Faith'>http://faiththedog.info/">Faith the Dog's Official Web Site Hope and Love on Two Legs
Hi all,
Check out this website for Faith, a dog who is living without his two front legs. What an inspiration and miracle!
(http://faiththedog.info) I first saw Faith this week on an episode of Oprah's Lifeclass on OWN. I'm an admitted self-help junkie but this show is for everyone. I am loving it. You can watch it on OWN or online at www.oprah.com or on Facebook but it is some the best television out there and I've learned some real things that I use each time I watch it. I tape it on the DVR so I can watch it when I have time.
Speaking of miracle dogs, Nick's service dog, Charger, is back home with us now. Thank you to Jenny Barlos and the staff at Assistance Dogs of America (www.adai.orghttp://www.adai.org">www.adai.org>) who helped us this summer with Charger to lost weight so he can be certified to work with Nick. We are obsessed now with making sure he's active every day. Unfortunately, our other two dogs, who we love to death, are older and LAZY. They'll run one lap with Charger around the yard (they're not big dogs like him!) and they quit, while Charger's just warming up. We love having him back and missed him. He's amazing and he and Nick are bonded tightly!
Life has been, well, like it is for most people, good, bad, frustrating lately. A mixture of all things.
The kids are busy with school. Nick is half way through his first semester of college and doing well and Isabella is loving 6th grade. She's in student council and loves that, playing Saxophone, joining Pep band, and taking dance. Greg is busy helping Nick, the usual things, and he's working on some special projects at work right now which he's really liking for a change. He and Nick are loving Fantasy football, going to games, etc. I've been working on healing my feet still (STILL.....such a slow process and tests my patience) and taking care of things at home and with the kids. I am wanting to go back to work once we get things settled with Nick and get him his van so he can get himself to and from school and we have someone to help him with personal care things at school.
We were told about three weeks ago that there is another delay with getting Nick's van at the State of Ohio level (RSC, the Rehabilitation Services Commission, or state vocational rehabilitation agency). Basically, the short version is that we were told there is a delay getting the funding for the modifications for Nick's van (we are buying him a brand new van and the State agreed to pay for the modifications, about $24, 000.oo). We think that is a lot of money and are glad they are willing to help so we knew going in we'd have alot of paperwork and waiting and we'd have to jump through the usual bureaucratic hoops one does when asking for services. We were told that we could "complain or appeal" about the additional possible SIX MONTH delay but if we do, that will just delay the process even further. That is what we were told. So, of course, we don't want it delayed even further as it is putting Nick and us in a real "hold" ourselves and a bind, so we can't "complain" or appeal this. We think this is terrible, and words I can't or shouldn't use in this blog. We're so angry/upset at this and the fact that there is literally no accountability or good customer service at these agencies at the state level in our opinion. Basically, it's made known, if you want help and want services, this is just what you have to put up with. Forget what it does to your life while you wait, they don't care at all. So, needless to say, it's frustrating. We're trying just go keep going and do what we have to do each day to get Nick to school and help him. He should be in school right now and this is the right thing for us to do and we'll do what we can to make that happen for him. At some point, now that he's an adult, he should be able to access the services that adults with disabilities can access. The reason he's eligible or these services at all (besides we pay taxes like everyone else) is that he has a disability and wants to, intends to work and contribute to society. He plans to and is getting a college degree so he can work. He just needs some extra things due to his disability to make that possible, such as a van with a lift so he can get his power wheelchair to and from school and eventually to and from a job. So, we applied for services and are waiting. If we can get help with $24000 worth of modifications he needs for the van lift, etc., we'll do what we have to do to get it for him so he can go to college, work, get to and from places he wants to/needs to go.
Nick just got over being sick. He was pretty sick for a couple of weeks. We also just got him fitted for a sports wheelchair, a quad-rugby chair, made for wheelchair court sports like football, basketball, quad rugby. Nick is still practicing with the Toledo Crash football team at The Ability Center of Greater Toledo. We're just waiting on a quote for the chair. Insurance won't pay for this chair, but we feel he needs it to participate in sports and is worth it. We were laughing about the fact we may need a shed just to keep his "wheels". He'll have his sports chair, his power wheelchair, his regular manual wheelchair, his Segway, his walker, and his Paralympic hand-peddled bike! That's quite a collection! Then he'll have a brand new van with a lift. This should give people an idea of the expenses people with disabilities have to participate in the world. I have to add of course all of the hearing aids and supplies for that which insurance does NOT cover, because it is not medically necessary to hear of course;) Sometimes I just want to educate people, not to complain, but so they are aware of the stresses that families have. These are things most people don't talk about because we don't talk about money and who wants to think about it all the time? (not us!) But, it's just the reality.
We are really needing some family time alone so we are going to Florida for the holiday break. Nick and Bella only get 2 weeks at Christmas (Nick get a month and Bella gets 2 weeks) and the summer off together now. Their spring breaks are at totally different times. So, family time is limited to those times for vacations and Nick can't take extreme heat in summer, so that limits where we can go if we go on vacation in the summer. We're going to spend Christmas in Clearwater on the beach (even if it's cold, we love the beach!) and plan to go see the dolphin from the movie Dolphin Tale at the aquarium there. Then we're going to Orlando for New Years and plan to check out the Harry Potter theme park, Seaworld, and Disney Epcott (and maybe one other park). We've been to all the Disney Parks and Universal Studios four times now so we wanted to go the parks we haven't been to at all or much. We love Disney and Universal and will never be too old for it. We're always just happy when we're there! We're really looking forward to it.
Isabella is going to be a "Cowgirl" for Halloween tomorrow. We've had a great three day weekend together. Nick doesn't have Friday classes this semester, Bella had Friday off of school (not sure why-a planned day) and Greg took Friday off. We saw the movie 50/50 with our parents this weekend and loved it! We watched some scary movies and carved pumpkins. We're so glad the kids still love to spend time with us and as a family. We NEED it. When things get crazy, we just crave time together to remind ourselves that "everything is OKAY!" We hope everyone has a safe and fun Halloween!
One final thing....thank you to the people who read this blog and send us encouraging messages. We really love and appreciate the comments, e-mails, etc. :)))))
Blessings:)
Amy
Sunday, October 30, 2011
Tuesday, October 11, 2011
Building Inclusive Communities Video Includes Nick Hyndman
http://youtu.be/PA0rUsFv8xQ
Hi all,
Nick is included in this video by The Ability Center of Greater Toledo.
Blessings:)
Amy
Hi all,
Nick is included in this video by The Ability Center of Greater Toledo.
Blessings:)
Amy
Special Announcement for Northwest Ohio
Hi all,
I received an e-mail today, as Nick is a graduate of Assistance Dogs of America where he received his service dog, Charger. The announcement is of a partnership for the Northwest Ohio area with The Ability Center of Greater Toledo and Assistance Dogs of America. Here is a copy of the e-mail I received:
Dear ADAI Graduate,
We thank you for your continued support and involvement with Assistance Dogs and we have an exciting update to share.
October 9, The Ability Center of Greater Toledo and Assistance Dogs shared an important announcement. The two organizations, with long compatible missions, are forming a strategic partnership to better meet the needs of the disability community. This partnership allows the organizations to:
Ø Create greater operational efficiency by eliminating duplication of functions
Ø Train more dogs to serve a greater number of people
Ø Increase public awareness about the possibilities and value of full accessibility for all
Ø Promote internal discussion and planning about new kinds of service and delivery
Under the new collaboration, Assistance Dogs becomes a dedicated program of the Ability Center and will move its headquarters to the Ability Center campus on Monroe Street in Sylvania next spring. Private funding is being sought to renovate the Ability Center’s current Housing Resource Center for that purpose. The resource center will be relocated to a new facility on the Ability Center Campus on Skelly Road in Sylvania.
Although some things are changing, ADAI graduates will continue to receive the same level of dedicated support, advice and additional training from the Assistance Dogs staff. In fact, our new facility will be fully accessible (and have two accessible bathrooms in the facility!) with more room for brush-up classes and plenty of parking for visiting graduates and their dogs.
Financial gifts will continue to be made payable to Assistance Dogs. All gifts will be designated according to your wishes.
Governance of Assistance Dogs will transfer to the Ability Center Board of Directors this month and ten current staff members of Assistance Dogs will become Ability Center employees. Assistance Dogs board members will continue to play a critical role in this transition, serving for the next year as an Advisory Council.
This is truly an exciting time for both organizations and we’re pleased to share this news with you. Should you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact me at 419-825-3622, ext. 224 or Jenny Barlos at 419-825-3622, ext 236.
Sincerely,
Jan Brown,
Program Director
Assistance Dogs
See this link for another story:
http://www.toledoblade.com/local/2011/10/09/Local-agencies-for-assistance-disabled-link-up.html
Jan Fought Brown
Director
Assistance Dogs
8806 State Route 64
Swanton. OH 43558
419-825-3622 ext 224
Assistance Dogs is a program of The Ability Center
I received an e-mail today, as Nick is a graduate of Assistance Dogs of America where he received his service dog, Charger. The announcement is of a partnership for the Northwest Ohio area with The Ability Center of Greater Toledo and Assistance Dogs of America. Here is a copy of the e-mail I received:
Dear ADAI Graduate,
We thank you for your continued support and involvement with Assistance Dogs and we have an exciting update to share.
October 9, The Ability Center of Greater Toledo and Assistance Dogs shared an important announcement. The two organizations, with long compatible missions, are forming a strategic partnership to better meet the needs of the disability community. This partnership allows the organizations to:
Ø Create greater operational efficiency by eliminating duplication of functions
Ø Train more dogs to serve a greater number of people
Ø Increase public awareness about the possibilities and value of full accessibility for all
Ø Promote internal discussion and planning about new kinds of service and delivery
Under the new collaboration, Assistance Dogs becomes a dedicated program of the Ability Center and will move its headquarters to the Ability Center campus on Monroe Street in Sylvania next spring. Private funding is being sought to renovate the Ability Center’s current Housing Resource Center for that purpose. The resource center will be relocated to a new facility on the Ability Center Campus on Skelly Road in Sylvania.
