New faces, new places

I attend a monthly program in which case studies are presented then discussed in terms of what information is excluded? I am glad that the medical field is considering non-traditional solutions. Many people would be healthier if their mindsets were positive. It's natural that mental and physical health go hand in hand. Much more emphasis needs to be on support services and less on meds. These groups were always small and new people were always welcomed. Recently the leader was switched and two members were provider from the lower economic areas in the city. After speaking to the leader and two providers I saw an opening to a new audience who could benefit from my information. Even my calendar for saving money has a new outlet. I still have 3 beliefs: sharing information is a good thing; everyone knows someone else and has stories to tell; and all people with disabilities count.

veterans

Last week was a ceremony for those who committed crimes and were sent to veterans court. This is a lengthy program to offer mental health services and education to retired military personnel. It can be even more of a challenge than merely a physical disability. That is because post traumatic stress disorder never really goes away and if it improves it returns at night or any given time in the daylight hours. This program offers valuable support from professionals and gives people a real "leg up" to secure employment and a quality life. It is interesting that people who do not break the law do not receive this extensive support. I would like to get involved in this program, perhaps this population will be more receptive to my educational projects. I do not leave stones unturned.

The expo experience

I've gone to these events for at least 4 years in a row. I received $500 from a company once that was when I did outreach for a disabled sports nonprofit. The year after was nothing and last year resulted in a local television show spot. This year remains to be seen. I had a better strategy- I shared information on different disability issues and am following up with a specific outline for my meetings. This call to action will either result in bookings or not. If not I am deciding that there is no interest in this topic. I did speak to a local supported employment program about educating workers about disabled workers. They seemed to like that idea. I hope to hear from a local entrepreneur winner who will be planning an inclusive café- something I've always wanted to be involved with and just may get the chance. While I don't like to give up, I think that these events are best for established businesses not entrepreneurs- I'll see.

portalete problems

Bathroom issues have been pretty common in my life. I dreaded getting help for such personal needs. My public outings were less frequent than they are now for that very reason. I designed a toilet seat inside my manual wheelchair using a cool whip dish. I went a few places I wouldn't have. After the Americans with Disabilities Act my quality of life, and others in wheelchairs, grew. Mandating Title 3, Public Accommodations assures me that most bathroom stalls would be larger. I've even used a few portaletes at outside events. That was until yesterday at a country music festival. There were more than a few larger ones. Once I wheeled close I saw that they were not close to the ground. Oh well, I figured I can still manage. I opened the door and was horrified that there was absolutely no space for a wheelchair to get inside! It took 15 minutes to get approval to visit a toilet inside a building on the grounds. The police, security guards, and staff were completely perplexed why I could not use what they had. I wanted to show them but no one was interested in observing my explanation. My concern was others in my situation. Sure enough the mother of the guy in my row said they would go home early (30 minutes away) if her son became desperate. WHAT? I find it appalling that the company who manufacture these useless things make tons of money and have no concern that they can not be used. I plan to give Red Rose Solutions a lesson in accessibility because they do not offer me a solution, just one heck of a problem.

It can happen to anyone

After one night 100's of people will suddenly have the challenge of living their lives with a challenge. A disability really can happen to anyone at any time. I WILL find the way to reach the people who were injured at the country concert in Las Vegas. How? I will first call the Independent living Centers and I will then locate the names of the hospitals. These people will have a long journey and I know if this country music lover in a wheelchair who attends concerts makes herself available people will call. It will just take a little research, a little resourcefulness, and a little reaching out to locate these fellow "countrymen." In time many of them will have to take plane rides home. That could be a real awakening for those whose injuries are quite severe. My type of help will be completely surprising- I'm not a doctor just a rehabilitation counselor with a life-long disability. I will probably be met with resistance but there will probably be a few receptive people. "I will help people overcome."

An unsuspected suspect

The man who killed at least 59 concert goers and wounded 500 was said to be normal. While we cannot be suspicious of everyone it is hard to believe that this man was considered normal. A gunman isn't normal, my original thought was that he was a disgruntled veteran. He was very good at striking targets from long distances. He also converted a semi-automatic into a machine gun and owned an arsenal of guns. To me the hint was that he had no connections with a religious community, a social group, a recreational group, and was not tied to anyone, maybe an ex-wife. People do not really notice things because they are wrapped up in their own busy lives. I wonder why people didn't realize that he was a real loner. There must be more not everyone just does this at random.