands out because of its “Accessibility For
All” program. This is a tourism labeling system for hotels, attractions,
restaurants and other places you might want to visit while there. You can
search for places and other things accessible using <a href="http://www.godadgang.dk/">http://www.godadgang.dk/</a> and narrowing it
down by city, type of place, disability and more. You can also find more
tourism information at <a href="http://www.visitdenmark.com/denmark/tourist-frontpage" target="_blank">VisitDenmark.com</a>.<span style="background: white; color: #333333; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #333333; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #333333; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6GsnPxaB_uRwKBUkMkHH0XeAe4FcCQ98Sy097OOsVs0XFTw4UBctyHesoxK_aj-TYV2IZoouFZFlMMWR_3cGhGsc9x-NaD6DPeKdxD_OQfJZlNlP10Wx_ev8bzBEN-Wd-fH5RnTPvNBuZ/s1600/london.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6GsnPxaB_uRwKBUkMkHH0XeAe4FcCQ98Sy097OOsVs0XFTw4UBctyHesoxK_aj-TYV2IZoouFZFlMMWR_3cGhGsc9x-NaD6DPeKdxD_OQfJZlNlP10Wx_ev8bzBEN-Wd-fH5RnTPvNBuZ/s1600/london.jpg" height="149" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">London, England</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>5. London, England<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
England might call to mind old tradition but that doesn’t
mean it hasn’t modernized its accommodations for people with disabilities. The
subway system, called the Tube, has some stops that are not wheelchair
accessible so if you’re planning on traveling that way be sure to research
ahead of time to find the stops that are accessible. However, the large
majority of their buses are accessible and their taxis are required by law to
be accessible. You can find accessibility information at <a href="http://www.tfl.gov.uk/" target="_blank">Transport For London</a>. Many of London’s most
popular sight-seeing stops are free or offer a discount for people with
disabilities. There are some places that even allow one care giver in at no
charge. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p><br /></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Special Mention:<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Morgan’s Wonderland in San Antonio, Texas – A recreational
park that provides a beautiful environment free of economic barriers that all
individuals, regardless of disability can enjoy. It boasts many attractions
such as a sensory village, picnic area, playground and sandpit and a carousel
that is accessible to all including wheelchair users. Tickets can be purchased
online and are very reasonably priced. Individuals with disabilities and
children under 2 get in for free. Visit their site at <a href="https://www.morganswonderland.com/attractions/park-attractions" target="_blank">Morgan’s Wonderland</a>.</div>
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*************************************************</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
So now that you have some ideas of where to go, let’s go
over a few tips on how to travel with a disability:<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="margin-left: .25in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]-->1.<span style="font-size: 7pt;"> </span>Plan ahead! Give yourself as much time as
possible to research where you are going. Here are some questions you should
ask:<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: .25in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level2 lfo1; text-indent: 0in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->Is the destination airport accessible? Who can
help you find the right accommodations?<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: .25in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level2 lfo1; text-indent: 0in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->Does the hotel have a no-step entrance; rooms on
the first floor; wide hallways/doorways; grab-bars or roll-in showers? Do they
have other accommodations such as interpreters or amplified handsets?<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: .25in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level2 lfo1; text-indent: 0in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->Is the local area disability-friendly? How will
you be getting to local attractions and sites?<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: .25in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]-->2.<span style="font-size: 7pt;"> </span><!--[endif]-->Bring a letter from you doctor - Preferably on a
letterhead, a doctor’s note explaining your condition and necessary treatments
could help you if you become ill or injured. Make sure the doctor’s contact
information is on the letter.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: .25in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]-->3.<span style="font-size: 7pt;"> </span>Be specific - Not everybody will know what your
particular disability entails or requires. When makin queries be very clear
about what your needs are.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="margin-left: .25in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]-->4.<span style="font-size: 7pt;"> </span><!--[endif]-->Know about emergency services - In the US, 911
