I believe that children with disabilities and/or special needs can have, and deserve to have, the same good quality of life as their siblings and peers. It may be a slightly different quality of life, but nevertheless a good one and one that provides them with all the rights and benefits of able-bodied individuals.
Attitude, motivation and involvement on the part of the entire family can make all the difference in the world to a child with special needs. All children can participate and partake in family life to ensure their pleasure and happiness even if it means that the variety and severity of impairment(s) for one child may require different care. Children, regardless of ability or disability, should be encouraged to express their wants, needs, desires and goals. I believe humor should be encouraged, particularly in children with special needs, so that they too can experience laughter while sharing in loving relationships at home.
The quality of life provided to a child with special needs may largely depend on the quality of life experienced by the family as a whole. Some parents will often implement their own social restrictions because of, or to care for, their child with special needs. Perhaps finances, living arrangements and outside (or extended family) support may play a role.
Providing the best quality of life possible for our special kids should be easily achieved. A loving and happy quality for a child with special needs is undoubtedly dependent upon many factors not the least of which is love.
What do you do to create the best possible quality of life for your child?
Best,
Julie
Thursday, April 29, 2010
Tuesday, April 13, 2010
Say What? What about dogs as Service Dogs and pets?
I’m at my desk thinking about my blog topic for today; and, as I look down at my beloved Golden Retriever, Griffie, curled up under my desk, I’ve identified my topic. He was formally trained as a guide dog by Guide Dogs for the Blind in San Rafael, and even graduated from their program. Then he was assigned to a sight-impaired individual, to begin his career when he suddenly developed chronic bilateral eye infections and was immediately retired before he even got started. It was undoubtedly a great loss to the individual who spent months training him as a guide dog.
But, it was our good fortune to be in the right place at the right time and have the opportunity to adopt this loving boy from Guide Dogs. Griffie, now ten, is extremely smart, and has been a treasured member of our family for the past eight years. We have reaped all the benefits of his professional training especially since he does not bark, and only relieves himself on demand. What really amazes us most, though, is how he seems to sense his “responsibility” when our granddaughter Aimee is visiting.
He immediately positions himself at the left side of her chair and stays close by during her entire visit. I should say, though, that part of this is that she might drop a crumb of food which he will happily gobble up in an instant. He sleeps by her bed (sometimes on her bed) and walks at the side of her chair everywhere in the house, even if it means tripping over him to make a tight turn or navigate a narrow hallway.
I’m especially touched when we are out walking in public where he remains at attention by her side, proudly doing the job he was trained to do long ago, even though it is not expected of him.
Dogs, in particular, whether trained as a service dogs or not, can provide assistance in many ways---not the least of which is unconditional love and companionship especially to those with disabilities and special needs.
The U.S. Department of Justice, Disability Rights Section, describes service animals as follows: “Service animals are animals that are individually trained to perform tasks for people with disabilities—such as guiding people who are blind, alerting people who are deaf, pulling wheelchairs, alerting and protecting a person who is having a seizure, or performing other special tasks. Service animals are working animals, not pets.”
I’ll be writing more about Service Dogs in future blogs. Right now I would love to hear from you what your pet means to you.
Best,
Julie
But, it was our good fortune to be in the right place at the right time and have the opportunity to adopt this loving boy from Guide Dogs. Griffie, now ten, is extremely smart, and has been a treasured member of our family for the past eight years. We have reaped all the benefits of his professional training especially since he does not bark, and only relieves himself on demand. What really amazes us most, though, is how he seems to sense his “responsibility” when our granddaughter Aimee is visiting.
He immediately positions himself at the left side of her chair and stays close by during her entire visit. I should say, though, that part of this is that she might drop a crumb of food which he will happily gobble up in an instant. He sleeps by her bed (sometimes on her bed) and walks at the side of her chair everywhere in the house, even if it means tripping over him to make a tight turn or navigate a narrow hallway.
I’m especially touched when we are out walking in public where he remains at attention by her side, proudly doing the job he was trained to do long ago, even though it is not expected of him.
Dogs, in particular, whether trained as a service dogs or not, can provide assistance in many ways---not the least of which is unconditional love and companionship especially to those with disabilities and special needs.
The U.S. Department of Justice, Disability Rights Section, describes service animals as follows: “Service animals are animals that are individually trained to perform tasks for people with disabilities—such as guiding people who are blind, alerting people who are deaf, pulling wheelchairs, alerting and protecting a person who is having a seizure, or performing other special tasks. Service animals are working animals, not pets.”
