Tag: people with disabilities

Holly Robinson Peete’s Reality Show Casts a Refreshing Perspective on People with Disabilities

by caste551, posted in Uncategorized

As a tween, I remember watching Holly Robinson Peete on the television show “21 Jump Street”. Later, she appeared on “Hangin’ with Mr. Cooper”. Who would’ve thought she would use her celebrity many years later to advocate for Autism and people with disabilities? When I heard about her going into Reality television, I wasn’t sure what her message would be, or how it would impact different aspects of awareness of people with disabilities.

In her reality show, “Meet the Peete’s”, which airs on the Hallmark Channel, we get an in depth look at her family life. What is most refreshing about the show is that her family puts real-life issues they face daily in the public eye. Although her son was diagnosed with Autism at an early age, he’s just an everyday young adult on the show. Honestly, that wasn’t very surprising to me at all, and made me feel good for many reasons. That includes having a job and navigating a social life. At the beginning of trying to watch the show, it isn’t clear what spin they were going to put on his diagnosis.  It’s refreshing to see that they have incorporated appropriate mechanisms to help him achieve his goals, while leading a very full life. This perspective helps dispel some myths about being a person with a disability. One stereotype the show addresses is that people may think people with disabilities don’t or can’t contribute to different aspects of society. The show illustrates how planning and being familiar with different services relieves any concerns of how to make different goals attainable.

This isn’t to say there aren’t hardships that are faced even when the cameras are off but, let’s face it, what family doesn’t face one sort of obstacle or another at one time or another? The feeling of life, unity, love and family runs through the veins of the show from start to finish. It’s a great demonstration that living with a family member who has limitations isn’t the end of the world, and that it shouldn’t have a negative connotation at all. It also comes at a great time when there’s a general sense of heightened awareness about people with disabilities

Because I’ve used this platform before to talk about the importance of disability in the media, I think this is a great time to highlight how this show is different from what has come before. This show accomplishes the goal from a different perspective and has a different flavor. It shines a positive light on living with a disability. It doesn’t show her son as being treated differently from other family members in any way. They’re also starting conversations such as living independently and even navigating different kinds of relationships in front of the viewers eyes. At the same time, it’s important to note there may be an air of uneasiness that surfaces when discussing these issues within families in general. However, it’s extremely important to recognize that these subjects need to be approached with open communication so that, whatever obstacle might come about in achieving each goal, there are ways to find viable solutions together. Perhaps part of the difficulty in starting the conversation is not knowing how certain subjects should be approached.  Another concern may be what to do if answers aren’t readily available. Simply knowing where to look for answers may also cause some anxiety to families but, Meet the Peete’s lets other families know they’re not alone in navigating this journey.

Increased awareness and sensitivity is shown not only by the family, but also by the Hallmark Channel which broadcasts the show. If you haven’t had a chance to watch the show, I highly recommend searching it out in your area. It truly has something for everyone who watches the show, regardless of whether your life is touched by someone who lives with a disability.

Thanks for reading..

cr

http://people.com/health/holly-robinson-peete-son-autism-diagnosis-life-now/

 

 

 

 

Loss of Funding=Loss of Independence for Some?

by caste551, posted in Uncategorized

This week I found an article that was a bit concerning to me. Many efforts have been made to de-institutionalize people with disabilities but this article seems to want to take a step back in time. I spend a lot of time writing about the importance of living as independently as possible within your limitations. The opportunity to live somewhere, other than with your parents when you reach 18 is like a right of passage for most young adults. It’s no different for those who live with a disability. The experiences we have building relationships, holding jobs and even volunteering enhances the quality of our lives like nothing else.

Day programs vary in what they do but I really like the one mentioned in this article. There are a bunch of activities ranging from work and play. Also, the residents aren’t necessarily restricted to staying indoors all day. The participants have their own apartments that give them an element of individuality too. A sense of community, where people don’t feel so alone, has also been fostered within the group. Friendships and social interaction between people is an important part of their environment and even trickles out into the community. Not surprisingly, funding is at issue, and these programs are in jeopardy of being cut. As a result, the residents will lose the predictability and stability of what they’re able to do.