is the universal emergency phone number. What about in other countries? Be sure
to know what to do if you have an emergency.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .25in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Remember, being prepared for the worst allows you to enjoy
your time better. Here are some travel sites geared toward helping people with
disabilities:<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="http://www.mobility-advisor.com/disabled-friendly-travel.html" target="_blank">Mobility-Advisor.com</a> <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="http://sath.org/section/Home/739/" target="_blank">Society for Accessible Travel and Hospitality</a> <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="https://enablemob.wustl.edu/ayw/Travel/travel_resources.htm" target="_blank">Enable Mob Travel Resources</a> <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="http://www.makoa.org/travel.htm" target="_blank">Disability Travel and Recreation Resources</a> <o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">Happy vacationing!</span></b><o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
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<br /></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12626482643150419473noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2777149089680235167.post-83227072325798485712014-02-07T15:52:00.000-05:002014-02-12T14:21:00.726-05:00Subminimum Wage Debate Rages On<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
***********************************************</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b>UPDATE 2/12/13: </b></div>
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<br /></div>
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The disability community has been heard! <o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
</div>
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According to a White House memo, “Under this Executive
Order, all individuals working under service or concessions contracts with the
federal government will be covered by the same $10.10 per hour minimum wage
protections."<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>ALL = </i>Workers <i>with</i> and <i>without </i>disabilites</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
***********************************************</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBw4g1mtA6yCUefw_XWylTD3PQJajJ3CpfXUIQ8fUR907KaftxT09h8LAub6SdBCdOlo4vLiGeyU99O-Mu3R2-6IPjSjWwdt1nfaGJsQNsUIYYVc-ZdpfqrfDEXXElNUFdBd4xxjo0syVG/s1600/cash.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBw4g1mtA6yCUefw_XWylTD3PQJajJ3CpfXUIQ8fUR907KaftxT09h8LAub6SdBCdOlo4vLiGeyU99O-Mu3R2-6IPjSjWwdt1nfaGJsQNsUIYYVc-ZdpfqrfDEXXElNUFdBd4xxjo0syVG/s1600/cash.jpg" height="200" width="171" /></a></div>
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<br /></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
In his State of the Union Address last week, President Obama
mandated an increase to the minimum wage rates of employees working for
companies doing business with the government. It seems as if the government
does not view workers with disabilities as equal to workers without
disabilities – at least until the disability community yelled out “WHOAH!” In a
letter to the administration signed by 25 disability advocacy groups the point
was made that “all employees” should mean just that. ALL. The government is now
reconsidering its position. According to U.S. Secretary of Labor Tom Perez, “We’re
actively looking at what our legal authorities are and what our abilities are”
as they finalize the executive order to increase the minimum wage.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
There is a debate going on within the disability community
on whether or not subminimum wage is a detriment or an advantage to workers
with disabilities. </div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
You can read about what both sides have to say on my blog here: <a href="http://theseed9811.blogspot.com/2014/01/subminimum-wage-for-people-with.html">Subminimum
Wage For People With Disabilities Debate</a><o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
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<br /></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12626482643150419473noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2777149089680235167.post-45847781388229060012014-01-24T06:46:00.000-05:002014-02-07T11:50:11.957-05:00Even YOU Can Become Disabled - Why Visitability Is Necessary<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>A Wheelchair
Wonderland<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I remember vividly a point in time where I wished
desperately that the whole world was in a wheelchair so that everyone could
know<span style="background-color: white;"> what<a href="http://theseed9811.blogspot.com/2012/06/little-411-on-girl.html" target="_blank"> my daughter</a> </span><a href="http://theseed9811.blogspot.com/2012/06/little-411-on-girl.html" target="_blank"></a>had to go through just to go to someone’s home. The city of Austin, Texas is creating