Although some things are changing, ADAI graduates will continue to receive the same level of dedicated support, advice and additional training from the Assistance Dogs staff. In fact, our new facility will be fully accessible (and have two accessible bathrooms in the facility!) with more room for brush-up classes and plenty of parking for visiting graduates and their dogs.
Financial gifts will continue to be made payable to Assistance Dogs. All gifts will be designated according to your wishes.
Governance of Assistance Dogs will transfer to the Ability Center Board of Directors this month and ten current staff members of Assistance Dogs will become Ability Center employees. Assistance Dogs board members will continue to play a critical role in this transition, serving for the next year as an Advisory Council.
This is truly an exciting time for both organizations and we’re pleased to share this news with you. Should you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact me at 419-825-3622, ext. 224 or Jenny Barlos at 419-825-3622, ext 236.
Sincerely,
Jan Brown,
Program Director
Assistance Dogs
See this link for another story:
http://www.toledoblade.com/local/2011/10/09/Local-agencies-for-assistance-disabled-link-up.html
Jan Fought Brown
Director
Assistance Dogs
8806 State Route 64
Swanton. OH 43558
419-825-3622 ext 224
Assistance Dogs is a program of The Ability Center
Friday, September 23, 2011
Isabella's 12th Birthday and New Updates
Hi all,
Happy Birthday to our Isabella Grace, who turned 12 last week!
I know, I know, I know........I've been a bad blogger and facebooker (my friends make sure to remind me:) ) the past few months. I have no excuses but the truth is that this year, especially this past six months, has been one of the craziest, busiest times I can remember in years with Nick's graduating, turning 18, and all if the disability stuff/transition stuff that we have to take care of to get him settled into college with the services be needs. I started working on all of this back in March but apparently, that wasn't soon enough.
Let me go back first to say that Isabella is loving Jr. High and the 6th grade, playing the saxophone this year, in student council, and dance. She had the best idea for her birthday. She wanted the family to go out to Port Clinton/Marblehead at the Lighthouse on the water for a picnic. So we did and it was the PERFECT day. The weather was perfect, we had great food and a lot of fun by the water and hanging out with family! We then topped it off with ice cream on the way home and she said it was a perfect day.
Nick is loving college by the way, the freedom of it, and he is "kicking butt and taking names" with his grades so far! We have note takers now for each class. The downsides are, the modified van won't be ready this semester, but we hope by December so we have it for next semester. This is due to Red Tape by RSC/The State of Ohio and nothing ever happens quickly I guess. Anyhow, we feel like we just have to be grateful for their assistance so we can't complain. The issue is, without it, Nick can't get his power chair to and from school or drive himself there, so we need to take him to and from school every day. Not only that, but we don't have a PCA (Personal Care Assistant) to help him with personal care tasks (lunch, restroom, lots of other little things people wouldn't imagine unless they had his disability) so we have to stay with him the entire time he's there, which will probably be the case this entire semester. We had no idea we would be in this place, but we are, so we are a "team" and we're doing what we have to do so Nick can attend college this semester, until we can get all of his services in place. We're so busy doing this, and Greg's work and the usual family/house obligations as well, Isabella's activities, that it's hard to get it all done. The best way to put it is, we are in "survival mode" or "day to day mode". We're working on it. (the van, the PCA, social security, adult services for Nick, all of it.....and have been for the past six months) Hopefully, by the end of the year, we'll have some of these things taken care of finally so Nick can be more independent. It's been a lot for us, but we're happy to do it, it's just hard right now. I'm still trying to heal the second degree burns on my feet I got on the beach in June in Hilton Head. I'm going to the wound care clinic every two weeks and they are about half way healed. It takes longer than I thought and because the burns are on the balls of my feet, where you walk, and I can't be off my feet right now, it's just taking longer. My Dad's been helping us too a couple of days a week.
I am behind on everything! (pictures, paperwork for Nick, house projects and just cleaning in general, and yes, blogging!) If we can just take care of Bella and Nick at this point and do what has to be done, we feel like we're doing pretty well! We've always been a busy family but this period of time has, by far, been busier than any period I can remember in recent years. I'm still committed to this blog and the purpose behind it. I have a lot of ideas and plans for it, I just have to have the time to catch up and then get going on them. And, I WILL get pics up soon! Did I mention that we've had our TWO computers CRASH (first one, then the other) in the past two months??????????? The ones with our pictures on them? We've got our pics up on snapfish but I haven't had time to do anything with them yet. We have two new laptops now finally.
Also, I wanted to say, Nick's party (graduation/18th b-day) was SO fun and a great success. We had the best time with our family and friends and with all of the people who were there to support Nick and us all of these years and that day. THANK you to everyone for making that a special day for Nick and us! There is nothing better than being with family and friends and there were people there who worked with Nick when he was little, up until this year. It was great! We have had a great team of professionals over the years to support us. Now we have to focus on getting services in place and a new team of professionals to support Nick as an adult.
I also had my first article published this month! In Exceptional Parent Magazine, September 2011 issue. The magazine has been one of our favorites since Nick was a baby and for the past few years, it's been available online only, not in hard print, as many magazines in this economy. Anyhow, I was contacted by the Editor-in Chief a few months ago and the article was published this month. I'll try to get that on there too. I'm having trouble with the link to it, getting it on blogger, so I'll need Greg's help to figure it out. (www.eparent.com)
Finally, I want to say that my husband, Greg, is the "Dad of the year" in my opinion! He has worked so hard for our family and works a 12-hour swing shift. He usually works 3 days one week and 4 days another, and although he has to work every other weekend and some holidays, his schedule has been GREAT for the family as he can be there for a lot of things for the kids. He has to occasionally work overtime to cover vacations or time off, but most of the time, it's three days one week and four days another. He's going to school part time to finish his degree and has been off and on for years as he has always put us first. If it weren't for Greg, Nick would not be able to go to school right now, because we don't have a modified van or PCA. He spends all of his days off during the week taking Nick as my feet have second degree burns. He never complains and he's always here for our important things when we need him. He's a true family man, and the best Dad I've ever witnessed. He does everything with the kids and I, the day to day hard stuff, the fun stuff, all of it. I think he deserves some recognition for having his priorities straight. I don't know how our family would survive and thrive without him. We love you Greg / Dad!
Until next time........(and I'll make sure it's not so long!)
Blessings:)
Amy
Happy Birthday to our Isabella Grace, who turned 12 last week!
I know, I know, I know........I've been a bad blogger and facebooker (my friends make sure to remind me:) ) the past few months. I have no excuses but the truth is that this year, especially this past six months, has been one of the craziest, busiest times I can remember in years with Nick's graduating, turning 18, and all if the disability stuff/transition stuff that we have to take care of to get him settled into college with the services be needs. I started working on all of this back in March but apparently, that wasn't soon enough.
Let me go back first to say that Isabella is loving Jr. High and the 6th grade, playing the saxophone this year, in student council, and dance. She had the best idea for her birthday. She wanted the family to go out to Port Clinton/Marblehead at the Lighthouse on the water for a picnic. So we did and it was the PERFECT day. The weather was perfect, we had great food and a lot of fun by the water and hanging out with family! We then topped it off with ice cream on the way home and she said it was a perfect day.
Nick is loving college by the way, the freedom of it, and he is "kicking butt and taking names" with his grades so far! We have note takers now for each class. The downsides are, the modified van won't be ready this semester, but we hope by December so we have it for next semester. This is due to Red Tape by RSC/The State of Ohio and nothing ever happens quickly I guess. Anyhow, we feel like we just have to be grateful for their assistance so we can't complain. The issue is, without it, Nick can't get his power chair to and from school or drive himself there, so we need to take him to and from school every day. Not only that, but we don't have a PCA (Personal Care Assistant) to help him with personal care tasks (lunch, restroom, lots of other little things people wouldn't imagine unless they had his disability) so we have to stay with him the entire time he's there, which will probably be the case this entire semester. We had no idea we would be in this place, but we are, so we are a "team" and we're doing what we have to do so Nick can attend college this semester, until we can get all of his services in place. We're so busy doing this, and Greg's work and the usual family/house obligations as well, Isabella's activities, that it's hard to get it all done. The best way to put it is, we are in "survival mode" or "day to day mode". We're working on it. (the van, the PCA, social security, adult services for Nick, all of it.....and have been for the past six months) Hopefully, by the end of the year, we'll have some of these things taken care of finally so Nick can be more independent. It's been a lot for us, but we're happy to do it, it's just hard right now. I'm still trying to heal the second degree burns on my feet I got on the beach in June in Hilton Head. I'm going to the wound care clinic every two weeks and they are about half way healed. It takes longer than I thought and because the burns are on the balls of my feet, where you walk, and I can't be off my feet right now, it's just taking longer. My Dad's been helping us too a couple of days a week.
I am behind on everything! (pictures, paperwork for Nick, house projects and just cleaning in general, and yes, blogging!) If we can just take care of Bella and Nick at this point and do what has to be done, we feel like we're doing pretty well! We've always been a busy family but this period of time has, by far, been busier than any period I can remember in recent years. I'm still committed to this blog and the purpose behind it. I have a lot of ideas and plans for it, I just have to have the time to catch up and then get going on them. And, I WILL get pics up soon! Did I mention that we've had our TWO computers CRASH (first one, then the other) in the past two months??????????? The ones with our pictures on them? We've got our pics up on snapfish but I haven't had time to do anything with them yet. We have two new laptops now finally.
