Ms. Wheelchair Massachusetts 2007 Blog

Please Read My New Blog From Now On...

2007-12-02T14:31:00.000-08:00

Just Click This Link To Be Directed To My New Site:

Ms. Wheelchair America 2008

Since I have been crowned Ms. Wheelchair America 2008, I will not be adding any more new postings on this site for Ms. Wheelchair Massachusetts 2007. However, you can still read about my activities and get valuable information and resources for people with disabilities on my new site: mswheelchairamerica08.blogspot.com. Please check that site from now on for updated blog entries.

Please continue to use this site for background information on my advocacy work, outreach, and activities as Ms. Wheelchair Massachusetts 2007. Also, continue to use the links I have posted here for more information on disability issues.

I'd like to thank all my readers for their input, encouragement, and support along the way! And, as always, feel free to email me with any of your questions, comments or suggestions. My new email address is: mswheelchairamerica08@yahoo.com. (My old email address still works, too.)

xoxo
Kristen McCosh

Ms. Wheelchair America 2008

BREAKING NEWS: I Have Just Been Named Ms Wheelchair America, 2008!

2007-12-01T07:50:00.000-08:00

Well, the past few days have certainly been a whirlwind of surprising events for me! It hasn't quite sunken in yet, but I am happy to announce that as of today, December 1, 2007, I have been officially crowned Ms. Wheelchair America, 2008...

I have a very busy year coming up ahead of me, doing outreach and advocacy work on behalf of people with disabilities all across the country. I will be working hard to spread the word about the accomplishments and achievements of people who use wheelchairs. I will also be trying my best to get representatives from all 50 states to compete in next year's Ms. Wheelchair America competition.

At the same time, I will be advocating for vital programs and services that facilitate empowerment and success for people with disabilities, such as employment, access, education, transportation, housing, health insurance, and more.

I also hope to inspire people with disabilities to remain as active and healthy as possible by speaking about my personal platform: physical fitness for people with disabilities.

Another big part of my role as Ms Wheelchair America will involve disseminating information and resources to people with disabilities as well as to the business, political, and lay communities. To further this end, I have a new blog which I will update daily with news, events, activities and other helpful information. I welcome you to check it out: http://www.mswheelchairamerica08.blogspot.com/.

Please feel free to contact me at any time, and be sure to check out my Calendar of Events link at the bottom of the page to find out about my official appearances and upcoming events as Ms Wheelchair America 2008.

Thank you everybody for all the support you've given me... I'm looking forward to a wonderful year ahead!

National Council on Disability Meeting

2007-11-30T09:18:00.000-08:00

Yesterday I attended the National Council on Disability quarterly meeting that was held in Boston. It was an informative meeting that had experts presenting information on emergency preparedness, accessible technology, universal design, and many other issues of importance to people with disabilities.

There was a public comment session held yesterday at the end of the meeting where people could add input into the Council report. Many people in attendance voiced issues they asked the Council to consider, such as transportation, rights of disabled parents, brain injury inclusion, and more.

People can add their own written public comment to the NCD at any time via their website: ncd.gov.

Above, the crowd attending the NCD meeting in Boston yesterday. Below, I had a chance to catch up with my old colleague Steve Spinetto, Commissioner of the City of Boston's Disability Commission.

Upcoming Event: AAPD Leadership Gala

2007-11-29T07:15:00.000-08:00

Wednesday, March 5, 2008
The National Building Museum
401 F Street, NW, Washington, DC

Bringing together leaders from government, business, and the disability and civil rights communities, in recognition of the important work of AAPD and the 2008 award recipients, the 2008 AAPD Leadership Gala will be a celebration of achievement, leadership and progress toward AAPD’s vision of political and economic power for all people living with disabilities in the U.S.

The 2008 AAPD Leadership Gala will celebrate the progress made for people with disabilities and the extraordinary leaders who have made it possible. AAPD Leadership Gala keynote speakers have included: White House Chief of Staff Andy Card, Homeland Security Secretary Tom Ridge, Health and Human Services Secretary Mike Leavitt, and Transportation Secretary Norm Mineta; the Emcees have been esteemed journalist Judy Woodruff and The Honorable Tony Coehlo.

The AAPD Leadership Gala serves as a forum for recognizing, empowering, and supporting both emerging and established leaders in the disability community, as well as for inspiring and mobilizing all attendees to increase their advocacy in support of realizing the promise of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).

Recipients will be selected through competitive national processes to accept the following prestigious awards, all of which will be presented at the Gala:Paul G. Hearne/AAPD Leadership Awards – two $10,000 cash awards are given to emerging leaders in the disability community. Henry B. Betts Award - one $50,000 cash award is given to an established disability community leader whose lifetime work has been devoted to improving the quality of life of people with disabilities. Linda Chavez-Thompson Award - an award designated for an individual for his/her leadership towards inclusion of people with disabilities and their families within the labor movement.

Founded in 1995, AAPD is now the largest cross-disability membership organization in the United States, working toward the economic self-sufficiency and political power for the more than 50 million Americans with disabilities. AAPD organizes the disability community to be a powerful force for change – economically, politically, and socially.

For additional information, please contact:Mariana Nork (202) 457-0046 (V/TTY), Email Mariana Nork,or Kelly Mills at Hayes & Associates: (703) 714-2366, kmills@hayespr.com.

Internship Opportunity For Students With Disabilities

2007-11-28T17:02:00.000-08:00

AAPD 2008 SUMMER INTERNSHIP PROGRAM

For the seventh year in a row, the Mitsubishi Electric America Foundation (MEAF) and the American Association of People with Disabilities (AAPD) are offering a Congressional internship program for undergraduate students with disabilities.

The MEAF-AAPD Congressional Internship Program provides an opportunity for students with disabilities to work on Capitol Hill for eight weeks (or in some cases with a Federal agency) and acquire valuable work experience that will enrich their academic studies.

Applications must be received by 5:00 p.m. (Eastern Time) on Friday, December 14, 2007. For further information, guidelines, and application, visit Mitsubishi Electric America Foundation-AAPD Congressional Internship Program

Accelerated Cure Project

2007-11-27T08:13:00.000-08:00

2008 Health & Beauty Fair to Cure MS

What: A collection of health and beauty professionals who specialize in exercise, aroma therapy, style, etc. Click here for pictures.

Who: People ready to start the new year off with relaxation and health

When: Sunday January 13th from 1-6 PM

Where: Rock City Body, 107 Brighton Avenue, Allston MA Directions

Why: To raise funds for Accelerated Cure Project and learn how to live a healthy lifestyle.

Dress: Comfortable attire. You will have the opportunity to try out pilates, stretching, etc, so dress accordingly.

Cost: $30 in advance or $35 at the door. 25% of entry fee benefits Accelerated Cure Project. Fee is non-refundable unless the fair is canceled.

Agenda:
Mingle with health and beauty professionals, eat refreshments, and participate in a raffle to benefit Accelerated Cure Project (specific times coming soon).

RSVP:
Save the date! We'll announce when ticket sales have begun.

For more information, check out http://www.accelderatedcure.org/

Upcoming Event: Massachusetts Conference For Women - Tuesday, December 11, 2007

2007-11-26T10:46:00.001-08:00

The Massachusetts Conference for Women is the state's premier networking and educational experience designed to help women connect and collaborate, and grow personally and professionally.

The non-partisan, one-day Conference features nationally recognized speakers, presenters and panelists who are leaders in business, media, health, personal development and finance. They share their experience and expertise on everything from leading change to managing money to finding a work/life balance.

Our popular Young Women's Program features speakers and topics that encourage young women to overcome obstacles and maximize their potential. Hundreds of exhibitors showcase a wide variety of products and services, providing a unique opportunity to connect like-minded individuals and organizations. The Conference also recognizes women who are making a significant difference in their communities with its inspiring Be the Change Award.

We look forward to seeing you there!

Mobile Women Magazine

2007-11-25T10:53:00.000-08:00

At mobileWOMEN.org, we believe that disabled women today steer their own lives. Empowered by knowledge, they are having children, pursuing careers, competing in professional sports arenas, becoming community leaders, and living life to the fullest.

Now, at mobileWOMEN.org there is a place to unite; ask questions, share ideas, insights, and experiences, and learn from a variety of perspectives. mobileWOMEN.org is the creation of women in wheelchairs who were having difficulty finding answers to their health, fashion, and other questions.

Our mission is to bring together current and accurate information on issues of interest to our community. mobileWOMEN.org includes a dedicated link to an interactive forum specifically for disabled women which allows participants to ask questions and share information with nurses, knowledgeable people in fields of special interest, and other disabled women. This forum is possible through a partnership with carecure.org, an informative, long-running website provided by the W. M. Keck Center for Collaborative Neuroscience at Rutgers University.

We of mobileWOMEN.org are ecstatic to provide a site where knowledge will be expanded and success will be celebrated, thereby extending the horizon for women in wheelchairs all over the world.

Visit mobilewomen.org to find out more!

Check Out Our New Website!!!

2007-11-24T11:54:00.000-08:00

Hire Disability Solutions

Hire Disability Solutions (http://www.hireds.com/), the company I've been working for since October, launched its new re-designed, user-friendly website today! The new site has expanded content under its brand new lifestyle section called, "Working Matters." You can find information on health, fitness, fashion, travel, relationships, and more...

Be sure to bookmark this site as one of your favorites, and check back often to see updated news and information. I will be updating the www.hireds.com website EVERY DAY, just as I have been updating my "Ms. Wheelchair Massachusetts 2007 Blog" every day since I was crowned last April.

You can post your views and opinions on the new HDS Message Board, "Ask the Expert" questions, and search for employment. I will be managing the website, so you can leave comments for me there as well! I would really appreciate your feedback...

And don't forget to read the latest issue of "Solutions," the free monthly e-magazine that I write for and edit. The current edition and back issues are available through the new website: Hire Disability Solutions.

I look forward to hearing from you...

The mission of Hire Disability Solutions is to give all that want a chance to succeed, the opportunity to succeed. Hire Disability Solutions was founded in response to the increasing demand for services for individuals with disabilities that promote inclusion into the mainstream employment world. Since its inception in 2004, Hire Disability Solutions has established itself as a national leader in protecting and enhancing employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities. Through its educational campaigns surrounding employment law, education opportunities and assistive technology, the company facilitates the success of individuals with disabilities and employers alike.

Upcoming Event: Discussion On Universal Design - Thursday, November 29, 2007

2007-11-23T13:52:00.000-08:00

The National Council on Disability (NCD) will conduct a panel discussion on accessibility and universal design at the Hyatt Regency Boston, One Avenue de LaFayette, Boston, Massachusetts, on Thursday, November 29, 2007, from 3:00 p.m. until 4:30 p.m.

Speakers include:

Marylyn Howe, NCD Board Member
Deborah Buck, Association of Assistive Technology Act Programs
Larry Goldberg, WGBH Public Television
Judy Brewer, Web Accessibility Initiative
Valerie Fletcher, Adaptive Environments

Their remarks will be followed by a question and answer session.

In 2004, the National Council on Disability published "Design for Inclusion" : The New Marketplace (http://www.ncd.gov/newsroom/publications/2004/online_newmarketplace.htm), a report demonstrating how an accessible society can be accomplished through Universal Design. Universal design is a process to ensure that the built environment, including electronic and information technology, is inclusive, accessible, and usable by everyone, including people with disabilities. Incorporating universal design processes is one solution to accommodating people with disabilities that also improves the usability of the products for the rest of the population.

This panel discussion is part of NCD’s quarterly board meeting, which will be held Thursday, November 29, 2007, from 8:30 a.m. until 5:00 p.m.; Friday, November 30 from 8:30 a.m. until 3:45 p.m.; and Saturday, December 1 from 8:15 a.m. until 11:15 a.m. Public comment sessions will be held Thursday, from 4:30 p.m. until 5:00 p.m. and on Friday, from 1:15 p.m. until 1:45 p.m. A toll-free call in line will also be available to the public during those times. The number is 800-369-1120, and the pass code is NCD Council Meeting. There will be a reception at the hotel for all meeting participants, audience members, and people with disabilities from the community on Thursday afternoon from 5:00 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.

NCD is an independent federal agency composed of 15 members appointed by the President to provide advice to the President, Congress, and executive branch agencies. To carry out its purposes, NCD believes it is vital to hear from communities around the country on what works and what does not for people with disabilities. NCD members and staff are pleased to have the opportunity to visit Boston and learn firsthand about the experiences of people with disabilities from Massachusetts and the surrounding states.

For more information, please contact NCD’s director of communications Mark S. Quigley at http://www.mac.com/WebObjects/Webmail.woa/wa/DirectAction/emptyPage?&action=view&mids=5683# or by telephone at 202-272-2004.

Happy Thanksgiving!

2007-11-22T07:54:00.000-08:00

Today is a day when we take time out to reflect on all the blessings we have been given in our lives. It is also the unofficial beginning of the holiday season - a time for us to renew our connections with our family, our friends, and our faith.

Here is a Holiday Wish from me to you...

May your holiday season

be filled with memories and meaning,

with much to be happy about.

I AM THANKFUL...

2007-11-21T17:04:00.000-08:00

FOR THE WIFE WHO SAYS IT'S HOT DOGS TONIGHT,
BECAUSE SHE IS HOME WITH ME, AND NOT OUT WITH SOMEONE ELSE...

FOR THE HUSBAND WHO IS ON THE SOFA BEING A COUCH POTATO,
BECAUSE HE IS HOME WITH ME AND NOT OUT AT A BAR...

FOR THE TEENAGER WHO IS COMPLAINING ABOUT DOING DISHES,
BECAUSE IT MEANS SHE IS AT HOME, NOT ON THE STREET...

FOR THE TAXES I PAY,
BECAUSE IT MEANS I AM EMPLOYED...

FOR THE MESS TO CLEAN AFTER A PARTY,
BECAUSE IT MEANS I HAVE BEEN SURROUNDED BY FRIENDS...

FOR THE CLOTHES THAT FIT A LITTLE TOO SNUGLY,
BECAUSE IT MEANS I HAVE ENOUGH TO EAT...

FOR MY SHADOW THAT WATCHES ME WORK,
BECAUSE IT MEANS I AM OUT IN THE SUNSHINE...

FOR A LAWN THAT NEEDS MOWING,
WINDOWS THAT NEED CLEANING,
AND GUTTERS THAT NEED FIXING,
BECAUSE IT MEANS I HAVE A HOME...

FOR ALL THE COMPLAINING I HEAR ABOUT THE GOVERNMENT,
BECAUSE IT MEANS I HAVE FREEDOM OF SPEECH...

FOR MY HUGE HEATING BILL,
BECAUSE IT MEANS I AM WARM...

FOR WEARINESS AND ACHING MUSCLES AT THE END OF THE DAY,
BECAUSE IT MEANS I HAVE BEEN WORKING HARD...

FOR THE ALARM THAT GOES OFF IN THE EARLY MORNING HOURS,
BECAUSE IT MEANS I AM ALIVE...

AND FINALLY, FOR HAVING TOO LITTLE TIME FOR MYSELF...
BECAUSE IT MEANS I HAVE PEOPLE WHO LOVE ME, WANT ME, AND NEED ME.

Live well, Laugh often, & Love with all of your heart...
HAPPY THANKSGIVING!

Amazing Stem Cell Breakthrough

2007-11-20T19:02:00.000-08:00

Scientists have created the equivalent of embryonic stem cells from ordinary skin cells, a breakthrough that could someday produce new treatments for disease such as Spinal Cord Injuries and Parkinson's Disease without the explosive moral questions of embyro cloning.

Research teams in the United States and Japan showed that a simple lab technique can rival the complex and highly controversial idea of extracting stem cells from cloned embryos. It was a landmark achievement on all fronts, defusing one of the most divisive debates in modern medicine and religion. It was lauded by scientists, ethicists and religious groups.

"This work represents a tremendous scientific milestone — the biological equivalent of the Wright Brothers' first airplane," said Dr. Robert Lanza, whose company, Advanced Cell Technology, has been trying to extract stem cells from cloned human embryos. "It redefines the ethical terrain," said Laurie Zoloth, a bioethicist at Northwestern University.

"It's a win-win for everyone involved," said the Rev. Thomas Berg of the Westchester Institute, a Roman Catholic think tank. "We have a way to move forward which ... brings the kind of painful national debate over this controversial research to very much a peaceful and promising resolution."

The new technique reprograms cells, giving them the chameleon-like qualities of embryonic stem cells, which can morph into all kinds of tissue, such as heart, nerve and brain. As with embryonic cells, the hope is to speed medical research. For example, one day an ailing patient might benefit from genetically matched healthy tissue that would replace damaged cells.

The scientists themselves were startled by their success. "I was surprised when we achieved our results with the mouse," Yamanaka said. "But proving what we could do with human cells really bowled me over."

Thomson said he was surprised it didn't take longer to discover how to reprogram ordinary cells. The technique, he said, is so simple that "thousands of labs in the United States can do this, basically tomorrow." In contrast, the cloning approach is so complex and expensive that many scientists say it couldn't be used routinely to supply stem cells for therapy.