that world. Well, kind of.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiD7TRe3l5YYs3Ov0OC1KXvlhX38gTswQbmDaqxsQIdR-b-0NQJdEMGQ2IwY8mknOdCErXv8EpQRJOhr1RcDcO0v_sJrKJH7SM0TK7DD_9aAWbTKODKZ7xtLkISge71Al2IVXffiz59NMRP/s1600/home.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiD7TRe3l5YYs3Ov0OC1KXvlhX38gTswQbmDaqxsQIdR-b-0NQJdEMGQ2IwY8mknOdCErXv8EpQRJOhr1RcDcO0v_sJrKJH7SM0TK7DD_9aAWbTKODKZ7xtLkISge71Al2IVXffiz59NMRP/s1600/home.jpg" height="149" width="200" /></a></div>
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<br /></div>
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The city council in Austin, Texas is currently deciding on
new rules that could make all newly built homes wheelchair accessible. The
first two drafts have already been approved so it’s looking good that this
third and final draft will push through without a problem. If approved, levered
door handles, light switches placed at lower heights and wide doorways will be
features required on the first floors of new single-family homes and duplexes. Not
widely talked about –yet – this is known as “visitability”. This is a concept
in home design that would allow a person in a wheelchair that lives there or
visits access the home without any problem. There are cities in the US that
already have these rules in place: San Antonio, Atlanta, St. Petersburg, Fla.,
and Tucson, Ariz. According to the website <a href="http://www.visitability.org/">www.visitability.org</a>, a home is
visitable when it meets the following three basic requirements:<o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="text-indent: -0.25in;"> * At least one zero-step entrance</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="text-indent: -0.25in;"> * Doors with a minimum of 32-inch clearance</span></div>
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<span style="text-indent: -0.25in;"> * At least one bathroom on the main floor that is
wheelchair accessible</span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<o:p></o:p></div>
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<b><br /></b></div>
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<b>Becoming Disabled<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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<b><br /></b></div>
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Some of you may be wondering why this is necessary. If
you’re reading this and you’re <i>not</i>
disabled then you probably don’t view this as important enough to make legal
regulations over. But let’s consider that. Just because you weren’t <i>born </i>with a disability doesn’t mean you
never will <i>become </i>disabled. Here are
three examples you may have never thought about:</div>
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<b style="text-indent: -0.25in;"><br /></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="text-indent: -0.25in;">1. Old Age</b></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="mso-list: l1 level1 lfo2; text-indent: -.25in;">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast">
Think about your (or your friends’)
grandparents. Do you know any who use walkers, hearing aids, have trouble
standing or reaching or bathing or cooking? Did they always have those
problems? Most likely, these <i>disabilities</i>
are of the acquired type meaning they were born without a disability but
because of aging they now have difficulty with one or more activity of daily
living. Oftentimes, the word “disabled” is not used when referring to senior
citizens if they’ve lived independently their entire lives. But that’s exactly
what they have become (and what the large majority of us will become should we
be blessed enough to live into our 60’s and beyond). A home built with
visitability in mind will increase the chances that a person can live on in
their own home <a href="http://theseed9811.blogspot.com/2012/04/where-will-you-end-up.html" target="_blank">rather than being moved into a nursing facility</a>. And by “a person” I mean YOU!</div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast">
<b style="text-indent: -0.25in;"><br /></b></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="text-indent: 0px;">
<span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">2. </span><b style="text-indent: -0.25in;">Illness</b></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
There are also people who are fine into
their 30’s and 40’s and then become ill or develop medical conditions which
limit their ability to be as independent as they have always been. Multiple Sclerosis
(MS) and Lou Gehrig’s disease (ALS) typically begin to appear in adults around
this age and are debilitating diseases which cause severe physical
disabilities. Don’t think this will happen to you? MS tends to appear between
the ages of 20 and 40 in otherwise normally developing people. 15 new cases of
ALS are diagnosed daily in the US; 60% are men and 93% are Caucasian.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
Arthritis is another large culprit in this
area. According to the CDC, nearly two-thirds of people with arthritis are
younger than 65. It’s the most common cause of disability and limits or
prevents over 21 million Americans from being able to climb stairs, walk more
than short distances or work. It’s more common in women than men but affects
all racial and ethnic groups. One study shows that the risk of developing
osteoarthritis in your knee that causes pain is 45% and estimates show that 57%
of people who have had a knee injury or are obese will develop osteoarthritis.
