On the road, with few impediments
Summer is here, and that means travel, vacations, people to see. It's not always easy doing so when you have a disability, but most places make accommodations for those with special needs.
The writers at the Go Frugal Blog (part of the freeshipping.org Web site) have posted 11 Budget Travel Tips for Disabled Travelers.
Enjoy your trip.
Putting Extra Effort is Key to Success
If you have a disability or any extra obstacle in life then you will always have to put extra efforts to overcome the situation. As a person with a disability you will have to work harder many times to accomplish what others take for granted. You will have to plan, research and put extra effort in almost areas of your life. Life will not be as easy in some ways for a person with a disability than a non-disabled person -- that is just the reality. Also expecting the world to rescue you is also foolish -- the world will see you as a charity case if you do not put the energy and intelligence to make something of yourself. If you have any kind of disability -- you will have to work harder, smarter and be a good planner to make things work. Dedication, positive energy and the willpower to make your goals a reality is paramount.
Some key examples in my life are getting a Bachelor's Degree and MBA even though many thought it could not done at Michigan's finest universities under my physical circumstances. Living on my own in a customized condo, driving a specially adapted van, working full time in a good position for a major corporation, and having fulfilling relationships with friends/family. All of these areas forced me and my loved ones to be creative, tap into many different resources (both medical and financial) and work harder in terms of time and energy to make things a reality. Also I set high standards for myself and know I can reach them because if you do not set standards then you can never accomplish anything. I was taught early in life that where there is a will there is a way.
Regardless of your situation, many things can be done to have a good life. It frustrates me when people who have disabilities do not reach their full potential. Not everyone can be Harvard graduates but if your mind and spirit is solid you can go much further in life than you may realize. You can not feel sorry for yourself or expect others will save you from your difficult circumstances if you are disabled. You have to get an education, get a job, and become as independent as possible. You will have to work harder to get there -- it is not fair but you deserve a good life.
So here some general tips for people with disabilities to keep in mind:
1) Being disabled is hard but don't complain -- life is hard for everyone in some way, shape or form. Complainers are not winners. Winners do not complain.
2) Being creative -- solutions to your accessibility or other hurdles may be different than how non-disabled peers accomplish the same thing. So don't worry about looking or doing things different than everyone else. Just do what you need to do to be self-sufficient. For example I use to be embarrased to wear a diaper when traveling if I am alone and can not use the bathroom in public places. Now I don't care because I know I have to survive and the world is not always going to be set up for me. We have a long way to go to making America truly accessible and adhering to the ADA.
3) Be smart -- make good decisions based on facts and quality of life. Not based on emotion or social misconceptions. You deserve to work, live on your own, get married, have children, and do whatever you want in life even if you have a disability. You may have to do it in a different way than others but don't let others tell you that it can not be done. People who stifle your enthusiasm or limit you should be removed from your life.
4) Work toward your goals -- Make those calls, get the right informatinn, network with others who have your disability, and set up a positive support system of family and friends. Again if people in your life are not helping you then you need to find new people.
5) Don't give up -- The people with disabilities who achieve their goals and live productive lives did not give up when a roadblock occurred. They do not believe negative stereotypes and they do not think they were better or worse than non-disabled people. All accomplished individuals just keep at it and realize that the sun always eventually shines.
Category: Visual impairment
Posted by Nick Assendelft (The Detroit News) on Mon, Jun 22, 2009 at 2:17 PMNational Federation for the Blind convention coming to Detroit
The National Federation of the Blind will be in town July 3-8 at the Renaissance Marriott for its national convention.
Most times when conventions are in town you wouldn't know it. Participants are stuck in too-cold meeting rooms fidgeting on banquet chairs with too little padding. But you'll know this group is in town.
The organization is kicking off the main part of its national meeting with a 5K walk through downtown Detroit to raise awarness and money for local outreach efforts. The Motor City March for Independance -- Walk for Opportunity will start at the Wintergarden entrance to the Renaissance Center, circle around to Joe Louis Arena and end up at Rivard Plaza for a rally.
As with all conventions, there will be panel discussions, lectures, exhibitors and sponsor booths.
For more details about the conference, which is expected to draw up to 3,500 attendees, check the National Federation of the Blind's Web site.
Let's be on our friendliest behavior on July 9 as the group has organized tours of our city to those who want to learn more about Detroit.
Category: Accessibility
Posted by Bethany Broadwell on Mon, Jun 22, 2009 at 2:15 PMRoughRider wheelchair fits needs of developing countries
I frequently hear about efforts to collect used wheelchairs and ship them to needy people. Whirlwind Wheelchair International is different in that the organization is striving to provide new wheelchairs to people in developing countries.
Founded in 1989, it has taken equipment to 45 nations. They aren't just any wheelchairs, either. They are specifically designed to be usable on the terrain where the people will be using them - "places often without any wheelchair accommodations."
One segment of tomorrow night's 10 p.m. episode of Frontline on PBS will focus on Whirlwind Wheelchair International.
Category: Employment
Posted by Bethany Broadwell on Fri, Jun 5, 2009 at 2:07 PMShare work experiences related to disability
Advocate Susan Fitzmaurice, creator of Disabled Soapbox, is collecting stories from the disability community about work experiences. The perspectives she gathers could eventually be incorporated into an upcoming production by Matrix Theatre in Detroit.
