Basement apartment + puppy update

 Welcome Back Readers~

Wow, folks... I can't believe it's been over five months since I last posted on this blog.

But then again, I guess I can.

You'll be happy to know I'm finally living in the downstairs apartment; it is basically finished except for patching a few holes and creating a space for the elevator lift. I've already started putting up old pictures to make it more homey. Maybe one of these days I will decide to give you a YouTube tour once I figure click out out how I'm going to do. For now, this picture is going to have to do...

Let's see... What else? Oh yes, my adorable puppy Holly; although I don't know whether I can call her that anymore, she's getting so big. But she's still a handful. Don't get me wrong, having a pet is great especially with the pandemic going around. But Holly seems to think that since we don't go out much it should be all about her-all day every day. Still, she has quickly become an integral part of the family; my dad has quickly become Holly's favorite person.. Strangely, the feeling seems to be mutual..

With Covid, we had to postpone lot of our dog,'s regular activities such as training and grooming; as a result, she's developed some annoying and exhausting habits - everything ranging from playful nipping to jumping up on strangers. You can imagine our relief when Petco called to offer us one-on-one training since we hadn't attended the group sessions I already paid for. Anyway, we just finished Holly's second week. She's doing well but got a long way to go if we want her to to be an assistance dog- which  we do. Right now, we are focused on the basics of walking to the left of my wheelchair and distraction as well the basic commands like "come", "sit", and "stay".

A few weeks ago, Holly had her first grooming. Here is a "before" photo:

And the amazing transformation:

I know what you're thinking... It's not a different dog

On a more personal note, I kind of have switched gears when it comes to my writing. During my last post, I may have been preparing my first proposal to send off to a potential agent. Unfortunately, they passed. That being said, I was obviously disappointed; I haven't given up on finding an agent just concentrating on finishing my book. Although it would really be nice to have the person on my team besides my parents supporting and encouraging my passion for writing

THE UPSIDE Official Trailer (2019) Kevin Hart, Bryan Cranston Movie HD

Welcome Back Readers~



On the heels of 2016's controversial hit based on JoJo Moyes book Me Before You comes a more lighthearted company about the power of friendship to change anybody's life. This film, which stars Kevin Hart and Bryan Cranston is loosely based on the Toronto film, which was nominated for the best foreign film during the Oscars at one time. Kevin is an ex-con looking for his second chance in work and in life when he crosses paths with a paralyzed author in need of a caregiver. He is not the most qualified for the job, but because Philip is at his wits with life in a wheelchair, he does not care. As the line between caregiver and friendship blurs, the two learn much from each other.



For Dell, Philip provides a respectable job. He looks beyond the "ex-con" and sees the person. He sees a man looking to restore his relationship with his son and girlfriend who he has failed time and time again. For Philip, Dell seems like an easy solution to his "DNR problem" because he doesn't really care. But as he shows Philip how fun life can be, that becomes less and less of an issue. Dell, like Philip, is able to look beyond the physical and see the person inside. He helps Philp come to grips with his wife's death as well as the implications of his disability.

1. Disability has no impact on a person's manhood/womanhood
2. Don't allow one rejection impact the way you relate to other people (relationships/friendships)
3. Don't allow your disability/accident to push you into giving up your passions in life
4. God has placed people in your life for a reason. Try to learn something from them!!

The 2019 remake is rated PG 13- for some strong language and sexual references as well as brief drug usage- all of which, I think could have been done without. Despite this, the film is highly relatable and shows what quadriplegics go through on a daily basis. Living in a world full of misconceptions, it is often hard for me to open up and show my true self because often I have to deal with stereotypes on a daily basis.

For more information on the movie, please go to:

https://www.rogerebert.com/reviews/the-upside-2019

https://www.facebook.com/TheUpsideFilm/

https://www.theupside.movie/

Camp Echoing Hills

Welcome Back Readers ~

My dad always tells me how blessed I should be living in the technological age that I am, and having a disability. And I come to believe that more now than ever. You see, today I watched Thriving With Cerebral Palsy:The Cordell Brown Story. This documentary tells the story of Cordell Brown and the difficulties he had growing up with a disability. Despite having parents that instilled a "can-do" attitude within him, Cordell still struggled to accept his disability on a daily basis. That is until he found Jesus. With his newfound faith, he tried his best to integrate himself into "normal" society with little success- because of the stereotypes that people had of CP at the time. Until a friend named Bob allowed him to volunteer as a driver for his Bible camp; from there he worked his way up into higher level jobs in the camp. It was during his work at the camp that Bob mentioned the idea of starting a  camp for people with disabilities on his family land. As always, his parents were supportive. It was then that Camp Echoing Hills was born..