I’ll be writing more about Service Dogs in future blogs. Right now I would love to hear from you what your pet means to you.
Best,
Julie
Thursday, April 1, 2010
Say What? What you need to know about Autism Awareness Day, April 2
Has your life been touched by a child with Autism?
On November 1, 2007 the United Nations called for one day each year to be designated as World AUTISM AWARENESS DAY to increase people’s awareness about individuals, particularly children, with Autism. This year it is Friday, APRIL 2, 2010.
The month of April is National Autism Awareness Month. In the United States, Autism affects 1 in 110 children. According to the Easter Seals Disability Services, the number of children with autism in California has increased from 13, 979 in 2000 to 46,069 in 2008. These numbers are astounding and it is important that we all understand and extend our support to the 13 million families of children with Autism.
A mysterious developmental disorder, Autism typically appears by the age of three, and presents itself in varying degrees from mild to severe. There is no cure for Autism, but early diagnosis and intervention can make a difference in communicating, learning and interacting with others.
The first signs of Autism appear in early childhood and often include:
Difficulty interacting with other children and adults.
Lack or delay of verbal and non-verbal communications.
Repetitive behavior and/or language.
Limited scope of activities and interests.
Aversion to being held or hugged.
Lack of or limited eye contact.
Show your support of families dealing with Autism by raising your own awareness about their needs. To learn more you can tune in for “Unlocking Autism” premiering Monday, April 6 at 8pm on Discovery Health Channel as well as watching episodes of “Glee” which will be spotlighting disabilities in the coming season. Or you can visit one of the many websites about Autism such as the Autism Society at www.autismsociety.org to learn more.
Best,
Julie
On November 1, 2007 the United Nations called for one day each year to be designated as World AUTISM AWARENESS DAY to increase people’s awareness about individuals, particularly children, with Autism. This year it is Friday, APRIL 2, 2010.
The month of April is National Autism Awareness Month. In the United States, Autism affects 1 in 110 children. According to the Easter Seals Disability Services, the number of children with autism in California has increased from 13, 979 in 2000 to 46,069 in 2008. These numbers are astounding and it is important that we all understand and extend our support to the 13 million families of children with Autism.
A mysterious developmental disorder, Autism typically appears by the age of three, and presents itself in varying degrees from mild to severe. There is no cure for Autism, but early diagnosis and intervention can make a difference in communicating, learning and interacting with others.
The first signs of Autism appear in early childhood and often include:
Difficulty interacting with other children and adults.
Lack or delay of verbal and non-verbal communications.
Repetitive behavior and/or language.
Limited scope of activities and interests.
Aversion to being held or hugged.
Lack of or limited eye contact.
Show your support of families dealing with Autism by raising your own awareness about their needs. To learn more you can tune in for “Unlocking Autism” premiering Monday, April 6 at 8pm on Discovery Health Channel as well as watching episodes of “Glee” which will be spotlighting disabilities in the coming season. Or you can visit one of the many websites about Autism such as the Autism Society at www.autismsociety.org to learn more.
Best,
Julie
Tuesday, March 30, 2010
Say What? Added Costs for Special Needs Care Strains Families and Budgets
My previous blog offered my opinions regarding the new Obamacare plan and how it might affect coverage for parents of children with special needs.
Regardless of insurance coverage, the best of insurance plans will not provide coverage for many of the incidental costs of providing care for children with disabilities.
We may take for granted the regular costs of raising a family, however, hidden additional costs contribute to the financial strain experienced by so many families in the best of economic situations, let alone in the current state of affairs.
Programs like Medicare, Medicaid and State Children’s Health Insurance Programs (SCHIP), may offer coverage for limited services, however, do not cover the significant out-of-pocket costs, in addition to deductibles and co-pays, for the necessary related equipment and supplies. These necessary expenses might include prescriptions; over-the-counter medications, ointments, and supplements; diapers; special bath and toileting equipment and supplies, and specialty food items and feeding implements. Then there’s special equipment for seating, standing, and mobility; wheelchairs, special strollers, trays, standers, walkers, gait trainers, and more.
I haven’t mentioned the additional costs for physical, occupational, speech or other therapies that are not covered by insurance. What about the cost of gasoline and transportation to the more than average number of health-related office visits? How about tutoring, caretaking, and counseling costs? Then there is loss of income due to time off work for the increased number medical appointments, procedures, IEP meetings, or incidents that unexpectedly arise. Some parents cannot hold a full-time jobs because of their responsibilities as a parent to be available on a day-to-day basis.