The new work shows that like cloning, "direct reprogramming" can also use ordinary body cells to create versatile cells that are genetically matched. "It's a bit like learning how to turn lead into gold," said Lanza, while cautioning that the work is far from providing medical payoffs.

"It's a huge deal," agreed Rudolf Jaenisch, a prominent stem cell scientist at the Whitehead Institute in Cambridge, Mass. "You have the proof of principle that you can do it."

Still, scientific questions remain about the cells produced by direct reprogramming, called "iPS" cells. One is how the cells compare to embryonic stem cells in their behavior and potential. Eventually, iPS cells might prove better for some scientific uses and cloned stem cells preferable for other uses. For example, scientists want to study the roots of genetic disease and screen potential drug treatments in their laboratories.

Scottish researcher Ian Wilmut, famous for his role in cloning Dolly the sheep a decade ago, has said he is giving up the cloning approach to produce stem cells and plans to pursue direct
reprogramming instead. "We'll see, ultimately, which one works and which one is more practical," he said.

Interview with Dean Kamen - Monday, November 26, 2007

2007-11-19T18:21:00.000-08:00

I will have the opportunity to interview Dean Kamen, the inventor of the IBot wheelchair, next week for the magazine I am working for, "Solutions."

Dean Kamen is an inventor, an entrepreneur and a tireless advocate for science and technology. His roles as inventor and advocate are intertwined -- his own passion for technology and its practical uses has driven his personal determination to spread the word about technology’s virtues and by so doing to change the culture of the United States. His vast knowledge of the physical sciences, combined with his ability to integrate the fundamental laws of physics with the most modern technologies, has led to the development of breakthrough processes and products.

As an inventor, he holds more than 440 U.S. and foreign patents, many of them for innovative medical devices that have expanded the frontiers of health care worldwide. Among his many inventions is the IBot wheelchair, which allows people to roll up stairways.

He founded DEKA Research & Development Corporation to develop internally generated inventions as well as to provide R&D for major corporate clients.

Among Dean's proudest accomplishments is founding FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology), an organization dedicated to motivating the next generation to understand, use, and enjoy science and technology. Mr. Kamen was awarded the National Medal of Technology in 2000, awarded by President Clinton in 2000 for inventions that have advanced medical care worldwide, and for innovative and imaginative leadership in awakening America to the excitement of science and technology. He was also awarded the Lemelson-MIT Prize in 2002, and was inducted into the National Inventors Hall of Fame in May 2005. He was inducted into the Spinal Cord Injury Hall of Fame earlier this month.

Upcoming Event - January 8 & 9, 2008

2007-11-18T17:35:00.000-08:00

Disability and Special Needs

Technical Assistance Conference

On Emergency Preparedness, Response, and Recovery

January 8-9, 2008

Capital Hilton, Washington, DC

The Disability and Special Needs Technical Assistance Conference will provide technical assistance on aspects of emergency management planning and response for people with disabilities and special needs. Recent disasters have made us aware of plans and operational procedures related to response and recovery to these populations in any natural or non-natural disaster. This conference will bring together Federal, State, and local experts to discuss day-to-day challenges in planing for their vulnerable populations. You will learn new concepts currently used or being developed to address disability and special needs planning in their jurisdictions.

UMass To Screen Documentary "Including Samuel"

2007-11-17T17:58:00.000-08:00

Photojournalist Dan Habib rarely thought about inclusion before he had his son Samuel seven years ago. Now he thinks about inclusion every day. Habib’s documentary film, "Including Samuel," examines the educational and social inclusion of youth with disabilities as a civil rights issue.

The Boston movie premiere of "Including Samuel" will be followed by a reception and panel discussion with the filmmaker and special guests. I will be attending this event to write a review for my e-Magazine, Solutions. This event is sold out.

The Boston Premiere Includes A Panel Discussion With:

Dan Habib (Filmmaker)

Keith Jones (Inclusive education activist; featured in the film)

Joe Petner (Former Cambridge School Principal; featured in the film)

Rich Robison (Executive Director of the Federation for Children with Special Needs)

Maria Paiewonsky (Education and Transition team, Institute for Community Inclusion/UMass Boston)

Moderated by Bill Kiernan,

Director of the Institute for Community Inclusion
Tuesday, December 4, 2007
UMass Boston Ballroom • Campus Center

100 Morrissey Boulevard • Boston, MA
6:30 pm - 9:30 pm
Light refreshments will be served.
This ballroom is fully accessible.

Upcoming Event - Special Olympics Jolly Jaunt, December 1 & 2, 2007

2007-11-16T14:29:00.000-08:00

Get in the holiday spirit with Special Olympics Massachusetts!

This fun run will benefit local Special Olympics athletes. Your participation will help fund sports programs, as well as provide uniforms, sports equipment and traveling opportunities to athletes with intellectual disabilities.

Bring your friends and family, walk, run and dress for the occasion!

Click on the event location below for registration information and all event details.

Saturday, December 1, 2007:

Boston

Springfield Taunton Worcester

Sunday, December 2, 2007:
Cape Cod Danvers

BCIL Annual Meeting 2007

2007-11-15T18:19:00.001-08:00

Tonight I attended BCIL's Annual Meeting where I had the opportunity to meet and listen to Jean McGuire, the Massachusetts Assistant Secretary for Disability Policy and Programs in Deval Patrick's Gubernatorial Administration.

Assistant Secretary McGuire is a champion of disability inclusion and she supports BCIL's advocacy efforts. I currently volunteer on the BCIL Advocacy Leadership Council and Neighborhood Access Groups (NAGs). I helped to form a NAG in South Boston about five years ago to work with community residents in addressing access issues.
I also had the opportunity to meet Charles Carr, the new Commissioner of the Massachusetts Rehabilitation Commission. He was recently appointed by Governor Patrick to replace long-time Commissioner Elmer Bartels.
Liz Casey, one of BCIL's dedicated access advocates, received a Community Leadership Award for all of her hard work on NAGs and the PCA Program.

For more information on BCIL, log onto http://www.bostoncil.org/.

SCI Support Groups

2007-11-14T19:54:00.000-08:00

The Greater Boston Chapter of the National Spinal Cord Injury Association holds monthly support groups throughout the state. Check www.sciboston.org for dates, times and locations.

National Council On Disability Announces Boston Meeting

2007-11-13T19:01:00.000-08:00

The National Council on Disability (NCD) today invited the Boston disability community to participate in NCD’s next quarterly board meeting, which will take place at the Hyatt Regency Boston, One Avenue de LaFayette, Boston, Massachusetts, on Thursday, November 29, 2007, from 8:30 a.m. until 5:00 p.m.; Friday, November 30 from 8:30 a.m. until 3:45 p.m.; and Saturday, December 1 from 8:15 a.m. until 11:15 a.m.

Public comment sessions will be held Thursday, November 29 from 4:30 p.m. until 5:00 p.m. and on Friday, November 30 from 1:15 p.m. until 1:45 p.m. A toll-free call in line will also be available to the public during those times. The number is 800-369-1120, and the pass code is NCD Council Meeting. There will also be a reception at the hotel for all meeting participants, audience members, and people with disabilities from the community on Thursday afternoon from 5:00 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.

NCD is an independent federal agency and is composed of 15 members appointed by the President, by and with the advice and consent of the Senate. We provide advice to the President, Congress, and executive branch agencies to promote policies, programs, practices, and procedures that—

guarantee equal opportunity for all individuals with disabilities, regardless of the nature or severity of the disability; and
empower individuals with disabilities to achieve economic self-sufficiency, independent living, and inclusion and integration into all aspects of society.

To carry out its purposes, NCD believes it is vital to hear from disability communities around the country on what works and what does not for people with disabilities. NCD members and staff are pleased to have the opportunity to visit Boston and learn firsthand about the experiences of people with disabilities from Massachusetts and the surrounding states.
For more information, please contact NCD’s director of communications Mark S. Quigley at mquigley@ncd.gov or by telephone at 202-272-2004.

Home Care Workers Vote To Join Union

2007-11-12T17:14:00.000-08:00

In a move that is destined to improve healthcare for thousands of Massachusetts seniors and people with disabilities, 22,000 Massachusetts home care workers have voted to join 1199 SEIU, the healthcare workers union. The vote passed by a landslide margin of 94% Yes to 6% No.

"I am proud to stand here with 1199 SEIU to support the dedicated health care workers who offer care and compassion to us all. Home is where people want to live and PCAs make it possible for seniors and people with disabilities to live at home with independence and dignity," Mayor Menino said. "By ensuring fair compensation and benefits for PCAs, we can improve the lives of both consumers and healthcare workers. This is a great step forward for the people of Boston and the entire state."

“This is a tremendous organizing victory for our union and we welcome our 22,000 newest members. Raising the standards for PCAs in the home health industry is critical to the livelihood of thousands of low-wage workers in Massachusetts and around the country,” said George Gresham, President of 1199 SEIU United Healthcare Workers East. “This historic vote should serve as a beacon of hope and progress in the struggle to attain justice and a living wage for home care workers.” Personal care attendants (PCAs) from across the state voted in the historic election through special mail-in ballot starting on October 16th.

The election was the largest of its kind in the history of New England. “This is a great day for home care workers, and also for the people they care for,” said 1199 SEIU Executive Vice President Mike Fadel. “Stabilizing the PCA workforce will make it easier for seniors and people with disabilities to live at home with independence and dignity.”

Currently, PCA home care workers do not have health insurance benefits, despite being caregivers themselves. They also receive no sick days or vacation time. Many of the consumers in the state struggle to keep caregivers on the job, as 40-60% of PCAs leave their positions every year for jobs with benefits or higher compensation. The vote gives personal care attendants a voice for better wages and benefits by uniting them with the largest local healthcare union in the country. It also organizes PCAs in a way that senior and disability advocates say will make them more accessible to those who require their essential services.

"Home care workers perform some of the most difficult and most important jobs in our society. Yet all too often, their indispensable work is under-valued and under-appreciated,” said Massachusetts Senator Ted Kennedy in a statement of support, “I congratulate 1199 SEIU and the home care workers of Massachusetts on this significant achievement, and I look forward to working with them in the years ahead to protect these hard-won rights."

"This will significantly improve the lives of individuals who use PCAs," said Bill Henning, Executive Director of the Boston Center for Independent Living. "This vote goes a long way toward correcting one of the biggest challenges facing seniors and people with disabilities in Massachusetts today, which is the constant difficulty in finding and retaining attendants."

“I’ve been doing this job for over twenty years and I love it, but it’s hard to support a family making $10.84 per hour with no sick days,” says PCA Hertenza Spence of Lynn, MA. “It was a no-brainer for me. Now we have hope to stay on the job and keep everybody happy and healthy, including myself.” 1199 SEIU members say the victory will allow the union to devote even more energy and resources to another top priority – the effort to achieve free and fair union elections for the Commonwealth's non-union hospital workers. 1199 SEIU, Mayor Thomas M. Menino, and the Boston City Council have called on Boston hospital CEOs to pledge they will not intimidate or harass hospital workers during union elections.

Veterans Day, November 11, 2007

2007-11-11T19:35:00.000-08:00

The American Veterans Disabled for Life Memorial
A Worthy and Lasting Tribute

They share a dedication to freedom—a unifying spirit that, for generations, has defined America, home of the brave. They are the valiant soldiers, sailors, airmen, Marines and Coast Guardsmen of our nation's armed forces. They are our American veterans.

Throughout our nation's history, these service men and women have gone bravely into battle, risking their lives and livelihoods, sacrificing their safety to defend America. And when their duty is done, many return home to life as it was. Sadly, for veterans seriously injured in the line of duty, leaving the battlefield does not mark the end of conflict. These permanently disabled soldiers often carry home life-altering disabilities—stern reminders of the price of freedom.

America's disabled veterans have honored us with their service and selfless duty. It is now our turn to honor them.

Transcending conflicts, service branches and generations, the American Veterans Disabled for Life Memorial will express America's lasting gratitude to the men and women whose lives were forever changed in service to our country.

For the first time in our nation's history, we will build a tribute to some of America's most courageous heroes—our disabled veterans. The American Veterans Disabled for Life Memorial will celebrate these men and women who may be broken in body—but never in spirit.

And as these veterans face a life for which no one can prepare, so must their families and friends. This Memorial will also honor veterans' loved ones and caregivers—individuals whose heroic devotion is a source of strength for those striving to heal.

Profile: Harley Thomas

2007-11-10T18:20:00.000-08:00

I had the privilege of meeting Harley Thomas last April, at the BMC SCI Gala in Boston.

In Memoriam

The National Spinal Cord Injury Association (NSCIA) awarded the first ever Harley L. Thomas Lifetime Achievement Award to the man who inspired the award and after whom it is named, Harley L. Thomas this week in conjunction with the 2007 Spinal Cord Injury Hall of Fame. Immediate past president of NSCIA's Board of Directors and long-time disability activist, Harley Thomas, passed away on September 4, 2007.

Born and raised in Utah, Harley joined the U.S. Marine Corps at a very young age, earning a discharge at age 19. He then served 18 years in the U.S. Navy, retiring in 1976 as a chief petty officer. In the service, he was attached to the Defense Communications Agency, and was deployed to Colorado, Hawaii, Japan, Vietnam, San Diego, and Norfolk and Reston, VA. He was an early expert in large mainframe computers, and continued in the information technology industry in California after leaving the Navy. He earned a business degree from the University of Virginia while in the service.

While stationed in Japan, Thomas became active in motorcycle racing and continued racing for many years. He acquired a spinal cord injury in a motorcycle accident in Mexico in 1982, using a wheelchair since that event. These circumstances led him to new frontiers as an advocate for veterans and other people with disabilities. He co-founded Colorado Sports for the Physically Challenged, Inc. (CSPC), a sports camp for children and youth with disabilities, in 1985, and was executive director of the Mountain States Chapter of PVA.

In 1997, Thomas moved to Washington, DC to become the associate director of Paralyzed Veterans' Legislation Program. He skillfully coordinated The Independent Budget annually with three other veterans service organizations, testified before Congress, and represented Paralyzed Veterans nationwide at meetings and conferences. He chaired the VA's Volunteer Service Advisory Committee and served on the board of the Paralyzed Veterans Education Foundation.

Thomas helped to identify disability-friendly communities as a judge for the Accessible America Award for the National Organization on Disability. He is immediate past president of the National Spinal Cord Injury Association and had served on the board of the ENDependence Center of Northern Virginia.

SCI Hall Of Fame Awards

2007-11-09T17:07:00.000-08:00

Stars Shined at the Spinal Cord Injury Hall of Fame Gala

The National Spinal Cord Injury Association (NSCIA) honored fifteen of the most accomplished and extraordinary members of the spinal cord injury and disease (SCI/D) community at the third annual SCI Hall of FameTM induction ceremony and gala at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts on November 6. Award winning journalist Leon Harris, former CNN co-anchor , current newscaster for ABC7/WJLA-TV and co-host of Capital Sunday served as Master of Ceremonies.

Launched by the National Spinal Cord Injury Association (NSCIA) in 2005, the SCI Hall of Fame was created to recognize excellence and honor individuals and organizations that have made significant contributions to quality of life and advancements toward a better future for all individuals with spinal cord injury or disease. Participation in this year's process was strong, with more than 160 nominees nationwide.
This year's inductees and their categories include:

Dean Kamen, inventor of the iBot Mobility System for Johnson and Johnson's Independence Technology division and founder of For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology (Assistive Technology),
Dana Reeve (1961-2006), founding board member of the Christopher and Dana Reeve Foundation and Craig H. Neilsen (1942-2006), former chairman and CEO of Ameristar Casinos and founder of the Craig H. Neilsen Foundation (Benefactor),
Ron Cohen, president, CEO, founder and director of Acorda Therapeutics, Inc. (Corporate Executive),
Mark Johnson, Advocacy Director for the Shepherd Center and early member of ADAPT (Disability Activist),
Gary Karp, author, journalist, editor, speaker and trainer (Disability Educator),
Extreme Makeover: Home Edition, Emmy award winning ABC-TV program helping families with home accessibility (Entertainment),
Dan Wilkins, founder of the Nth Degree (Entrepreneur),
Michael Collins, Executive Director of the National Council on Disability and former Executive Director of the CA Statewide Independent Living Council (Government Executive),
Chris Canales, co-founder of Gridiron Heroes Spinal Cord Injury Organization (Grassroots Organizer),
Kelly Buckland, executive director of the Idaho State Independent Living Council and president of the National Council on Independent Living (Legislative),
Montel Williams, Emmy award winning talk show host and founder of the Montel Williams MS Foundation (Media),
Kim Anderson, researcher in neurological surgery at Reeve-Irvine Research Center (Research in Basic Science),
Susan Harkema, rehabilitation director of the Kentucky Spinal Cord Injury Research Center and the director of research at Frazier Rehabilitation Institute (Research in Quality of Life) and
Renee Tyree, Paralympic gold, silver and bronze medalist (Sports).