It would be beneficial to all if other solutions could be found, instead of going to the extreme of cutting funding for these programs all together. More individualized approaches could be taken so  participant’s lives aren’t totally disrupted. Other solutions could avoid putting some participants in situations they can’t handle because of their disability. Since disabilities vary in how they affect people, it would be interesting to find out if some sort of assessment to determine level of need were conducted, how much could the program be changed to benefit both the State and the participant?

Unfortunately, programs for the disabled and or disadvantaged populations always seem to be the ones cut or downsized in some way that negatively impacts recipients. Maybe in the long run solutions can be devised so the quality of life of these participants won’t be negatively affected.

What do you think of the benefits these programs provide?

Thanks for reading..
cr

For more information check out the link below:

http://www.northjersey.com/news/changes-ahead-in-n-j-for-disabled-some-fear-loss-of-familiar-programs-1.1307297

Law Enforcement’s New Disability Consideration..

by caste551, posted in Uncategorized

Sometimes I use my posts to shed light on subjects that may not be considered relevant to disability as an issue but, could use some exposure in some way. This week, I wanted to shed some light on law enforcement and their treatment of people with disabilities. I know there’s a large push to increase disability sensitivity among law enforcement but this post is going to talk about something that’s reaching into a totally new dimension.

The issue I’m thinking about is totally different. It involves the split-second decisions a law enforcement officer had to make at a group home in Georgia that injured one of its residents. This is clearly a case of entering uncharted waters as it relates to law enforcement and their interactions with people who have a disability. I’m not sure if, or how law enforcement can act less aggressively when their primary job is to ensure the safety of the general public. In emergency situations faced by law enforcement on a regular basis and, as in this situation, I’m not sure how the ADA fits in.

Somehow, some people feel if there’s a suspect in a crime who has a disability, and that person’s disability isn’t considered in crisis or emergency situations, that’s a violation of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) is an attempt to “level the playing field” for those with disabilities on a daily basis. Once the situation has been deescalated, steps should be taken in accordance with the ADA to ensure things like effective communication, if the person has a hearing impairment, and access to the courthouse, if the person a mobility impairment, for example, are observed. These are just a few ways of how the ADA was meant to be utilized as it’s currently written. Quite honestly, I’m not sure if law enforcement has time to consider the ADA when you’re talking about life and death.

I’ll be interested to see what the Supreme Court decides. Maybe, instead of using part of the ADA to regulate this sort of situation, a new law should be drawn up in an effort to have a clearer framework available. I’m not saying the situation should be ignored, because it does need attention. It might just be that another avenue needs to be explored to have more effective action plan put in place.

Thanks for reading..

cr
For more information on this story check out the link below:
http://lubbockonline.com/filed-online/2015-03-21/supreme-court-considers-impact-disability-law-police-mentally-ill#.VQ4SleFGSSo

“Margarita, with a Straw” Thoughts

by caste551, posted in Uncategorized

In the course of writing this blog, I’ve spent time exploring how the media portrays people with disabilities. The film “Margarita, with a Straw” goes one step further and talks about a person with a disability and their experience with relationships too. Unfortunately, there are many people who think people with disabilities are unable to have intimate relationships because of their limitations. Making that assumption without talking to the person about the subject will only lead to inaccurate information. As I may or may not have said before, the way a person’s disability affects them ranges. While I’m not a medical professional, I can say that reading about Cerebral Palsy or any other disability on a website like WebMD, or picking up a book on the subject may not give you the most accurate information on a particular person’s daily life.

Like with most other things, communication is really the key to quenching the curiosity that might exist. It’s not a bad thing to ask questions about things we don’t know. An even worse outcome would be to miss out on a great and adventurous experience with someone you care about just because there’s no dialogue about a particular issue. Also, not knowing the right information about that person may lead to unnecessarily hurting their feelings.

