Developmental disabilities Awareness Month: Michelle's Story

There is a difference between being “different” and being “unique”. As an individual facing developmental disabilities, there’s no denying Michelle is “different” from your average 24 year old. She is one of the 4.6 million Americans living with such a disability, but out of those millions, she is unique. And that’s where we come in.

 After moving to Central Florida from New Jersey, Michelle’s family discovered our Day Break program located in Winter Park. Her mother and step-father, both employed full time, felt uneasy about leaving their daughter home while they were working. Apart from Michelle living with congenital heart disease, developmental delays and hypertension, Michelle’s parents were concerned about her introverted nature. They wanted her to be social and were certain that in their absence, she would spent a majority of her time watching TV. Luckily, they found just what they were looking for in Easter Seals. Day Break offers a caring daytime environment for adults over the age of 18 with special needs or disabilities. With a balanced daily meal and plenty of social activities for Michelle, her parents couldn’t think of a better place for her. So, they decided to dive in.

At first, Michelle was shy and reserved. Given a few months, however, Michelle would soon become quite the social butterfly. She discovered her love for arts & crafts and her incredible urge to help others in any way she possible. Her parents are absolutely thrilled with her daily socialization, and thank goodness too, because with her ever-growing enthusiasm and caring nature we can’t help but adore her! At Day Break, Michelle has been able to meet new people, try a variation of activities, and discover exactly what makes her unique.

In honor of March being “Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month” we want to not only share Michelle’s awesome story of self-discovery, but promote the awareness of individuals living with developmental disabilities. Everyone deserves their chance to shine and we at Easter Seals let our members shine every single day.

Website Launch

Our mission at Easter Seals has always been to promote the independence of people with disabilities to live ordinary lives. We work tirelessly to ensure our community is aware of the challenges they face, but more importantly, we spread the value of treating all people equally. Since 1919 we have been the leader in providing both children and adults with the tools they need to reach their full potential. Because we are ever-growing with services that reach a huge spectrum of people, it’s safe to say that our website hasn’t always been quite caught up. But, all of that is about to change…Easter Seals Florida is delighted to unveil our new and improved website! We decided that it was about time that we had an online presence that was just as beautiful as our mission itself. We’re proud to announce that we’ve surpassed all expectations.

New Features:

·        Live social media feed

·        Mobile friendly formatting

·        New drop down navigation feature

·        Dynamic and appealing web design

·        Content tailored for the user experience

·        New news section replete with client success stories

Most importantly: We designed our website to be accessible for our special needs clients so they can have all the information they need at their fingertips!

Be the first person to Tweet what year our logo began feturing a lily with the hashtag #ESFL and win a free iPhone 5 case! (Hint: it's under "History")

 So, what are you waiting for? Come check us out!

 www.easterseals.com/florida

Flight Of A Mom With A Special Needs Child-Guest Blogger Marva Caldwell

When we are about to take off on a flight, the flight attendants instruct us about our seat belts, emergency exits and oxygen masks. Few of us pay attention.  We are busy settling a baby, telling our kids not to kick the seat in front of you and getting the DVD player rigged up. However, we are told if the oxygen mask drops from the compartment above to put your mask on first. Do you remember why? You can’t help your child/children if you don’t help yourself first and pass out from lack of oxygen. So why don’t we apply this in other areas of our lives that have taken flight in a direction we haven’t planned for? Especially if you have boarded the flight of a mom with a special needs child. 

When we become mothers we often neglect ourselves as we care for our children. I am a mom of two little boys and ride the turbulent flight of health and learning problems for each one of my sons. It has taken time and effort to make sure both have proper care, Doctor’s, OT, PT, Speech, Learning Specialists, finding the right school, educating teachers about their needs, researching and being an advocate.

 Maybe your experience began during pregnancy, when your child was born, in the NICU or during his/her first few years of life. You took on the role of being a mom and your child’s care needs are many: appointments, medication, daily functioning, nursing, emotional and social needs. You cope with crisis daily and are well versed in case management. You are struggling to look after your child/children, family and there is no time for you.  As mothers we just put our head down and power through the turbulence… but what about the emotional and physical jet lag we experience? You are a mother, wife/partner, caregiver, advocate and expert on your child and children… but are you an expert on you? 

  

Flight of a Mom with a Special Needs Child: 5 Ways to put your Oxygen Mask on First!