For more information on Cordell's story or Echoing Hills, please go to:

https://www.ehvi.org/

https://www.facebook.com/echoinghills/

https://www.coshoctontribune.com/story/news/local/2017/07/20/camp-echoing-hills-50-years-serving-developmentally-disabled-clients/468293001/

You & Me Trailer | 2018

Welcome Back Readers~

Almost 18 years after the premier of Listen To Your Heart, Freestyle Digital Media and Force Studios have joined forces to create this delightful comedy about a recently blind man and deaf woman coming together through adversity to find their own happily ever after. Starring Hillary Baack and Paul Guyet, this movie strikes that delicate balance between fighting against the stereotypes that society has when it comes to dealing with those who have disabilities and remaining humorous at the same time. Although it primarily deals with the stereotypes of those who are deaf, i.e. hearing impaired as well as those who are blind I couldn't help but relate.

Too often people look at me in a wheelchair  and assume I can't do anything on my own; as a result, they tend to treat me like a child rather than the 38-year-old young woman that I am and think I need 24 hour supervision.Why do I think is people's gut reaction? First, I think it's because I'm someone's first introduction to a person with a disability. That being said, they rely on the lessons they've grown up with, and watching those around them growing up; then there is the negative connotation that having a disability is a life or death sentence. While it's true that adjusting to a disability can take some time, it doesn't have to be a game changer. People with disabilities can live healthy and productive lives

While I do agree with the basic premise of the film, it could have done without the course language and sexual content. I think it could have had the same impact without it, but that's just my opinion.

For more information about this movie, please go to:

http://www.forcestudios.com/youme/

https://www.facebook.com/youandmemovie/

Born This Way Season Three Premiere

Welcome Back Readers-

I am happy to report that Born This Way is back for its third season on A&E. After two seasons, the series has been begun to change peoples' views on those with disabilities; this is evident by the show receiving a Emmy  for Best Unstructured Reality series, ending the two-year streak of The Deadliest Catch. This season holds changes for the whole gang- including a budding romance for Stephen and Megan, a independent living opportunity for Christina. How will the parents cope? I don't know, but I can tell you from personal experience that learning to let go of your children and see them fly and come into their own can be the most difficult thing.   The series airs on  Tuesdays at 10 PM.

Assistancee Dog Issue goes straight to Supreme Court

Welcome Back Readers~

I was watching the news last week and came across a interesting story; it involved a young girl with CP w(cerebral palsy) and her struggle to gain independence in school the help of her assistance dog Wonder. In 2009, Ehlena Fry and her goldendoodle Wonder were first paired together during training in Ohio; this opportunity made possible through a $13,000 fundraiser held by family and friends. The trouble began when they tried to transition Wonder to assist her during school hours .at first, the school agreed to a 30 day trial.This didn't work out as planned, however , and was marked with one obstacle after another. Eventually, the Fry family decided to change middle school.

Still, they believe the other school needs to be held accountable according to the Americans with Disabilities Act .

For more information on this story, please go to: 

Http://www.npr.org/2016/10/31/499876610/a-girl-and-her-service-dog-head-to-the-supreme-court

Looking Back at the Last Four Years of Independence...

Dear Readers,

 It is with mixed emotions that I finally come to terms with moving out of my apartment next week.. That's right folks! After about four years of living independently, I will be moving back in with my parents until they figure out where they plan on retiring. It is  not a  decision  I  (or should  I say we) came to easily, but the  financial  burden was  getting to  a bit  much. For  those living in Virginia, you  understand exactly where I am coming from.

Still, living  independently is something that I would encourage  everyone  with a disability to  embark upon.  Not only does it  teach people what they are  truly capable of, but give parents the benefit of knowing what it feels like to  let go  without the  fear of ultimate failure. In other words, they are still around to teach   them when necessary while  giving  their children the freedom to make mistakes...

Let's take a look back at my journey. When we first moved to Virginia in 2008, I found it difficult to make friends. My family and I spent several months settling in and trying to find a church we felt comfortable with. After looking at several prospects, we finally decided on a church whose main goal was teaching straight from the Bible, verse by verse. It was there that I met Sadie and we developed a friendship. Beginning December 4, 2011, we discussed our dreams of living independently and toyed with the idea of becoming roommates. Like myself, Sadie was determined to spread her wings and fly! Looking back, I  feel as if this was God's plan, giving us the opportunity to prove our capabilities to our parents. My parents weren't exactly comfortable with the idea of me living by myself, so this was a logical compromise. That  way, they knew someone would be there in in the evenings (as well as at night) in case of emergencies.