While I haven’t seen “Margarita with a Straw” I’m glad someone took the chance to make a movie on a subject some may consider taboo. Hopefully, this movie will catch the eye of an American filmmaker and they have the idea to bring it to American audiences. It’s a great way to raise awareness on the fact that disabled people have the same wants and needs as everyone else. It’s also a great way to open dialogue on a side of a disabled person’s life that’s rarely talked about but, is worthy of some attention.

Thanks for reading..

cr

For more information on the movie, check out the link below:

http://variety.com/2015/film/reviews/film-review-margarita-with-a-straw-1201406266/

Teacher Assaults Autistic Boy

by caste551, posted in Uncategorized

As parents, we expect when we send our kids to school, they’re in good hands. After seeing a story on the news earlier this week, I was completely shocked about the subject of the report. A teacher had been caught on video assaulting a student with Autism.

When I started looking into the subject a bit more, I found out that unfortunately, this wasn’t an isolated incident. I’ve posted before on how students with disabilities experience more bullying by their peers than their non-disabled counterparts. What didn’t occur to me, until now, was the possibility that maybe the person bullying the student could actually be the teacher, and not other students.

Obviously, there’s no excuse for this behavior. It’s a shame that those we entrust with our kids feel they can use their position of trust and power in such a negative way. I feel the Superintendent of the school did the right thing by firing the teacher. Although the School Board reinstated her, I’m hoping the new investigation being conducted will result in the appropriate action to protect all children at the school, especially those with a disability.

I’ve had the pleasure to volunteer my time years ago at a local Middle School and realize the majority of teachers who take on the job genuinely care about their students. Although I’m not sure how, an extra safeguard should be implemented in the education field to ensure the people entrusted with the safety and well-being of our kids on a daily basis are doing exactly that. As a result, the kids can focus on learning instead of the physical abuse their teacher might inflict on them if they misbehave.

For more information check out the following link:

http://www.wftv.com/news/news/local/9-investigates-teacher-accused-assaulting-special-/ngPHN/

Thanks for reading..

cr

Christmas 2013

by caste551, posted in Uncategorized

Before becoming pregnant with my son, I’d researched and contemplated having a child.  Most people tried to discourage me, or said I’d be a burden to him or her.  Some told me, and tell me, even today, I should tell him I’m disabled.  I don’t make a big deal about it and won’t tell him because I don’t think it matters.  I take care of him and love him and am his mom.  Those are the most important things, also, in the long run, he’ll know but, again, it doesn’t matter.

I’d heard about a little girl who signed her Christmas play for her parents, who happen to be deaf.  At the risk of sounding corny, this is one of the most loving things she could do for them.  It allows them the opportunity to fully participate in her extra-curricular activities despite their limitations.

This is just an example of children showing they love their parents despite their limitations.  For this reason, I don’t feel like disabled parents are burdens on their children, or that as a disabled person, you don’t have a right to have a child just because you’re disabled.

The last example I have of this is Shemar Moore from “Criminal Minds”.  His mother has Multiple Sclerosis.  He’s constantly trying to raise awareness about M.S. and make his mom’s life the best it can be.  No matter what level of ability the parent has, the child will love them either way.

Thanks for reading..

cr

Florida Disabled Outdoors Association

by caste551, posted in Uncategorized

Physical activity is beneficial for everyone and people with disabilities can benefit and participate in different forms of activity too. This week, I have the pleasure of sharing information from the Florida Disabled Outdoors Association (FDOA). I want to thank Laurie Gussak, the Executive Director and David Jones, the President of FDOA for answering my questions and being open to letting me profile the organization.

1. Can you give me a brief description of the origins of FDOA?

It is rare that someone can take a “tragedy” as an opportunity to change their life and help others. That is exactly what David Jones did. His injury became a personal commitment to help others. In 1988, David Jones was shot in a hunting accident resulting in a serious head injury that left him with permanent paralyses of left leg, limiting mobility and no use of left hand. David utilized a wheelchair for one year, then gradually increased mobility to the point where he could walk with a walker and now walks with a slight limp without any device. He remains paralyzed in one arm. In the process of his rehabilitation, he became aware of the importance of recreation for rehabilitation – not only to improve mobility, but to improve mental well-being. David saw this event in his life as a challenge and an opportunity to assist others. This life changing event developed into his personal crusade.