Also, I wanted to say, Nick's party (graduation/18th b-day) was SO fun and a great success. We had the best time with our family and friends and with all of the people who were there to support Nick and us all of these years and that day. THANK you to everyone for making that a special day for Nick and us! There is nothing better than being with family and friends and there were people there who worked with Nick when he was little, up until this year. It was great! We have had a great team of professionals over the years to support us. Now we have to focus on getting services in place and a new team of professionals to support Nick as an adult.
I also had my first article published this month! In Exceptional Parent Magazine, September 2011 issue. The magazine has been one of our favorites since Nick was a baby and for the past few years, it's been available online only, not in hard print, as many magazines in this economy. Anyhow, I was contacted by the Editor-in Chief a few months ago and the article was published this month. I'll try to get that on there too. I'm having trouble with the link to it, getting it on blogger, so I'll need Greg's help to figure it out. (www.eparent.com)
Finally, I want to say that my husband, Greg, is the "Dad of the year" in my opinion! He has worked so hard for our family and works a 12-hour swing shift. He usually works 3 days one week and 4 days another, and although he has to work every other weekend and some holidays, his schedule has been GREAT for the family as he can be there for a lot of things for the kids. He has to occasionally work overtime to cover vacations or time off, but most of the time, it's three days one week and four days another. He's going to school part time to finish his degree and has been off and on for years as he has always put us first. If it weren't for Greg, Nick would not be able to go to school right now, because we don't have a modified van or PCA. He spends all of his days off during the week taking Nick as my feet have second degree burns. He never complains and he's always here for our important things when we need him. He's a true family man, and the best Dad I've ever witnessed. He does everything with the kids and I, the day to day hard stuff, the fun stuff, all of it. I think he deserves some recognition for having his priorities straight. I don't know how our family would survive and thrive without him. We love you Greg / Dad!
Until next time........(and I'll make sure it's not so long!)
Blessings:)
Amy
Monday, August 22, 2011
Useful Info. In Columbus Dispatch
Hi all,
A contact forwarded this info. to me and I thought a lot of people / parents may find this of interest and hopefully useful. Please share this information with anyone you know who may be interested. Thank you!
Blessings:)
Amy
FBI app to ID kids has parents’ thumbs-up
Free cellphone aid stores photos, more in case of emergency
By Stephanie Czekalinski
The Columbus Dispatch Sunday August 21, 2011 7:08 AM
The FBI introduced a smartphone application this month to help parents and law-enforcement agencies find a child who disappears.
The application stores basic information — photo, a physical description and contact information — on iPhones and iPads, making it possible for parents to quickly email that information to police, friends and relatives in an emergency.
“This is handy,” said Renee Crighton, 32, who reviewed the app at Cafe Brioso Downtown last week while her 4-year-old son had a cookie and a glass of milk.
Having the information on your phone makes it more accessible if your child disappears while you’re out with him or her — for example, in a crowded shopping mall. You wouldn’t have to run home to get a photo, Crighton pointed out.
That was the FBI’s goal when it decided to create the app, said FBI spokesman Paul Bresson.
The app takes the CDs and folders that parents have been using for years to store pictures, physical descriptions, fingerprints and DNA a step further, he said.
It also includes advice for families on what to do in the first hours after a child disappears.
The information is housed on the phone only and cannot be shared with other devices, and the FBI cannot access the information remotely, Bresson said. “It doesn’t leave the phone unless you email it.”
The app isn’t a replacement for the childID kits that some parents keep at home, with fingerprints and DNA samples, said Kenny Hansmire, executive director of the National Child Identification Program. The program has provided 30 million kits since 1998 in a partnership with the American Football Coaches Association and the FBI, he said.
The app can’t store fingerprints or DNA samples.
Fingerprints and DNA don’t change over time, but children grow and can change a lot in a short time, Hansmire said, so parents should update their physical descriptions every six months in both the kits and on their phones.
Crighton, who lives in Akron, keeps a packet with her son’s fingerprints at home, but she said she’ll download the app when one becomes available for her cellphone. It would give her peace of mind, she said, to have the basic information that law-enforcement agencies would need if her son disappeared.
The app is available only for iPhones and iPads, but the FBI said there are plans to develop it soon for other mobile devices.
Parents and others can download the app free from the app store on iTunes.
sczekalinski@dispatch.com
A contact forwarded this info. to me and I thought a lot of people / parents may find this of interest and hopefully useful. Please share this information with anyone you know who may be interested. Thank you!
Blessings:)
Amy
FBI app to ID kids has parents’ thumbs-up
Free cellphone aid stores photos, more in case of emergency
By Stephanie Czekalinski
The Columbus Dispatch Sunday August 21, 2011 7:08 AM
The FBI introduced a smartphone application this month to help parents and law-enforcement agencies find a child who disappears.
The application stores basic information — photo, a physical description and contact information — on iPhones and iPads, making it possible for parents to quickly email that information to police, friends and relatives in an emergency.
“This is handy,” said Renee Crighton, 32, who reviewed the app at Cafe Brioso Downtown last week while her 4-year-old son had a cookie and a glass of milk.
Having the information on your phone makes it more accessible if your child disappears while you’re out with him or her — for example, in a crowded shopping mall. You wouldn’t have to run home to get a photo, Crighton pointed out.
That was the FBI’s goal when it decided to create the app, said FBI spokesman Paul Bresson.
The app takes the CDs and folders that parents have been using for years to store pictures, physical descriptions, fingerprints and DNA a step further, he said.
It also includes advice for families on what to do in the first hours after a child disappears.
The information is housed on the phone only and cannot be shared with other devices, and the FBI cannot access the information remotely, Bresson said. “It doesn’t leave the phone unless you email it.”
The app isn’t a replacement for the childID kits that some parents keep at home, with fingerprints and DNA samples, said Kenny Hansmire, executive director of the National Child Identification Program. The program has provided 30 million kits since 1998 in a partnership with the American Football Coaches Association and the FBI, he said.
The app can’t store fingerprints or DNA samples.
Fingerprints and DNA don’t change over time, but children grow and can change a lot in a short time, Hansmire said, so parents should update their physical descriptions every six months in both the kits and on their phones.
Crighton, who lives in Akron, keeps a packet with her son’s fingerprints at home, but she said she’ll download the app when one becomes available for her cellphone. It would give her peace of mind, she said, to have the basic information that law-enforcement agencies would need if her son disappeared.
The app is available only for iPhones and iPads, but the FBI said there are plans to develop it soon for other mobile devices.
Parents and others can download the app free from the app store on iTunes.
sczekalinski@dispatch.com
Thursday, August 18, 2011
Happy 18th Birthday Nick!
Hi all,
Today Team Hyndman is celebrating Nick's 18th birthday! We are so grateful for the day he was born, his life, and he is the best son anyone could ever ask for (and big brother!). Happy 18th Birthday Nick! We can't wait to see what you do next.
We are having a party to celebrate Nick's 18th birthday, graduation, and starting college this Saturday and can't wait to see our family and friends! There are so many of you who have been there for us from the beginning and are always there for us and we're grateful!
Nick starts at The University of Toledo on Monday August 22nd. We've had a lot of "bumps in the road" and some things are still being worked on but we are hoping he gets off to a great start. I PROMISE to update the blog after we get Nick and Isabella settled into school next week. I have so much to post about that has been going on with us and also, I'm learning so much information about college for individuals with disabilities that I want to share and will. So, until then, we'll be busy celebrating and getting the kids started in school. Isabella had her orientation for Jr. High this week and starts 6th grade at the Jr. High next week too! She was nervous about her locker, getting to classes, the bigger building, all normal things kids worry about. We practiced and she was able to do it all like a pro! We're so excited for her and Nick both!
Blessings:)
Amy
Today Team Hyndman is celebrating Nick's 18th birthday! We are so grateful for the day he was born, his life, and he is the best son anyone could ever ask for (and big brother!). Happy 18th Birthday Nick! We can't wait to see what you do next.
We are having a party to celebrate Nick's 18th birthday, graduation, and starting college this Saturday and can't wait to see our family and friends! There are so many of you who have been there for us from the beginning and are always there for us and we're grateful!
Nick starts at The University of Toledo on Monday August 22nd. We've had a lot of "bumps in the road" and some things are still being worked on but we are hoping he gets off to a great start. I PROMISE to update the blog after we get Nick and Isabella settled into school next week. I have so much to post about that has been going on with us and also, I'm learning so much information about college for individuals with disabilities that I want to share and will. So, until then, we'll be busy celebrating and getting the kids started in school. Isabella had her orientation for Jr. High this week and starts 6th grade at the Jr. High next week too! She was nervous about her locker, getting to classes, the bigger building, all normal things kids worry about. We practiced and she was able to do it all like a pro! We're so excited for her and Nick both!
Blessings:)
Amy
Thursday, July 28, 2011
War Eagle Arkansas-Great Movie
Hi all,
I know, it's been too long and I have SO much to update everyone on. It's been a busy summer and we've had SO much happening. I will post with updates SOON, I promise, when I have more time to make sure I don't forget anything. I'll just say we've been getting Nick ready for college (now he will be attending The University of Toledo, which I'll explain in my upcoming post), getting all of his (and our) medical,etc. appts. in, working on getting that lift van finally, and doing some summer fun stuff as well. More on that later......
We watched this movie last night I bought on www.Amazon.com called "War Eagle Arkansas" which we thought was funny and touching. It's based on a true story between a young man with cerebral palsy and his friend (who stutters). We loved it! Our only complaint was it lacked subtitles or closed captioning, which we use ALL of the time now on all of our TVs and movies because Nick is also hearing impaired and in fact, his hearing has dropped. (it was mild-moderate loss in both ears and it is now moderate-severe in both ears) We've all become attached to closed captioning and use it even when Nick is not with us because you don't realize how much you miss otherwise at times! Anyhow, we hope you rent or buy this movie and watch it. There is bad language in it for those of you with young kids but the story outweighs any of that in our opinion and we had no problem letting Isabella watch it with us too as we know she knows better than to use that language! (just FYI for those who may have an issue with it!)