Parents, feeling the burden of these expenses, are often forced to prioritize and compromise activities and expenditures the entire family might otherwise enjoy. Regardless of the family’s economic status, or the disabilities involved, these hidden costs are often a hardship and can put a strain on the parents, and entire families, of children with special needs.
I know, I’ve been there for the needs of my granddaughter. My heart goes out to all of you in these difficult times!
Best,
Julie
Regardless of insurance coverage, the best of insurance plans will not provide coverage for many of the incidental costs of providing care for children with disabilities.
We may take for granted the regular costs of raising a family, however, hidden additional costs contribute to the financial strain experienced by so many families in the best of economic situations, let alone in the current state of affairs.
Programs like Medicare, Medicaid and State Children’s Health Insurance Programs (SCHIP), may offer coverage for limited services, however, do not cover the significant out-of-pocket costs, in addition to deductibles and co-pays, for the necessary related equipment and supplies. These necessary expenses might include prescriptions; over-the-counter medications, ointments, and supplements; diapers; special bath and toileting equipment and supplies, and specialty food items and feeding implements. Then there’s special equipment for seating, standing, and mobility; wheelchairs, special strollers, trays, standers, walkers, gait trainers, and more.
I haven’t mentioned the additional costs for physical, occupational, speech or other therapies that are not covered by insurance. What about the cost of gasoline and transportation to the more than average number of health-related office visits? How about tutoring, caretaking, and counseling costs? Then there is loss of income due to time off work for the increased number medical appointments, procedures, IEP meetings, or incidents that unexpectedly arise. Some parents cannot hold a full-time jobs because of their responsibilities as a parent to be available on a day-to-day basis.
Parents, feeling the burden of these expenses, are often forced to prioritize and compromise activities and expenditures the entire family might otherwise enjoy. Regardless of the family’s economic status, or the disabilities involved, these hidden costs are often a hardship and can put a strain on the parents, and entire families, of children with special needs.
I know, I’ve been there for the needs of my granddaughter. My heart goes out to all of you in these difficult times!
Best,
Julie
Wednesday, March 24, 2010
Say what? What about the new healthcare bill and special needs kids?
Let me begin by saying that my past experience of 30+ years in the healthcare field and owning a large medical billing company provide me with the qualifications, I believe, to express my personal opinion here.
In addition, I've been dealing with my granddaughter's healthcare issues for 12 years and, I might add, it's been a challenge from the start.
Some of you may think the new Obamacare plan will benefit disabled children and adults.
If it truly offers coverage for those with pre-existing conditions, this is the only benefit I can see.
We know that most private insurance companies, with the exception of premium plans, provide little, if any, long-term care for the disabled. Medicaid and Medicare plans only provide services when “approved and authorized”. Authorization is usually provided based on the end result or gain. If there is no gain, there is usually no service. We know what happens without therapy and other needed services. It becomes an unfortunate vicious cycle for all concerned.
Don’t be fooled by broad terms like "basic benefits" and "covered". They are not the fine print. What is "covered" is not what is "approved" or; for that matter, even "allowed".
Authorized, allowed and approved are the key words in fine print!
What if your child doesn’t walk, or talk? What then is the benefit of therapy? Is there a gain? What about premature babies and the cost of keeping them alive? What about children born with syndromes and severe disabilities? What about those that are institutionally deemed? Where will it end?
What’s that you say? Counseling is a benefit of the new plan? Think about it.
Physicians providing care to Medicare and Medicaid patients are currently difficult to find because they cannot sustain their practices on the reduced reimbursement rates. What makes us think highly trained specialists will be available to us (all) in the future if reimbursements continue to drop by adding, still another government plan? How can they remain in practice?
This is truly a tragic and sad turn of events, at least to me. By rushing into a decision that should have been carefully evaluated, I believe our government as put the wheels in motion that signal the beginning of the end of the most wonderful healthcare delivery system in the world.
What do you think?
Best,
Julie
In addition, I've been dealing with my granddaughter's healthcare issues for 12 years and, I might add, it's been a challenge from the start.
Some of you may think the new Obamacare plan will benefit disabled children and adults.
If it truly offers coverage for those with pre-existing conditions, this is the only benefit I can see.
We know that most private insurance companies, with the exception of premium plans, provide little, if any, long-term care for the disabled. Medicaid and Medicare plans only provide services when “approved and authorized”. Authorization is usually provided based on the end result or gain. If there is no gain, there is usually no service. We know what happens without therapy and other needed services. It becomes an unfortunate vicious cycle for all concerned.