In January 2012, we finally signed a one-year lease for a two bedroom apartment;its location was close enough to my parents that they could come help when needed. Little by  little we begin to make that apartment our home, adding sparks of color (and accent walls!) Along the way I learned important lessons about cooperation and compromise.  At first, I spent a majority of my time working on this  blog; never giving up hope that I would find a job. Occasionally, we would have friends from church over for movie nights and to celebrate birthday parties. We both thrived until unforeseen difficulties caused my roommate to have to move out. This left me reeling, wondering how all of this fell into God's plan. But you know what they say- When God closes a door, he opens a window. It was  around that time (or earlier)  that I was hired to write blogs on website accessibility. My parents were still unsure about my ability to live on my own but figured since I was financially stable, I should at least finish the lease.

I continued to work for the remainder of the lease, but  felt the apartment  was a little too big for  one person. For a while, I  wasn't sure whether a one bedroom apartment would open up and I have to move back in one my parents; sometime during Christmas break I was notified that one had  became available- an early Christmas present. So on February 19, 2013, I began  transferring my  belongings from one apartment to the next with the help of some friends from church. Although I had lived independently before, it was an exhilarating feeling knowing I was completely on my own. I was responsible for paying the bills as well as making the place my very own. In other words, I was now a part of the typical workforce, getting up early in order to telework several  hours a day.. In the process, I dealt  with my share of personal assistant problems; this reiterated the value of advocacy on a daily basis and making sure my voice is heard.

All in all it has been amazing five years; during which I've gained the self-confidence of knowing what I am truly capable of. It's been a roller coaster of emotions but that's just a part of life;as my college pastor used to say, "Exp|ct the unexpected." While moving back sometimes feels like a step backwards for me, I have to believe God has something bigger in store for my future- and this was just a glimpse into what is humanly possible..I haven't given up  hope that I will settle down permanently- with a full-time job and a place of my own (maybe even  a boyfriend!) It just isn't my time yet..

Until then, I will have fond memories to look  back on and am forever  grateful for the experience. I just need to to where my primary focus should be- trusting God  to provide for the future like he always has. Maybe this time back home will rejuvenate my faith..

( This will be my last post from the apartment; all other posts will be from my parent's place! Internet will be disconnected sometime tomorrow.. Chuckle)

Reflections for the upcoming season; Debbie's update

Merry Christmas.

Even as I dictate this, I can't believe it's that time of year already. For those of you that have followed this blog over the year, you probably understand what I mean..  Since losing my job almost 2 years ago, posts on this blog have been pretty sparse. Partly because I've been spending my time mailing out resumes  to appropriate contacts as well as dealing with  Social Security in  the interim. That's a whole  other story within itself. But I digress

The fact is I haven't been quite myself since.  True, the job help me out financially but even more than that it gave me a reason every morning-  a new sense of purpose. You see, I've always felt a calling when it comes to advocating for the disabled; I just wasn't quite sure how that criteria will fit into the job description;  that is until I started writing blogs on web accessibility- things sort of fell into place after that. I loved my job, people  appreciated me. More than that, having  financial independence gave me a new sense of freedom; I was able to support myself and continue living the apartment.  In hindsight, this began a negative pattern of self-reliance. I almost  forgot who had provided the job in the first place and how to be grateful in the first place

Hence, I can't help feeling that's why I am where I am right now. Not as a punishment, mind you but allowing me the time to get my bearings and learn a deeper dependence on God then ever before. Still, that doesn't mean I am not disappointed that I have to move back in with my parents in February. I will certainly miss my place.

I've heard it said that Christmas comes when we need it the most. That's certainly true this  Christmas. I need  God to renew to me the joy of my salvation.

With that, I leave this  question to you my readers: What present would you give your heart this Christmas?

Mine would be a new sense of faith and hope for the future
(Yes I know the verse Jeremiah 29:11- that God already provided for that but it's another thing to fully leave on that promise day in and day out, I'm only human!)

Born This Way: Official Series Teaser - Tuesdays 10/9c | A&E

Welcome Back Readers~

Sorry I haven't been updating this blog as much as I'd like; I've been trying to get my resume back out there and see what new employment opportunities are out there for people like me. It's hard though when you have limited capabilities and can't work outside the home that easily..

Anyway, I recently came across a new Arts and Entertainment (A &  E) reality show featuring a cast of Down syndrome adults trying to overcome stereotypes by living as normal life as possible. In this series, audiences will hopefully gain a new perspective on the struggles those with down syndrome have and; it will also highlight their perseverance as they strive to live independently, get married and pursue their dreams!

I will definitely be watching and cheering them on; I hope you will be also..

The Adventures of Living Independently

Welcome Back ,

I've often highlighted the positives of living independently on this blog.. Not only because it teaches you to be grateful for your abilities, but because it teaches one to be resourceful. This is especially helpful when adapting your surroundings (i.e. home, work) because not all places are disability friendly.