In addition to the 14 Hall of Fame categories, NSCIA presented its Emerging Leader Award to Chris Skinner, founder of the Chris Skinner Organization, for exceptional leadership qualities in a local or regional capacity toward the improvement of opportunities or quality of life for persons living with SCI. To learn about all of this year's nominees, visit www.spinalcord.org. The mission of the National Spinal Cord Injury Association (NSCIA) is to enable people with spinal cord injury and disease (SCI/D) to achieve their highest level of independence, health, and quality of life. NSCIA advocates for best practices and public policies that proactively affect people with SCI/D, their families and service providers. The Association conducts public policy initiatives through its local chapters and at the national level and actively collaborates with other national organizations on issues of mutual concern.

My First Magazine Edition As Editor In Chief of "Solutions" Is Released Today

2007-11-08T17:59:00.000-08:00

Today was the release of my first issue as Editor In Chief of "Solutions," a monthly e-magazine produced by Hire Disability Solutions. In my first magazine issue, I included the following:

Interviews with the Presidential Candidates
Movie Review of "The Music Within"
Q & A with Assistant Secretary of ODEP, Karen Czarnecki
"Working Matters" Feature Article: Trends In Travel
Employment Conference Article by Kelly Rouba, Ms Wheelchair NJ
...much more!

Go to www.hireds.com to read the magazine: "Solutions": Volume 4, November, 2007. And check back on the website in a week or two - I am redesigning it to be more user-friendly and interactive.

Upcoming Event - Benefits Conference, November 28, 2007

2007-11-07T17:47:00.000-08:00

Employment and Benefits Conference
A Free Training About Work for People with Disabilities

Learn About:

Avoiding problems with SSI/SSDI if you go back to work
Your rights when applying for a job
Getting the accommodations you need at work

Also, Sign up for: Individual sessions on your Social Security and work issues. Everything discussed in these sessions will be kept confidential.

Wednesday, November 28, 2007
9:30 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Brockton Public Library
304 Main Street
Brockton, MA 02301

Library Web Site and Directions

Presented by Attorneys from the Disability Law Center and

South Coastal Counties Legal Services

Sponsored by:

This training is funded in part by the Medicaid Infrastructure and Comprehensive Employment Opportunities Grant (Centers for Medicaid and Medicare Services CFDA #93-768)

In Spanish and English

Please tell us if special accommodations are needed.

CART and ASL will be provided. Advance notice required.

Portuguese Language Interpretation will be provided.
Registration by mail, email, fax, phone or TTY

Mail:
DLC, 11 Beacon Street, Ste 925 Boston, MA 02108
Email:
mail@dlc-ma.org
Telephone: (800) 872-9992
Fax: (617) 723-9125
TTY: (800) 381-0577

Get Out And Vote Today!

2007-11-06T07:05:00.000-08:00

Your Right to Vote
Questions & Answers for Voters with Disabilities

Do I need to register before voting?
Yes, in order to be able to vote, you must register to vote in the town or city where you live. To register to vote, call your town clerk and ask him or her to mail you the form, fill the form out and send it back. You can also register at town hall, and many other government offices. To find out who your town clerk is you can call your town hall.
Does the building I vote in have to be accessible?
Yes, Massachusetts law requires that all places where people vote (polling places) are accessible. This includes: accessible parking spaces; an accessible path of travel from the parking area to the polling place; an accessible entrance to the building, including ramps if necessary, and which is at least 32” wide.
Absentee Ballot, what is it, what is it for?
If you can’t get to the polls on Election Day because of your disability, you can vote absentee. You or a family member can apply in writing to your city or town hall and include: your name, the address where you are registered to vote, the address where you want the absentee ballot to be sent to, in a primary, the party ballot you want, and your signature. The latest you can apply for an absentee ballot is noon the day before the election but you should ask for an absentee ballot at least a few weeks before an election.
If I’m voting at the polling place, do they need to make the voting booths so I can use them?
The law also requires that the voting booths be accessible. If you use a wheelchair, you should be able to fit your wheelchair underneath the voting table and reach the shelf to make your vote. You have the right to have help voting. Tell the election worker that you have a disability and need help to vote. You may bring in someone that you choose to help you vote.
Do I need Identification?
You may be asked by one of the election workers to show identification. But, if you feel that the person singled you out to show identification because you have a disability, you can make a complaint. Things you may use as identification include: a driver’s license, recent utility bill, rent receipt on a landlord’s printed letterhead, lease, or any other printed id card with your current address.
What if my name is not on the voter’s list?
If your name is not on the voter list, ask the election worker to double-check by calling the city or town hall. If the city or town hall says you are a registered voter, then you can vote. If not, you can still vote, but your vote will not be counted unless the election is close.
Can someone challenge my vote?
Anyone can challenge a voter, but only for a legal cause. This means that the person challenging your vote has to have a good legal reason for why you should not vote such as you are not who you say you are, or you do not live in the town you’re voting in. It is a crime for a person to challenge your vote to harass you or to find out whom you voted for.
If I live in a facility or I am under guardianship, can I still vote?Yes. If you live in a facility or are under guardianship, you still have the right to vote. The only exception is if your guardianship specifically takes away your right to vote.
How can I vote independently at the polls?
There should be an accessible voting machine at every polling place. The Secretary of State recently certified the AutoMark Voting Machine and it should be in place for all future elections. Ask the poll worker to direct you to the voting machine when you check in on Election Day.

Hang In There...

2007-11-05T18:56:00.000-08:00

Don't Quit

When things go wrong, as they sometimes will,

when the road you’re trudging seems all uphill,

When the funds are low and the debts are high,

And you want to smile, but you have to sigh,

When care is pressing you down a bit,

Rest, if you must, but do not quit.

Life is strange with its twists and turns,

As every one of us sometimes learns,

And many a failure turns about,

When he might have won had he stuck it out;

Don’t give up though the pace seems slow—

You may succeed with another blow.
Often the goal is nearer than,

It seems to a faint and faltering man,

Often the struggler has given up,

When he might have captured the victor’s cup,

And he learned too late when the night slipped down,

How close he was to the golden crown.
Success is failure turned inside out—

The silver tint of the clouds of doubt,

And you never can tell how close you are,

It may be near when it seems so far,

So stick to the fight when you’re hardest hit—

It’s when things seem worst that you must not quit.

—Anonymous

Upcoming Event - BCIL Annual Meeting, November 15, 2007

2007-11-04T19:33:00.000-08:00

Consumers With Disabilities Are Invited To Attend

The Boston Center for Independent Living

Annual Meeting

Thursday, November 15, 2007

6 p.m.

The Massachusetts Transportation Building

10 Park Plaza - 2nd Floor

Boston, MA

The evening's Guest Speaker is Jean McGuire

Assistant Secretary of Disability Policy and Programs.

The evening will include a light meal, reports on the year's activities, and awards.

Stepping Forward - Staying Informed, 3rd Annual SCI Research Conference

2007-11-03T14:14:00.000-07:00

I attended the 3rd Annual SCI Research Conference sponsored by Boston Medical Center today at the Massachusetts Convention Center in Boston. This year's "Stepping Forward - Staying Informed" conference had presentations on stem cell research, weight management, emergency preparedness, and sexuality for people living with SCI. It was very informative, as usual.

Check our www.bmc.org/rehab for information on the conference.

Interviews With The Presidential Candidates

2007-11-02T16:44:00.000-07:00

I had the privilege today to interview three of the Democratic Presidential Candidates at the "National Forum On Equality, Opportunity, and Access" held in Manchester, NH. I spoke with Senator Hillary Clinton (D-NY), Senator Joe Biden (D-DE), and Senator Chris Dodd (D-CT). I asked them about their opinions of issues such as funding adult stem cell research; supporting employment incenties such as tax breaks for businesses; and their positions on universal health care and Medicaid Buy-Ins for people with disabilities.

Each candidate voiced their support for all of the above issues, which are of critical importance to people with disabilities. They also support the ADA Restoration Act, which is pending. I was also able to speak with Andy Hiller, the political correspondent for 7News in Boston. It was an unbelievable experience to get to meet the candidates personally. You can see footage of the interviews at http://www.endeavorfreedom.tv/ sometime next week, and you can read my article on the interiews in the November issue of "Solutions" e-Magazine at http://www.hireds.com/ next week.

Upcoming Event - Interview With Assistant Secretary of ODEP, Karen Czarnecki

2007-11-01T17:58:00.000-07:00

I will have the opportunity to interview Karen Czarnecki, Assistant Secretary of The Office of Disability Employment Policy (ODEP) next week. I will be asking her about her efforts in assisting people with disabilities to gain employment.

ODEP provides national leadership on disability employment policy by developing and influencing the use of evidence-based disability employment policies and practices, building collaborative partnerships, and delivering authoritative and credible data on employment of people with disabilities.

I will be publishing this interview in the November issue of "Solutions" e-Magazine, put out by Hire Disability Solutions. Log on to http://www.hireds.com/ next week to read the piece.

"New Freedom Initiative Awards" Recognize Committment to Employing People With Disabilities

2007-10-31T10:02:00.000-07:00

U.S. Secretary of Labor Elaine L. Chao presented seven awardees with national recognition for their contributions toward enhancing the employment of Americans with disabilities.

"The New Freedom Initiative Awards recognize exceptional commitment to helping Americans with disabilities succeed in the workplace and build careers," said Secretary Chao.

The Secretary of Labor's sixth annual New Freedom Initiative Award for exemplary and innovative efforts in furthering the employment and workplace environment for people with disabilities were presented in October, 2007, to:

BUSINESSES
The Dow Chemical Co., Midland, Mich.
Gap Inc., San Francisco, Calif.
Northrop Grumman Corp., Los Angeles, Calif.

ORGANIZATIONS
The Laurie Mitchell Employment Center, Alexandria, Va.
Positive Vibe Café, Richmond, Va.

INDIVIDUAL
John D. Kemp Esq., Powers, Pyles Sutter & Verville P.C., Washington, D.C.

Marc A. Buoniconti, ambassador to the Miami Project to Cure Paralysis, located in Florida received the second annual Secretary of Labor's SPIRIT Award for demonstrating qualities that inspire and enhance the ability of Americans with disabilities to enter and participate fully in the 21st century workforce. Those qualities — with letters forming the acronym "spirit" — are strength in leadership, perseverance in unyielding commitment to achieving success, integrity, serving as a role model, independence and acting as a trailblazer.

The Labor Department's Office of Disability Employment Policy (ODEP) coordinates the annual New Freedom Initiative Awards program. Introduced by President George W. Bush in 2001, the New Freedom Initiative is a government-wide effort to accelerate the full inclusion of people with disabilities into mainstream American life. October is National Disability Employment Awareness Month. ODEP is leading a 21st century federal response to the historic underemployment of people with disabilities. In collaboration with other government agencies, public and private employers, and additional stakeholders, ODEP facilitates the development and implementation of innovative policies and practices necessary to achieve a fully inclusive workplace. ODEP's work primarily falls into three categories: employers and the workplace; workforce systems; and employment-related supports, which include education and training, health care, reliable transportation, affordable housing and assistive technology. For more information about this agency, please visit www.dol.gov/odep.

Keep In Touch...

2007-10-30T06:29:00.000-07:00

My year as Ms Wheelchair Massachusetts is more than halfway over... I have had the opportunity to do so many great things and meet so many wonderful people!

Please feel free to contact me if you have questions, want to schedule an appearance, or just want to say "hello!" And don't forget to check out my Calendar of Events at the bottom of the page to see what activities I have coming up.

And finally - be sure to let me know if you, or anyone else you have in mind, are interested in becoming the next Ms Wheelchair Massachusetts! The competition for Ms Wheelchair Massachusetts 2008 will be taking place in April...

Congratulations Boston Red Sox, 2007 World Champions!!!

2007-10-29T16:56:00.000-07:00

I know this is a blog about disability issues, but as a diehard fan I just can't resist...

WE WON!

My brother Christopher, his daughter Aideen, John and I participated in "Disability Awareness Night" on the field at Fenway Park before a Red Sox game earlier this year.

Upcoming Appearance - SBNH Early Books Program on Friday, December 7, 2007

2007-10-28T10:55:00.000-07:00

Join Me At Family Fun Night!

I will be appearing at the South Boston Neighborhood House Early Books Program family literacy event called Family Fun Night next month. The theme for December is "Winter Festival." Come on out and say hi!

Friday, December 7
5:30 - 7 pm
SBNH Senior Center
136 "H" Street
South Boston, MA

Family Fun Night is open to all families who wish to attend. Call Christine Kane at 617-269-7769 for more information.

Upcoming Event - World Congress & Expo On Disabilities, November 15, 2007

2007-10-27T16:00:00.000-07:00

Washington Convention Center, Washington, DC

Thursday, November 15th, 2007

Friday, November 16th, 2007

Saturday, November 17th, 2007

The WCD Expo is now in its seventh successful year and expecting the largest turnout ever. 70+ conference sessions, blockbuster keynote speakers, and spectacular special events will attract PTs, OTs, medical professionals, educators, people with disabilities and their caregivers. On the expo floor, thousands of attendees will meet with an anticipated 200 exhibitors including product vendors, service providers, non-profits and associations.

Hire Disability Solutions Partners For

The Employment Pavilion Career Fair

Thursday, November 15th, 2007

Join HDS on Thursday November 15, 2007 at the Washington Convention Center in Washington, DC for the Career Fair. The Fair is co-located within the 7th Annual World Congress and Exposition on Disabilities, an annual event dedicated to improving the lives of those with developmental and physical disabilities. Career fair participants will include companies, government agencies, schools and more. You will meet a large numbers of job-seekers as well as progressive employers. Attracting a large and diverse crowd of job-seekers is the #1 goal for the Fair. The word is out to the disability community - so be sure to attend!

Upcoming Advocacy Event on Disability Issues - MBTA

2007-10-26T12:43:00.000-07:00

The MBTA Public Meeting

to discuss implementation

of the access lawsuit settlement against the MBTA

with Judge Patrick King, the court-appointed independent monitor

has been RESCHEDULED

It will be held on

Monday, November 5, 2007

from 3:00 to 5:00 p.m.

at the state Transportation Building

10 Park Plaza, Boston MA

Congratulations Paralympians!

2007-10-25T18:13:00.000-07:00

Congratulations to my friend Maureen McKinnon-Tucker and her team on winning the Paralympic Trials! In 297 days they will be at the opening ceremonies of the Beijing Paralympics. They clinched the win in the Paralympic Trials by the 14th race. The Race Committee gave an extra long toot of the horn as they crossed the finish line first, to clinch the win. Yes, that means that Maureen is now a member of the US Paralympic Team representing the SKUD 18 class, and she's going to Beijing!

Congratulations to the 2008 US Paralympic Sailing Team: Bill Donohue, Tim Angle, Charlie Leighton (US Sailing Director) Maureen McKinnon-Tucker, John Ruf, Rick Doerr, and Nick Scandone.

Let's hope they return from Beijing with a Gold Medal, the ultimate goal of this journey!

NANOWRIMO Begins In One Week - Join Me!

2007-10-23T18:53:00.000-07:00

Well, it's that time of year again ... care to join me? I'll be working on another novel in my Women's Fiction series featuring women with disabilities as heroines...

National Novel Writing Month is a fun, seat-of-your-pants approach to novel writing. Participants begin writing November 1. The goal is to write a 175-page (50,000-word) novel by midnight, November 30.

What: Writing one 50,000-word novel from scratch in a month's time.

Who: You! We can't do this unless we have some other people trying it as well. Let's write laughably awful yet lengthy prose together.

Why: The reasons are endless! To actively participate in one of our era's most enchanting art forms! To write without having to obsess over quality. To be able to make obscure references to passages from our novels at parties. To be able to mock real novelists who dawdle on and on, taking far longer than 30 days to produce their work.

When: Sign-ups begin October 1, 2007. Writing begins November 1. To be added to the official list of winners, you must reach the 50,000-word mark by November 30 at midnight. Once your novel has been verified by our web-based team of robotic word counters, the partying begins.

Universal Design Model: The Museum At The Mill

2007-10-22T09:07:00.000-07:00

Where the past meets the futue

I am involved in a very exciting Universal Design project at the "Museum At The Mill" with Katherine Honey, a judge in last year's Ms Wheelchair Massachusetts competition.

Katherine is the Director of the newly-refurbished Dodgeville Mill in Attleboro, which will be opening as the "Museum At The Mill" in February, 2008. Her emphasis for the museum is on merging the past with the future, while preserving America's cultural, architectural, and environmental heritage. She has several goals that are focused on inclusion for people of all abilities, including:

showcasing the elements of Universal Design
presenting the variety of ways that people express creativity
illustrating adaptive re-use of historic, land & waterway preservation
incorporating people with disabilities in the museum's Design Center and Exhibits
focusing on STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Math) development initiatives to support effective leadership

I am currently collaborating on a joint exhibit with Adaptive Environments, Inc. that examines the evolution and adaptive uses of the wheel.

Stay tuned for updates...

