Wheeling with new wheels

Actually I'm taking that literally. I desperately need tires I am on the rims and so I'll end up needing new wheels too. I discovered that not only does my old surgical supply store no longer take my insurance, they no longer deal with Invacare! In order for any company to do repairs they insist that you go to where the chair was bought so I'm between a rock and 2 hard places. Then I called my insurance company and complained, I called four places on their list of accepted companies (I found one in Lebanon), now I must call Invacare since they may not accept me going somewhere else. I think they will see that I have absolutely NO choice. Should I drive there? They are manufacturers, they won't do it. It's not like I insist on getting a particular item of clothing.

Wheeling with new wheels

Yesterday I began with a call to reject my offer to participate in my tv segment on disability & employment. I altered the entire program to be just about disability awareness in general and decided to include a restaurant owner, who was very grateful, and my apartment maintenance department who made some unique accommodations for me. Today I began the day with a well known vocational rehabilitation director accepting my offer to participate. I quickly wrote her details and will not have to include my apartment maintenance man but it would be a nice rounded bunch. I still want to plan a disability employment segment at a later date. Tat would really make Goodwill shine, I hope it doesn't overshadow me and I get no benefit from this. I can't think negatively already though. Also I may be able to purchase a cushion down the road at Bed Bath and Beyond.

Wheeling with new wheels

My latest expo will probably connect me with a mental illness in the next town over. They have a grant to get the perspectives of people with physical disabilities. What a good way to connect with others and share my knowledge! They said there are a few members who have secondary challenges that are physical. I am still trying to get approvals from employers and vocational agencies. It is looking more and more like I will have to approach consumers only. Tomorrow is an event with the local center for independent living so that may be my only option. The date is coming up very soon.

Wheeling with new wheels

My new "home" feels like home. I will have some challenges like getting on and off the shower bench and parking backwards since there's no curb cut near my door, but basically I'm not letting those things impact my new life. The good far outweighs anything else. I made some good connections at the event yesterday so I think I'll start as a simple awareness program and maybe later focus on the vocational aspect, by then I will be established; it will still be considered a unique venture. I may even work in York with NAMI. They have a grant which requires a physical disability perspective- I definitely have that. This week I'll plan my 2 segments on TV, I met a man from Lititz Recreation who works with disabled people regularly. The key is to be busy enough and positive enough to not let my parents pessimism and past problems impact the present and future.

Wheeling with new wheels

I am a huge proponent of living independently in the community; however the person must be A) realistic and B) have a support system. I have a friend who is very impaired physically and 66 years old. She never went places and never had real friends; she just never got a chance to prove herself in society. I have only known her for 1 1/2 years so I don't really know how hard she'd tried. I know she's allowed a homeless man live with her as her "attendant" for years. Each time he finds a girlfriend he moves out and she's left to fend for herself. Lately the apartment management evicted him and told her she'd be also if he doesn't leave. She's had bedbugs for at least a year but never told anyone till now. I feel badly but she is not able to manage any of this herself and surely can't afford a new bed. Office of Aging helps sometimes by sending her people to help but they do not let her know at all. Sometimes they come just to claim their hours and leave. She may realize or be forced to realize that she can't live like this forever. I'm moving out in 4 days and I will be staying away this week as much as possible.

WHeeling with new wheels

I have a chance to plan a mini forum, on disability and employment, for a local tv station. I waited for my first choice than called after 2 days. I am glad since she immediately said no. I then informed 2 other places and am getting no where yet time is ticking. Maybe this challenge to find a rehab agency is good since I don't really want to represent agencies. I mostly care about employers. I think I should offer a broader view though- job coach and employment specialist where they can address consumer issues. I really need this confirmed soon or it won't work. I have seen people at Home Depot, Burger King, and Auntie Anne's so I know it's going to have results. I guess I can call the Disability Empowerment Center.

Wheeling with new wheels

I returned from Philadelphia where I spoke to a man who runs the group for businesses on disability- employment issues. I was quickly overwhelmed then skeptical if I had the professional background to run such a program, I've been out of the field for years. However, I discovered two important things: First, I don't have to be an expert on the financial advantages, no one really asks that anyway. Second, I do have to be knowledgeable of both sides. It will be expected at that I know some information on the impact of work on the government programs consumers have. I must learn more; I can't do just 1/2 the equation.

Wheeling with new wheels

I attended a program on fundraising. These dedicated non-profit staff from around the area did not sit or talk with me. Yes, I was busy when I came to the table but since it was a long one, there was no need to interact- so no one did! I was not happy about that factor. Then this expert spoke about organizing and balancing one's life and being as efficient and effective as possible. He then made a concerted effort to let people know the importance of getting to know your donors and appreciate their contributions. Does that information really require special knowledge from a college degree? I was so disappointed and astounded. Perhaps I may benefit one day from reading his blog; surely the presentation did not offer anything of importance.

Wheeling with new wheels

If one's boss is condescending, how does one change that? I am not going to show a 20 minutes video on communicating with people with disabilities so what is another solution. Of course she will not admit it but I really know the signs and they are all there. Do I offer lunch? Do I confront her? One idea may be to show her what can do. Another idea may be to ask her for her opinion. I will certainly ask her if she would give me a task to do for the next program. I'm determined to break this obvious cycle since it will just worsen if neglected.