Blessings:)
Amy
I know, it's been too long and I have SO much to update everyone on. It's been a busy summer and we've had SO much happening. I will post with updates SOON, I promise, when I have more time to make sure I don't forget anything. I'll just say we've been getting Nick ready for college (now he will be attending The University of Toledo, which I'll explain in my upcoming post), getting all of his (and our) medical,etc. appts. in, working on getting that lift van finally, and doing some summer fun stuff as well. More on that later......
We watched this movie last night I bought on www.Amazon.com called "War Eagle Arkansas" which we thought was funny and touching. It's based on a true story between a young man with cerebral palsy and his friend (who stutters). We loved it! Our only complaint was it lacked subtitles or closed captioning, which we use ALL of the time now on all of our TVs and movies because Nick is also hearing impaired and in fact, his hearing has dropped. (it was mild-moderate loss in both ears and it is now moderate-severe in both ears) We've all become attached to closed captioning and use it even when Nick is not with us because you don't realize how much you miss otherwise at times! Anyhow, we hope you rent or buy this movie and watch it. There is bad language in it for those of you with young kids but the story outweighs any of that in our opinion and we had no problem letting Isabella watch it with us too as we know she knows better than to use that language! (just FYI for those who may have an issue with it!)
Blessings:)
Amy
Friday, June 24, 2011
New Book ; Freedom by Nancy Douglas
Hi all,
This book review on this new book was on Cerebral Palsy Family on Facebook and I wanted to share it. I can't wait to get the book and read it from www.amazon.com. Here is the info:
"Nancy Douglas
Book Review: "I absolutely loved this book and recommend it not only to parents of children with disabilities, but to all who would like to know how to remain faithful to God through tremendous adversity.
Nancy gives the reader a brutally honest glimpse of her life and her faith journey. I read it in an afternoon. You will too!" - Laura, Lafayette, California (5 out of 5 stars)
As low as $12.95
http://www.amazon.com/Freedom-Nancy-Douglas/dp/0615188222/ref=ntt_at_ep_dpt_1
Freedom
www.amazon.com
In the pages of Freedom, Nancy Douglas candidly shares the pain, grief, and trials of having a disabled child. From the initial storm of discovering her daughter was Autistic, deaf, and Failure to Thrive, to the agony of knowing she would never receive physically healing, her compelling and hone.....
Amy Parks-Jagel Hyndman thank you Nancy! I can't wait to read it!"
This is where the message ended but I'd go to Amazon.com to read the rest!
Blessings:)
Amy
This book review on this new book was on Cerebral Palsy Family on Facebook and I wanted to share it. I can't wait to get the book and read it from www.amazon.com. Here is the info:
"Nancy Douglas
Book Review: "I absolutely loved this book and recommend it not only to parents of children with disabilities, but to all who would like to know how to remain faithful to God through tremendous adversity.
Nancy gives the reader a brutally honest glimpse of her life and her faith journey. I read it in an afternoon. You will too!" - Laura, Lafayette, California (5 out of 5 stars)
As low as $12.95
http://www.amazon.com/Freedom-Nancy-Douglas/dp/0615188222/ref=ntt_at_ep_dpt_1
Freedom
www.amazon.com
In the pages of Freedom, Nancy Douglas candidly shares the pain, grief, and trials of having a disabled child. From the initial storm of discovering her daughter was Autistic, deaf, and Failure to Thrive, to the agony of knowing she would never receive physically healing, her compelling and hone.....
Amy Parks-Jagel Hyndman thank you Nancy! I can't wait to read it!"
This is where the message ended but I'd go to Amazon.com to read the rest!
Blessings:)
Amy
Thursday, June 23, 2011
Cerebral Palsy Fundraiser Info.
Hi all,
The message below was posted to Cerebral Palsy Family on Facebook by Chuck Rogers on 6/23 @ 1:33 pm. I thought I'd share it in case anyone is interested and please pass this information on to anyone who may be interested. Thank you! Here it is:
"Just a quick reminder that next week starts the Midnight Moonlight Ranch Cerebral Palsy fund raiser concert with free camping and fireworks in Rogers /Lisbon Ohio june 30th till July 5th in honor of Rain Marie. For ticket or campground info please google Midnight moonlight ranch or call 216-702-7889 thanks for your support"
Blessings:)
Amy
The message below was posted to Cerebral Palsy Family on Facebook by Chuck Rogers on 6/23 @ 1:33 pm. I thought I'd share it in case anyone is interested and please pass this information on to anyone who may be interested. Thank you! Here it is:
"Just a quick reminder that next week starts the Midnight Moonlight Ranch Cerebral Palsy fund raiser concert with free camping and fireworks in Rogers /Lisbon Ohio june 30th till July 5th in honor of Rain Marie. For ticket or campground info please google Midnight moonlight ranch or call 216-702-7889 thanks for your support"
Blessings:)
Amy
Wednesday, June 8, 2011
This And That
Hi all! I posted a couple of pictures above of Nick's new power wheelchair. This chair came in RECORD time! We ordered it only in March and we already got it! That has never happened to us before. It has taken about 6 months in the past to get chairs! National Seating and Mobility did a great job! Thank you! So, watch out! The only thing is, it is so big and heavy, it has taken two men to get it in and out of our van. I can't even do it with Greg's help, so at this time, Nick will not be able to use it unless Greg and another strong person is available to get it in and out of the van. We purchased a portable ramps, but it is so unsteady and not very easy to get it to work as our van roof is not high enough or the floor is not low enough, so it was just a reminder to us how important it is for us to get Nick a van with a lift before school starts or we don't know how he'll be able to get to and from school. We may have to take him and stay with him to push him to and from classes until we get the lift van. That's our first thought, but we'll see how things pan out and will keep you updated!
We got this chair with college in mind, thinking Nick would be able to get around on campus much easier and not have to have someone push him, and it would be faster so he could get to classes, etc. on time. Most people (and their families) who are wheelchair users know you take extra time to load, unload everywhere you go and it just takes more time to get around in general most of the time! We thought this chair would help. Even though Nick can propel a chair on his own or be pushed, we had to think of what was the most important thing in this case, Nick being independent and pushing himself or have someone push him (in which case we'd need to make sure someone was always with him, which is not realistic) OR getting to class easily and on time and concentrating his energies on THAT. So, we chose the latter! Nick understands this concept. I mean, he understands that sometimes, even though he CAN do man things without help, it usually is a struggle, takes him much longer, and takes a lot of physical energy, so for him to "keep up" the pace with others, he has to use help at times so he can live the life he wants to live. We had to address this with him when he was very young because he wanted to do EVERYTHING on his own and was so determined, yet he needed help at school, for example, to take notes and write for him (a scribe) because it took him a lot of time and energy and he couldn't keep up with the classes pace. As he got older and matured, he accepted this and understood it was not a reflection on his abilities at all. Most people don't know that in Nick's case (and for other individuals with physical disabilities), it takes 2-3 times as much energy to do anything we do normally. We were told this by a specialist when Nick was very young. It's true too. So, to get out of bed, hold his head up straight all day, sit up straight, anything at all, it takes a lot more effort and energy. When Nick gets home from school for example, there have been many days when he literally can't hold his head up and is just exhausted. (more days than not) This is just the "norm" for us. We know this about him, are used to it, know how to deal with it, etc. I think, however, that most people don't even realize this when they look at Nick because he's so capable and doesn't complain and is just out there living life to the fullest, but it takes a lot out of him. He wouldn't want things any other way though because he wants to live a full, active, fun life. So, we do what we can to help him reach those goals! Part of that for me is trying to make people "aware" and understand Nick and disability more. I love educating people and sharing information because I think when we understand and learn about people, there are positive outcomes for everyone.
I didn't mention yet, we were able to get American Idol Live concert tickets in Detroit in August. I was on the computer as they went on sale and was able to get great seats! We love American Idol and have watched it as a family most seasons for years but we all thought this year was the BEST season ever! We LOVED the new judges (not that we didn't like Simon, we did, but these judges just gave it new life!) and the talent was better overall than any year we can remember. So,we're so excited to go as a family to see it Live!
We are counting down the days not to our vacation and are looking forward to Hilton Head and Savannah, the beach, the pool, being with our parents and family, just "relaxing" in our beach house and going to Paula Deen's restaurant, which is something my Mom and Greg's Mom really wanted to do so we're excited to do it when we visit Savannah for the day.
Lastly, we are missing Charger so much although he's in very good hands! I've written before about his weight problem. He can't be certified (he's had a temporary certification) until he loses the weight and we have not done a very good job at making that happen for a lot of reasons (none of them excuses but just our circumstances). So, we did not want all of the hard work and time/money put into training Charger for two years to go to waste and we want him to be able to be out with and help Nick, still work of course. We got a call from the client services director at ADAI and they offered to help us and we are so grateful. So, we jokingly call it "fat camp" (in an effort to laugh instead of cry). He's out at ADAI working with their trained staff and other dogs who are losing weight as well, under supervision, to safely lose the weight. We are so grateful and appreciative and know he's in great hands and being cared for really well! BUT, we MISS him so much it hurts! Believe me, we know we don't want to go through this again so we have to make sure he gets enough exercise when he comes home in a few months. We'll be able to and will visit him. Nick and Greg and taking it very well and "rationally". Isabella and I have been crying a lot when we think of him, more emotional, and we don't want him to think we abandoned him. Well, this is a real gift and we're grateful! Charger IS a part of our family. He's an excellent and smart working dog AND a big "baby" when he's "off the clock" and just hanging out with the family and our other two dogs. All four of us could use more activity and exercise so we hope to step it up for all of us!