2007-10-21T08:27:00.000-07:00

The National Spinal Cord Injury Association (NSCIA)

Spinal Cord Injury (SCI) Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony
Tuesday, November 6, 2007

John F. Kennedy Centerfor the Performing Arts

2700 F Street, NW

Washington, DC

Everyone is welcome to attend!

Join us for a performance on the millennium stage, followed by the 2007 Induction Ceremony, and a dessert reception in the Roof Terrace Restaurant. Black Tie Optional. Reserve your spot now: Click here to purchase tickets and for hotel information.

Disability Awareness Night at the Hockomock YMCA

2007-10-20T08:08:00.000-07:00

Last night I had a chance to interact with children and families at the YMCA in North Attleboro as a guest at Disability Awareness Night.

I told the children a little bit about myself and my experiences using a wheelchair, including my role as Ms Wheelchair Massachusetts 2007. They asked lots of questions, such as how I got my wheelchair to move. I showed them my joystick control and my horn and they got to come up close and check out my chair. To help raise awareness about people who are disabled, I spoke about the similarities and differences that we all have as people, emphasizing the ways that we are all alike. I asked the children to draw a picture of an activity they enjoy doing, then I explained ways that people in wheelchairs could do the same thing. One little boy drew a picture of himself golfing, one of his favorite sports. I told him that a friend of mine who is in a wheelchair loves to golf - he has a golf cart that stands him up so he can putt just like everyone else! The children also had a chance to read and write in Braille with another guest speaker, Tim Vernon, who has been blind since birth. They had a great time learning a new "language!" This was a wonderful event for everyone - thanks to the YMCA and the families who support their programs!!!

Profile: Sheryl Rosa, Partnership Program Director

2007-10-19T07:45:00.000-07:00

Sheryl Rosa is the Director of the Partnership Program at the South Shore YMCA in Quincy. In addition to that, she is also a certified trainer and a teaching instructor. Not only is she great at what she does, she puts her heart and soul into her work...the program wouldn't be the same without her.

Thanks Sheryl!

Upcoming Event - Falmouth Annual Christmas Parade on Sunday, December 2, 2007

2007-10-18T06:41:00.000-07:00

The 44th Annual Falmouth Christmas Parade, themed "Christmas Legends" will be this year, on Sunday, December 2 in Falmouth Village. The parade kicks off at 12-noon from the Falmouth Mall and continues down Main Street. It is the largest holiday parade in southeastern Massachusetts, and will feature clowns, marching bands, horses, and a huge variety of colorfully decorated floats. It is part of the Falmouth Holidays-by-the-Sea Weekend, which runs from November 30 - December 2 throughout Falmouth, Cape Cod.

The Falmouth Chamber of Commerce invites you to experience “Falmouth Holidays-by-the-Sea 2007”, a celebration of our larger global community that features a variety of activities for the entire family. This season-long celebration begins in mid-November and continues through New Year’s Day with family events, concerts, children’s activities, and seasonal merriment taking place throughout Falmouth-Cape Cod, a quintessential New England coastal community. A highlight of “Falmouth Holidays-by-the-Sea 2007” is the weekend of Friday, November 30th to Sunday, December 2nd during which dozens of family events are featured including:

FRIDAY - 5:30PM: Caroling at historic Nobska Lighthouse. Enjoy hot cocoa & cookies while overlooking beautiful Vineyard Sound

SATURDAY - 8:00AM - 10:00PM: Christmas Parade Pancake Breakfast & Raffle, a fundraiser for Sunday's parade, features a variety of costumed characters, face painting, raffle prizes and much more!

SATURDAY - 9:30AM-12:00PM: Nobska Lighthouse Public Viewing, Woods Hole. Santa arrives at Noontime to pass out candy canes.

SATURDAY - 10:00AM to 4:00PM: The Holidays at Highfield. Explore the decorated rooms of the Highfield Hall mansion, listen to holiday music, and enjoy the winter art show.

SATURDAY - 10:00AM or 12:30PM: 16th Annual "Decorate Your Own Gingerbread House": Reserved Seatings at10:00am or 12:30pm. ShoreWay Acres Inn, Shore Street in Falmouth Village. Call for reservations: (800) 352-7100

SATURDAY - 11:00AM: Seafaring Santa arrives at Falmouth Harbor (behind Flying Bridge Restaurant) with the Falmouth High School Chorale to visit with families and pass out candy canes.

SATURDAY - 6:30PM: Santa and Parade Characters proceed from Peg Noonan Park to the Village Green.

SATURDAY - 7:00PM: Annual Lighting of the Village Green featuring a traditional holiday carol-sing with music provided by the Falmouth Brass Choir.

SUNDAY - 12 noon: 44th Annual Falmouth Christmas Parade - featuring Ms Wheelchair Massachusetts!

SUNDAY - 10:00AM to 4:00PM: Holidays at Highfield. Explore the decorated rooms of the Highfield Hall mansion, listen to holiday music, and enjoy the winter art show.

SUNDAY - 12:00PM TO 4:00PM: Holiday Market & Gift Gallery at Falmouth Artists Guild on Main Street.

SUNDAY - 1:00PM to 4:00PM: Falmouth Museums on the Green Holiday Open House. View the 1790 Julia Wood House beautifully decorated for Christmas by the Falmouth Garden Club. Palmer Avenue

For more information, call 508-548-8500 or email info@falmouthchamber.com Visit the website at: http://www.falmouthchamber.com/ or CLICK HERE to see a complete schedule of events and activities being held throughout Falmouth and beyond.

2007 Disability Mentoring Day: Career Development For The 21st Century

2007-10-17T06:05:00.000-07:00

Disability Mentoring Day promotes career development for students and job-seekers with disabilities nationwide through job shadowing and hands-on career exploration.

The American Association of People with Disabilities (AAPD) is proud to present “Disability Mentoring Day: Career Development for the 21st Century,” which will be commemorated on Wednesday, October 17, 2007 as the official kick-off for a year-round effort. Orlando, Florida will be the official launch city for the national effort, in conjunction with the U.S. Business Leadership Network national conference.

What Is Disability Mentoring Day?

Disability Mentoring Day promotes career development for students and job-seekers with disabilities through job shadowing and hands-on career exploration. With leadership, coordination and resource materials from AAPD, local communities around the country organize their own activities to bring students and employers together for informational sessions about career opportunities and one-on-one mentoring with volunteers at public and private places of employment.

What happens on Disability Mentoring Day?

Disability Mentoring Day is officially commemorated on the third Wednesday of every October and is implemented in locations around the country and internationally throughout the year. It is designed to benefit from local creativity, with each community planning activities to best suit the interests and abilities of its students, job-seekers and local employers. Although the core experience is one-on-one job shadowing, event planners may choose to open with a meeting for a group of students and job-seekers featuring several presentations and/or close with a reception where students, job-seekers and mentors can share their experiences. The type of mentoring experience will largely depend on the participants’ interests, education level, and work experience. Job-seekers can focus on specific career advice and discuss potential internships and job openings.

How Will Students and Job-Seekers with Disabilities Benefit from Disability Mentoring Day?

Disability Mentoring Day is an opportunity to underscore the connection between school and work, evaluate personal goals, target career skills for improvement, explore possible career paths, and develop lasting mentor relationships. The program’s history shows that students’ and job seekers’ participation in Disability Mentoring Day can result in an internship opportunity with the host employer; function as a first interview on the way to a part-time or full-time employment offer; or even a firm on-the-spot job offer.

How Will Employers Benefit from Disability Mentoring Day?

Disability Mentoring Day provides public and private employers with an opportunity to recruit interns; tap a pool of potential future employees; learn more about the experience of disability; develop lasting relationships with disability community leaders; demonstrate positive leadership in their communities; and attract positive media attention. In addition, employers can get involved by enabling employees to serve as volunteer mentors, functioning as a Local Coordinator for a community, and sponsoring Disability Mentoring Day at the national or local level.

How can Disability Mentoring Day Support Other Programs?

Disability Mentoring Day can be a point-of-entry for existing mentoring, school-to-work, internship and employment programs. Since many successful programs around the country require extensive year-round commitments, Disability Mentoring Day can be a way to attract new participants and then encourage them to become more involved year-round.

How Do Communities Get Involved?

Local Coordinators, who play a match-making role between students/job-seekers and local employers, are the key to Disability Mentoring Day. Communities wishing to participate in any capacity – as an employer, organization, educator, job-seeker or student – should review the Local Coordinators list on AAPD's website to see if there is already someone coordinating in that community. Individuals interested in playing a crucial coordination role should also refer to the Local Coordinator Toolkit and then contact AAPD at 800-840-8844 (v/tty). There is no required size or timing for a successful event -- it could involve just a handful of students or several dozen, and can take place at any point during the year. Making an impact in just one person’s life makes a difference and lays a foundation for subsequent years.

How Did Disability Mentoring Day Get Started?

This program started as National Disability Mentoring Day in 1999 in the White House, as a program to increase the profile of National Disability Employment Awareness Month, which is celebrated every October. The program was patterned after school-to-work activities and began with just three dozen participants. In 2001, Disability Mentoring Day was passed to AAPD to administer and build; that year, participation included more than 1,500 students and job-seekers (the mentees), hundreds of public and private employers, and more than 70 Local Coordinators in 32 states plus Washington, D.C. The growth and evolvement of the program have been consistently steady since that point, with the number of participants growing with each program year.

This past year saw the greatest number of participants yet - in 2006, Disability Mentoring Day included participation from 13,000 students and job-seekers with disabilities, over 300 local coordinators, and thousands of large and small employers, in communities around the U.S., Puerto Rico, U.S. Virgin Islands, and twenty-four countries, including Brazil, Costa Rica, and Germany.

What is AAPD's Role?

As "National Host," AAPD provides leadership by encouraging employers, students, educators and organizations to get involved; supporting a National Organizing Committee; encouraging the development of State Organizing Committees; recruiting, training and supporting Local Coordinators (who serve in a strictly voluntary capacity for AAPD); developing a Toolkit on how to plan Disability Mentoring Day activities; referring individuals to published lists of Local Coordinators and participating employers; and generating media attention. The American Association of People with Disabilities (AAPD) is the nation’s largest cross-disability membership organization, and is dedicated to promoting the economic and political power of all people with disabilities. AAPD educates businesses and the general public about disability issues, and provides membership benefits, such as financial services and product discounts. AAPD was founded in 1995 by cross-disability leaders to help unite the diverse community of people with disabilities -- including their family, friends and supporters -- and to be a national voice for change in implementing the goals of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA): equality of opportunity, full participation, independent living, and economic self-sufficiency. Learn more about AAPD at http://www.aapd.com.

National Presidential Forum on Equality, Opportunity and Access

2007-10-16T06:44:00.001-07:00

I have been invited to attend the following upcoming event:

Presidential Candidate Forum
A National Forum on Equality, Opportunity and Access
Friday November 2, 2007
8:30 am - 4:00 pm
Radisson Hotel Ballroom Center of NH,
700 Elm Street, Manchester, NH

I am looking forward to participating in this important discussion as an advocate for the disability community. It is of vital importance that we make our voices heard in the 2008 Presidential election!

Hosted by Granite State Independent Living

For more information visit their website: http://www.gsil.org/
Or call (603) 228-9680 / 800 826-3700 (888 396-3459 (TTY)

Co-hosted by:

NH Developmental Disabilities Council (NH DDC)
NH Disabilities Rights Center (NH DRC)
NH Institute on Disability (NH IOD)
NH Spinal Cord Injury Association
People First of New Hampshire

Sponsored by:

AARP
ADAPT
American Association of People with Disabilities (AAPD)
American Foundation for the Blind
The Arc of the United States
Association of University Centers on Disabilities (AUCD)
Disability Rights Education and Defense Fund
Epilepsy Foundation
National Coalition of Mental Health Consumer/Survivor Organizations
National Council on Independent Living (NCIL)
National Spinal Cord Injury Association
New England Chapter Paralyzed Veterans of America
Self Advocates Becoming Empowered (SABE)
United Cerebral Palsy (UCP)
United Spinal Association
VSA arts

Ms Wheelchair Massachusetts Article Appears in South Boston Online Newspaper

2007-10-15T08:39:00.000-07:00

South Boston Online
Ms. Wheelchair Massachusetts
By Rick Winterson
October 4, 2007

South Boston’s Kristen McCosh is Ms. Wheelchair Massachusetts 2007. Her accomplishments are already long and varied, and she’s embarking on two new careers as well. Oh yes, she also writes novels.

Kristen McCosh is the daughter of John and Dolores (Cashman) Donoghue, who are both still living in South Boston on Marine Road. John was originally from Dorchester, but came to his senses and married Dolores, a South Boston girl. Kristen is a Southie “lifer” also. The family, which includes Kristen’s two brothers – John, a construction worker, and Christopher, an X-ray technician – lived on L Street between Sixth and Seventh during their younger years.

Kristen attended St Peter’s School and Mount St. Joseph. She then went on to UMass Boston, where she graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in English. Since that time, she has held a number of positions in various health institutions and non-profit agencies.

Hers was a seemingly normal existence, except that on June 6, 1983, almost 25 years ago, she experienced one of those wrenching, life-altering accidents. She shattered her sixth cervical vertebra (the C-6) diving in a backyard swimming pool, causing a severe spinal cord injury (SCI). This disabled most of the motor nerve pathways to her limbs, leaving her with mobility only in her arms, and even that is quite limited. She lost any use of her legs, hands, and fingers.

Kristen describes her feelings after the accident as “being more scared than depressed”. Her family and friends stuck closely by her – she received as many as 20 visits a day while she was in the hospital. Anyone who has lived in South Boston for awhile knows that the prayers and the Southie “times” poured in.

Still, Kristen had to face up to spending the rest of her life in a wheelchair. You see, she was now a quadriplegic, even though she retained some use of her arms. Quadriplegia is defined as a severe cervical (neck) SCI that leads to major or complete impairment in both arms and both legs. So, her therapy began, and her health and conditioning routines continue to this day.

After receiving her degree from UMass, Kristen worked for Cambridge’s Disability Commission, and went on from there to a position with the City of Boston Mayor’s Health Line. In 2000, she joined the Neighborhood House as Volunteer Coordinator, working also on development projects. Since June, 2007, she has been a peer mentor at the Spaulding Early Intervention Unit for SCIs, her current new career. As of this writing, she has just become the Editor of “Solutions”, an online e-magazine for those with disabilities (http://www.hireds.com/). That’s her second new career.

She met her husband, John McCosh, at UMass. They were both taking an English major, and John asked her for an interview for an article. He now admits that was really just an excuse to get to know her better. John then transferred to London for a few years with State Street Bank but they continued to see each other. In 1996, he flew back at Christmastime and proposed to Kristen. They were married and moved into their home on Sixth Street in 2001. Their affection is evident in the glances they exchange and the consideration they show to one other.

Kristen won Ms. Wheelchair Massachusetts 2007 earlier this year, and then ran nationally. The final judging took place in Washington, D.C., this July – Kristen came in as second runner-up out of a field of 27. She has been spending around 20 hours a week on Ms. Wheelchair America since then. She blogs every day on http://www.mswheelchairmass.org/ The Ms. Wheelchair organization is devoted to outreach, disability education, and so on.

Kristen and John are both novelists. She writes romances; he’s beginning a fantasy tale. John is also a talented photographer, who is selling his works to support the Ms. Wheelchair programs and is exhibiting right now at Cranberry Café. Kristen drives, works out, and continues to write, while holding down a job. According to her, “I even cook a little.” She describes her condition by saying, “If I stay bed-ridden, I’m dependent. Once I’m in my wheelchair, I’m completely independent.”

Amen.

iBOT® YOUR LiFE™:

2007-10-14T14:29:00.000-07:00

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Reach high shelves and counters
Travel at eye level

Balance Function - Interact eye to eye, reach high shelves and countertops.More Info/Video

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The iBOT® Mobility System is the only marketed mobility system that is FDA approved and requires a prescription. The test drive allows you to experience the unique functions of the iBOT® Mobility System and review its features with a trained iBOT® Product Consultant before being assessed by a healthcare professional.

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The iBOT® Mobility System may not be suitable for everyone. You must weigh between 75 lbs and 250 lbs, have the ability to operate a hand-operated joystick, and successfully complete a driver training program and test.

Article on Accessible Whale Watching To Appear in "ThisAbled"

2007-10-13T07:17:00.001-07:00

Kelly Rouba, Ms Wheelchair New Jerey 2007, recently interviewed me for an article she is writing on accessible whale watching. The article will be appearing soon on www.thisabled.com.
Watch for it!

Upcoming Event - 5k Road Race To Benefit Travis Roy Foundation

2007-10-12T14:17:00.000-07:00

BILL'S PIZZERIA 5K ROAD RACE
Next Event: October 28, 2007
Newton Centre, MA

Time: October 28, 2007 9:00 am

Place: Mason Rice School, Tyler Terrace

Distance: 5k Race

Entry Fee: $18.00 pre; $22.00 post

Course Description: Great course that runs along Crystal Lake to Walnut Street. Follows a slight downgrade on Walnut to Homer Street which offers a solid climb to Newton Centre. Race begins and ends on Tyler Terrace.