Don’t be fooled by broad terms like "basic benefits" and "covered". They are not the fine print. What is "covered" is not what is "approved" or; for that matter, even "allowed".
Authorized, allowed and approved are the key words in fine print!
What if your child doesn’t walk, or talk? What then is the benefit of therapy? Is there a gain? What about premature babies and the cost of keeping them alive? What about children born with syndromes and severe disabilities? What about those that are institutionally deemed? Where will it end?
What’s that you say? Counseling is a benefit of the new plan? Think about it.
Physicians providing care to Medicare and Medicaid patients are currently difficult to find because they cannot sustain their practices on the reduced reimbursement rates. What makes us think highly trained specialists will be available to us (all) in the future if reimbursements continue to drop by adding, still another government plan? How can they remain in practice?
This is truly a tragic and sad turn of events, at least to me. By rushing into a decision that should have been carefully evaluated, I believe our government as put the wheels in motion that signal the beginning of the end of the most wonderful healthcare delivery system in the world.
What do you think?
Best,
Julie
Thursday, March 11, 2010
Say What? What is Equal Play?
As a member of the Rotary Club of San Jose and a Park Commissioner for the City of San Jose I don’t have to tell you that I’m passionate about parks. And I’m passionate that our parks be accessible to everyone in every way.
Finally, after many years, the recreational needs of children and adults with disabilities are being addressed and something is actually being done about it. This includes accessible trails, (adaptive) sporting events, camping opportunities and equal play parks.
The San Jose City Council recently approved the Rotary Club of San Jose’s project for their 100 year anniversary. What’s the project? It’s an equal play park that the Rotary Club will construct as a “turnkey” project and gift it to the city.
For those of you who may not know the meaning of “equal play” it means just that; a play area that includes equipment for all children regardless of their abilities or disabilities, to play equally side by side. The play area has not yet been designed, however, will feature elements that will address all children but in particular children with special needs and disabilities to make a day at the park a fun experience for all.
In my opinion, there’s no better way to raise awareness than for children with special needs than to play side by side with their able bodied friends, siblings and peers. Equal-play parks, sometimes referred to as “boundless playgrounds” are popping up everywhere and it’s about time!
Our neighborhood community centers also offer many programs and all access recreation activities. I encourage you to check them out. To learn more go to the PRNS website www.sanjoseca.gov/prns.
Special thanks to the City of San Jose and the Rotary Club of San Jose for making the dream of an equal-play park a reality!
Best,
Julie
Finally, after many years, the recreational needs of children and adults with disabilities are being addressed and something is actually being done about it. This includes accessible trails, (adaptive) sporting events, camping opportunities and equal play parks.
The San Jose City Council recently approved the Rotary Club of San Jose’s project for their 100 year anniversary. What’s the project? It’s an equal play park that the Rotary Club will construct as a “turnkey” project and gift it to the city.
For those of you who may not know the meaning of “equal play” it means just that; a play area that includes equipment for all children regardless of their abilities or disabilities, to play equally side by side. The play area has not yet been designed, however, will feature elements that will address all children but in particular children with special needs and disabilities to make a day at the park a fun experience for all.
In my opinion, there’s no better way to raise awareness than for children with special needs than to play side by side with their able bodied friends, siblings and peers. Equal-play parks, sometimes referred to as “boundless playgrounds” are popping up everywhere and it’s about time!
Our neighborhood community centers also offer many programs and all access recreation activities. I encourage you to check them out. To learn more go to the PRNS website www.sanjoseca.gov/prns.
Special thanks to the City of San Jose and the Rotary Club of San Jose for making the dream of an equal-play park a reality!
Best,
Julie
Tuesday, March 2, 2010
Say What? How "disability friendly" is your business?
It's my impression that we all take for granted the ease in which we enter and/or exit a store or business; walk the aisles once inside; or step up and down curbs and walkways to get to our desired destination.
And, how about parking and getting in or out of a car (or wheelchair)? And, let's not forget the difficulties with seating in restaurants when dining out.
Can you imagine how difficult these simple tasks can be if in a walker or wheelchair?
Please give thought to these simple considerations for evaluating
business "accessibility friendliness".
* Do entrance doors have automatic openers?
* Is the entrance to the store or business easily accessible to disabled persons and particularly those with mobility limitations?
* Are there steps? Is there a ramp? Is there a lift or elevator?
* Are aisles wide enough to maneuver and accommodate wheelchairs?
