Disabilities Blog

• Enlarge

Category: Accessibility

UCP-Michigan unveils Ramps for Independence

UCP-Michigan recently started a new program, Ramps for Independence, designed to increase access to the community by providing ramps for homes of individuals with disabilities.

To qualify for Ramps for Independence, you must:

• be a person with cerebral palsy or live with someone with CP,
• not be a resident of Wayne, Oakland or Macomb County, and
• meet other technical requirements.

The program was funded through the efforts of Neil Sauter. In the summer of 2008, Sauter raised $75,000 by walking 830 miles across the state on stilts. Neil also documented his trip in this blog.

For more information on Ramps for Independence, call (800) 828-2714 or check UCP's Web site.

Category: Accessibility

Gadgets for all also help people with disabilities

There are many disability related gadgets, including wheelchairs, electronic door openers, specially adapted vans and specially designed furniture and appliances. But what I am excited about these days are regular gadgets designed for the masses that also help people with disabilities.

Some of the items I like include:
- Cell phone: smart phones now allow you to check e-mail, dial phone numbers with your voice, etc. Many of these features make it easier for those of us with limited mobility to get more information from our phone so we can avoid using the computer all of the time and making it easier to dial the phone.
- Amazon Kindle 2: This electronic reader is new to the market and might be pricey for most ($299) but it is a neat way to read books. All you have to do is download the book (most books are only $10) to your Kindle, which is slim and not very large (about the size of a regular book in dimensions) and weighs less than one pound. You can store upto 1,500 books on your Kindle so you don't have to carry around your books, which for many of us is tough to do. Also some books are available via voice reader so they can be read to you out loud with the device's electronic voice system. I like to read and travel so this is a good item to have.
- Laptops and netbooks: There are so many kinds of laptops that it is almost always possible to find one for those who have mobility issues. Many newer laptops and netbooks are also more lightweight than in the past. Also many companies offer additional technology and software for specific needs -- visual and mobility related.
- Remote control operated appliances and lighting: My whole house is filled with lights and appliances that are remote controlled. My dad even installed a light in my garage that can stay on longer than the garage door opener light so I have light when I need it when loading into the van. I just use the remote control that comes with the unit. These days fans and lighting systems are available with remote controls. In a matter of time more homes will have "smart" appliances helping the elderly and those of us with disabilities.

What are the gadgets that help you?

Category: Accessibility

Obama marks anniversary of ADA

Here's the statement Friday by President Barack Obama on the 19th anniversary of the Americans With Disabilities Act:

BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

A PROCLAMATION

Today we celebrate the 19th anniversary of the enactment of

the historic Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Signed into law on July 26, 1990, this landmark legislation established a clear mandate against discrimination on the basis of disability so that people with disabilities would have an equal opportunity to achieve the American Dream.

Our Nation is once again poised to make history for people with disabilities. I am proud to announce that the United States will sign the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, adopted by the United Nations General Assembly in New York on December 13, 2006. The Convention is the first new human rights convention of the 21st century adopted by the United Nations, and it represents a paradigm shift in protecting the human rights of 650 million people with disabilities worldwide. We proudly join the international community in further advancing the rights of people with disabilities.

As we reflect upon the past and look toward a brighter future, we recognize that our country has made great progress. More than ever before, Americans with disabilities enjoy greater access to technology and economic self-sufficiency. More communities are accessible, more children with disabilities learn alongside their peers, and more employers recognize the capabilities of people with disabilities.

Despite these achievements, much work remains to be done. People with disabilities far too often lack the choice to live in communities of their choosing; their unemployment rate is much higher than those without disabilities; they are much likelier to live in poverty; health care is out of reach for too many; and too many children with disabilities are denied a world-class education.

My Administration has met these challenges head-on. We have launched the "Year of Community Living" to help people with disabilities live wherever they choose. We have nearly doubled the funding for the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act. I was proud to sign the groundbreaking Christopher and Dana Reeve Paralysis Act and the Children's Health Insurance Reauthorization Act, which provides health insurance to millions of additional children. I also lifted the ban on stem cell research. These measures demonstrate our commitment to leveling the playing field for every person with a disability. My Administration will not rest on these accomplishments, and we will continue to focus on improving the lives of people with disabilities. I encourage States, localities, and communities across the country to cultivate an environment in which the 54 million Americans living with a disability are valued and respected.

Americans have repeatedly affirmed the importance of protecting the human rights and dignity of every member of this great country. Through the steps we have taken, we will continue to build on the ADA and demonstrate our ongoing commitment to promoting, protecting, and ensuring the full enjoyment of all human rights and fundamental freedoms by people with disabilities.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, President of the United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim July 26, 2009, as the Anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act. I call on Americans across our country to celebrate the progress we have made in protecting the civil rights of people with disabilities and to recognize the step forward we make with the signing of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. Inspired by the advances of the last 19 years, let us commit to greater achievements in the years ahead.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this twenty-fourth day of July, in the year of our Lord two thousand nine, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-fourth.

BARACK OBAMA

Category: Accessibility

RoughRider 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: Accessibility

Plan ahead for winter work challenges

It is extremely cold today and many people with disabilities would never venture out in the cold and snow. However many of us have to still go to work and attend work-related meetings so cold and snow and other obstacles at work cannot be a hinderance. How do I deal with these annoyances?

1) I luckily have parking assigned near the building. Working with facilities on obtaining special parking was crucial because I know wheelchair access is best in the front of the building. Restrooms are also accessible and automated entries have been installed so I don't have to struggle with doors. My desk area is also set up so I can reach everything and be independent. It took planning and cooperation by everyone, but it is required to go to work.