Age Group Awards: Top 3 male and females, top 3 (male/female) 15 and under, 16-19, 20-29, 30-39, 40-49, 50-59, 60-69, 70 and over.

Amenities: Pizza for all finishers; Professional timing; USATF sanctioned course.

T-Shirts: Great race shirts available for first 500 registrants

Sponsors: Bill’s Pizzeria; New Balance

Directions: From Mass Pike East: Take Exit 17. Take first right off the exit onto Centre Street. Follow Centre Street through 4 sets of lights. Tyler Terrace is on the right side. Make a right on Tyler to Mason Rice School. Parking available in the Mason Rice School Lot.

To Register Online: http://www.coolrunning.com/major/07/bills5k/

To Register By Mail: Mail completed application to: Fattman Productions, C/O Bill's 5K, 11 Central Terrace, Newton, MA 02466

Questions: 617-916-2002; email: mailto:kfattman@hotmail.com

Advocacy Opportunity - Save Health Insurance for Kids!

2007-10-11T19:12:00.000-07:00

We all know how important it is to have health insurance. Next week, Congress will decide if four million uninsured children from low-income working families should have health insurance through the State Children’s Health Insurance Program (SCHIP). I believe they should -- and I hope you do too.

Advocates are traveling to Washington, D.C. in the next few days to join hundreds of Easter Seals staff, volunteers and clients who know how critical this legislation is for our children. They plan to storm Capitol Hill next Tuesday to ask all members of the House of Representatives and the Senate to vote to override President Bush’ s recent veto of SCHIP legislation. The House of Representatives has scheduled a vote to override the SCHIP veto on Thursday, October 18th, so the timing couldn’t be better.

If this legislation becomes law, those four million children will continue to be covered … and an additional four million children will join the ranks of the insured. I know every supporter can’t be in Washington, D.C. next week, but you can be there in spirit.

Lend children from low-income and working families your voice. Visit Easter Seals’ SCHIP Action Alert page to contact your elected officials. Urge them to vote to override the president’s veto and sustain this valuable program.

Successful Speaking Appearance At Raytheon

2007-10-10T18:22:00.000-07:00

Today I had the opportunity to appear at Raytheon as a guest speaker during their program honoring "National Employment Awareness for People with Disabilities Month." The program was sponsored by the Raytheon Women's Network and the Raytheon Persons with Disabilities Association. Approximately 50 people attended, including senior managers and Human Resources representatives.

I spoke about my experiences as a disabled woman and some of the barriers I have encountered in access and employment. I also explained my role as Ms Wheelchair Massachusetts 2007 and showed a DVD of the 2008 Ms Wheelchair America Competition, where I placed as 2nd runner up. The employees in attendance were very interested in my story and asked lots of follow-up questions.

Shifting the focus to employment, I told the audience about my new position with Hire Disability Solutions (HDS), as Editor of their e-magazine Solutions. HDS is in the process of opening a number of temporary emploment agencies to assist in negating employment barriers that keep disabled people out of the job market.

National unemployment rates for people with disabilities hover at approximately 65%. Many disabled people in this category are ready, willing, and able to go to work, but they have yet to find suitable, sustainable jobs. Initatives such as these (HDS temporary employment agencies specifically for the disabled, and Raytheon's corporate awareness programs) provide excellent opportunities to expand diversity.

Profile: Travis Roy

2007-10-09T07:47:00.000-07:00

Travis Roy first put on ice skates at just 20 months old. As years passed, his love for the game of hockey quickly became a passion. In the fall of 1995 Roy accomplished one of his dream goals by earning a hockey scholarship to Boston University. At twenty-years of age he entered into his first collegiate hockey game. Eleven seconds into his first shift, his life changed forever as he crashed into the boards and cracked his fourth and fifth cervical vertebra, paralyzing him from the neck down.

Despite this ill twist of fate, Roy has continued to persevere and defy the odds. With an intense rehabilitation regime, he has regained some movement in his right arm. While coming to grips with his life as a quadriplegic, he returned to Boston University less than a year after his accident. Four years later, he graduated with a degree in public relations from Boston University's prestigious College of Communication. In the storied history of BU Terriers hockey,

Roy's #24 is the only jersey to have been retired.

In 1997 Roy wrote his autobiography with Sports Illustrated’s E.M. Swift titled Eleven Seconds which chronicles his accident, rehabilitation, and perseverance through personal tragedy. Eleven Seconds was recently updated with an 'Afterword' chapter and is currently in its sixth printing.

An articulate advocate for individuals living with spinal cord injuries, Roy is a frequent speaker on the hope research carries and the need for increased funding, including testifying before a US Senate Committee hearing for The National Institute of Health in Washington, DC, addressing the Massachusetts state legislature and providing testimony to the Maine state legislature. In 1997, he founded the Travis Roy Foundation, a 501 (c)(3) nonprofit that focuses on finding a cure for spinal cord injuries and provides grants to spinal cord injury survivors in financial need to help them purchase costly adaptive equipment necessary to live more active and independent lives.

Actively involved in the activities of the Foundation that bears his name, Roy is a popular motivational speaker and has also worked as a color commentator for college hockey games on ESPN and WMTW-TV8 in Maine. A Boston, MA resident, he spends his summers with his family on Lake Champlain in Vermont. Roy can also be found supporting his Terriers at Boston University hockey games, or with a paint brush in his mouth working on his latest work of art.

Upcoming Event - Mass For Persons With Disabilities, November 4, 2007

2007-10-08T18:00:00.000-07:00

INVITES PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES TO ATTEND OUR

Annual Mass Celebrating the US Bishops 1978 Pastoral Statement

on Persons with Disabilities

Celebrated by His Emminence, Sean Cardinal O'Malley, OFM Cap.

Sunday, November 4th, 2007 at 11:30am

At St. Mary's of the Sacred Heart Parish

392 Hanover Street, Hanover, MA

781-826-4303

Reception & refreshments will follow the Mass.

Please join us as we celebrate this important document that calls for the full and active participation of persons with disabilities in all aspects of the Church.

WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBILE SEATING * ASL INTERPRETED *

PROGRAMS IN BRAILLE

For more information, please contact

Karen Murray

Office of Life and Family Ministries

2121 Commonwealth Ave

Brighton, MA 02135

617.746.5679

Karen_Murray@rcab.org

Christopher Reeve - In Memorium

2007-10-07T17:29:00.000-07:00

Christopher Reeve passed away on October 10, 2004. At only 52 years old, it was far too soon. The world mourned his death, and we all reflected on the memories he left behind for each of us. And as we approach the anniversary of his passing, we all agree: No one epitomized a true hero better than Christopher Reeve. Never before has there been so much hope and optimism that cures and treatments for SCI will be found. Christopher's legacy is that we continue his journey on behalf of millions of people worldwide living with paralysis.

Christopher Reeve was born on September 25, 1952 in New York City. While the world knew him for his incredible role as Superman, those who knew him personally remember him to be so much more than just an exquisite actor. Christopher Reeve was an extraordinary father, a loving husband, a human rights advocate, an avid adventurer, an environmentalist, an author, a director, and an accomplished pianist. He was also a pilot who had made two solo trips across the Atlantic, a outdoor enthusiast who skied, sailed, scuba dived, played tennis, and canoed alone into the wilderness.

In 1985, at the age of 33, Christopher began horseback riding and by 1989 was competing in events, which included cross-country jumping. On May 27, 1995, Christopher Reeve was thrown from a horse and suffered a spinal cord injury so severe, that he became completely paralyzed from the neck down.

Christopher initiated a sea of change. Through his leadership, the Christopher Reeve Foundation (CRF) was born and grew exponentially re-shaping the world of spinal repair research. Under his guidance, CRF’s research programs have tripled and today spans from very basic science (molecular and cellular research) to clinical application (testing and delivering promising therapies to patients). Research dollars can hardly keep up with the momentum that he has ignited.

Christopher fought to increase research funding and attention at a federal level by appearing in front of Congress as a patient advocate. And while ardent research continued, Dana Reeve established the Quality of Life Grants Program to aid organizations working to enhance the quality of life for those living through the day-to-day challenges of disability. In order to address individual quality of life needs, Christopher and Dana co-founded the Christopher and Dana Reeve Paralysis Resource Center. A first of its kind, the Paralysis Resource Center provides information to people around the world desperate to learn about everything related to paralysis, such as updates on leading research efforts, sources for equipment and support groups, answers for a myriad inquiries on insurance and governmental bureaucracies. Never had there been a team like Christopher and Dana Reeve – so revered and loved for their partnership, both professionally and personally.

Christopher’s legacy through the Christopher Reeve Foundation is strong and enduring. It is humbling to comprehend how one man, who for the last decade of his life was a ventilator-dependent quadriplegic, could change the world.

Disabled Dancing

2007-10-06T19:09:00.000-07:00

Alana Wallace is the reigning Ms. Wheelchair Illinois and the 2008 titleholder for Ms. Wheelchair America. In this except from a LoveToKnow Seniors interview, Wallace shares her passion for dance. To read the rest of the interview, visit the following website: Love to Know Seniors

When many people think of someone using a wheelchair, the last thing they expect is to see someone dancing in one. When did you start dancing?

Actually, I've always been in the arts, theatre and music specifically, but just like everyone else, I didn’t think I could be taken seriously in dance. So, for me, dance was a hard sell. I saw a professional integrated dance company about 12 years ago, and was amazed. This particular company had people in and out of wheelchairs, and actually incorporated the chair in the dance. It was the first time I realized that dance might be possible for me. My first attempt didn’t work – it was very center-based, using a lot of abdominal and back muscles, and because of spinal issues, I’m not flexible enough to do those movements. But that was just one technique. Another dancer told me that I should just move in the ways I could move, so that’s how I dance now.

Once you discovered you could dance, what kind of impact did that have on you?

I didn't start dancing until I was 45, so at that age, after living the majority of my life never thinking it was possible, something really clicked for me. It just took me somewhere else - with my knowledge, my spirit, confidence, body image, everything. It helped me finally accept my body. Growing up, I always covered my legs to hide the atrophy. But, when I started dancing, I had to put on tight-fitting unitards and I had to become more comfortable with my image. So many things came out of this for me.

How did your dance company, Dance Detour, get started?

I knocked on a lot of doors, asking people to dance with me! Fortunately, there are many people that understand what dance truly is and who can be involved, without limitations to the range of ability or how old you must be. For me, getting a message out through dance is sometimes more powerful than an hour-long speech. That lift out of the chair for me is the best demonstration of freedom and ability, especially to people who might think otherwise.

What does it mean to you to dance?

It's a freedom that I've never experienced. It's an acceptance of my own body. I've shown myself that I have capabilities that I didn't know were possible. If a small iota of this gets across to others about people with disabilities, especially through integrated dance, where every body is different and yet moving together…again, it’s an important message. It's a formula for what the real world should be.

How do you stay fit and active?

Well, just a few days ago, I hand-cycled for the first time! I had the great opportunity to meet Tammy Duckworthm an Army pilot and double-amputee who was injured in Iraq. We talked about the reality of people who use chairs not getting enough cardio exercise, and how hand-cycling is a great option. It might just be my new thing! And of course, dance rehearsal helps keeps me fit. I do crunches sometimes, and the resistance bands are very good. I also watch what I eat. I don't eat a lot of red meat, and everything else is in moderation. Mostly, it's just making a point to stay active, finding a new challenge to take on every day, and being willing to try a new thing. You're never too old to stop learning and trying. It keeps you feeling good.

But also remember - you don't have to go to an organized class if you want to dance! Why not check out your local hot-spots on a Saturday night? Or get down on the dance floor the next time you're at a wedding? Dancing is fun, exhilarating, and relaxing! Give it a try...

Profile: My Parents

2007-10-05T19:32:00.000-07:00

Above: My parents, Jack and Dolores Donoghue

Next week, on October 9, my parents will celebrate their 42nd wedding anniversary! They are devoted parents, loving grandparents and loyal friends. They are a wonderful example of patience and kindness, as described in the following wedding prayer:

LOVE IS PATIENT
Corinthians 1:13

Love is patient, love is kind; love is not jealous or boastful; it is not arrogant or rude. Love does not insist on its own way; it is not irritable or resentful; it does not rejoice at wrong, but rejoices in the right. Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things. Love never ends...So faith , hope, and love abide, these three, but the greatest of these is love.

Happy Anniversary mom and dad!!!

Words of Wisdom

2007-10-04T20:09:00.000-07:00

"Live for today, but always hold out hope for tommorrow."

And from one of my readers:

"Don't let past successes, yours or others, lead you to believe the matter is resolved."

...At The Stem Cell Summit

2007-10-03T20:25:00.000-07:00

I will put up detailed information soon. For now, here are some Brief Highlights:

Governor Deval Patrick appeared at the conference today to speak in support of stem cell research. He thinks Massachusetts should be able to attract top-notch scientists and researchers in this field
Over 35 countries participated in the summit, through poster sessions, speakers, vendors, consumers and researchers
Doctors are aiming for a "pragmatic cure" for SCI - meaning that basic motor function could be achieved by reconnecting as little as 20% of damaged CNS nerves
Blood diseases, such as diabetes and leukemia, may present a simpler treatment than SCI for stem cells because they involve replacing only 1 type of cell vs. the entire CNS
Stem cells have not been used in any practical application as of yet
There are 3 types of stem cells: embryonic, umbilical, and adult

more soon...

My "Welcome Letter From The New Editor" for Solutions e-Magazine

2007-10-02T19:07:00.000-07:00

Welcome Letter from the New Editor
By Kristen McCosh
October, 2007

At Hire Disability Solutions, LLC, we believe that employment matters. Employment is the driving force behind the American economy; it not only allows workers to earn a steady income, it often provides access to health insurance and options for a retirement plan. It is a vital part of everyday life. In fact, people who work full-time generally spend more hours at the office than they do at home interacting with their families.

But there is much more involved with employment besides the desk that you sit at from 9 to 5 every day. Employment opens doors to socialization and friendship; it offers recreational opportunities through company picnics and charity walks. Many corporations offer discounts to fitness centers, and some even have their own workout facilities on site. Vacation days are allotted – even encouraged – to allow for travel and adventure. And the list goes on and on: romance, fashion, education, transportation, technology – all of these things are employment matters.

These types of employment-related matters contribute to job satisfaction and play a crucial role in our overall outlook on life. “People feel happier if opportunities for friendship exist at work,” according to Christine Riordan, Associate Dean of the Neeley School of Business at Texas Christian Academy. This is one of the main reasons that people with disabilities who are left out of the job market are more prone to isolation and depression. When they miss out on employment opportunities, they also miss out on opportunities to expand social circles, develop meaningful and lasting relationships, pursue education and master technology, and fully participate in all society has to offer.

There is an untapped pool of qualified job seekers with disabilities who have diverse experiences and are able and eager to go to work. The mission of Hire Disability Solutions is to give all who want a chance to succeed, the opportunity to succeed. The vision of Hire Disability Solutions is to ensure a society where individuals with disabilities have an equal chance to succeed in the workforce.

Employment matters, especially to people with disabilities, and that’s why Hire Disability Solutions is here. But the issues that are associated with employment also matter. And that’s why I’m here. I am the new Editor of Solutions, the monthly e-Magazine of Hire Disability Solutions, LLC. I have a disability and have been employed for a long time, so I have experienced many of these things first-hand. I will be writing a new column each month called “Working Matters,” which will focus on the work-related issues that contribute to overall happiness and wellbeing, especially as they apply to people with disabilities.

I encourage input from readers on topics you would like to see us write about. Feedback and “Letters to the Editor” are always welcome. It is with great joy that I look forward to discovering what matters to you.

Sincerely,

Kristen McCosh

Help Restore the Americans with Disabilities Act

2007-10-01T19:10:00.000-07:00

Did you know that the Americans with Disabilities Act may not protect someone with a disability from an employer who does not hire or fires that person?

October is National Employment Awareness for People with Disabilities month!

People with disabilities should not be subject to discrimination in the workplace. The Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 was passed with overwhelming support from both parties and signed by President George H.W. Bush in order to give people with disabilities an equal opportunity to work and a chance to be judged fairly.

But this is not happening. The courts have created a Catch-22 so that a person is "too disabled" to do the job but "not disabled enough" to be protected by the ADA. This is wrong!

Four strong leaders of both parties have introduced a bill to restore the Americans with Disabilities Act to its original intent. You can send an email that is ready to go to your own Representative and your own two Senators.

Go to http://donations.unitedspinal.org and click on Take Action.

If you or someone you know has been fired or not hired due to a disability, add a short description of what happened to the letter you send.

If you get a chance, please thank the primary sponsors of the ADA Restoration Act: Representatives Steny Hoyer (D-MD) and James Sensenbrenner (R-WI), Senators Tom Harkin, (D-IA) and Arlen Specter(R-PA). Harkin was the lead Senator on original passage of the ADA in 1990.