That’s about half of you reading this! <o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast">
Of course, there are countless other
autoimmune & nervous, central and respiratory diseases and musculo-skeletal
disorders that can strike at any time and cause disability in an adult who has
otherwise lived a healthy and independent life.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="text-indent: -0.25in;"><br /></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0px;">
<b style="text-indent: -0.25in;">3. Accidents</b></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
What about those that are in accidents and
become paralyzed or receive a traumatic brain injury (TBI)? Have you seen <a href="http://www.sundancechannel.com/series/push-girls" target="_blank">the
show </a><i><a href="http://www.sundancechannel.com/series/push-girls" target="_blank">Push Girls</a>? </i>Every one of those women was in an accident
that paralyzed them. Any of these situations can happen to each and every one
of you. Sounds bleak, I know but imagine what your life would be like if you
couldn’t enjoy the little things you do now, like going to your sister’s house
for dinner or to your friend’s for girls night as you always have because your
wheelchair can’t go up the one step leading into their home or your wheelchair
can’t get through the doorway into the living room? Now imagine if every new
home built allowed you to come and go as you please, without even a thought?</div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast">
<br /></div>
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<b>Disabled America<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
According to the US census, 1 in 5 citizens has at least one
disability and the number is set to grow as baby boomers age. Just over 1 in 4
American citizens in their 20’s will become disabled before they retire. But
the “that can’t happen to me” mentality keeps most of us from worrying about
our futures. 64% of wage earners believe they have a 2% or less chance of being
disabled for 3 months or more during their working career. The actual odds for
a worker entering the workforce today are about 25%! <o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Maybe it’s time <b>you</b>
start thinking about what could happen to you or your spouse now and planning
ahead. Don’t you think having a home already set up to visitability standards
would make your life easier in the long run? I hope to see this concept become
the standard in my lifetime for all our sakes.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 115%;">Would you like to know what the probability of you becoming
disabled is? Check out the <a href="http://www.whatsmypdq.org/" target="_blank">Personal Disability Quotient calculator here</a>. <span style="font-size: medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
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<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
CHECK OUT THIS POST ON <a href="http://www.1800wheelchair.com/news/post/Guest-Post-Why-Visibility-is-Necessary.aspx">1800WHEELCHAIR.COM</a> !</div>
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~<br />
<br /></div>
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Sources: <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="http://www.disabilitycanhappen.org/chances_disability/disability_stats.asp">http://www.disabilitycanhappen.org/chances_disability/disability_stats.asp</a><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="http://www.disabilityscoop.com/2014/01/21/accessibility-requirements/19035/">http://www.disabilityscoop.com/2014/01/21/accessibility-requirements/19035/</a><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="http://www.alsa.org/about-als/who-gets-als.html">http://www.alsa.org/about-als/who-gets-als.html</a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="http://www.cdc.gov/chronicdisease/resources/publications/aag/arthritis.htm">http://www.cdc.gov/chronicdisease/resources/publications/aag/arthritis.htm</a></div>
<br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12626482643150419473noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2777149089680235167.post-6916034515820497572014-01-17T08:55:00.003-05:002014-01-20T06:29:54.956-05:00Welcome To Holland<div dir="ltr">
<span style="font-family: Georgia;"><strong>This was written by Emily Perl Kingsley in 1987</strong>. There is no better way to describe the experience of becoming the parent to a child with special needs:</span><br />
<br />
