This is a web site especially for young people who have had lots of experience with human differences and the challenges they present. Can you imagine carrying on a conversation with someone while using four modes of communication?
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INTRODUCTION:
This is a web site especially for young people who have had lots of experience with human differences and the challenges they present. Can you imagine carrying on a conversation with someone while using four modes of communication? |
| For instance,
you are using fingerspelling, sign language, lipreading and vocal language
to get your point across to the other person. How hard do you think this
is? How much energy does this take? There are Deaf people who do this all
the time. The intellectual activity going on during this process must be
incredible. Sort of like watching a TV screen with four different channels
playing at the same time and trying to understand all the programs at once.
Living with a disability or special medical needs can also be like this.
Life can be full of kinks and bumps.
My name is
Geri and I have had a lot of experience with the kinks and bumps of having
a disability. I have had a disability since I was very young. You
grow up fast, don't you! You learn more about the human body than most
athletes ever do. Some of us become a regular Physician's Desk Reference
(PDR) of medications; contradictions, side effects and all that. We become
masters of mechanica1/supportive devices. Wheelchairs now come in a variety
of styles for different uses. Computers are now voice operated and robotic
hands use sign language. You probably have friends who have interesting
Even more important are the fun things: travel, sports, camping, rock climbing, boating, fishing, hiking...yes, I said hiking. Happens all the time. I am sure you particularly will love this bit about hiking and rock climbing! Did you know there is a scooter that can be folded and carried like a suitcase? It is easy and fun to travel with it if you want the security of your own motorized wheels should you want to coast for awhile decide to visit San Francisco or the Great Wall of China. Almost all things are possible. Of importance is education and the opportunities it offers. There was a time when students with disabilities found it very difficult to go to a "regular" school. Now, with the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), the necessary accommodations in the classroom and in the buildings and grounds of the school environment make it possible for all students to have an equal opportunity to learn. The Americans with Disability Act (ADA) secures our right to function and live in society. We have many options today but we must know how to take them. The law provides a way to improve your life but as with anything worthwhile, Use'em or Lose'em. Here you will get answers to some questions and practice in solving some problems you may run into. There will also be interviews with interesting people from all over. This is a web site for you and I hope you will contribute questions and recommendations. Now, start zipping through and see what grabs your attention. Have fun! THIS
WEBSITE IS DEDICATED WITH LOVE TO
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