That's the latest in the Hyndman home and we'll be writing about our vacation and college planning more after our vacation.
Oh, one more important thing I want bring up! Regarding my last post, I received a phone call from the Superintendent of the program I mentioned in my post and she explained how the van comment was brought up, why it was asked about, and the intention behind it, which was only good intention and was a great relief to me. I am grateful she reached out to me and explained it and it made a lot of sense. They do really want to make sure Nick gets what he needs and if they are not able to fund it, they want to figure out who can help us with this. They understand the expense of a modified vehicle and Nick's need for it! So, I wanted to say it had a good ending! Good communication is so important which is what this situation reminded me!:-)
Blessings:)
Amy
Thursday, June 2, 2011
Tuned In and Tapped Out
Hi all,
I'll start by saying this post is being written out of a bit of frustration but not too much ;-) To begin, I'm grateful that anyone at all reads our blog and we hope to reach more people. The fact that anyone cares what we have to say amazes me. My reasons for writing this blog have never changed and I know I've talked about them in previous posts, so I won't write all of that again. So,I don't regret any outcomes or repercussions of it because I know when we decided to share our story/blog, people have the right to form opinions (of course!) and make judgements. That happens I know, and it may momentarily frustrate us at times, but it's OK! Everyone has a right to their opinions just as we do and we are blogging for only good reasons.
It was shared with me that administrators of one of the programs we are seeking services from for Nick read our blog, which is great! I want to clarify however, that we didn't say ( I didn't write) that any organization was going to "buy us a van" or pay for all of our expenses or anything else. We just wrote about the fact we need a wheelchair lift van for Nick for Nick to be able to go to college and use his power chair ANYWHERE, not just at college, and we wrote about the quote we got from one vendor. I said that the Bridges To Transition Program is helping us because we were told that, which doesn't mean they will pay for everything. That is not our expectation. I want to be able to write about what is happening with Nick and a large part of that is the services he receives and all of the steps we have to take to get what he needs. Over the last 17 1/2 years, we've spent A LOT of time, effort, and our own money to make sure Nick has what he needs.
After a family like ours gets to the stage we are at, where Nick is going to be 18 this year, at least for us (I'll speak for us!), we are TAPPED OUT and we need help. We have no more resources and as I've had to be off work often to be available for Nick, we don't always have two incomes in our family. (I've worked off and on sporadically as our family situation permits it and depending on Nick's needs!) We've been told we should just take care of things on our own at times. We HAVE done that MANY times. We've used all of our resources, money, and lots of our time to purchase things insurance does not cover, go to therapies, take time off work for therapy, surgery, and we've gotten lots of equipment. So, we ARE going to seek whatever help Nick qualifies for to pay for his college, van with a lift, whatever else he needs. We aren't asking for anything he doesn't qualify for. Greg and I pay our taxes like everyone else and we've done things pretty much on our own for 17 1/2 years. ( We haven't had a lot of help other than family resources from our local board of dd. That's it!) We don't feel guilty for asking for help and it doesn't mean we don't care for Nick well and it doesn't mean we haven't spent years doing things on our own. We have. We are tapped out! We're still great parents. We'll always be a part of Nick's life, involved, here when he needs us, and we'll always do what we can for him and Isabella.
So, if I could say one thing right now to readers of our blog, I'd say, you may have a right to judge us and say things about us but we don't appreciate it. If anyone has any concerns, questions, opinions, we'd be happy to sit down with you and discuss things face to face. Thank you for tuning in and I hope you continue to do so! You may find out we're good people and a great family.
Blessings :-)
Amy
I'll start by saying this post is being written out of a bit of frustration but not too much ;-) To begin, I'm grateful that anyone at all reads our blog and we hope to reach more people. The fact that anyone cares what we have to say amazes me. My reasons for writing this blog have never changed and I know I've talked about them in previous posts, so I won't write all of that again. So,I don't regret any outcomes or repercussions of it because I know when we decided to share our story/blog, people have the right to form opinions (of course!) and make judgements. That happens I know, and it may momentarily frustrate us at times, but it's OK! Everyone has a right to their opinions just as we do and we are blogging for only good reasons.
It was shared with me that administrators of one of the programs we are seeking services from for Nick read our blog, which is great! I want to clarify however, that we didn't say ( I didn't write) that any organization was going to "buy us a van" or pay for all of our expenses or anything else. We just wrote about the fact we need a wheelchair lift van for Nick for Nick to be able to go to college and use his power chair ANYWHERE, not just at college, and we wrote about the quote we got from one vendor. I said that the Bridges To Transition Program is helping us because we were told that, which doesn't mean they will pay for everything. That is not our expectation. I want to be able to write about what is happening with Nick and a large part of that is the services he receives and all of the steps we have to take to get what he needs. Over the last 17 1/2 years, we've spent A LOT of time, effort, and our own money to make sure Nick has what he needs.
After a family like ours gets to the stage we are at, where Nick is going to be 18 this year, at least for us (I'll speak for us!), we are TAPPED OUT and we need help. We have no more resources and as I've had to be off work often to be available for Nick, we don't always have two incomes in our family. (I've worked off and on sporadically as our family situation permits it and depending on Nick's needs!) We've been told we should just take care of things on our own at times. We HAVE done that MANY times. We've used all of our resources, money, and lots of our time to purchase things insurance does not cover, go to therapies, take time off work for therapy, surgery, and we've gotten lots of equipment. So, we ARE going to seek whatever help Nick qualifies for to pay for his college, van with a lift, whatever else he needs. We aren't asking for anything he doesn't qualify for. Greg and I pay our taxes like everyone else and we've done things pretty much on our own for 17 1/2 years. ( We haven't had a lot of help other than family resources from our local board of dd. That's it!) We don't feel guilty for asking for help and it doesn't mean we don't care for Nick well and it doesn't mean we haven't spent years doing things on our own. We have. We are tapped out! We're still great parents. We'll always be a part of Nick's life, involved, here when he needs us, and we'll always do what we can for him and Isabella.
So, if I could say one thing right now to readers of our blog, I'd say, you may have a right to judge us and say things about us but we don't appreciate it. If anyone has any concerns, questions, opinions, we'd be happy to sit down with you and discuss things face to face. Thank you for tuning in and I hope you continue to do so! You may find out we're good people and a great family.
Blessings :-)
Amy
Graduation and Fifth Grade Recognition
Hi all,
I have so much I want to write about but I wanted to write about Nick's graduation and Isabella's Fifth Grade Recognition (graduation from elementary school into Jr. High) in a separate post because these events have been the highlight of our month here in our family.
Nick's graduation from Perrysburg High School was Sunday, the same day as Greg's birthday. It was a beautiful ceremony really, great speeches, etc. at The Stranahan. Nick walked (not rolled) hand in hand with another student down the aisle and on to the stage. I didn't "bawl" or cry my eyes out, I was really just so excited and happy for Nick. I did, however, get a little choked up when I saw him enter the theatre, standing up and walking, and hearing pomp and circumstance, yes, then I cried a happy cry! Then Nick walked across the stage to accept his diploma and the audience was asked not to clap or yell out so that everyone could hear their name, have their moment, etc. When Nick started walking, someone ( I was told by someone later, it was the students) started clapping and Nick got quite an ovation from everyone. It was a huge shock and very touching. We had 20 people there for Nick. Afterwards, we had the nicest dinner with our close family at Mancy's Italian and we celebrated Nick's graduation and Greg's birthday. It was really just a perfect day. Nick and Bella ended up conning PaPa and NaNa Jagel into spending the night at their house with their cousins and the next morning, Memorial Day, they attended a memorial ceremony at the cemetery where our Gran and Go-Go are buried and they helped with planting and weeding, cleaning up the grave area and Bella and our niece Maddie helped our Uncle Frank and Aunt Marcia with their family grave sites too while they were there. Greg and I thought that was very important and special for the kids to experience.
Yesterday, Isabella had her Fifth grade recognition ceremony and little class party afterwards. She received six awards and a letter from President Obama, which is her favorite I think. We could tell she felt good about that and it meant a lot to her. They also had "silly awards" in their class for which the class voted and Isabella got "best dancer", which was cute. Afterwards they had cupcakes, cookies, signed yearbooks, etc. Tomorrow, Friday, is their last day and they are visiting the Jr. High for the day and having lunch there. Hard to believe she'll be in Jr. High next year already!
So,Greg and I are of course really proud of and happy for Nick and Isabella. It's still really "sinking in" and we're still going over Sunday in our minds trying to process and remember every detail. I think that's because it was a lot of work for Nick, and to be truthful, for us too, although we wouldn't change that and it was all worth it. I keep remembering the meetings in which people questioned if/when this day would happen and if Nick would go to college. I know we have a lot of details to work on and figure out this summer to get Nick started in college, but we know it will happen. 100%. No doubt.
These events were the highlight of our week, month, and year I'd say! Yeah Nick and Bella! :-)
Blessings:)
Amy
I have so much I want to write about but I wanted to write about Nick's graduation and Isabella's Fifth Grade Recognition (graduation from elementary school into Jr. High) in a separate post because these events have been the highlight of our month here in our family.
Nick's graduation from Perrysburg High School was Sunday, the same day as Greg's birthday. It was a beautiful ceremony really, great speeches, etc. at The Stranahan. Nick walked (not rolled) hand in hand with another student down the aisle and on to the stage. I didn't "bawl" or cry my eyes out, I was really just so excited and happy for Nick. I did, however, get a little choked up when I saw him enter the theatre, standing up and walking, and hearing pomp and circumstance, yes, then I cried a happy cry! Then Nick walked across the stage to accept his diploma and the audience was asked not to clap or yell out so that everyone could hear their name, have their moment, etc. When Nick started walking, someone ( I was told by someone later, it was the students) started clapping and Nick got quite an ovation from everyone. It was a huge shock and very touching. We had 20 people there for Nick. Afterwards, we had the nicest dinner with our close family at Mancy's Italian and we celebrated Nick's graduation and Greg's birthday. It was really just a perfect day. Nick and Bella ended up conning PaPa and NaNa Jagel into spending the night at their house with their cousins and the next morning, Memorial Day, they attended a memorial ceremony at the cemetery where our Gran and Go-Go are buried and they helped with planting and weeding, cleaning up the grave area and Bella and our niece Maddie helped our Uncle Frank and Aunt Marcia with their family grave sites too while they were there. Greg and I thought that was very important and special for the kids to experience.