<div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18px;">I am often asked to describe the experience of raising a child with a disability - to try to help people who have not shared that unique experience to understand it, to imagine how it would feel. It's like this......</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18px;"></span><br /></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18px;"><br />When you're going to have a baby, it's like planning a fabulous vacation trip - to Italy. You buy a bunch of guide books and make your wonderful plans. The Coliseum. The Michelangelo David. The gondolas in Venice. You may learn some handy phrases in Italian. It's all very exciting.<br /><br />After months of eager anticipation, the day finally arrives. You pack your bags and off you go. Several hours later, the plane lands. The stewardess comes in and says, "Welcome to Holland."<br /><br />"Holland?!?" you say. "What do you mean Holland?? I signed up for Italy! I'm supposed to be in Italy. All my life I've dreamed of going to Italy."<br /><br />But there's been a change in the flight plan. They've landed in Holland and there you must stay.<br /><br />The important thing is that they haven't taken you to a horrible, disgusting, filthy place, full of pestilence, famine and disease. It's just a different place.<br /><br />So you must go out and buy new guide books. And you must learn a whole new language. And you will meet a whole new group of people you would never have met.<br /><br />It's just a different place. It's slower-paced than Italy, less flashy than Italy. But after you've been there for a while and you catch your breath, you look around.... and you begin to notice that Holland has windmills....and Holland has tulips. Holland even has Rembrandts.<br /><br />But everyone you know is busy coming and going from Italy... and they're all bragging about what a wonderful time they had there. And for the rest of your life, you will say "Yes, that's where I was supposed to go. That's what I had planned."<br /><br />And the pain of that will never, ever, ever, ever go away... because the loss of that dream is a very, very significant loss.<br /><br />But... if you spend your life mourning the fact that you didn't get to Italy, you may never be free to enjoy the very special, the very lovely things ... about Holland.</span></div>
</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12626482643150419473noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2777149089680235167.post-42119660442414872952014-01-13T09:27:00.000-05:002014-01-13T09:32:18.638-05:00People With Disabilities Have A RIGHT To Make Choices<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>What's For Lunch?</b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
There may be some people who wonder how a person with
disabilities can decide important things such as which doctor or therapist to
see or which facility to go to. I wonder how anybody can take away another’s
right to make such decisions! <a href="http://theseed9811.blogspot.com/2013/02/forced-sterilization-of-disabled.html" target="_blank">The institutionalization that began over a century ago</a> in the United States is a direct cause of the
stigmatization of people with disabilities. The multi-generational feeling has
been that this population is incapable of making minor decisions, such as what
to eat for lunch, let alone important life decisions as where to live and which
doctor to see. Let’s not even get into the social aspects of life like love,
sex and friendships! <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibDzZCZ8Yu9GQUA232PTp0MrhJhNtToB6cTLoL_qaWK-mRlCvpmEXrUYOUmV6hvw1hn9zSfmj0IkxB0atCPgRAj2beeVQqXI9Ow7dqGB_j04_swssFe2xWCYSbmJa63LkC9cyHbDALHTPH/s1600/constitution.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibDzZCZ8Yu9GQUA232PTp0MrhJhNtToB6cTLoL_qaWK-mRlCvpmEXrUYOUmV6hvw1hn9zSfmj0IkxB0atCPgRAj2beeVQqXI9Ow7dqGB_j04_swssFe2xWCYSbmJa63LkC9cyHbDALHTPH/s1600/constitution.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">"We the People" Includes People With Disabilities!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>What A Community IS</b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The Department of Health and Human Services has completed
the final rule on what home and community-based services are under the
Affordable Care Act. Why is this so important? Because now a person with
disabilities cannot be forced to live in an institution or nursing care
facility and made to call it “home”. This statute states “that home and
community-based settings do not include nursing facilities, institutions for
mental diseases, intermediate care facilities…or any other locations that have
the qualities of an institutional setting”. There were reports of “homes” being
built on the grounds of former mental institutions where the <s>patients</s>
inmates were herded under the guise of “community settings”.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Here are some of the (what I think should be obvious)
stipulations to the Final Rule of the Home and Community-Based Services plan:<span style="font-family: Symbol; text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt;"> </span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="text-indent: -0.25in;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">* Settings must be integrated fully into the
community – you know, like how </span><i style="text-indent: -0.25in;">your</i><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">
home, job, doctor, shopping mall, etc. are </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">* </span><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">Individuals must have access to the community.