* Are there accessible restrooms, phones and water fountains?
* Are there accessible tables that accommodate wheelchairs? Or moveable seating?
* Are disabled parking spaces provided with space for vans with lifts?
* Is there appropriate signage for elevators and public restrooms?
* How about the staff? Are they cusomter-friendly?
* Is staff helpful and courteous to those with (visible) disabilities?
* Is assistance provided to move barriers to reach goods or services?
* Does the business employee individuals with disabilities?
It has been my experience that most businessess make an effort to genuinely accommodate and extend courtesies to those in need, especially the disabled. Unfortunately, there are still some (and I know we've all experienced them) who do not have a clue.
I believe we can all help raise awareness, in a courteous way, by educating businesses when they fall short in the area of "accessibility friendliness".
Best,
Julie
And, how about parking and getting in or out of a car (or wheelchair)? And, let's not forget the difficulties with seating in restaurants when dining out.
Can you imagine how difficult these simple tasks can be if in a walker or wheelchair?
Please give thought to these simple considerations for evaluating
business "accessibility friendliness".
* Do entrance doors have automatic openers?
* Is the entrance to the store or business easily accessible to disabled persons and particularly those with mobility limitations?
* Are there steps? Is there a ramp? Is there a lift or elevator?
* Are aisles wide enough to maneuver and accommodate wheelchairs?
* Are there accessible restrooms, phones and water fountains?
* Are there accessible tables that accommodate wheelchairs? Or moveable seating?
* Are disabled parking spaces provided with space for vans with lifts?
* Is there appropriate signage for elevators and public restrooms?
* How about the staff? Are they cusomter-friendly?
* Is staff helpful and courteous to those with (visible) disabilities?
* Is assistance provided to move barriers to reach goods or services?
* Does the business employee individuals with disabilities?
It has been my experience that most businessess make an effort to genuinely accommodate and extend courtesies to those in need, especially the disabled. Unfortunately, there are still some (and I know we've all experienced them) who do not have a clue.
I believe we can all help raise awareness, in a courteous way, by educating businesses when they fall short in the area of "accessibility friendliness".
Best,
Julie
Wednesday, February 24, 2010
Say What? How important is music to your special needs child?
It has always been my personal impression that music is extremely important to children with special needs.
I can only speak from my own personal experience. Granddaughter, Aimee, has always been passionate about music and has reacted positively to all types of music. When an infant, she didn't respond to much, if anything, but did respond to music. In fact, the first time she smiled was while listening to a familiar tune she recognized. This was a major breakthrough which I've always linked to her love of music. She didn't speak until age three and a half, however, once she could talk, she readily began singing familiar words to the tunes she knew. This, in turn, broaded her vocabulary and her desire to speak.
A recent article in the San Jose Mercury News "Studies find music may give voice to those who can't speak" (Sunday, 2/21/10) written by Randolph E. Schmidt points out that words and music are natural partners and it seems obvious they go together. He states that studies have found overlap in the brain's processing of language and instrumental music, and that new research suggests that intensive musical therapy may help improve speech in stroke patients. In addition, researchers said, music can help children with developmental dyslexia or autism more accurately use speech.
Gottfried Schlaug, associate professor of neurology at Harvard Medical School told the meeting of the American Association for the Advancement of Science, "Music making is a multi-sensory experience, activating links to several parts of the brain".
Music can be integrated into all kids of educational games and activities as well as set the mood for rest and relaxation. My suggestion is to play lots and lots of music for your children.....it can't hurt and can only help!
Best,
Julie
I can only speak from my own personal experience. Granddaughter, Aimee, has always been passionate about music and has reacted positively to all types of music. When an infant, she didn't respond to much, if anything, but did respond to music. In fact, the first time she smiled was while listening to a familiar tune she recognized. This was a major breakthrough which I've always linked to her love of music. She didn't speak until age three and a half, however, once she could talk, she readily began singing familiar words to the tunes she knew. This, in turn, broaded her vocabulary and her desire to speak.
A recent article in the San Jose Mercury News "Studies find music may give voice to those who can't speak" (Sunday, 2/21/10) written by Randolph E. Schmidt points out that words and music are natural partners and it seems obvious they go together. He states that studies have found overlap in the brain's processing of language and instrumental music, and that new research suggests that intensive musical therapy may help improve speech in stroke patients. In addition, researchers said, music can help children with developmental dyslexia or autism more accurately use speech.