Yesterday, Isabella had her Fifth grade recognition ceremony and little class party afterwards. She received six awards and a letter from President Obama, which is her favorite I think. We could tell she felt good about that and it meant a lot to her. They also had "silly awards" in their class for which the class voted and Isabella got "best dancer", which was cute. Afterwards they had cupcakes, cookies, signed yearbooks, etc. Tomorrow, Friday, is their last day and they are visiting the Jr. High for the day and having lunch there. Hard to believe she'll be in Jr. High next year already!
So,Greg and I are of course really proud of and happy for Nick and Isabella. It's still really "sinking in" and we're still going over Sunday in our minds trying to process and remember every detail. I think that's because it was a lot of work for Nick, and to be truthful, for us too, although we wouldn't change that and it was all worth it. I keep remembering the meetings in which people questioned if/when this day would happen and if Nick would go to college. I know we have a lot of details to work on and figure out this summer to get Nick started in college, but we know it will happen. 100%. No doubt.
These events were the highlight of our week, month, and year I'd say! Yeah Nick and Bella! :-)
Blessings:)
Friday, May 27, 2011
Article on Nick in Spring 2011 OHSAA Magazine
https://acrobat.com/#d=XRp8*-f38W8ZSyEUi1hXig -
Hi everyone,
The Ohio High School Athletic Association (OHSAA), www.ohsaa.org , published its Spring 2011 Magazine with an article on Nick. It can be viewed on their web site or by clicking the link above. A great article:)
Blessings:)
Amy
R-Word - Spread The Word To End The Word
Hi all,
http://www.r-word.org/r-word-not-acceptable-psa.aspx?tr=y&%3Bauid=8390770
We saw this GREAT Public Service Announcement while watching one of our favorite TV shows this week, GLEE on Fox. Hard to believe people are so ignorant that they don't "get this", it's like basic manners and "being a decent person" to me, but I am so glad they have this campaign because there is just NO good excuse or reason for this and I agree, it's not acceptable in any way. Pass this on!
Blessings:)
Amy
PS- I found a lot of great information at www.r-word.org including the following which I found very on point (under "resources" on the web page):
"Spread the Word to End the Word
Action Kit
KEY MESSAGES AND TALKING POINTS
It is time we Spread the Word to End the Word™ and build awareness for society to stop and think about its’ use of the R-word. That R-word is something hurtful and painful – “retard” or “retarded.” Most people don’t think of this word as hate speech, but that’s exactly what it feels like to millions of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, their families and friends. The R-word is just as cruel and offensive as any other slur. Visit www.r-word.org to make your pledge today.
· Young people around the world are taking a stand and raising awareness of the dehumanizing and hurtful effects of the words “retard” or “retarded” and are helping encourage others to think before they speak.
· Did you know the pejorative and ever increasing use of the R-word in today’s society further perpetuates the stigma and negative stereotypes that face people with intellectual disabilities?
· Up to three percent of the world’s population have intellectual disabilities - that’s 200 million people around the world. It’s the largest disability population in the world, perhaps you know someone?
· We ask that you help us change the conversation and help eliminate the demeaning use of the R-word from today’s popular youth vernacular and replace it with “respect.” We are asking for your help in creating a more accepting world for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and all those people that may appear different, but have unique gifts and talents to share with the world.
· We’re asking every person - young and old - to help eliminate the demeaning use of the R-word–a common taunt used to make fun of others. Often unwittingly, the word is used to denote behavior that is clumsy, hapless, and even hopeless. But whether intentional or not, the word conjures up a painful stereotype of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. It hurts. Even if you don’t mean it that way.
· People with intellectual and developmental disabilities are capable and enjoy sharing life experiences – listening to music, playing video games, watching the latest movies, and yes, having fun – as well as working together toward athletic excellence and mutually enriching one-to-one friendships as demonstrated constantly through Special Olympics and Best Buddies International. They can attend school, work, drive cars, get married, participate in decisions that affect them, and contribute to society in many ways.
· Special Olympics’ Multi-National Public Opinion Study of Attitudes toward People with Intellectual Disabilities, conducted by Gallup, reveals that throughout the world, over 60 percent of people still believe that people with intellectual disabilities should be segregated in schools and in the workplace. This is intolerable. We need massive attitude change now to attack and reverse the stigma that is destructive to the lives of people with intellectual disabilities and a barrier to growth.
· Did you know that by casually using the word “retard(ed)” to refer to an action as less than ideal you are making someone with an intellectual disability feel less than human - whether you mean to or not? Demeaning any of our fellow human beings by using inappropriate words toward any population negatively impacts all of us." (www.r-word.org under "Resources")
http://www.r-word.org/r-word-not-acceptable-psa.aspx?tr=y&%3Bauid=8390770
We saw this GREAT Public Service Announcement while watching one of our favorite TV shows this week, GLEE on Fox. Hard to believe people are so ignorant that they don't "get this", it's like basic manners and "being a decent person" to me, but I am so glad they have this campaign because there is just NO good excuse or reason for this and I agree, it's not acceptable in any way. Pass this on!
Blessings:)
Amy
PS- I found a lot of great information at www.r-word.org including the following which I found very on point (under "resources" on the web page):
"Spread the Word to End the Word
Action Kit
KEY MESSAGES AND TALKING POINTS
It is time we Spread the Word to End the Word™ and build awareness for society to stop and think about its’ use of the R-word. That R-word is something hurtful and painful – “retard” or “retarded.” Most people don’t think of this word as hate speech, but that’s exactly what it feels like to millions of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, their families and friends. The R-word is just as cruel and offensive as any other slur. Visit www.r-word.org to make your pledge today.
· Young people around the world are taking a stand and raising awareness of the dehumanizing and hurtful effects of the words “retard” or “retarded” and are helping encourage others to think before they speak.
· Did you know the pejorative and ever increasing use of the R-word in today’s society further perpetuates the stigma and negative stereotypes that face people with intellectual disabilities?
· Up to three percent of the world’s population have intellectual disabilities - that’s 200 million people around the world. It’s the largest disability population in the world, perhaps you know someone?
· We ask that you help us change the conversation and help eliminate the demeaning use of the R-word from today’s popular youth vernacular and replace it with “respect.” We are asking for your help in creating a more accepting world for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and all those people that may appear different, but have unique gifts and talents to share with the world.
· We’re asking every person - young and old - to help eliminate the demeaning use of the R-word–a common taunt used to make fun of others. Often unwittingly, the word is used to denote behavior that is clumsy, hapless, and even hopeless. But whether intentional or not, the word conjures up a painful stereotype of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. It hurts. Even if you don’t mean it that way.
· People with intellectual and developmental disabilities are capable and enjoy sharing life experiences – listening to music, playing video games, watching the latest movies, and yes, having fun – as well as working together toward athletic excellence and mutually enriching one-to-one friendships as demonstrated constantly through Special Olympics and Best Buddies International. They can attend school, work, drive cars, get married, participate in decisions that affect them, and contribute to society in many ways.
· Special Olympics’ Multi-National Public Opinion Study of Attitudes toward People with Intellectual Disabilities, conducted by Gallup, reveals that throughout the world, over 60 percent of people still believe that people with intellectual disabilities should be segregated in schools and in the workplace. This is intolerable. We need massive attitude change now to attack and reverse the stigma that is destructive to the lives of people with intellectual disabilities and a barrier to growth.
· Did you know that by casually using the word “retard(ed)” to refer to an action as less than ideal you are making someone with an intellectual disability feel less than human - whether you mean to or not? Demeaning any of our fellow human beings by using inappropriate words toward any population negatively impacts all of us." (www.r-word.org under "Resources")
Wednesday, May 18, 2011
We Are Still Here !
Hi all!
We are still here! I know it's been some time since my last post. Please bare with us. This is the busiest time and there is so much going on in the Hyndman household and our lives.
Some highlights since my last post...........
We're also dealing with a few challenges which I don't wish to get into at this time but I will post about it soon when I have more time and clarity.
One final thing, we get Nick's new power chair tomorrow, which we ordered for him to make it easier to get around campus (and faster and safer) next year. We now just need to get a van with a lift for Nick which we're working on and we're going to need help from the Bridges to Transition Program to pay for the modifications which are actually $24,000 (just for the modifications, we were originally told maybe $8000-$12000, but it's actually$24000), on top of the cost of the van. The modifications cost as much as the van! To get this help, it can take months and there are a lot if steps involved and we are now waiting to hear from an "expert" that has to come to do an assessment from New York. We're hoping he calls soon. We're worried we won't get the van in time for college and if we don't, he won't be able to use his power chair. It's too heavy to lift ( a couple hundred pounds and large), so we're trying to figure out a back up plan in case. Anyhow, we have to believe it will all work out. Greg and I know we have to be flexible, take things from week to week and go with the flow because we might have to revise our plans at the last minute. It's so stressful for me but it is just the way it is. i DO believe it will all work out!
I'll try to post with updates soon and after graduation, I'll post some new pictures.
Blessings:)
Amy
We are still here! I know it's been some time since my last post. Please bare with us. This is the busiest time and there is so much going on in the Hyndman household and our lives.
Some highlights since my last post...........