This sounds like a no-brainer to me. It’s still shocks me that obvious rights
like these need to be put down on paper in order to be understood </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">* </span><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">Individuals have a right to privacy in their
homes. We needed to write this out – AGAIN – in a new federal statute. I guess
the Constitution and Bill of Rights don’t apply to people with disabilities </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">* </span><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">Person-centered care plans are required which
means that the individual gets to choose where they go, who they see and what
they do, themselves, rather than having a doctor or caregiver decide what is
best for them. Rule of thumb: A care plan is made </span><i style="text-indent: -0.25in;">with</i><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;"> the individual not </span><i style="text-indent: -0.25in;">for</i><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">
the individual.</span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
There is still a long way to go but this is a good step
towards equality in the social and civil rights of people living with
disabilities.<o:p></o:p></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12626482643150419473noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2777149089680235167.post-47222954552814272842014-01-12T06:33:00.002-05:002014-01-12T06:33:29.792-05:00Attention Gamers: Cool New Audio-Only 3D Adventure Game!<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
I’m not a gamer and even I want to play BlindSide!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIT4kCckUFstm7M0JnvI3X9NdgzJSg1RNEDtrtYQ30WNYRCGNUQDlmdBTWyZZYlblC_v1s7xSKd7Y5fdJ5fUAqj2B-tVTmy2QcTVpez5zXyjRc4gLljx_G3674haR8sAx9UJON2lxD2L3X/s1600/blindside.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIT4kCckUFstm7M0JnvI3X9NdgzJSg1RNEDtrtYQ30WNYRCGNUQDlmdBTWyZZYlblC_v1s7xSKd7Y5fdJ5fUAqj2B-tVTmy2QcTVpez5zXyjRc4gLljx_G3674haR8sAx9UJON2lxD2L3X/s1600/blindside.JPG" height="74" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">BlindSide Logo</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<i>BlindSide</i> is a terrifying new audio-only adventure
game, set in a fully-immersive 3D world you’ll never see. Put on your
headphones, close your eyes, and explore the darkness. Listen as the world
rotates around you!”</div>
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According to its
website:</div>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
The main character is Case, an assistant professor who wakes
up blind and hears mysterious creatures devouring people in his now-destroyed
city. Case and his girlfriend must find a way out of the murderous mayhem –
without seeing anything!</blockquote>
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It’s only $3.99 to download the game at the app store and it’s
accessible for both blind and sighted players. There are also PC and Mac
versions – the link is on the website. <a href="http://www.blindsidegame.com/" target="_blank">Here’s that link for you to check it out yourself</a>. <o:p></o:p></div>
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So plug in your headphones, close your eyes and have an
adventure in the BlindSide!<o:p></o:p></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12626482643150419473noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2777149089680235167.post-22146547311984950262014-01-10T16:51:00.000-05:002014-01-10T16:51:29.055-05:00Stem Cell Research Trial Beginning January 15, 2014<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9sAnRbr1hG6kiBnAd8GlAGIi51TfPZKfXPiOiN0Lpa5Ucr-wIgCRCacDxIpOk_kTfs8HY815GSyhsJ_Iaw3ZmKdYaxRn7RWRfXOO7ViGgT7G6aWH80e3-lxwpbcFWOdYBAvI02DNH_7DH/s1600/stem+cell.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9sAnRbr1hG6kiBnAd8GlAGIi51TfPZKfXPiOiN0Lpa5Ucr-wIgCRCacDxIpOk_kTfs8HY815GSyhsJ_Iaw3ZmKdYaxRn7RWRfXOO7ViGgT7G6aWH80e3-lxwpbcFWOdYBAvI02DNH_7DH/s1600/stem+cell.jpg" /></a></div>
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Beginning on January 15, 2014, the University of Texas at
Houston will begin a clinical study on 30 children with Cerebral Palsy (CP). Patients
will be between the ages of 2 and 10 and the study will last one to two years.<a href="http://neighbornewspapers.com/view/full_story/24354213/article-Buckhead-boy-in-national-cerebral-palsy-study?instance=all" target="_blank">Here’s the story on one participant, 10-year-old John Drambel. </a><o:p></o:p></div>
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This is a landmark
study because the patients are receiving stem cells cultivated from their own
hip bone marrow. Up until now, the only stem cell studies on people with CP in
the United States have been done with patients given stem cells from their own
banked cord blood. This is very exciting – and long awaited! <o:p></o:p></div>
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If you’d like to find out about other research topics or
possibly be a part of a clinical trial you can find them at <a href="http://clinicaltrials.gov/">http://clinicaltrials.gov/</a><o:p></o:p></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12626482643150419473noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2777149089680235167.post-62639169569272210892014-01-06T09:26:00.001-05:002014-01-06T09:26:13.540-05:00Subminimum Wage for People With Disabilities Debate<div class="MsoNormal">
As part of the New Deal of the 1930’s, subminimum wage was
allowed for people with disabilities. Employers can apply for waivers under
Section 14(c) of the Fair Labor Standards Act. Rates for workers with
disabilities are decided upon by comparing what their productivity level is to
that of an experienced worker without disabilities. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Advocates against subminimum wages believe more money should
be spent on training programs that are more creative and provide more
challenging work than wrapping plastic ware at restaurants or folding boxes,
repetitive task work that is common amongst employed workers with disabilities.