David went back to school and received his bachelor’s degree and with his degree in Marketing learned that an effective organization fills a need that is not being met. David Jones overcame the challenge of his disability utilizing sports for himself and others by forming the Florida Disabled Outdoors Association in 1990. The Florida Disabled Outdoors Association has grown since that point to have multiple programs including, the Recreation Activity Program for Adults with Disabilities, ALLOUT Adventure Program, Miracle Sports, Community-Based Therapeutic Recreation for People with a Brain or Spinal Cord Injury and SportsAbility.

2. What are the requirements to become a member? An interest in improving the quality of life for people with disabilities through accessible, inclusive recreation

3. What is the cost of membership? $0

4. What activities are available to members?  We have a variety of programs.  More info can be found at http://www.fdoa.org/programs

5. Can you tell me some of the benefits of being involved in your Association? (In other words health wise or socially)

People with disabilities are often excluded from recreational pursuits and active leisure for a number of reasons.

  • There is a lack of barrier-free facilities and equipment.
  • There is a deficiency of inclusive recreation programs.
  • Staff is not trained to help people with disabilities to participate in recreation and active leisure.
  • There is a general lack of awareness about them and about the importance of physical activity.
  • The majority of people with disabilities finds it difficult to be motivated and inspired to participate in fitness and active leisure.  The message of the importance of active leisure for wellness has not been heard by people with disabilities because people with disabilities do not relate to traditional communication methods. This has been a serious deterrent to people with disabilities in receiving the message of the health and wellness benefits of recreation and an active lifestyle.

It is for these very reasons that the Florida Disabled Outdoors Association (FDOA), an organization dedicated to enriching lives through accessible, inclusive recreation and active leisure for all, seeks to deliver its programs.

6. Do you have any volunteer opportunities available to people who would like to help out? 

Volunteers are needed at all programs.  In addition, volunteer fundraisers, graphic artists and grant writers would be appreciated.

7. Is there anything else you would like to share? 

FDOA has seen that inclusion in all aspects of society begins with recreation and active leisure.  With the recent passing of Nelson Mandela, his words are ever present in our minds.

“Sport has the power to change the world…it has the power to inspire. It has the power to unite people in a way that little else does. It speaks to youth in a language they understand. Sport can create hope where once there was only despair. It is more powerful than government in breaking down racial barriers.”

You can also “Like” FDOA on Facebook

Thanks for reading..

cr

My Karate Experience

by caste551, posted in Uncategorized

I know I’ve been talking a lot about adaptive sports, so, I figured in today’s post, I’d tell you a bit about how adaptive karate changed my life.

When I was about 17 years old, I was lucky enough for my mom to enroll me in Karate classes.  That’s right, Karate.  My mom had taken Karate herself for many years and I’m not exactly sure how, but I became interested in it too.  I do remember feeling a little nervous when I went to check out the class.  The kids all had different disabilities and they were much younger than me but, I decided it would probably be something exciting for me to do.

At first, I wasn’t sure how I was going to be able to do any sort of Karate since for the most part, I need my cane to get around outside my house.  I had no idea how much it would help me in the long run.  After a while, I was running around the Karate studio in the routine warm-ups the instructor had us doing and even sparring with him!

I didn’t realize how much I could actually do, not only in class with different stances and punches, but, it even started to help me outside of class.  My stamina increased and my balance got better! I couldn’t believe it! Yes, I was exhausted after class and did have some discomfort in my feet because I had to stand for longer periods than I was used to, and be barefoot, but, after a while, it wasn’t so uncomfortable.

I believe that staying as active as you can, even when you have a disability does help you in many ways.  No matter what your limitations may be, there are always options out there in the form of different activities for you to do and things for you to see.

What activity would you participate in if given the chance?