For more information (including a list of all Representatives who have agreed to co-sponsor the ADA Restoration Act) or any other issues in Washington that are important to people with disabilities, please send an email to publicpolicy@unitedspinal.org

Interview With South Boston Onlline

2007-09-30T17:02:00.000-07:00

Look for me in The South Boston Online newspaper in the next week or two! I was interviewed by Rick Winterson the other day...

Support Our Troops!

2007-09-29T18:37:00.000-07:00

Fundraiser To Aid Disabled Veterans

A fundraiser is being held on Tuesday, October. 2, from 6-8 p.m. at Phillips Old Colony House in Dorchester. Funds will go to buy a van to help veterans get to and from their hospital visits.

For more information, call Lou Pasquale at the restaurant, 617-282-7700.

Please visit the website: DAV for more information on how you can help. Thank you!

My New Venture - Editor of "Solutions" e-Magazine

2007-09-28T15:28:00.000-07:00

I have just accepted the position of Editor for an e-magazine called Solutions that is put out by Hire Disability Solutions, LLC (www.HiredDS.com). Jeff Klare, the CEO, is bringing me to New York City next week to meet with the staff, although I will generally be working from home. My start date will be October 1.

The mission of Hire Disability Solutions is to give all who want a chance to succeed, the opportunity to succeed. Their vision is to ensure a society where individuals with disabilities have an equal chance to succeed in the workforce. Hire Disability Solutions, LLC, is committed to increasing independence among individuals with disabilities. They empower individuals with disabilities to reach their goals by providing them with the tools to succeed. They present information and resources for individuals to connect with employers, build their skills, and discover the feeling of accomplishment. As a company policy, they focus on promoting what people can do and helping them find ways that utilize their skills. They continuously explore new ways to reach the public to influence their knowledge about, attitudes of, and behaviors towards individuals with disabilities.

Hire Disability Solutions applies their knowledge and business expertise to help companies fully utilize the diverse set of strengths available within the labor pool to achieve business objectives. They create a means for companies to tap into a pool of qualified job seekers of diverse experiences, and build competencies that promote acceptance, tolerance, teamwork, and ultimately success among the workforce.

Visit their website Hire Disability Solutions to sign up for this FREE monthly e-magazine, Solutions, and check out all the interesting things I'm working on!

Stem Cell Summit Scholarship Award

2007-09-27T18:31:00.000-07:00

I was notified today that I have been chosen to receive a scholarship award from Boston Medical Center to attend the Stem Cell Summit at the Hynes Convention Center on October 2 & 3.

I will also get to meet Michael J Fox Tuesday evening at the Stem Cell Awards dinner!

The climate is changing for stem cell research -- for the better!

Stem cell research represents the universal hope for healing and the political climate is changing for those seeking cures through revolutionary medicine. New rules are being written and public and private funding for research is becoming available. Genetics Policy Institute, Harvard Stem Cell Institute and Burrill Life Science Media Group have joined together to produce The Stem Cell Summit. This unique event will gather the global community of stakeholders to learn what's new, share ideas, search for solutions and focus on advancing stem cell research from "the bench to the bedside."

Meet top innovators, researchers from around the world, clinicians, government officials, business leaders, political strategists, bioethicists, legal experts and advocates to celebrate scientific achievements, confront challenges and chart the future of regenerative medicine. Learn how cutting-edge biomedical research might impact your health and the health of your family and loved ones.

RESEARCH, ADVOCACY, FUNDING, LAW, COMMERCE, PHILANTHROPY, FINANCE, BIOPHARMA, ETHICS, POLITICS, HOSPITAL PERSPECTIVES, PATIENT INFORMATION

I will write a synopsis for my blog on the information I receive at the conference next week. In the meantime, check out The Stem Cell Summit for more information.

2007-09-26T12:05:00.000-07:00

Check out this exciting website:
EndeavorFreedomTV

It's a media outlet focusing on disability issues. It has a lot of great video clips on everything from news, to you-tube, to sports. It's also an online community for people with disabilities. You can check out my profile there!

Profile: Ms. Wheelchair Texas 2007, Jackie Bartels

2007-09-25T17:27:00.000-07:00

Jackie Bartels was born and raised in rural Nebraska. At age 13 she was helping her grandparents fix a broken windmill at their family farm when she fell about 20 feet sustaining a spinal cord injury that left her paralyzed from the waist down. From the onset of her disability, Jackie has remained active, nothing has gotten in her way. In high school she tried out and made the cheerleading squad. Doing the hand movements from her chair and even serving as the base for stunts, she later became captain of the squad.

Jackie came to Texas to attend college at UTArlington on a full-ride wheelchair tennis scholarship. She is also active in adaptive snow and water skiing and wheelchair basketball. Jackie recently received a bachelor’s degree from UTArlington in Graphic Design. She would like to pursue graduate studies in rehabilitation counseling for children and adults living with disabilities. Jackie truly believes that “where there is a will, there is a way.”

As Ms. Wheelchair Texas 2007, Jackie attends events throughout the state of Texas and the United States promoting disability awareness and serving as a spokeswoman for people with disabilities. Her platform focuses on promoting the importance of attitude; to help not just those with disabilities, but people of all abilities to be aware that although they may have some obvious differences on the outside, they also have a lot in common and that given the right attitude anything is possible. Jackie wants to focus on children with disabilities, to help them become socially and physically active people; living independent lives. Her goal is to advocate attitudinal and architectural barriers and promote courage to help adapt and overcome adversity. Jackie is currently a part of a non-profit organization called RISE Adventures. R-recovery, I-inspiration, S-success, E-empowerment. The organization is dedicated “To help persons with physical challenges gain independence through a learning experience in adaptive outdoor adventures and sporting programs.” In July Jackie traveled to Maryland to compete in the 2007 Ms.Wheelchair America Pageant, where she placed 3rd runner up, and was voted Ms. Congeniality.

Ms. Wheelchair America's Message

2007-09-24T18:07:00.000-07:00

Ms. Wheelchair America 2008 Shares Message of Empowerment and Hope
By Faiza Elmasry
Voice of America News
Washington, DC
07 August 2007

Most pageants — like Miss USA or Miss America — are primarily about beauty, popularity or talent. But there is a pageant that is all about raising awareness of the achievements of the disabled and reducing the architectural and attitudinal barriers that still impede their quality of life: the Ms. Wheelchair America Pageant.

"This is not a beauty contest," says pageant judge Matt Kelly.

"I've judged beauty pageants before as part of the Miss USA program, where we were looking more at someone's physical beauty," he explains. "But this contest is really based on three things: their accomplishments, their communication skills and their self perceptions."

Kelly says the woman who took home the crown this year scored high on all three criteria.

Alana Wallace, 56, an educational consultant and mother of four adult children, has had post polio since the age of 5. She has been a life-long advocate for people with disabilities.

Wallace is the founder and artistic director of Dance Detour, Chicago's first professional physically integrated dance company. She is also a founding member of Bodies of Work, a disability arts and cultural festival.

"I just want people to know that people with disabilities are productive, talented and capable citizens and that we have so much to offer," Wallace says.

During her yearlong reign, Wallace will tour the country, advocating for fully accessible housing for the disabled.

She says that means more than just widening doorways or eliminating steps. "Many times we purchase condos or move into new homes and we find that while there are maybe turning areas, we can't reach our cabinets. A lot of our appliances are not accessible," she notes. "I support the universal design, which means that the home is going to be useable by anyone."

Although Alana Wallace wore the crown, other pageant contestants say they feel like winners as well.

Ms. Wheelchair Arkansas, Jennifer Briggers, 23, says the event was an opportunity for her to make friends and share her life experiences. "What I'm trying to share is that I've been independent and becoming more and more successful every day, even though I do have a disability," she says.

Briggers is working on her doctorate in psychology. Her mother, Delois Kitchens, who accompanied her to the pageant, says her daughter has always focused on her capabilities and lived her life on her own.

"I had another child, and I didn't treat her differently," she says. "He got a spanking, she got one when she was bad. We treated them the same. She never grew up feeling she was handicapped, I guess."

The annual Ms. Wheelchair America competition has always showcased the abilities, determination and courage of women in wheelchairs, according to contest president Robert Watson.

"They are awesome," he says. "Some have several degrees. Some have PhDs. Some people have come from acquired disability to this point, where they accepted their disability. They are just accomplished women."

Business consultant and author Judy Hoit was Ms. Wheelchair Iowa in 1996 and is still active in the program. She says it has helped raise public awareness of the abilities and needs of the disabled community. She says this year's competition is significant.

"We are celebrating the fact that we've been around for 35 years," she says. "One of the biggest things is the education part of it because every time a person makes an appearance and meets people and tells them maybe transportation situations, employment challenges they have had in a wheelchair, every time they tell their stories or talk to a group, it's always an eye opener. People go, 'Oh, I never thought about that.'"

Autumn Grant says she got that reaction a lot over the past year, as Ms. Wheelchair America 2007. Grant says that although each Ms. Wheelchair chooses her own issue to highlight during her reign, the message is the same.

"I think mainly acceptance, for people to look at people with disabilities and realize although they have differing abilities, they are still people, and you can identify with on so many different levels," she says. "That's something we still need to work on both here and abroad, because there is still so much stigma attached to the disability. We need to get passed that."

Ms. Wheelchair America 2008, Alana Wallace, says she is excited about her new role as a national spokeswoman for the disabled community. She's looking forward to traveling, meeting the public, and speaking out — an example of what women in wheelchairs can achieve.

Patriots Promo - Ms Wheelchair Massachusetts

2007-09-23T18:15:00.000-07:00

Today I attended the New England Patriots football game against the Buffalo Bills at Gillette Stadium. I was greeted with the following message on the big-screen scoreboard in the third quarter: (click the photo to see it!)

Welcome Ms Wheelchair Massachusetts
Kristen McCosh

It was great to have the Patriots promote the Ms Wheelchair Massachusetts program to the 60,000+ fans in attendance! It was also exciting for me to be recognized by the team in this way.

The Patriots organization, owned and operated by the Kraft family, does a lot of good work in the New England area, including support of local charities and funding programs for kids in our communities. They are a great example of team work,hard work, and committment... Keep up the good work Mr. Kraft!

Go Pats!!!

Upcoming Appearance - North Attleboro YMCA, Friday, October 17, 2007

2007-09-22T16:22:00.000-07:00

Join me at the Hockomock YMCA North Andover Branch on Friday, October 19, for a Disability Awareness Night for families and children through the Family First program.

At the Hockomock Area YMCA, Families are FIRST.

As the world grows more complex, outside demands on time increase. Family First gives families the chance to pass along the values they hold most important. At the Hockomock Area YMCA, we give families the time and the place to gather together as a Family through Family First, a program aimed at strengthening Family ties.

The YMCA is committed to integration of people with disabilities through the Integration Initiative, a community-wide task group consisting of special education professionals and parents of children with special needs. They are now ready to provide special task training to management staff and "front line" professionals in an effort to begin offering classes in designated program areas for the winter session. These areas will include: aquatics, gymnastics, pre-enrichment and sports.

The mission of the group is to provide an opportunity for ALL children to participate in the YMCA's community programs. This initiative will be facilitated by YMCA personnel and will offer an integrative setting for children with special needs to learn from "typically developing" peer models; and will focus on teaching tolerance, acceptance, mentoring and respect for all children.

Integration Initiative Mission Statement

- To provide an enjoyable and comfortable environment for the individual with special needs.

- To allow the individual with special needs to be and feel successful and competent.

- To teach individuals with and without special needs to respect one another for whom he or she is including their abilities and disabilities.

- To facilitate relationships among peer groups made up of both individuals with and without special needs.

For more info, visit www.hockomockymca.org

Boston Herald Features SCI Research Story - Friday, September 21, 2007

2007-09-21T14:14:00.000-07:00

MIT Scientist: Paralysis Cure Eyed
By Herald staff
Friday, September 21, 2007
http://www.bostonherald.com

The future of curing traumatic spinal cord injuries could be on the horizon, and it involves plastics, according to one of MIT’s top biotechnology professors. Dr. Robert Langer, 59, MIT professor of chemical engineering and the youngest person ever - at 43 - to be appointed to all three U.S. National Academies of science, told the Greater Boston Chamber of Commerce that he and his students began effectively curing rats of paralysis using a plastic scaffold that would be inserted into their bodies.

During the speech, Langer demonstrated what could be a future treatment for humans. He showed a film of the paralyzed rat before it was treated with a special plastic implant coated with neuronal stem cells.The rat could move around but had lost the use of its rear legs.

The film showed the rat weeks later able to walk on all four legs fairly well.

The plastic scaffold helps reduce scar tissue and may help duplicate new cells, Langer said. “Different people have used different models,” Langer said. “It’s a question of how much improved function you get.”

Langer said his research is being partially funded by InVivo Therapeutics Corp., a Cambridge life-science company that is raising funds to treat traumatic spinal cord injuries. Frank Reynolds, CEO of InVivo, declined to give financial specifics, but said the company has a consulting staff of 18 people.

Reynolds said Langer’s use of plastics, which the MIT professor also believes could grow new bone, intestine, liver and ureter cells, would help commercialize the first big breakthrough in treatment of paralysis.

“We believe it will be the first effective treatment for spinal cord injury,” Reynolds said.

Reynolds said Irish officials will be visiting Boston to discuss $10 million in funding for InVivo from the Irish government.

Article URL: http://www.bostonherald.com/business/healthcare/view

A World Of Difference

2007-09-20T19:55:00.000-07:00

"You must be the change you wish to see in the world."

– Mahatma Gandhi

SCI Awareness Day At The State House

2007-09-19T19:42:00.000-07:00

Today I attended the 4th Annual Spinal Cord Injury Awareness Day at the State House. SCI Awareness Day is a collaboration of Massachusetts rehabilitation facilities, consumer organizations, legislators, policy makers and advocates, working towards a common goal to increase funding available for spinal cord injury research in Massachusetts.

This year's program included Massachusetts State Representatives and representatives from the Office of Governor Deval Patrick, the National Spinal Cord Injury Association, the New England Regional Spinal Cord Injury Center at Boston Medical Center, Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital, the Department of Public Health, the Christopher and Dana Reeve Foundation, the Paralyzed Veterans Association, the Travis Roy Foundation, and the Harvard Stem Cell Institute.

The well-attended symposium was enlightening, invigorating, and offered lots of information relevant to people living with SCI. It was organized by Massachusetts Walks Again.

"Music Within" Movie About The Founders Of The A.D.A

2007-09-18T19:09:00.000-07:00

Oliver Wendell Holmes once said, "Most people go to their graves with their music still inside them."

Guided through the movie by Richard Pimentel's (Ron Livingston) acerbic sense of humor, we see a world that through other eyes would appear devastatingly tragic. Instead, Richard uses it to fuel his plight for the underdog.

Unable to pursue his dream of studying public speaking in college, Richard enrolls in the government's 'guaranteed education program' called 'military service' in Vietnam. After 9 months in country, Richard loses his hearing in the Vietnam War.

But when the world tells him he can't, he figures out how. Through a new circle of friends, including a foul-mouthed genius with cerebral palsy, Richard finds his "music within," and sets out to change peoples' perceptions toward the disabled community. He ultimately becomes a hero as one of the primary activists behind the Americans with Disabilities Act.

In discovering his music, Richard helped improve the lives of disabled people across the world, including his own.

MOVIE DETAILS:

Director: Steven Sawalich

Writers: Mark Andrew Olson, Bret McKinney, Kelly Kennemer

Genre: Drama

Starring: Ron Livingston, Melissa George, Rebecca DeMornay

Producer: Steven Sawalich

Distributor: MGM

Rating: R

Release Date: October 26, 2007

Upcoming Appearance - Raytheon Speaking Engagement, October 10, 2007

2007-09-17T17:43:00.000-07:00

Part of my role as Ms Wheelchair Massachusetts is to speak to the business community about the accomplishments and abilities of people who use wheelchairs. I will have an opportunity to do this at Raytheon on Wednesday, October 10, 2007.

Raytheon is an 80+ year-old, native Massachusetts company that values diversity and honors persons with disabilities in October, during National Disability Employment Awareness Month.

My audience will include any Raytheon employee who wishes to attend, but specifically the members of the Raytheon Women's Network (RWN) and members of the Raytheon Persons with Disabilities Association (RPDA) who work at the Andover Raytheon site. There may also be some senior leaders present.

I will spend 30-40 minutes sharing my story and then do Q&A for another 15-20 minutes or so. I'm really looking forward to my first corporate speaking engaement to support the recruitment, hiring, and retention of people with disabilities.

Learn more about Raytheon...

Raytheon: A History of Global Technology Leadership

Two former college roommates Laurence K. Marshall and Vannevar Bush, along with scientist Charles G. Smith, founded Raytheon Company in Cambridge, Mass., as the American Appliance Company in 1922.

Throughout its more than 80-year history, Raytheon Company has been a leader in developing defense technologies and in converting those technologies for use in commercial markets. From its early days as a maker of radio tubes, its adaptation of World War II radar technology to invent microwave cooking, and its development of the first guided missile, Raytheon has successfully built upon its pioneering tradition to become a global technology leader.