<o:p></o:p></div>
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Here are some pros and cons to the consider:<o:p></o:p></div>
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<table align="left" border="1" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="MsoTableGrid" style="border-collapse: collapse; border: none; margin-left: 6.75pt; margin-right: 6.75pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-padding-alt: 0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-table-anchor-horizontal: margin; mso-table-anchor-vertical: paragraph; mso-table-left: left; mso-table-lspace: 9.0pt; mso-table-rspace: 9.0pt; mso-table-top: 1.45pt; mso-yfti-tbllook: 1184;">
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<b><u>FOR</u></b><u> Subminimum
Wage<o:p></o:p></u></div>
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- work provides
training for better, higher-paying jobs<o:p></o:p></div>
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- jobs give
individuals structure, keep them busy<o:p></o:p></div>
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- working at any job
challenges individuals <o:p></o:p></div>
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- eliminating
subminimum wage would mean employing fewer people within a population that
already has a very high unemployment rate<o:p></o:p></div>
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- a subminimum wage is
better than no job at all<o:p></o:p></div>
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<b><u>AGAINST</u></b><u>
Subminimum Wage<o:p></o:p></u></div>
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- people get stuck in
their job for years and never advance or leave<o:p></o:p></div>
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- low pay is unjust<o:p></o:p></div>
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- people with
disabilities are not fully integrated into the workforce<o:p></o:p></div>
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- allows for abuses
against people with disabilities<o:p></o:p></div>
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- stigmatizes people
with disabilities<o:p></o:p></div>
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Here’s a great article on this topic: <a href="http://www.utsandiego.com/news/2013/Dec/22/tp-subminimum-wages-for-disabled-scrutinized/2/?#article-copy">http://www.utsandiego.com/news/2013/Dec/22/tp-subminimum-wages-for-disabled-scrutinized/2/?#article-copy</a><o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">WHERE DO <b>YOU</b>
STAND ON THIS DEBATE?</span></div>
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<o:p></o:p></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12626482643150419473noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2777149089680235167.post-32749059642064622882014-01-02T09:48:00.002-05:002014-01-02T09:48:48.672-05:00Assistive Technology Assessment is an Important First Step<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMG_Ay9LxCIWbVo_bN8D-MATK7znJoGi_CGlz5aRcE_p-n5NQC8cvPo9yEywmbk8pKd4Y0M5huqZTsSCTwUyg55_Z2DeuRGZSQout9GIuE9V8CSeZ0WcTO4feCRWmYaf0BpRpnHCETG11D/s1600/forte.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMG_Ay9LxCIWbVo_bN8D-MATK7znJoGi_CGlz5aRcE_p-n5NQC8cvPo9yEywmbk8pKd4Y0M5huqZTsSCTwUyg55_Z2DeuRGZSQout9GIuE9V8CSeZ0WcTO4feCRWmYaf0BpRpnHCETG11D/s200/forte.jpg" width="200" /></a>Because of technology, an 11-year-old girl who can’t
physically hold a pencil is on the honor roll. If not for a $200 word processor
called a Forte who knows where she would be! Not only does it give her the
ability to keep up with her fast-paced 6<sup>th</sup> grade class, it’s cool
and sleek so it gives her a “coolness factor” among her peers. I would argue
these are the top conditions that need to be met when picking out appropriate
technology for individuals. (You can read that article here: <a href="http://www.azcentral.com/news/arizona/articles/20131216assistive-technology-aids-special-education.html?nclick_check=1">http://www.azcentral.com/news/arizona/articles/20131216assistive-technology-aids-special-education.html?nclick_check=1</a>
)</div>
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It’s important to remember to assess needs at an individual
level before jumping straight to a tool. Too many times, students (and adults)
are hooked up with a great piece of equipment that doesn’t provide them with
what THEY need. There is a process, and anybody in the disability world is too
familiar with how long these processes can be, but in this case it’s super
important to follow through with a thorough assessment to ensure getting the
best assistive technology possible.<o:p></o:p></div>
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For tips on how to do these assessments, check out <a href="http://assistivetechplayground.blogspot.com/2011/05/understanding-process-round-up.html" target="_blank">The Assistive Technology Playground</a> by my peer Marvin Williams.<br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12626482643150419473noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2777149089680235167.post-18814117361125572102014-01-01T08:31:00.000-05:002014-01-01T08:31:08.985-05:00Medicaid For People Who NEED It<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
