Your Monday Morning Update:
Something remarkable happened last Wednesday when the Joint Committee on Children’s Issues heard testimony presented by parents whose children are on DD waiting list. I saw legislators cry. You read me right…cry.
As I think back, perhaps I was dreaming, but the conferees who presented, were also dreaming:
· The parents of a 7 year old boy with significant disabilities, shared their dream of having funding to access various therapies which their son so drastically needs, yet they are unable to afford. Mom and Dad held hands as they presented. They were reminded in a later testimony, that divorce is common in families that have a child with a disability…
· A mother and her 27 year old daughter stood at the podium. Mom shared her dream that the daughter experience living in an apartment with other young women. Isn’t that what 27 year olds do? The scars on the daughters arms told the story of her behavioral challenges and was a silent witness explaining moms exhaustion. The daughter was never more than 5 inches away from her mom the entire time! Increasing independence would be a valuable skill.
· The mother of a 23 year old man revealed her dream that her son spend his day working in a vocational setting. He’s been at home with his 80 year old grandmother since graduation and has lost many of the skills he acquired in school. The son sat with his arm around his mom, occasionally kissing her hand or patting her hair. Of course Mom wants more for him! He deserves a bright future doesn’t he?
Each of the conferees shared not only their dreams, but their personal stories. I am in awe of their challenges, their desire for “more” for their children and their advocacy efforts. They are my heroes.
I dream that committee members also become heroes by recommending that the State eliminate the DD waiting list.
Now THAT would be a dream come true!
Warm regards and Happy Holidays!
Lurena Mead
JCDS Community Relations Manager
913.826.2212