Reach For The Stars!

2007-09-16T12:11:00.000-07:00

Hold fast to dreams, for if dreams die
Life is a broken-winged bird that cannot fly.

-author unknown

Two Advocacy Appearances In One Busy Day!

2007-09-15T18:22:00.000-07:00

Today I participated in two wonderful events as Ms Wheelchair Massachusetts (MWM):

- FIRST EVENT: The 10th Annual Kevin Ganley Walk in Lowell to raise money for Huntington's Disease

I am pictured above with Sue (L) and Virginia (R), from the Huntington's Disease Society of America, New England Chapter; next I'm addressing the big crowd who showed up despite the pouring rain; and then I spoke with some local supporters who are wheelchair-users living with HD. Below I'm kicking off the walk with Shrek!

AND THEN...

- SECOND EVENT: The 8th Annual South Boston Street Festival to raise money & awareness for MWM

Both events were a huge success and a lot of fun!!!!

Upcoming Appearance - South Boston Street Festival, September 15, 2007

2007-09-14T17:36:00.000-07:00

Join me tommorrow, Saturday, September 15, on East Broadway in South Boston! I will be participating in the annual South Boston Street Festival, located between "L" Streets and "I" Streets from 11-4.

I will be sitting at the South Boston Arts Association table to 'meet & greet' people as Ms. Wheelchair Massachusetts 2007. I plan to spread the word about all the wonderful accomplishments of people with disabilities and I will also be giving away free autographed pictures.

The Festival is bigger than ever - nonstop entertainment on two stages, displays and exhibits of all kinds, lots of activities for the whole family, and an anticipated 15,000 visitors.

Each year since the Millennium Year of 2000, The South Boston Chamber of Commerce has thrown this gala Street Festival. This year’s Festival will feature over 150 vendors, exhibitors, and non-profit agencies from South Boston. Visitors come to our Festival from all over the City. It’s a blast.

Also, my husband will be selling his photography to benefit the Ms Wheelchair Massachusetts program. Come check out some great pics of South Boston!

See you there...

The Miami Project To Cure Paralysis

2007-09-13T20:04:00.000-07:00

The Miami Project to Cure Paralysis is:

- The world's largest comprehensive spinal cord injury (SCI) research center;

- Dedicated to finding more effective treatments and, ultimately, a cure for paralysis;

- A Center of Excellence housed at the Lois Pope LIFE Center at the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine.

About The Miami Project

The Miami Project was co-founded in 1985 by internationally recognized spinal cord injury (SCI) expert, Barth A. Green, M.D. and three families who had experienced SCI firsthand. Business people Don Misner and Beth Roscoe were early supporters of Green's efforts. Joining them following the injury of his son, Marc, was NFL Hall of Fame linebacker Nick Buoniconti. The Buoniconti family vowed that progress in research would not be slowed because of a lack of funds. Their fundraising efforts brought an unprecedented level of public awareness of the need for SCI research.

The founders envisioned that to find a cure for paralysis, they needed to gather a committed group of scientists from various clinical and scientific disciplines in one center. Out of this vision, The Miami Project to Cure Paralysis was born

The Miami Project has assembled a broad spectrum of researchers, clinicians, and therapists whose expertise relate directly to the problem of SCI and whose full-time focus is SCI research. By uniting this broad range of knowledge and talents, The Miami Project team of scientists is accelerating the search for effective treatments for SCI.

Visit www.themiamiproject.org for more information.

Upcoming Event - September 17, 2007

2007-09-12T17:06:00.000-07:00

In celebration of National Rehabilitation Week at Braintree Rehabilitation Hospital, September 16-22, 2007, come out and listen to guest speaker:

Marty Ball
Wheelchair Sports Hall of Fame Member
September 17, 2007
12:15-1:00p.m.
Braintree Rehabilitation Hospital
250 Pond Street
Braintree, MA 02184

BRAINTREE REHABILITATION HOSPITAL

Since Braintree Rehabilitation Hospital's founding in 1975, they have gained recognition as a world-class healthcare provider. Their resources include acute Inpatient Rehabilitation Hospital in Braintree, MA, a satellite rehabilitation unit located at Metrowest Medical Center in Natick, MA and multiple community-based outpatient clinics offering a wide variety of specialty services. Patients benefit from over 30 years of clinical and medical experience, innovative services and commitment to excellence.

From admission through discharge, the same team of interdisciplinary specialists follows each patient in a program that deals with immediate needs and long-term goals. By beginning treatment as soon after injury or illness as possible, patients are treated every day to vital therapy. At Braintree Rehabilitation Hospital, patients and family members can expect to find the support, caring and skill they need, from an organization of physicians and specialists.

GOD BLESS AMERICA

2007-09-11T16:58:00.000-07:00

“America The Beautiful”

O beautiful for spacious skies,
For amber waves of grain,
For purple mountain majesties
Above the fruited plain!
America! America!
God shed his grace on thee
And crown thy good with brotherhood
From sea to shining sea!

O beautiful for pilgrim feet
Whose stern, impassioned stress
A thoroughfare for freedom beat
Across the wilderness!
America! America!
God mend thine every flaw,
Confirm thy soul in self-control,
Thy liberty in law!

O beautiful for heroes proved
In liberating strife,
Who more than self the country loved,
And mercy more than life!
America! America!
May God thy gold refine
Till all success be nobleness
And every gain divine!

O beautiful for patriot dream
That sees beyond the years
Thine alabaster cities gleam
Undimmed by human tears!
America! America!
God shed his grace on thee
And crown thy good with brotherhood
From sea to shining sea!

Written by Katharine Lee Bates, of Falmouth, Massachusetts

We will never forget...September 11, 2001 - September 11, 2007

Celebrate National Rehabilitation Week, September 16-22, 2007

2007-09-10T19:24:00.000-07:00

Each year, thousands of rehabilitation providers and health and human services agencies join together during the third week in September to celebrate the powers of rehabilitation and share the message that through rehab there is hope, achievement and success. More than 6,500 rehab facilities and health and human services care providers have participated in this event since 2000.

Sponsored by the National Rehabilitation Awareness Foundation, the Celebration focuses the nation's attention on capabilities rather than disabilities; and increases awareness of the tremendous power and impact of rehabilitation.

Rehab Facts And Information:

- Rehabilitation is a medical specialty which helps restore people affected by potentially disabling disease or traumatic injury to good health and functional, productive lives.

- Rehabilitation often centers on a interdisciplinary team approach to care by physiatrists (physicians specializing in rehabilitation); physical, occupational, respiratory and recreational therapists; speech and language pathologists; nurses, psychologists, vocational counselors and others. The rehab team helps individuals to accomplish normal tasks of daily living.

- Nearly 50 million Americans are disabled. Disability does not discriminate - every person is at risk of disability. Therefore, everyone is a potential candidate for rehabilitation. Most Americans will require at least one rehabilitation service at some point in their lives.

- Rehabilitation is an integral part of healthcare and a tremendous component in providing patients with positive outcomes. It is individualized so every patient can progress at his or her own ability level. It can lengthen life, improve the quality of life and reduce subsequent illness.

- Statistics show that medical rehabilitation improves lives and saves money. For every $1 spent on rehab care, it is estimated that $11 are saved on long-term disability costs. People participating in rehabilitation programs of care are able to regain productivity and return to work, school and independent living.

- Independence gained or retained through rehabilitation is priceless!

The National Rehabilitation Awareness Foundation was established by Allied Services in 1996. Its mission is to educate people about the benefits and impact of rehabilitation; develop programs which aim to increase opportunities for the nearly 50 million Americans with disabilities, and help those who are disabled live up to their fullest potential through rehabilitation. The not- for- profit foundation is headquartered in Scranton, Pa.

Massachusetts Rehabilitation Commission (MRC)

2007-09-09T13:43:00.000-07:00

The Massachusetts Rehabilitation Commission is a state agency that promotes dignity for individuals with disabilities through employment and independent living in the community. MRC is responsible for Vocational Rehabilitation Services, Community Services, and eligibility determination for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI). Primarily, MRC helps disabled people obtain employment through counseling, training, education, and transportation.

Mission:

MRC promotes equality, empowerment and productive independence of individuals with disabilities by enhancing and encouraging personal choice and risk-taking for independence and employment.

Services:

MRC provides comprehensive services to people with disabilities that maximizes their quality of life and economic self-sufficiency in the community. Multiple programs offered by MRC work together to help individuals with disabilities, such as:

- The Vocational Rehabilitation Services Program
- The Community Services Program
- The Disability Determination Services Program.

Upcoming Event - Stem Cell Summit, October 2 & 3, 2007

2007-09-08T18:13:00.000-07:00

The Stem Cell Summit promises to be a veritable cornucopia of scientific and political information for people with spinal cord injuries.

Produced by great friend of the movement, Bernard Siegel of the Genetics Policy Institute (GPI), the Summit brings together GPI, The Harvard Stem Cell Institute, and the same Burrill and Company who put on an outstanding Stem Cell Meeting earlier this year.

The Stem Cell Summit will take place at the Hynes Convention Center in Boston. Attendees will have unprecedented access to the stem cell world's leading thinkers and decision-makers. The topmost tier of guests includes scientists Ian Wilmut, George Daley, and Kevin Eggan, along with warrior patient advocates such as Tricia Brooks and Don Reed.

Please join us for this one of a kind Summit!

Email me for more information...

Architectural Access Board (AAB) Subcommittee Is Seeking Membership

2007-09-07T17:39:00.000-07:00

The Massachusetts Architectural Access Board (AAB) is a state agency that enforces regulations designed to make public buildings accessible to, functional for, and safe for use by persons with disabilities.

To carry out the AAB’s mandate, regulations are incorporated in the Massachusetts building code that are designed to provide full use of buildings and facilities so that persons with disabilities may have equal education, employment, living and recreational opportunities.

The authority of the AAB is triggered by any construction, renovation, remodeling, or alteration of a public building or facility. Public buildings are those that are open to public use, as well as privately financed buildings that are open to and used by the public.

The nine member Board meets every other Monday to hear requests for variances by building owners and to hear complaints about buildings that are believed to be in violation of the AAB regulations. All hearings on complaints and variance requests are open to the public.

The Board also has the authority, after a further hearing, to impose fines of up to $1,000 per violation for each day of noncompliance.

In its efforts to expand the Subcommittee on Regulations, and improve the quality of the regulatory process, the AAB is extending this invitation to all interested parties to have them submit a resume and letter of interest to the AAB Office for membership consideration. This is a volunteer position, which will involve detailed reading and code comparison, as well as individual light research assignments. The Subcommittee on Regulations generally meets 6-8 times a year and are hoping to add more meetings to speed up the promulgation process.

Please submit resumes and letters of interest to the AAB Office, attention Thomas Hopkins, Executive Director at the following address: One Ashburton Place, Room 1310, Boston, MA 02108. Resumes and letters of interest for consideration will be accepted up until Monday, October 1, 2007.

3rd Annual 'Miles For Midge' Motorcycle Ride For A Cure

2007-09-06T08:03:00.000-07:00

MILES FOR MIDGE
Sunday, September 16, 10 a.m.
Fuddruckers Restaurant
Route 1 North, Saugus

Come out and participate in a Police-Escorted Motorcycle Ride and Family Day!

THERE WILL BE MUSIC, RAFFLES, FOOD, VENDORS, FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT!

- EVENT WILL BE HELD RAIN OR SHINE -

RIDE ENDS AT THE ELK'S HALL, MAIN STREET, SAUGUS, MA - OPEN AT 10:00 am FOR NON-RIDERS

$10.00 DONATION

ALL PROCEEDS TO BENEFIT MILES FOR MIDGE & SPINAL CORD INJURY RESEARCH

FOR TICKET INFORMATION CALL:

Nick Galotti 781-878-0010
Donna & Fran Williams 781-589-0407
Wilma & Craig Parks 781-233-4877
Marcel Haddad 339-927-2386
Cathy White 781-231-7456

Visit www.milesformidge.org for more information.

Article Appears in Falmouth Enterprise

2007-09-05T19:20:00.000-07:00

Ms. Wheelchair Massachusetts Helps Artists Guild Learn About Accessibility
By LAURA M. RECKFORD
September 4, 2007

When Kristen McCosh went to an art opening at the Falmouth Artists Guild last month, she did not expect to have trouble getting into the building.

Ms. McCosh, a quadraplegic, carries her own portable ramp with her. But in the case of the artists guild, which is in a rear unit across from the library lawn on Main Street, even the ramp did not work because of the angle of the building entrance.

Because she could not get into the building Ms. McCosh, whose husband, John McCosh, had two photographs in the juried show, had to settle for seeing photographs of the show that her husband took for her.

But in alerting the artists guild about the accessibility problem, the McCoshes have served to energize the guild to make their new building accessible to everyone.

Artist Guild Executive Director Jill P. Tompkins of Debbie Lane, East Falmouth, and Carolyn P. Partan of Westwood Road, North Falmouth, a guild board member and chairman of the guild’s capital campaign, sat down with Mr. and Ms. McCosh last week to talk about everything from accessible doorways to tables that allow people in wheelchairs to be comfortable.

The artists guild is well into a capital campaign to construct a building next to the Nimrod Restaurant on the corner of Gifford Street and Dillingham Avenue. Its supporters are about $300,000 short of their goal and hope to break ground later this year, Ms. Partan said.

“We were so disappointed she couldn’t come in, and so frustrated,” said Ms. Tompkins, adding that the McCoshes were “very gratious” about the problem.

Ms. McCosh said helping the artists guild with accessibility issues is a perfect fit for her, because since being crowned Ms. Wheelchair Massachusetts 2007, her role is to be an advocate for the needs of the handicapped.

As for the artists guild, Ms. Tompkins said the guild wants to be a place where people of all ages and abilities can come to take arts classes and participate in programs.

“Accessibility is really important,” Ms. Tompkins said. She pointed out that the new location is within walking distance from three schools, Mullen-Hall, Morse Pond, and Lawrence, as well as from the library.

Ms. McCosh, who has worked for nonprofit organizations in grant writing and volunteer coordinating, is working as a peer mentor for people with spinal injuries at Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital in Boston.

She was injured more than 20 years ago at age 15 in a diving accident in a swimming pool. She missed a year of school because of physical therapy after the accident but returned to her high school, taking classes on the first floor, which she could enter with her wheelchair.

“I’ve always been resourceful,” she said.

As a quadraplegic with a cervical neck injury, she does not have use of her legs or her hands, but can move her arms. Advances in technology since she was first injured allow her to drive herself in a specially outfitted handicapped-accessible van. Advances in laws—the American with Disabilities Act was passed in 1990—have made more and more places accessible to the handicapped.

“It’s not nearly as tough as it was,” Ms. McCosh said.

The McCoshes live in South Boston and built a cottage on Randolph Street in Teaticket in 1990, across the street from Ms. McCosh’s two aunts. Mr. McCosh has family in North Falmouth.

The couple met in college at the University of Massachusetts Boston. Mr. McCosh likes to tell the story of seeing Kristen in the center for disabled students and wanting to meet her. He was taking a short story class at the time and told her he wanted to interview her because a character in one of his stories was in a wheelchair.

“During the ‘interview,’ I got to ask her all the questions I had. The next day, I asked her out,” he said. They were married six years ago at St. Thomas Chapel in Falmouth Heights.

Besides being a photographer whose work can be seen at johnmccoshphotography.com, Mr. McCosh is a writer who has tried his hand at novels and screenplays. He is now working on ghostwriting an autobiography for Ms. Wheelchair Arizona, whose story of being seriously injured at the hands of her husband has been featured on television.
Ms. McCosh, also a writer, said she is writing a series of novels that feature women with disabilities as heroines. She is hoping to try to get a literary agent this fall.

Ms. McCosh said making a building accessible is a benefit to the entire community.

“It sends a strong message that everyone is welcome,” she said, pointing out that some people with handicaps suffer from social isolation, and participating in the arts is a great way to reintegrate them into the community.

Ms. McCosh said she heard about the Ms. Wheelchair contest from friends who encouraged her to enter. At first she laughed it off, but when she looked into it, she found that the pageant, which is in its third year, is not a beauty contest, but an event to promote advocacy for the handicapped, something that interests her.

Unlike other “pageants,” the Ms. Wheelchair contest does not have looks, age, or marital status as criteria. Instead, entrants must use a wheelchair for 100 percent of their daily mobility. Ms. McCosh said that since the primary task of the winner is as an advocate, the contest comprised two public speaking segments, one in front of the three judges and the other in front of a larger group.

Ms. McCosh spoke about physical fitness and ended up being chosen from among the six contestants to be Ms. Wheelchair Massachusetts this past April.

In her speech, she explained how she became involved in “activity-based therapy” at the local YMCA last year at the urging of her husband. The health club, which is only about a 10-minute drive from her house, has advanced machinery in place that helps handicapped people ride a stationary bicycle and walk on a treadmill, for example. Besides making her feel better, the exercise has helped her to lose about 40 pounds, .