2) When elevators break down (like it did today) or other special features in the building that are luxuries for others but necessary for me, I need to know what is the backup plan or know who is willing to help.

3) My work ethic is normal, so I never use my wheelchair or disability as an excuse. The job gets done because I was hired to do well. So you have to create a support system at work to ensure high quality performance. Never use your disability as an excuse or think you deserve special treatment. You may request special equipment or parking, but you have to get your work done. I was taught at a young age to focus on ability and others will see the results.

It is not easy working when you use a wheelchair and being productive in a world not very accessible or accepting, but being a productive member of society is important. I hope I am making a positive difference for my company and collegues, too.

Category: Accessibility

Snow needs to be cleared for wheelchair access

Because I feel like I'm living in the wild blue tundra, this Q&A about snowy sidewalks blocking wheelchair access piqued my interest.

The ultimate conclusion of the news story: "... not clearing the walks could be considered either attempts to make you move because of the wheelchair or a failure to accommodate."

For the most part, I find that people generally want to remove obstacles that could further limit my already limited mobility. I don't run into too much frustration as a result of snow-blocked curb cuts or icy parking spaces designated for people with disabilities. How about you? When the going gets rough, how do you deal with it?

I'm searching for rationalization on why I need to relocate to the land of palm trees and sunshine.

Category: Accessibility

Disabled don't have to pay for extra plane seat, Canadian court rules

Fliers with disabilities won a significant victory today when the Supreme Court of Canada ruled that airlines can't charge people with disabilities for an extra seat when an attendant needs to travel with them.

The downside is that this ruling only applies to domestic flights within Canada by airlines such as Air Canada and WestJet Airlines. So, if you're flying anywhere else you're still out of luck.

"Now, many people who could not previously travel will be able to do so," Laurie Beachell, national coordinator at the Council of Canadians with Disabilities, told the Bloomberg News Service. "We've leveled the playing field. People with disabilities aren't having to bear extra costs of travel."

Now let's hope court in the United States or domestic air carriers will follow Canada's lead.

Read the full story here.

Category: Accessibility

Are lawsuits the best way to enforce the ADA?

I just came across this story on Jarek Molski and it caught my attention enough to make me dig a few minutes and explore it further. I have never heard of anyone who has to get special permission before filing a lawsuit, but Molski has sued so many businesses for violating the ADA that the Supreme Court has said enough is enough.

At first, I was disgusted with Molski. I wondered how he could be so nervy to go to court about every little obstacle he encountered? It is people like him that give the disability community the reputation of being disagreeable and bitter. That was my first impression.

Through a Web search, however, I hit on a 2005 blog post by Mary Johnson of Ragged Edge magazine. She interviewed Molski's attorney at the time who said, "If every person who's run into an access problem filed a suit, we wouldn't have this problem (with people picking on Molski)."

Johnson's musings made me think twice.

I'm still not sure that making a career of filing lawsuits is the best way, but now I'm questioning if staying silent and doing nothing is any better. What do you think?

Category: Accessibility

Use positive strategies for accessible shopping trip

Many people who use wheelchairs avoid running errands or going out shopping on their own due to accessibility challenges in accessibility and people staring at them.

The obstacles for good parking (where you can open your wheelchair ramp) or getting into the building (not all stores have automated doors) can hamper your enthusiasm; however, it should not stop you.

For example, today I met a friend for lunch and shopping at my favorite mall, Somerset Collection in Troy. I needed a pair of shoes and party purse for my brother's upcoming wedding. To get to the mall, I drive my specially adapted minivan. Once I am there, I drive around for about 10 minutes to find a parking spot. Many spots reserved for people with disabilities are taken. It seems that somehow every person who has even a minor ache or pain finds a way to get a special handicap sticker and park in spots that should be reserved for those who really need it. More often than not you can tell that many who park in accessible spots are capable of parking elsewhere. I have learned the hard way to park my van at an angle even in a handicap spot so my wheelchair ramp has enough room to come down and I have enough space to exit with my wheelchair.

The next challenge is getting into the mall. It has automated doors with the press of the button; however, this time the button was blocked by the cigarette stand. I use my grabber/reacher to press the door button. Once inside, I kindly inform the store manager that the button is blocked and creating an accessibility issue. She promises to have it taken care of and I can tell she will. I can always tell if someone is going to really help out or is just giving me lip service. Being an advocate for people with disabilities is a daily ritual for me because living in the mainstream is how I choose to live life.

The rest of my shopping experience is good. I found the shoes and purse and had lunch with my friend. Of course, I had to deal with other normal challenges, such as the tight aisles in stores that make manuevering my wheelchair difficult at times and of course the occassional stares from people as they see me whiz by with Nordstrom's shopping bags on the back of my wheelchair.

That's OK; no obstacle or lack of social understanding can prevent me from enjoying s Sunday afternoon with friends at the mall -- and finding a great pair of shoes!!

Category: Accessibility

Accessible playgrounds mean everyone can have fun

Since I live in northern Michigan, it generally takes a little extra time for great accessibility efforts to reach our region. I was excited to hear about this new accessible playground in Blair Township, considered one-of-a-kind north of Grand Rapids.

The playground is constructed with special surfaces, sections and equipment to make it easier for people with and without disabilities to enjoy outdoor fun together.

In the course of my research, I also learned Michigan was the first state to build universally accessible playgrounds at its welcome centers.

Boundless Playgrounds is a resource for people to check if they want to learn more about what it takes to establish this type of site. This nonprofit has the mission of "helping communities create extraordinary barrier-free playgrounds where children, with and without disabilities, can develop essential skills for life as they learn together through play."

Do you know of an accessible playground in your area? I'd love to hear about it!