Besides that, there are other incentives to living on your own as well. It can develop character and perseverance in no other way situations can.

But don't take my word for it. Join Jennifer as she encounters the "Adventures Of Living Independently"

http://jenslifewithcp.blogspot.com/2010/06/adventures-of-living-independently.html

Living Independently

Hello everyone,

I know I haven't done the best job at keeping up with this blog lately. Truth is, I haven't felt much like writing. Since the move, my mind has become easily distracted and focused on one topic again. How am I going to get myself living independently to the standards I was in Michigan? Turns out, the answer is way more complicated than I ever imagined and my patience seems to be wearing thin as I go through the necessary process I need to receive services from Virginia.

If you are at all familiar with my blog, the idea of independent living is a common theme. The help I received from state funds allowed me to live in dorms with the help of personal assistants etc.. But for a more comprehensive look at living independently, go to: http://lifefaithdisability.com/2008/08/08/independent-living-101/

Encouragement: The Journey to A Life of Gannet's Own

Okay,

So not much is happening in my life right now. I am gearing up to start my new job this week,; although realistically, I still have a lot to do before I dive right into researching. Still, I'm getting excited. At least I will have something new to occupy my time, rather than always focusing on the entertainment frenzy. You probably know what I'm talking about-- reality and talk shows etc. Except for this blog, I can't help but feel I'm not doing much that is really productive lately. But then again, there's not much to do but wait. I don't like waiting though, considering all of my friends have had such an easy time a life of their own. I am ready to start my own ; plus I think it is just about time! Along with the job, I am also looking at some different housing opportunities. Although a lot of that depends on how the job goes and where I decide to permanently live in the near future, seeing as though my parents are thinking of moving back to Maryland sometime soon. So I really don't know.

Anyway, onto today's post.

Let me begin by posing a question.. a question quite appropriate considering the circumstances.. Chuckle

When is the appropriate time to move out and began a life of your own?

Gannet's mom is also trying to find the answers to those questions and more in the PBS documentary, "The Key of G."

This documentary chronicles the life of 22-year-old Gannet as he moves out on his own with the help of four personal assistants. This is all part of the state-funded project in a effort to keep disabled people from being institutionalized. People like Gannet. Born developmentally disabled, he is also partially blind. He is able to communicate using a communication book with a number of common phrases and words . Despite all this, Amy is determined to give her son the best normal life she can.

"I'm really looking forward to having a life of my own and I think Gannet is a ready to have a life of his own. He needs peers, he needs energy; he's got this great group of caregivers, you know, artist and musician, and it's kind of their influence that leads me to believe that it is time for him to move out," said Amy.

That type of friendship is hard to find for most people. However, the group sees Gannet as more than just a client, but a unique individual.

"One of the best parts of the job is watching people like start understanding that he is a person. A full person," said Donal.

Gannet spends the majority of his time playing the piano. He also enjoys playing with his toy cars as well as admiring real cars on the streets of San Francisco.

In the long run, what does everyone gain from this experience?

"Colten and I were talking about what a good house this is yesterday.. this strange state-funded little thing we have here.. we're all here because we care about him.".
-- -- --
Citation for TV Program: "The Key of G" PBS channel 6 WTVS Detroit, at 4: 30 am, October 09, 2007. (Original air date: January 12, 2005)

Living Independently: a Dream Come True

Okay,

Since I'm in the process of looking towards the future and God's plans for me, I just thought it would be fun to look at other people that are doing the same. I just happened to come upon this article while apartment searching. It's going okay. My friends and I are still overcoming some of own hurdles, such as financial burdens and employment difficulties. Anyway, on to the article
summary..

For most people, owning a home is a dream come true.

But for 24-year-old Kim Munro, a bedroom will do just fine.

This bedroom is part of a 10 bedroom unit named "The Allison House" project. Supported by Lutheran Social Services, this new project allows people with disabilities to live independently without the fear often associated with being on your own. The project is made possible by a grant from HUD as well as several other organizations. The house includes other amenities as a fully accessible kitchens, storage units, dining units as well as a community laundry room. Dedicated last Thursday, the faculty took time to remember the young woman for which the project was named.

Diagnosed with muscular dystrophy, Allison Kamen also had dreams of living independently. Unfortunately, she died in 1997 before those dreams could be realized.

For further information, contact Christine Perry at 323-4222
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Bleck, Christie. "Allison House Apartments enable independent living. "(Lansing State Journal) lsj.com 9 March 2007. 21 March 2007
http://www.lsj.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20070309/NEWS01/703090324/1182/NEWS01