In July, she entered the Ms. Wheelchair America pageant in Washington, DC, which is in its 35th year. She was chosen as second runnerup from the 27 contestants.

As Ms. Wheelchair Massachusetts, Ms. McCosh will be traveling across the state speaking to groups, both handicapped and not handicapped.

“Hopefully, I can be the face of awareness throughout the state,” she said.

City of Boston - Commission for Persons with Disabilities

2007-09-04T18:40:00.000-07:00

The Commission for Persons with Disabilities facilitates full and equal participation in all aspects of life by persons with disabilities in the City of Boston. The Commission strives to reduce architectural, procedural, attitudinal, and communication barriers that affect persons with disabilities. The Commission coordinates and monitors the City's compliance with federal, state, and city civil rights laws for persons with disabilities.

One of primary programs of the Commission for Persons with Disabilities is providing technical assistance on disability-related issues to the various City departments and agencies and to the general public. The City's Americans with Disability Act Transition Plan provides guidance in monitoring facilities, programs, and activities of the City. The Commission, following the Transition Plan, has provided technical assistance in a variety of capital projects throughout the City, including the construction of the new Early Learning Centers, the first newly built schools in Boston in over a decade. We have also provided assistance to the Parks and Recreation Department for the construction of the Frog Pond Skating Rink, which provides accessible public skating on Boston Common. The Commission, in partnership with the Mayor's Office, has recently developed the Freedom Trail Access Map to assure access to the city's historic sites. We also work frequently with the Office of Special Events to assure access to events such as the Boston Marathon. The Commission has been very successful in providing this assistance because of our broad networking efforts and familiarity with resources.

The disabled citizens of the city have benefited from this technical assistance as it has resulted in access or knowledge of the access that would not have occurred without direct assistance.

For more info, visit www.cityofboston.gov/civilrights/disability

Labor Day... Last Day of Summer

2007-09-03T13:58:00.000-07:00

Labor Day differs from all other holidays of the year. Other holidays are connected with conflicts, battles, discord, greed and power; of glories achieved by one nation over another. Labor Day is devoted to no man, living or dead, but to those men and women who work hard to make our nation great.

Labor Day, the first Monday in September, is dedicated to the social and economic achievements of American workers. It constitutes a yearly national tribute to the contributions workers have made to the strength, prosperity, and well-being of our country. People with disabilities are a strong part of this American workforce today.

Labor Day is a national legal holiday that is over 100 years old, but over the years it has evolved from a purely labor celebration into a general "last fling of summer" festival.

I celebrated Labor Day this year on Cape Cod with a get-together with my friend Laurel Labdon, Ms Wheelchair Massachusetts 2005 (pictured below).

Advocacy Opportunity - Call Governor Patrick Today!

2007-09-02T18:15:00.000-07:00

PLEASE support closing Fernald, an antiquated, obsolete institution for disabled people!

We must contact Governor Patrick in the next few days!

Less than 200 people with disabilities remain in Fernald, an outdated institution in Waltham that is in increasing disrepair. Fernald kept thousands of people with disabilities from living independent lives in the community for decade upon decade. BCIL member Sybil Feldman was forced to live there for over twenty years — and now she's in her own apartment and on the front lines of many of BCIL's advocacy efforts.

Keeping Fernald open will cost millions of dollars in the coming years — and at the expense, most likely, of community-based services for people with disabilities. Wisely, the state wants to close Fernald forever. But a judge has ordered it remain open.

Please contact Governor Deval Patrick, urging him to appeal the court's decision so that Fernald will close once and for all!

We need people to ask Governor Patrick to close Fernald and appeal the court decision:
- Call 617-725-4005 or 888-870-7770
- Go to www.Mass.gov and send an email from that site (go to "contact us").

For more information contact Evelyne Milorin at BCIL at 617-338-6665, x246.

THANK YOU!!!

Upcoming Event on Disability Issues - October is 'National Disability Employment Awareness' Month

2007-09-01T08:49:00.000-07:00

"Workers with Disabilities: Talent for a Winning Team!"

This is the official 2007 theme for National Disability Employment Awareness Month, which is observed in October nationwide.

"The 2007 'Talent for a Winning Team' theme captures the heart of the president's New Freedom Initiative, which is that Americans with disabilities are an underutilized reservoir of ambition, talent and skill ready to make great contributions in the workplace."

Each October is National Disability Employment Awareness Month. The Labor Department's Office of Disability Employment Policy (ODEP) plans activities and produces materials to increase the public's awareness of the contributions and skills of American workers with disabilities.

"America's employers benefit when they provide opportunities for Americans with disabilities to work," said Roy Grizzard, assistant secretary of labor for ODEP. "A winning team will include people with disabilities."

ODEP is the nation's first office that specifically addresses policies that impact the employment of people with disabilities. ODEP has developed methods for One-Stop Career Centers nationwide to serve people with barriers to employment, including individuals with disabilities.

Advocacy Article to Appear in the the Falmouth Enterprise Newspaper

2007-08-31T16:15:00.000-07:00

Pictured above: Jill Tompkins, KMC, a Falmouth Artists Guild Board Member, and my husband John at our Cape house in Falmouth

Today I joined Jill Tompkins from the Falmouth Artists Guild for an interview with Laura Reckford from the Falmouth Enterprise Newspaper. Laura is writing a feature article about me in my role as Ms Wheelchair Massachusetts, focusing specifically on my work with the Falmouth Artists Guild's effort to incorporate access for people with disabilities into their programming and facilities. The article will appear in print sometime next week.

My husband and I are members of the Falmouth Artists Guild (for his photography and both of our writing). The Guild is currently raising money to build a brand new fully accessible building, and has raised over $1.1 million dollars - they only need $300k more to reach their goal! They hope to break ground by the end of the year.

I am working with the Falmouth Artists Guild to help raise awareness throughout the community about the importance of access to the arts for people of all abilities, especially people who are disabled. Art is a valuable creative outlet for those who may have physical and social limitations, and inclusion is a priority of the Guild.

I look forward to attending events in their new Universal Design Building!

Help Support Ms Wheelchair Massachusetts - Photography Fundraiser

2007-08-30T14:04:00.000-07:00

A photo from John's "Cape Cod" collection

In an effort to help financially support the continuation of the Ms Wheelchair Massachusetts 501 (c) (3) non-profit program, my husband has offered to donate a portion of the sales from his photography business to the program.

Visit his website to browse pieces that are currentley available for purchase online and in several galleries throughout New England. Images he has available include: Boston scenes, Cape Cod coast, marine life and others. Pricing is listed on the website.

Visit John's Photography Website

The pictures are spectacular, and the sales will be supporting a great cause. They would make a wonderful addition to any home, or make a perfect gift, so take a look today! Remember, Christmas is just around the corner...

Check my blog for updates on $$$ amount raised from this fundraiser!

Try "ThisAbled" instead of "disabled"

2007-08-29T18:43:00.000-07:00

The tagline for ThisAbled.com is: “Where people with disabilities help each other." They help their readers by offering accurate and quality information on issues that matter to our community. They offer a portal to sponsors and supporters that care about the empowerment and growth of people with disabilities.

ThisAbled is built on the concept that in order for people with disabilities to be free they have to be politically and economically empowered. They are not a not-for-profit entity. In order to survive as a business they depend on people with disabilities, family members, friends and those whom they assisted in one way or another.

ThisAbled.com has the following article on their website:

Ms. Wheelchair America Pageant
August 2, 2007
By Kelly Rouba

Twenty-seven women of extraordinary strength and commitment from 26 states and the District of Columbia recently competed for the 2008 Ms. Wheelchair America title in Bethesda, Maryland. After competing in several rounds of judging throughout the weeklong event, Alana Wallace, a compelling speaker and advocate from Chicago, Illinois, was awarded the coveted crown.

The four runners-up included Heather Grossman (Ms. Wheelchair Arizona, 1st runner up), Kristen McCosh (Ms. Wheelchair Massachusetts, 2nd runner up), Jackie Bartels (Ms. Wheelchair Texas, 3rd runner up), and Jennifer Biggers (Ms. Wheelchair Arkansas, 4th runner up). The event took place from July 23 through July 29 at the Doubletree Hotel.

All of the contestants have disabilities, ranging from spinal cord injuries to cerebral palsy, that significantly limit their mobility and require them to use a wheelchair on a daily basis. In spite of their challenges, each one has served as a tireless advocate for individuals with all types of disabilities in their home state. For the competition, the women selected a platform outlining their specific goals for national advocacy if chosen as Ms. Wheelchair America.

Now in its 35th year, Ms. Wheelchair America Program, Inc. aims to provide an opportunity for women of achievement who use wheelchairs to successfully educate and advocate for all individuals with disabilities. Ms. Wheelchair America is about appreciating inner beauty and judges work hard to select the most accomplished and articulate spokesperson for the millions of Americans with disabilities.

Over the coming year, Wallace will communicate both the needs and the accomplishments of her constituency to the general public, the business community, and the legislature. She will promote awareness of the need to eliminate architectural and attitudinal barriers, inform the able-bodied public of the achievements of people with disabilities, and promote Ms. Wheelchair America in states that do not currently have a representative.

Check out their website!!!

More States Needed to Compete in Ms Wheelchair America Competition!

2007-08-28T08:50:00.000-07:00

This year, 27 contestants competed for the title of Ms Wheelchair America. Next year, we are shooting for 50 contestants!!!

The following states did not send a representative this year:

Alaska
Connecticut
Delaware
Hawaii
Idaho
Louisiana
Maine
Minnesota
Missouri
Montana
New Hampshire
New Mexico
Nevada
North Dakota
Oaklahoma
Oregon
Pennsylvania
South Carolina
Utah
Vermont
West Virginia
Wisconsin
Wyoming

If anyone reading my blog has friends or relatives living in one of these states, or if you happen to live in any of these states yourself, and you are (or know someone else who is) a disabled woman between age 21-60, consider getting involved!

Also, of you're a Massachusetts resident, think about entering the 2008 Ms Wheelchair Massachusetts Program, competition to be held next April.

These programs offer women with disabilities a wonderful opportunity to showecase their personal accomplishments as well as an opportunity to advocate for others.

Email me for more information at: mswheelchairmass07@yahoo.com

Also, check out the following links:
Ms Wheelchair America
Ms Wheelchair Massachusetts

Boston Herald Features Access Story - Sunday, August 26, 2007

2007-08-27T07:57:00.000-07:00

Rough Spots Pose Perilous Challenges
By Marie Szaniszlo, Herald Staff
Sunday, August 26, 2007

Meet the most expensive patch of sidewalk in Boston: $320,000 and counting.

The state Department of Public Safety’s Architectural Access Board has fined the Hub $500 a day since Nov. 30, 2005, for an uneven, sloping stretch of brick on Huntington Avenue, part of what advocates for the disabled denounce as a pattern of violations in the city that puts them at risk.

“The irony is if the city had just made sure the sidewalk was repaired the right way in the beginning, it would have cost taxpayers a fraction of that amount and people like me who use wheelchairs wouldn’t have to risk getting hit by a car by riding in the street,” said John Kelly of the Neighborhood Access Group, which filed the complaint with the board.

Advocates note that under state law, the horizontal slope of a sidewalk cannot be more than 2 percent; in some spots, the slope of the 4-year-old Huntington Avenue sidewalk is 4.5 percent. That can send wheelchairs tipping over or sliding toward the street.

“The continued dangerousness of this bumpy all-brick sidewalk has these past four years been torturing the hundreds of elderly and disabled people living next door at Symphony Plaza,” the Boston Center for Independent Living, the Disability Policy Consortium and the Neighborhood Access group wrote in a July 26 letter to Public Works and Transportation chief Dennis Royer.

Royer did not respond to the letter until Aug. 17, when the Herald contacted Mayor Thomas M. Menino’s office, which released a statement in which Royer said he planned to meet with the three groups.

“I take all complaints about the quality of access in and around our city for mobility-impaired residents and visitors very seriously,” Menino said in a statement Friday. “I’ve told the Department of Public Works to make these complaints a top priority and to find short and long-term solutions to make our city’s streets and sidewalks safe and accessible for everyone.”

So far this year, the Architectural Access Board has received 106 complaints about other Boston sidewalks and curb cuts that allegedly violate state access code, according to the board’s director, Thomas Hopkins. None has yet resulted in a fine.

Advocates note there has been progress in disability access in the Hub. After a 2006 legal settlement, the MBTA undertook major improvements in equipment, facilities and services, including the installation of new elevators and bus ramps. Gary Talbot, assistant to the general manager for system-wide accessibility, and General Manager Dan Grabauskas have earned high praise from advocates.

But off the T, critics say, many of the most important civic buildings and institutions in “America’s Walking City” remain off-limits to the disabled because of inaccessible travel paths.

The state Attorney General’s Office has not sought to enforce the fines for the Huntington Avenue sidewalk, a spokeswoman said, because the city is expected to dispute them at an Aug. 30 hearing in Suffolk Superior Court. The city is expected to claim that although it owns most of the sidewalk, the MBTA and Massachusetts Highway Department oversaw its construction.

The state access board also has slapped the city with a $5,000 fine for failing to maintain an accessible route on Huntington Avenue during construction.

On Thursday, all three agencies said they would work together to make the sidewalk accessible but would not say when.

“If we can’t even use a sidewalk, that’s a basic right,” said Karen Schneiderman of the Boston Center for Independent Living, “and we pay taxes.”

Of the many embarrassing moments John Kelly has experienced in his wheelchair - and there are many - the worst was the time he ended up in a bush. About two years ago, Kelly was riding along Massachusetts Avenue in Boston when the wheels of his chair hit a hole left by a missing brick and abruptly turned, thrusting him into a shrub. He was stuck and had to ask a passer-by to help untangle him.

“It was humiliating,” he said - humiliating enough to make the 49-year-old founder and chairman of the Neighborhood Access Group notice things the average person doesn’t. “To you, it probably looks fine,” Kelly said on a recent Saturday, nodding toward the brick sidewalk at Huntington and Massachusetts avenues, across from Symphony Hall.

And it did, until a woman came along, pushing another woman in a wheelchair as it rumbled and tilted over the bricks. The unevenness of the bricks and the slant of the sidewalk make it particularly difficult for people who are blind or who use manual wheelchairs because the sidewalk’s horizontal slope - which in some places is more than double the maximum 2 percent grade permissable under state law - makes gravity pull them toward the street, said Thomas Hopkins, director of the state Department of Safety’s Architectural Access Board.

Among those also facing the challenges of the city are Deidre Lucas, who is in a wheelchair, and Andrew Forman, who is visually impaired. Both work at the Boston Center for Independent Living and decry what they see as the disrespect shown by the city for people with disabilities.

“Dangerously unsafe sidewalks and curb cuts now greet us in every neighborhood of the city, cruelly injuring us, pushing us out into deadly streets, or forcing us to remain in our homes as second-class citizens,” the Center for Independent Living and other groups wrote in a July 26 letter to Public Works and Transportation chief Dennis Royer.

To avoid steep sidewalk slopes, holes, uneven bricks and missing curb cuts, many people with disabilities shun sidewalks and take their chances riding in traffic, Kelly said.

“We have no choice but to risk our lives in the street,” Kelly said.

Thank You for Support - Kevin & Linda Callahan

2007-08-26T16:11:00.000-07:00

Last week I was treated to a wonderful dinner at Masa in the South End during Boston's Restasurant Week by Kevin and Linda Callahan, a generous couple who were the winning bidders of an auction prize, "Have Dinner with Ms Wheelchair Massachusetts" at a fundraiser last April.

The fundraiser was for Partners for Youth with Disabilities, a non-profit organization that matches disabled adult mentors with disabled kids and teens. I agreed to be 'auctioned off' to help raise money for this cause as well as to raise awareness about people with disabilities. At dinner, I spoke to the Callahans about all the advocacy work I've been doing. They were very supportive of all my work, and I had a great time...

Thanks for your support and generousity, Kevin and Linda!

Happy Anniversary!!!

2007-08-25T12:51:00.001-07:00

Today is my 6th wedding anniversary, and it offers me a chance to reflect on all the blessings I have been given in my life - a loving husband and family, a nice home, good health and great friends and colleagues who are supportive of my disability. I know that I am very lucky to have all these things, and I thank God for them every day.

My husband and I were married in a seaside chapel on Cape Cod on August 25, 2001. We returned home from our two-week honeymoon on Monday, September 10, 2001 - just one day before that infamous day that changed America forever.

Below is an ancient Irish prayer that we read at our nuptial mass. I chose it for my wedding ceremony because its message resonates with me personally as a woman with an Irish Catholic background. However, this prayer has taken on a much deeper meaning since September 11th.

Prayer for Protection from St. Patrick's Breastplate

Christ be with me,
Christ within me,
Christ behind me,
Christ before me,
Christ beside me,
Christ to win me,
Christ to comfort and restore me.
Christ beneath me,
Christ above me,
Christ in quiet,
Christ in danger,
Christ in hearts of all that love me,
Christ in mouths of friend and stranger.

I am pictured above with my neice Aideen at age 4, who was my flower girl.