The Matrix Theatre Company MySpace page describes that it “uses the transformative power of original theatre to change lives, build community, and foster social justice.” With more than 70 productions and new scripts to its credit since it was founded, Matrix offers opportunities for people of all ages, especially those in isolated or challenged communities, to become creators, producers and audience of original theatre pertaining to their lives.
Fitzmaurice invites people (primarily, but not strictly, from Michigan) to post their insights on the subject of work. Contributors need not think of “work” in the traditional sense. She explained, for example, that people may write about the effort a parent puts into caring for a child with disabilities, the struggle of those who use paratransit to meet their daily transportation needs, the determination it takes for people to comply with a challenging therapy regime or any of the other work associated with disability.
Fitzmaurice concluded, “In the United States, we primarily identify ourselves by what work we do -- but too often people think that the work (of) people with disabilities is not ‘real’ work. Disprove that notion.”
Category: Awareness
Posted by Neeru Sharma on Mon, May 25, 2009 at 2:11 PMHow to deal with others' comments
Many times when I go out in public people make comments if I am alone. Some just stare, others ask if I need help, or where is your mom or dad (assuming I am a child because I look young). Regardless of these reactions, I still go about my business. My problem is not with this ignorance or rudeness where people somehow think they can talk to a person with a disability with less respect than others. My issue is their uncomfortable nature at seeing someone who is independent and using a wheelchair.
You see most people are insecure at some level or for some reason. When they see a disabled person doing well they may think to themselves, how can that be possible? Well it is if you realize the disability forces most of us with ongoing medical issues to be more patient and emotionally stronger than the average person. We must instead work on creating opportunities for dialogue with others. So when people ask questions or make rude comments, I just answer "No Thanks -- I am fine." If I do need help, I get it and then thank the person and move on. You do not need to tell them your whole life story -- their curiousity is not your problem.
It is important, too, to be willing to deal with the social reactions in public places when they occur. Do not however stop living your life or be bothered by occassionally dumb questions, comments, teasing or misconceptions about you. Continue your journey of accomplishments and do not let petty and ignorance to prevent you from living your life and completing your goals. You are in charge of your future and not allowing others to destroy your spirit is important. My approach is not to get angry or aggressive but instead focus on being nice and firm, and smile when in public. Remember positive and attractive people are not just the best dressed or those with the best physical bodies but those with inner strength to deal with the situation we have in front of us and creating the best outcome. This strategy has worked for me. An optimistic and action orientated way of life will allow you to be a shining example of a "can-do" person.
Dancers with disabilities can be compelling and graceful?
Even though I don’t swirl and twirl around a ballroom, I’m all entranced in the excitement surrounding this week’s “Dancing with the Stars” finale. Since dancing is a hot topic right now, I was interested to read about the GIMP dance troupe featuring both performers with and without disabilities. The people involved in the productions are putting their heart into spotlighting how a disability can be compelling and--"dare I say it--"actually, graceful.
The article made me want to see the troupe in motion. Now, I’m thinking the dancers would be neat to see in a live performance. How comfortable would you be watching the performers if they came to Michigan?
Mothers share stories of parenting children with disabilities
This weekend the Washington Post Magazine is featuring a beautiful piece called, “Doors Opening,” about a mother who is striving to help her adult son with autism live as independently as possible. It’s moving to me because she expresses the wide array of emotions she experiences -- hope, fear, determination, frustration and, ultimately, love.
“Welcome to Holland” is a much older piece written by a mother of a child with Down syndrome. She describes a similar spectrum of feelings.
Women such as these two writers are the kind of people who give people with disabilities a chance to thrive. I have been blessed with this kind of mother. If you know another extraordinary woman making a difference for the disability community, please tell me about her.
Happy Mother's Day!!
On Sunday most of us will be sure to wish our Mothers a Happy Mother's Day. All Mothers are terrific but some are extraordinary like mine. My mother has been a source of physical and emotional support and positive thinking from day one. She is beautiful on the outside and inside too. She reminds me regularly how hard work, a good attitude and a generous spirit is the best way to live even with the obstacles life may present. She is a role model for many women she meets since her inner strength is obvious.
My Mom has always displayed a high level of courage while raising my brother and me. She deals with my physical disabilities with the right mix of practicality, adventure, and advocacy. Most importantly she has taught me to be as independent as possible ignoring society's narrow minded and superficial views. Though she is overprotective at times -- she has learned to let go and understands my strong desire to live life to the fullest at work and with personal activities like traveling, socializing and charity work.
Oh and she is very smart too - a former English teacher who has always encouraged education and still sets high standards for my brother, sister-in-law, and myself.
What I love most about my Mom is that she always has seen me as a normal person. She always has a vision for my future which is healthy and optimistic. My situation has taught her too that all is possible with the right mind-set and resources. Her and my father have always thought as my disability as only one small part of my existence and channeled my energy and brain power toward my abilities.
Of course, like all mothers and daughers, we do not always agree and see the world in different lenses. However there is no doubt she is a devoted mother to my brother, my sister-in-law and me. Truly she is amazing and appreciated by our entire family.
Category: Role models
Posted by Bethany Broadwell on Thu, May 7, 2009 at 1:00 PMFox explores optimism and challenges
It sounds like Michael J. Fox's special about optimism, airing tonight at 10 p.m. on ABC, will cover some interesting material, including how the celebrity manages to stay upbeat and live with Parkinson's disease.
This news story delighted me because it described how Fox decided to take up golf after his diagnosis with a progressive condition. To me, that's spirit!
When was the last time you tried a new challenge? I would love to hear your stories.