- Nick received his award from the Ohio High School Athletic Association (OHSAA) that I mentioned in my last post. It was a very nice ceremony at the high school for seniors and the athletic director gave a wonderful presentation before Nick's award that moved many to tears. Nick received a standing ovation. :-) Nick is now in his last full week of high school! Next week, he has senior exams and picnic and his last full day is Wed. He'll have rehearsal for graduation Friday morning and his graduation ceremony is Sunday May 29th! We have his cap and gown. It's going to be a happy and emotional day and we're planning a nice dinner for family at Mancy's Italian afterwards.
- Bella had her violin concert and it was beautiful. She also played the violin in her school talent show. This week is busy with extra practices/rehearsal and her dance recital is this Saturday. She has three dances and a five year dance for the finale as she has been at this dance studio for five years this year. (she was at another studio before that for a few years and before that she took preschool ballet at the YMCA) She loves dance! Right now, hip hop is her favorite. (this changes from time to time!) Greg participated in Bella's school career day last week and was one of several presenters talking to the kids about what he does at his work. Bella was his assistant for one of the sessions. It was so cute and I love that he did it. Bella's last day of school is the week of Memorial Day.
We're also dealing with a few challenges which I don't wish to get into at this time but I will post about it soon when I have more time and clarity.
One final thing, we get Nick's new power chair tomorrow, which we ordered for him to make it easier to get around campus (and faster and safer) next year. We now just need to get a van with a lift for Nick which we're working on and we're going to need help from the Bridges to Transition Program to pay for the modifications which are actually $24,000 (just for the modifications, we were originally told maybe $8000-$12000, but it's actually$24000), on top of the cost of the van. The modifications cost as much as the van! To get this help, it can take months and there are a lot if steps involved and we are now waiting to hear from an "expert" that has to come to do an assessment from New York. We're hoping he calls soon. We're worried we won't get the van in time for college and if we don't, he won't be able to use his power chair. It's too heavy to lift ( a couple hundred pounds and large), so we're trying to figure out a back up plan in case. Anyhow, we have to believe it will all work out. Greg and I know we have to be flexible, take things from week to week and go with the flow because we might have to revise our plans at the last minute. It's so stressful for me but it is just the way it is. i DO believe it will all work out!
I'll try to post with updates soon and after graduation, I'll post some new pictures.
Blessings:)
Amy
Wednesday, April 20, 2011
Nick Wins Award From OHSAA
Hi all,
Today we received a letter and I'll just share what it said:
To: Nick Hyndman
Re: Ohio High School Athletic Association Courageous Student Award
Congratulations on being nominated and selected as the recipient of the 2010-2011 OHSAA "Courageous Student Award". You are to be commended for the turnaround you have experienced here at Perrysburg High School. You have overcome adversity with your perseverance and dedication to achieve success. Please plan to attend an awards ceremony on Tuesday May 10th at 6:30 pm. It will take place in the high school auditorium. Once again, congratulations and I am looking forward to presenting you with this award in May.
Sincerely,
Ray Pohlman
Athletic Director (Perrysburg High School)
Blessings:)
Amy
Today we received a letter and I'll just share what it said:
To: Nick Hyndman
Re: Ohio High School Athletic Association Courageous Student Award
Congratulations on being nominated and selected as the recipient of the 2010-2011 OHSAA "Courageous Student Award". You are to be commended for the turnaround you have experienced here at Perrysburg High School. You have overcome adversity with your perseverance and dedication to achieve success. Please plan to attend an awards ceremony on Tuesday May 10th at 6:30 pm. It will take place in the high school auditorium. Once again, congratulations and I am looking forward to presenting you with this award in May.
Sincerely,
Ray Pohlman
Athletic Director (Perrysburg High School)
Blessings:)
Amy
Toledo Crash Wins Against UT
On Sunday, the Toledo Crash wheelchair football team won its game against The University of Toledo Football Team. Nick played for his second year and was quarterback. He got four touchdowns and most of all, he had a BLAST! He loved it! It's VERY competitive! Congratulations to the entire team! There is an article on The Ability Center of Greater Toledo's website (http://www.abilitycenter.org/) and also, if you are on Facebook, The Toledo Crash have a Facebook page with lots of pictures!
One of the great parts of the day is how blessed we were that we had so many family and friends came to support Nick and the team. We had 22 of our friends/family come to the game and that really meant a lot to us! Thank you to everyone who came out to cheer Nick and the team on! One of the teachers from Nick's school, not one of his teachers, came as well which was SO cool! Nick's former para who has worked with him on and off since third grade, who has dealt with a life-threatening illness over the past year and is still dealing with it, came with us and one of our friends who is living with cancer came. He just had surgery for his cancer the prior month and had only been out once before he came to the game with the rest of his family who are good friends of ours. We think it says a lot and it means a lot to us that everyone came, including these people who have been and are dealing with illness and still came to support Nick! THANK YOU and we love you all! We are just so blessed to have good friends and family. We think over the years, we've made long-lasting, good friends and a small but close group of people who have been on this journey with Nick and us over the past 17 years and a steady part of our lives. We often feel like we get more than we have the opportunity to give to our friends and family, especially when we're dealing with challenges with Nick, and so we know the people in our lives are special and loyal.
After the game, a large group of us went out to eat and I'll say it again, it was just such a nice day! A real "feel good" kind of day!
Congratulations to our niece Maddie who won several trophies and danced beautifully at a dance competition in Michigan last Saturday. We were lucky to be able to go and watch her dance. She is REALLY a great dancer! We're so proud of her!
So, it was a great weekend for Team Hyndman!
Blessings:)
Amy
Wednesday, April 13, 2011
E-mail from Reader
Hi Amy!
What a wonderful blog you have (and such beautiful kids!)
I came across your blog, and have shared it with my daughter, Angela. She was stillborn, and went fifteen minutes without oxygen at birth. She was diagnosed with spastic diplegia at two years old... but those first two years (as I'm sure you know) were a rollercoaster ride all by themselves. We've been fortunate in that her CP has not been as severe as it could have been. But, she has still faced challenges in everyday life (sometimes unknowningly). I've always taken a pro-active approach with her treatment(s) and have never allowed her to give up easily. Since Angela's diplegia has been so under-the-radar, for many years Angela has been under the impression that "SHE" was the "only one" who had these challenges.
I think it's great that you are sharing your family experiences with others, and I thank you for doing so :-).
Sharing your blog/story with her allowed me another opportunity to "prove" to her that having any type of disability, no matter how severe or mild it may be, is not an inhibitor in life and should never be the "crutch" for giving up or not trying. (Apparently, when she turned 10, I went from "all-knowing" to "knowing nothing" so showing her stories such as Nick's is the only "real proof"!).
A very good friend of mine has been working on a project that has this very goal in mind. Angela and I have jumped onboard 100% and we'd like to share it with you, possibly get some feedback, and hope that you will share it, too. Please take a look at the trailer that's posted online and let us know what you think.:
http://www.indiegogo.com/the-cohesion-project
If you'd like, you can contact the director, Doug Bollinger, personally (I've also included him in this email).
I am looking forward to hearing back from you, and to keeping up with your blog!
Thank you,
Elizabeth Magistro &; Angela Beller
(Post of The Cohesion Project Info. below!)
What a wonderful blog you have (and such beautiful kids!)
I came across your blog, and have shared it with my daughter, Angela. She was stillborn, and went fifteen minutes without oxygen at birth. She was diagnosed with spastic diplegia at two years old... but those first two years (as I'm sure you know) were a rollercoaster ride all by themselves. We've been fortunate in that her CP has not been as severe as it could have been. But, she has still faced challenges in everyday life (sometimes unknowningly). I've always taken a pro-active approach with her treatment(s) and have never allowed her to give up easily. Since Angela's diplegia has been so under-the-radar, for many years Angela has been under the impression that "SHE" was the "only one" who had these challenges.
I think it's great that you are sharing your family experiences with others, and I thank you for doing so :-).
Sharing your blog/story with her allowed me another opportunity to "prove" to her that having any type of disability, no matter how severe or mild it may be, is not an inhibitor in life and should never be the "crutch" for giving up or not trying. (Apparently, when she turned 10, I went from "all-knowing" to "knowing nothing" so showing her stories such as Nick's is the only "real proof"!).
A very good friend of mine has been working on a project that has this very goal in mind. Angela and I have jumped onboard 100% and we'd like to share it with you, possibly get some feedback, and hope that you will share it, too. Please take a look at the trailer that's posted online and let us know what you think.:
http://www.indiegogo.com/the-cohesion-project
If you'd like, you can contact the director, Doug Bollinger, personally (I've also included him in this email).
I am looking forward to hearing back from you, and to keeping up with your blog!
Thank you,
Elizabeth Magistro &; Angela Beller
(Post of The Cohesion Project Info. below!)
Toledo Blade Article 4/13/11 on Toledo Crash Football Team
Hi all,
I've attached an article from The Toledo Blade's website of an article that came out today on the Toledo Crash, the Wheelchair Football Team Nick plays on. The pictures didn't copy but if you go to the Blade's website, http://www.toledoblade.com/ to read the article ( I typed "wheelchair" in the search engine on their page and the article came up!), there is a picture of Nick.
Blessings:)
Amy
Published: 4/13/2011 - Updated: 5 hours ago
Wheelchair team predicts victory over Rockets
Toledo Crash to play football against UT squad
BY MARK REITER
BLADE STAFF WRITER
Amit Goyao, left, of Toledo, tries to 'tackle' Nick Hyndman, right, a member of the Toledo Crash wheelchair football team from Perrysburg, during a scrimmage with the University of Toledo Rec Therapy Club. THE BLADE/AMY E. VOIGT Enlarge
Photo Reprints Sean O'Mara is at the top of his game.
Although players on the opposing squad are younger, bigger, and more athletic, the 41-year-old Toledoan is predicting that his team, Toledo Crash, will upset the Rockets.
