Disability mode

In the past ice breakers have not been implemented prior to the presentations. I offered to start with one- it will get everyone in disability mode AND it will eat up more time. I am having fun figuring out questions that get people thinking. I will assign a table a disability then give them a scenario that may pose some challenges. I ask the people the following two questions. 1) What may be some challenges that a person with a disability may run into? 2) What are some solutions that may be implemented? I'm not sure how many tables there will be so I will need many thought - provoking questions. Another type of questions are general such as the following: I am part of the employee resource group. We must be inclusive with our social activities. What are some areas we should consider? This will be a wonderful way to begin.

What's the big deal?

A member of my temple is having cataract surgery. I offered to bring food- I'll be out anyway. I called the lady just to check if anyone else was bringing Monday. She was shocked by my offer and just couldn't seem to get over it. I cannot for the life of me figure out the big deal. I like giving more than getting why should things be any different of me than anyone else? Mitzvah Day is the same thing. I offered to get involved with a project nut the man in charge never replied. The concept of helping goes against the grain of "disability." I guess I'm just supposed to be on the receiving end. It really gets to me that the stereotype is just so very strong and no matter how many times I disprove it I can't escape people's judgments.

Making it real

It was suggested that I start the breakfast speech with something funny, though I couldn't imagine anything appropriate to use to start off. Then I had lunch at a restaurant and at the table next to me was an adult child with a physical disability and a set of elderly parents. The father was getting up to the buffet and bringing a variety of foods back. The son had on a large bib while he carefully fed himself."I wonder what kind of work skills that man would had" I thought. "I wonder if it was ever considered." Not likely was my immediate thought." Observing his determination with his meal told me that the man was motivated and independent, 2 important traits human resource professionals seek. This is something I could bring up before the speech begins. This may hit home.

A for Advocacy

I just HAD to follow through with the ambulance issue. 3 different departments were responsible for the reason why I was upset. First there was the case worker who insisted I'd be getting transported by ambulance without my wheelchair. That was the crux of the situation she admitted it to me but told a patient care worker that it was medically necessary that I be transported (without my chair). Second the nurse had no intention on putting my clothes on for the ambulance ride (I insisted she change her plans). Third the ambulance workers did not ask for my insurance and said they weren't allowed nor cared about my wheelchair arriving. I wrote letters to all three departments, printed them out in the hospital library, went to the administrative offices, and was then encouraged to meet with the patient care manager(they wanted the patient care woman to be present to offer an overview). Then I explained she didn't really understand the situation because she was told by the care manager something different than I was. Upon listening to me for a few minutes that lady knew there was no need for the lady. We had a productive meeting- she was respectful, she knew I knew my rights (I deserved to be informed of my options), she said most patients allow things to happen, and I think she was impressed that I was looking out for others who were going through the same thing. She admitted the need for sensitivity trainings. I may be invited to do one- who better?

My disability doesn't decide things

My friend moved in my apartment and an accessible double became available at the same time. Initially the plan was to move but I really didn't want to move my hospital bed or lose my walk-in closet. I was situated here and knew deep down I knew it would be fine right here. Everyone thought it was a no-brainer but a roll-in shower rather than a tub and a designated parking space in front would be the selling points. I would not be able to reach any of the sinks nor would I have much closet space. This morning we just finished moving things around and now our computers are on tables side by side PLUS the exercise equipment and the scooter are inside. I am happy as a clam that I trusted my feelings on this decision. Sometimes bigger is not better and a disability is not a decision maker. Often others, especially professionals, advise people with disabilities to do things based on the challenge hence the unnecessary ambulance ride.

Leadership group

The presenter offered information on stress but at one point she mentioned that she is a physical therapist assistant. My ears perked up for 2 reasons. First, I realize the physical residuals of neuropathy, a swollen hip, and continual urination are serious stressors. It's hard to concentrate on anything except my bladder which almost always feels full. It's hard to pull up my pants due to the swelling of my left buttock. I am dropping things constantly because my hands can't grasp things. Second, this may be my opening to share my disability booklet with medical professionals- something I'm always seeking. I'm just so glad that I joined this group. I was never happy with the rigid structure of the business groups and the speech(toastmaster's)group. This group is an interesting combination of business, social/networking and information. I finally found something right- it took long enough but it was worth the wait.

Generating interest

I have been making attempts to find companies in Lancaster County that will collaborate with Team River Runner. I have found a few and I am trying to meet with key people and interest them in helping and participating in activities that will be happening. We begin with small requests with small "permission" marketing and the plan is to build to sponsorships. I have my first meeting with a staff at Penn State Rehab Center. I have been reading speaking techniques but I don't need to read anything in order to keep it sincere. I hate exercising with a passion because it's boring and one doesn't see measurable progress. However, if I'm distracted while exercising whether it is through conversation or tv, I will exercise with no hesitation. This is why Team River Runner's paddling program is so successful. Veterans are getting physical and emotional therapy while paddling a kayak and convening with nature a very effective way of exercising; anyone can identify with that. Generating interest within by involving veterans in a psycho - social program and volunteering in the community may be a bigger challenge. This program is unique and wonderful for me and hopefully others.

Outreach for veterans

I attended a job fair to meet companies who may donate to Team River Runner. A few were very real possibilities and one big one asked if we have sponsorship opportunities! Wow I was shocked but I guess the companies know how worthy a cause this is. Most everyone knows someone who was enlisted. Monday I meet with the Development Director at Hershey Rehab and hopefully it will lead to call to the chapter director and then a sponsorship. I must really work hard on my presentation skills since I am the first point contact but I think in this case less is more. I will say a few words about the benefits of non-traditional therapy for vets who have physical and emotional challenges. I'll go over the salesbook then a call be made to the director. ALSO we are going to implement a wonderful psycho-social program by and for veterans. This will be something that has never been successful because it is usually run by non veterans. There is a real lack of understanding and respect for the other side. This will be a great idea.

Rec Fest

The event was amazing and I am so glad that Team River Runner participated. We had most of the pool and gained 21 new members. I learned that someone even presented the program with a $300 contribution! I was upstairs working the room as an Outreach Worker. A few programs were interested in combining with us to hold events. Hopefully since this event worked well but was not 100% vet focused the people who approves things will be understanding again. There are always a few new veterans we meet along the way. Easter Seal has a camp for veterans families and they have a camp for adapted sports. They are actively seeking a paddling group to visit, talk, and demonstrate the program. I may have to apply a little pressure but these offers are time limited so if we do not meet and start to arrange the event we will be passed up. I have a meeting with the development director of Penn State Hershey, it would be gold if we can get them on board- they are really well respected. The Camp Hill CIL is another organization where we can visit and find new members.