Thanks for reading..

cr

The Oscars Celebrate People with Disabilities

by caste551, posted in Uncategorized

Tonight is one of Hollywood’s biggest nights – The Academy Awards. This week, I started thinking about how many of these most prestigious awards have been given out to movies about people with different disabilities.

From true stories like “My Left Foot” to depictions like “Rain Main”, these movies have gained the highest praise the movie industry has to offer.  In my opinion, they’ve also made people with disabilities a little more relatable.  That’s  because they’ve shown them in real-life situations that can happen to anyone.  Each movie also showed what the person would do in response to their surroundings.  Though there were a handful of movies that depicted disability in some way, shape or form, I’ve chosen three to talk about in today’s post.

“My Left Foot” is the story of a man named Christy Brown.  The movie shows how he lived his life with the use of only his left foot due to Cerebral Palsy.  When “My Left Foot” was in theaters  I was surprised to see the story of someone’s life with Cerebral Palsy being shown in the movies.  It was one of those times where I felt like C.P. was being shown not as something that’s contagious (as some kids used to say) but, something that was meant to be overlooked.  It helped emphasize that people should focus on the actual person instead of what they weren’t able to do.

“Rain Man” may have been the first time that someone with Autism was depicted on the “silver screen”.  One of the reasons that I chose to list it here is because in the movie, although his brother didn’t know that he existed, when he found out about him and started interacting with him, Raymond showed that despite his disability, he was an intelligent person.  I feel like this movie  helped dispel the myth that a person who is disabled can’t be intelligent.

There’s also the movie “I Am Sam” which starred Sean Penn.   This movie is about a father with a developmental disability that’s trying to keep custody of his daughter after they’re abandoned by her mother.  Although it didn’t win an Academy Award, it showed the struggle that people with disabilities sometimes face in order to keep custody of their children.

Oscar night is always exciting, even if you’re just watching from the comfort of your own home.  It’s also refreshing to know that it’s filled with great diversity.

What is your favorite Academy Award winning movie?

Thanks for reading..

cr

Bullying and People with Disabilities

by caste551, posted in Uncategorized

Recently, I’ve seen a lot of different stories on t.v. and online about bullying and its devastating effects, not only on victims but, on their families as well.  Bullying isn’t really something new.  Like many other issues, the media and its wide reach help bring this problem to the forefront of society’s attention more today than in years’ past. 

Students who are disabled experience bullying at a higher rate than those who aren’t disabled.  That’s because they’re perceived as easier targets who can’t defend themselves.  When parents send their kids to school, they are under the impression that the kids are going somewhere safe, and that their child will not become the victim of a bully.

 For parents of disabled children there are a few avenues that can be utilized to help with this problem.  If your child is being taunted because of their disability, it could reach the level of disability harassment.  According to the U.S. Department of Education, disability harassment is “intimidation or abusive behavior toward a student based on disability that creates a hostile environment by interfering with or denying a student’s participation in or receipt of benefits, services, or opportunities in the institution’s program” (U.S. Department of Education 2000).

 It’s very important as parents to know what is going on at your child’s school and to have open communication with their 504 or IEP (Individual Education Plan) team (whichever applies to them).  This team isn’t only there to maximize your child’s learning experience but, also to make sure they receive the services and support they need to succeed in their studies.

If your child is having these types of issues at school, it wouldn’t only be hard for them to put forth their best efforts but, also hard to not worry about when the next time might be that they run into another issue with the person in question.  Also, if your child is being bullied, their IEP or 504 Team should be brought together in a meeting to see how the plan can be adjusted to address the issue.  At the same time, it is also very important that if you find your child in this situation, you proceed with caution in resolving the issue so that your actions don’t inadvertently make the situation worse.

All in all, slowly but surely, the issue of bullying is being addressed by schools.  The best thing we can do for our students is to take a proactive approach to help solve the issue if in fact it presents itself.

For more information, please visit:  http://www.stopbullying.gov/at-risk/groups/special-needs/BullyingTipSheet.pdf

Thanks for reading..

cr