When we
hear “Medicaid” many imagine a lazy, non-working individual, sitting at home
watching Jerry Springer and Maury. But the fact is, 70% of Medicaid spending
goes towards people with disabilities. According to a U.S. Census Bureau report
released at the end of 2008, there were 54.4 million Americans living with at
least one disability in a census taken in 2005. This means roughly 1 <span style="line-height: 150%;">in 5 people are disabled. Of these
54.4 million, 35 million had a severe disability. These individuals needed
assistance in performing activities of daily living (ADL) such as getting into
or out of a chair or bed, dressing, bathing and eating. In many cases,
assistance is also needed for other activities such as shopping, paying bills,
using the telephone and light housework. (Americans with Disabilities, 2005)</span></div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgU6Ldb_97wxLbe6uVTFWEpqrbNDLnOIyS3P7tCrShH4imCGegOQ6uEQ2sN9LZexmkyQ3cOo9ZinEbpzxhuvJYQZZyr-jZRr6YhRCBep5cqLzgdVkx2Gwj9slVuLrvTwnnS3CCIm3O-cXda/s1600/needs.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="151" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgU6Ldb_97wxLbe6uVTFWEpqrbNDLnOIyS3P7tCrShH4imCGegOQ6uEQ2sN9LZexmkyQ3cOo9ZinEbpzxhuvJYQZZyr-jZRr6YhRCBep5cqLzgdVkx2Gwj9slVuLrvTwnnS3CCIm3O-cXda/s200/needs.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="line-height: 150%;">
<span style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: 0.5in;">Imagine
not being able to get yourself to the bathroom or not being able to get
yourself out of your own bed. What would you do if you were hungry but could
not even make some simple toast for yourself? <i>Are you going to be able to move
your mom or dad into your home and care for them if they break a bone or
develop dementia</i>? These are some of the things that Medicaid can possibly pay
for (or at least a portion of it). Being that it is so many peoples’ lifeline,
why is it that when our government needs to tighten up the budget, they look to
those who </span><b style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: 0.5in;"><i>need</i></b><span style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: 0.5in;"> the most to </span><b style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: 0.5in;"><i>give</i></b><span style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: 0.5in;"> the most? Cuts are being made
to Medicaid on a regular basis and the health and well-being of our most
vulnerable citizens is being threatened.</span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: 0.5in;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="line-height: 150%;">
<span style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: 0.5in;">“Why don’t
they just go get a real job” is commonly heard coming from the mouths of the
able-bodied clueless. But I am here to tell you that Medicaid serves the type
of people who can’t “just go get a real job” because they have disabilities
that block them from doing so. In the 2005 census, less than half of the
disabled population between the ages of 21 and 64 were employed. (Americans
with Disabilities, 2005) With the state our economy is in as of late, I imagine
that number to be much higher now.</span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: 0.5in;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="line-height: 150%;">
<span style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: 0.5in;">Among
individuals who are disabled between the ages of 25-64, </span><b style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: 0.5in;">27.1 percent were in poverty</b><span style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: 0.5in;">, compared to </span><b style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: 0.5in;">9.1 percent for people who had no disability</b><span style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: 0.5in;">. Of this same group,
57 percent of those who reported having a severe disability were receiving some
form of public assistance through government programs such as food stamps or public
housing where only 7.3 percent of non-disabled individuals required such
assistance. (Americans with Disabilities, 2005) So before we go slashing public assistance, let’s
think about the actual people it would be affecting. </span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style="color: #cc0000; font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: x-large;">Too often the head honchos
look at the bottom line and ignore the human beings that make up that line.</span></span></div>
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<o:p></o:p></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12626482643150419473noreply@blogger.com0