Gottfried Schlaug, associate professor of neurology at Harvard Medical School told the meeting of the American Association for the Advancement of Science, "Music making is a multi-sensory experience, activating links to several parts of the brain".
Music can be integrated into all kids of educational games and activities as well as set the mood for rest and relaxation. My suggestion is to play lots and lots of music for your children.....it can't hurt and can only help!
Best,
Julie
Monday, February 22, 2010
Say What? An IEP Checklist app for your iPhone!
This morning I downloaded the IEP CHECKLIST from the iPhone apps to my iPhone. It is free and available to parents, teachers and other professionals who make up the IEP stakeholders group. It can be downloaded by going to the app store on your iPhone or iTunes.
I am confident that parents who attend these meetings will agree that they are often confrontational and challenging. At least they have been in my case. Determining what is best, and/or available to meet the needs of your child is not always what teachers, therapists and other professionals are eager or willing to offer. The best outcome can be achieved by being prepared and informed regarding the rights and services available to successfully advocate for your child at these meetings.
The IEP (individualized education plan) application is well is organized for your use. Categories include team members, notifications, goals, services, supports & aids, student placement, federal regulations, and transition plan to name a few. Each of the categories has more detailed information that can be easily accessed by selecting that portiion of the application, which then takes you to appropriate sub-title options.
This nifty tool will inform and empower parents as they nagivate this (often difficult) process to advocate for their child in developing the best IEP possible. If you have an iPhone I highly recommend it.
Best,
Julie
I am confident that parents who attend these meetings will agree that they are often confrontational and challenging. At least they have been in my case. Determining what is best, and/or available to meet the needs of your child is not always what teachers, therapists and other professionals are eager or willing to offer. The best outcome can be achieved by being prepared and informed regarding the rights and services available to successfully advocate for your child at these meetings.
The IEP (individualized education plan) application is well is organized for your use. Categories include team members, notifications, goals, services, supports & aids, student placement, federal regulations, and transition plan to name a few. Each of the categories has more detailed information that can be easily accessed by selecting that portiion of the application, which then takes you to appropriate sub-title options.
This nifty tool will inform and empower parents as they nagivate this (often difficult) process to advocate for their child in developing the best IEP possible. If you have an iPhone I highly recommend it.
Best,
Julie
Tuesday, February 16, 2010
Say what? Olympian inspired by brother with disability...
I watched the NBC news coverage of Alex Bilodeau's outstanding performance during and after the men's moguls event and was impressed. But, what really impressed me was what followed.
When the camera spanned the audience and the commentator focused on Alex's older brother, Frederic (age 28) who has Cerebral Palsy, I was glued to the TV and I soon realized there was more than one winner in this story. This came to light once again when I watched a short documentary before the award ceremony which featured Alex and his brother. It showcased their loving bond and tears filled my eyes as Alex himself, was quick to respond (once again) that his older brother was the inspiration behind his gold medal performance.
Frederic, although able to walk some, apparently spends most of his time in a wheelchair. He cheered and raised his arm in praise of Alex's performance; so proud of his brother's win! But he is a winner too, for his own inspiring example to never complain and to perform to the best of his ability.
Alex's own soft-spoken words deeply touched me when he said, "When he wakes up he's got that big smile, and when he goes to bed he's got that big smile."
Does that sound like anyone you might know? It definitely sounds like a special girl in our family who inspires us all with her courage, her determination to succeed, and; of course, her beautiful smile!
These young men are both heroes in my book and role-models for all siblings who live with, or with somone, who has a disability!
Best,
Julie
When the camera spanned the audience and the commentator focused on Alex's older brother, Frederic (age 28) who has Cerebral Palsy, I was glued to the TV and I soon realized there was more than one winner in this story. This came to light once again when I watched a short documentary before the award ceremony which featured Alex and his brother. It showcased their loving bond and tears filled my eyes as Alex himself, was quick to respond (once again) that his older brother was the inspiration behind his gold medal performance.
Frederic, although able to walk some, apparently spends most of his time in a wheelchair. He cheered and raised his arm in praise of Alex's performance; so proud of his brother's win! But he is a winner too, for his own inspiring example to never complain and to perform to the best of his ability.
Alex's own soft-spoken words deeply touched me when he said, "When he wakes up he's got that big smile, and when he goes to bed he's got that big smile."
Does that sound like anyone you might know? It definitely sounds like a special girl in our family who inspires us all with her courage, her determination to succeed, and; of course, her beautiful smile!
These young men are both heroes in my book and role-models for all siblings who live with, or with somone, who has a disability!
Best,
Julie
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