1. Increase your energy….Mom’s Energy formula. You need more energy than other mom’s to navigate the flight plan for your special needs child. Here is a simple formula.  Mom’s Emotional Health + Mom’s Physical health = Energy to Care. We need to be in good form and flight trained emotionally and physically to do what we have too.  
2. Get rid of your guilt. Sounds simple but this is a struggle for most mothers.  Mommy guilt is huge. It can deplete and run you down. Guilt can tell you that you don’t deserve to take time away from your child, to talk to your friend, read a book for 10 minutes, take a nap, go out to dinner with your husband or bring in respite care for your child.  Guilt can shame you into not looking after you. It eventually robs you of your emotional and physical reserves. You need to recharge, don’t feel guilty. You matter and if you are not doing well how can you look after everyone else?
3. Prevent Emotional and Physical Jet Lag or it will catch up with you. Look after you. Moms often neglect the basics of eating, sleeping and getting exercise. I know this is sometimes easier said than done.  Especially, when you have to make calls or go to doctor’s appointments or do physical therapy at home with your child. It is probably hard for you to say, but 10 minutes of you time is just as important as your child’s physical therapy. You can start with small steps: sitting down to eat for one meal a day, enjoying your coffee while chatting with a friend on the phone, going to bed earlier one night a week, a quick 10 minute workout or taking a walk by yourself. If you look after your physical needs it will help you cope emotionally. You will be more tolerant and stand up better under pressure and crisis.          
4. Find something for yourself. Working, volunteering or developing an interest.  You may already do this but having something outside of your caregiver, mom role is very important. It insulates you and keeps you from crashing. If you have a reserve of interests you can tap into it, it will help you stay grounded and see beyond the overwhelming loving tasks you do as a caregiver. It is an investment in you and your ability to do what needs to be done.
5. Ask for help. It is hard for Moms with special needs children to let go. You are the center of care for your child. You are the engine and propeller that makes everything run. To prevent an engine malfunction that sends you careening into the unknown, reach out. You are not alone. Seek respite care or find a camp that specializes in helping you and your child.  Easter Seals Florida looks after the child and family as a whole. They will help you recharge and feel comfortable with the care your child is receiving while being away from you. This is not only a gift for you but your child too.  Your child will gain independence, confidence, increase their social skills have fun and enjoy new experiences.

Is asking for help and letting go your biggest fear? It might be! But finding support could be the parachute you need; it will make the difference in your life, your child’s and your relationship with your spouse/partner. For more information about Easter Seals Florida respite care contact: 

Easter Seals Florida

2010 Mizell Ave.

Winter Park, FL 32792

(407) 629-7881 

info@fl.easterseals.com

If you would like more information about counseling and support for moms with special needs children please contact: 

Orlando Women's Counseling withLife Counseling Solutions. 

Marva Caldwell MA, LMHC,NCC
Women's and Maternal Wellness 

(M) 407-808-6551

(W) 407-622-1770http://www.facebook.com/pages/Life-Counseling-Solutions/215050775186812?ref=hl
 http://lifecounselingsolutions.com/2013/10/flight-of-a-mom-with-a-special-needs-child/

About the Author: Marva Caldwell MA, LMHC, NCC is a mom and licensed women’s counselor at Orlando Women’s Counseling. She recognizes the unique physical and emotional needs of women across their lifespan; from adolescents to menopause. Marva has a strong foundation in Women’s Health, Maternal Mental Health/ Wellness and Parenting.  Marva, at Orlando Women’s Counseling works with women of all ages as a counselor, therapist, educator and communicator.

Apple Team Makes Moves

It is more than just talking the talk, but also walking the walk. Today more than ever you see children 2-year old and up, playing on iPads and iPhones. It has become a social norm at dinner, turning breaks, etc. We ask ourselves:  why are we so glued to these devices? Are our children utilizing these devices like they should be? Sure, they have their ups and downs, but one thing I think we could all agree on is their Special Education Apps are incredibly beneficial.

 In 2010 Apple created a “Special Education” section in their apps for individuals with special needs, as reported by the DisabilityScoop. These 72 apps range from emotional to developmental to cognitive skills. These different apps will begin to open new possibilities for educational teachers and also for caregivers to help their child or adult develop needed skills.

In our Adult Day Break at the Miller Center in the Winter Park, we have used our iPads to help translate and build cognitive skills. At our Murray Child Development Center in Tampa, we've used iPads for therapy sessions.

Visit Apple’s Special Education section to find what app fits best for your child or adult.  #Caring4Others  #SpecialNeeds

Internships Leads To Jobs

Over my experience as a student entering in to the workforce I realized that school can’t teach you what internships can. Sure you learn the basics in school but it is the internships that really broaden your experiences and societal skills.

I cannot emphasis how important it is to intern as much as possible during school and even after graduating. But wait; aren’t I supposed to get a job after graduation? Ideally you should be applying for jobs, but sometimes becoming an intern before becoming employed is a foot in the door. 69% of large and 39% of small companies make an offer for a full-time position by the end of the internship.

I initially came to Easter Seals Florida as an intern back in the summer of 2012 during my PR and Advertising program. I stayed in touch with the staff at Easter Seals and helped volunteer for their signature event, A Pair to Remember in 2013. Falling in love with their mission and vision, a position opened up that I couldn't say no to.

Internships.com reported that interns enjoyed learning new things, liked the real-world experience, and enjoyed working with colleagues. Like many other companies and organizations, we too have an internship program. 

Visit www.fl.easterseals.com/volunteering to see our listing of internships that will give you real experience in a team setting. #Orlando, #WestPalmBeach, and #Tampa. 

#WhatWeDo Wednesday

Sometimes words can't express #WhatWeDo so I decided to show you through imagery. Hope you enjoy the beautiful faces of Easter Seals Florida. 

Celebrating 23rd Anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990

Life is about self-fulfillment and achieving goals. Whether it is as simple  as tying your shoe or running for president, we all have different goals in life. What if someone told you that assembling packages is like becoming president? For some individuals it is.

Today marks the 23^rd Anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Without this civil rights legislation, there are many individuals that would not be able “to enjoy employment opportunities, to purchase goods and services, and to participate in State and local government programs and services.” Easter Seals’ mission mirrors the ADA and what it stands for: To provide exceptional services to ensure that all people with disabilities or special needs and their families have equal opportunities to live, learn, work and play in their communities.

If the ADA did not exist we wouldn't have our Vocational Services, which offers individuals with disabilities and special needs the opportunity to demonstrate their ability to deliver high quality work to companies in the community.

Today I want to remind you of this significant legislation that allowed people with disabilities to have the equal opportunities of employment. I want to share an article that lists the top 10 inspirational novels about disabilities and reality:

1. “Under the Eye of the Clock,” by Christopher Nolan (Skyhorse, 1987). This autobiographical novel by the late Irish poet Christopher Nolan, who had cerebral palsy, is a gorgeous and insightful book about the expansive life of a man who seemed entirely trapped in his chair. He pecked out this story with a pencil attached to his forehead. My wife and I have given away more copies than we can count.
   
2. “Lark and Termite,” by Jayne Anne Phillips (Vintage, 2009). This powerful, complex novel moves between two stories: the No Gun Ri massacre during the Korean War in 1950 and a devastating flood that confronts a West Virginia family in 1959. Termite, a profoundly and multiply handicapped boy, is cared for by his aunt and his devoted 17-year-old half-sister, Lark. Theirs is one of the most affecting sibling relationships in American literature.

For more novels see article: 10 Books to celebrate the 23rd anniversary of the Americans With Disabilities Act

Dando es como recibimos

It’s better to give than to receive (English). 

Can you image being in another country and you don’t know the language? I must say it was difficult for me to communicate when I was in Hungary four summers ago, and I think the most difficult part was expressing my needs. Have you ever considered how this would feel on a day-to-day base? Sara Osleger does.  

Sara Osleger who is a mother of 3 year old twins and a volunteer at Easter Seals Florida’s Adult Day Break at the Miller Center, gave back to our members by going above and beyond. Upon her volunteering she found the need to break the language barrier between the staff and the clients. Seeing the need, she started a fundraising campaign, which raised the money to purchase four iPads, four iPads cases, and various apps. 

“I might have been the catalyst for this fundraiser but it’s the donors who directly impacted the center and made the difference," said Sara.                                                                

Bert playing a matching game app called Smiley Fruit.

This gave our staff the opportunity to communicate to those who are bilingual. Needless to say this was an amazing gift to our members and to the staff. For over 100 years Easter Seals has had countless volunteers give back to our members and over thousands of volunteer hours logged in. Sara is the definition of volunteerism. Giving back to the community and enriching the lives of others. She said: 

“I try to maintain a balanced life and that is why Easters Seals is a part of it. I’ve always been taught through my family and church how important it is to give back, and there is nothing more gratifying.” 

Whether it be a language barrier, disability, or a special need this could help Easter Seals members feel more involved and listened to because it’s better to give than receive. #VolunTweet  #DoGooder 

Achieving Goals Is What We Do

Orlando City Soccer at Camp Challenge with Kingston the mascot.

Goal!!! The crowd goes wild as Andrew kicks the ball and brushes past Jamie Watson’s legs, two for Easter Seals’ campers and one for the Orlando City Soccer Club. It is a close game but little do the campers know that Jamie has achieved his goals once he saw Andrew crack a smile and yell for joy.

Jamie Watson, a midfielder for Orlando City Soccer Club, became an Easter Seals Florida official spokesperson this past fall. Being a part of the Easter Seals team, he nearly felt at home because he too helped people with disabilities and special needs, more specifically his brother Brett. Brett was born with cerebral palsy and mental and physical delays. Much of Jamie’s life revolved around caring for his older brother and making sure he enjoyed life to the fullest. 

For over the past four weeks Jamie and his soccer team dedicated the same energy to our new accessible soccer clinics at Camp Challenge. I cannot express how thrilled we were and how excited the campers were.  Every Wednesday at 3:00PM is the time that every camper anticipates and every Wednesday at 3:00PM Jamie couldn't wait to put a smile on the campers’ faces.  

 “By becoming a spokesperson for Easter Seals, I am dedicating myself to spend time with these amazing children and adults, and to help however I can.” said Jamie Watson. Not only has Jamie been a great advocate for Easter Seals Florida, but also a wonderful supporter. His goal for this season is to raise $5,000 for us and has raised over $3,000 thus far.

 

We all have goals in life whether it is to kick a ball into the net or to make someone smile. The latter is goal that CAN be achieved every day. You too can help by joining us at Easter Seals Appreciation Day, and help us cheer on Jamie Watson as the Orlando City Lions play the Charlotte Eagles. For every ticket purchased $5 will be donated back to Easter Seals Florida. Now, that’s something we can all smile about. #MakingMovesMonday #VolunTweet