"I am highly competitive. In fact sometimes I hold back a little bit. But not against the University of Toledo. I predict it will be very close, with a Toledo Crash win," Mr. O'Mara said while taking a break at a recent scrimmage.
The Toledo Crash, founded 10 years ago, is a wheelchair team organized by the Ability Center of Northwest Ohio in Sylvania. They will take on members of the UT football team at 2 p.m. Sunday at the UT Recreation Center on campus.
Mr. O'Mara, who was born with cerebral palsy and is among the eight Crash players, has been playing wheelchair football since he was 11 years old. He said he loves the competition because it has opened doors for him to meet people while demonstrating that there are no barriers for people with disabilities.
"I think that in my situation I have gotten great opportunities to meet wonderful people. It is not about winning or losing but about getting out there and competing," said Mr. O'Mara, a UT graduate and member of the Ability Center board of trustees.
The game is played on a regulation basketball court in wheelchairs, either manual or motorized, with five to seven players a side. Players follow basic football rules to move a Styrofoam football down the court into end zones to score points. Each touchdown is worth 6 points.
However, the game has specific rules for three levels of players according to disability.
Level 1 players have fully functioning arms, hands, and eyes. They must catch and hold onto the ball and must touch another player to tackle him and cannot tackle him by touching his chair. Grabbing a chair is considered holding.
The UT football team participates in Level 1.
Level 2 players have limited arm and hand movement or are visually impaired. In catching, the ball must hit them anywhere between the hands and elbows with enough force that some deflection occurs in the flight of the ball -- the ball grazing the hair on a knuckle doesn't count.
Chris Clarke, left, a member of the Toledo Crash wheelchair football team from Toledo, tries to 'tackle' Chelsea Lasater, of Toledo, during a scrimmage with the UT Rec Therapy Club. THE BLADE/AMY E. VOIGT Enlarge
Photo Reprints Fielding the ball on kickoffs requires having it hit or bounce anywhere into the front of the body or chair, or running over the ball. After "catching" the ball or gaining possession, they can "run" with the ball.
In Level 2, a tackle occurs when a player's body of chair makes contact with an opposing player's body or chair.
A player can recover the ball by trapping it under his chair.
Level 3 players have minimal or no arm movement or are blind. They must abide by the same rules as Level 2 players except in making pass completions. Those require that the player must be hit in the front or side of the body from the waist up or in the back of the head or wheelchair headrest.
Mark Armstrong, a community connections coordinator with the Ability Center, said the rules put players, regardless of handicaps, on equal footing.
"The game allows someone with a disability to compete with another player without disabilities. It certainly levels the playing field. But even more it gives a person who is not disabled a keen awareness of the difficulties that someone with disabilities has with the activities that we all take for granted," he said.
Sally Ross, 46, is the only woman on the wheelchair squad. Legally blind and a Level 2 player, Ms. Ross said she plays wheelchair football because it's fun. She is a charter member of the Crash and has played in every match-up in the annual event with UT.
"This is the only team that I know," she said.
New to the Crash is Andrew Arthur, 23, a native of Brazil who is living in West Toledo while his parents serve as missionaries with a local church. Mr. Arthur, who was born with spina bifida, said that he and his teammates are really good at handling wheelchairs, giving the Crash an advantage over the more athletic UT football squad.
"I think we surprise people," the rookie said. "We can control our chairs better. The UT football players are bigger, but we know how to work our chairs."
Contact Mark Reiter at: markreiter@theblade.com or 419-724-6199
I've attached an article from The Toledo Blade's website of an article that came out today on the Toledo Crash, the Wheelchair Football Team Nick plays on. The pictures didn't copy but if you go to the Blade's website, http://www.toledoblade.com/ to read the article ( I typed "wheelchair" in the search engine on their page and the article came up!), there is a picture of Nick.
Blessings:)
Amy
Published: 4/13/2011 - Updated: 5 hours ago
Wheelchair team predicts victory over Rockets
Toledo Crash to play football against UT squad
BY MARK REITER
BLADE STAFF WRITER
Amit Goyao, left, of Toledo, tries to 'tackle' Nick Hyndman, right, a member of the Toledo Crash wheelchair football team from Perrysburg, during a scrimmage with the University of Toledo Rec Therapy Club. THE BLADE/AMY E. VOIGT Enlarge
Photo Reprints Sean O'Mara is at the top of his game.
Although players on the opposing squad are younger, bigger, and more athletic, the 41-year-old Toledoan is predicting that his team, Toledo Crash, will upset the Rockets.
"I am highly competitive. In fact sometimes I hold back a little bit. But not against the University of Toledo. I predict it will be very close, with a Toledo Crash win," Mr. O'Mara said while taking a break at a recent scrimmage.
The Toledo Crash, founded 10 years ago, is a wheelchair team organized by the Ability Center of Northwest Ohio in Sylvania. They will take on members of the UT football team at 2 p.m. Sunday at the UT Recreation Center on campus.
Mr. O'Mara, who was born with cerebral palsy and is among the eight Crash players, has been playing wheelchair football since he was 11 years old. He said he loves the competition because it has opened doors for him to meet people while demonstrating that there are no barriers for people with disabilities.
"I think that in my situation I have gotten great opportunities to meet wonderful people. It is not about winning or losing but about getting out there and competing," said Mr. O'Mara, a UT graduate and member of the Ability Center board of trustees.
The game is played on a regulation basketball court in wheelchairs, either manual or motorized, with five to seven players a side. Players follow basic football rules to move a Styrofoam football down the court into end zones to score points. Each touchdown is worth 6 points.
However, the game has specific rules for three levels of players according to disability.
Level 1 players have fully functioning arms, hands, and eyes. They must catch and hold onto the ball and must touch another player to tackle him and cannot tackle him by touching his chair. Grabbing a chair is considered holding.
The UT football team participates in Level 1.
Level 2 players have limited arm and hand movement or are visually impaired. In catching, the ball must hit them anywhere between the hands and elbows with enough force that some deflection occurs in the flight of the ball -- the ball grazing the hair on a knuckle doesn't count.
Chris Clarke, left, a member of the Toledo Crash wheelchair football team from Toledo, tries to 'tackle' Chelsea Lasater, of Toledo, during a scrimmage with the UT Rec Therapy Club. THE BLADE/AMY E. VOIGT Enlarge
Photo Reprints Fielding the ball on kickoffs requires having it hit or bounce anywhere into the front of the body or chair, or running over the ball. After "catching" the ball or gaining possession, they can "run" with the ball.
In Level 2, a tackle occurs when a player's body of chair makes contact with an opposing player's body or chair.
A player can recover the ball by trapping it under his chair.
Level 3 players have minimal or no arm movement or are blind. They must abide by the same rules as Level 2 players except in making pass completions. Those require that the player must be hit in the front or side of the body from the waist up or in the back of the head or wheelchair headrest.
Mark Armstrong, a community connections coordinator with the Ability Center, said the rules put players, regardless of handicaps, on equal footing.
"The game allows someone with a disability to compete with another player without disabilities. It certainly levels the playing field. But even more it gives a person who is not disabled a keen awareness of the difficulties that someone with disabilities has with the activities that we all take for granted," he said.
Sally Ross, 46, is the only woman on the wheelchair squad. Legally blind and a Level 2 player, Ms. Ross said she plays wheelchair football because it's fun. She is a charter member of the Crash and has played in every match-up in the annual event with UT.
"This is the only team that I know," she said.
New to the Crash is Andrew Arthur, 23, a native of Brazil who is living in West Toledo while his parents serve as missionaries with a local church. Mr. Arthur, who was born with spina bifida, said that he and his teammates are really good at handling wheelchairs, giving the Crash an advantage over the more athletic UT football squad.
"I think we surprise people," the rookie said. "We can control our chairs better. The UT football players are bigger, but we know how to work our chairs."
Contact Mark Reiter at: markreiter@theblade.com or 419-724-6199
Nick's Last IEP Meeting !!!!
Hi all,
Yesterday, April 12, 2011, was Nick's LAST IEP (Individual Education Plan) Meeting!
For those of you who don't know what an IEP meeting is, here is a brief explanation from http://www.nichcy.org/ (National Information Center for Children and Youth With Disabilities):
"When a child receives special education services under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), he or she must have an Individualized Education Program (IEP). This is a written document listing, among other things, the special educational services that the child will receive. The IEP is developed by a team that includes the child’s parents and school staff.
The IEP is an extremely important document in the educational lives of students with disabilities receiving special education under IDEA. The resources we’ve listed below will help you learn more about IEPs—what the law requires, what information a typical IEP contains, how IEPs are developed, and so on."
So, by law, infants and toddlers with disabilities receive early intervention services and the family and professionals have IFSP meetings every three months. Nick had these services and we had his IFSP meetings every three months. Then, when Nick was turning three, and starting preschool, he qualified for special education services under the IDEA (Individuals with Disabilities Education Act).
We had Nick's first IEP meeting when he was 2 1/2 and his last was yesterday at the age of 17. He could receive special education services until the age of 22 but he is graduating from high school next month and starting college in the fall. I'll be doing research on what services Nick will qualify for in college and from which agency he receives services from over the next year and I'll be blogging about all of that. Basically, I'll share our journey as we go. As this is going to be all new to us, we can go on the journey together and I'll share anything I learn in case anyone else can benefit from the information! I just want to get through graduation next month and then my focus will be college!
Back to Nick's last IEP yesterday, we basically just met to go over his final summary of performance his teacher wrote up so we can share it with the university. It outlines what services Nick has needed to be successful in school so far and what he may need in college. Every college has a disability services office, which they are all named something different, and that's who I'll be contacting next month.
The meeting yesterday was brief and relaxed, very unlike many of the previous IEP meetings we had over the years.
I was reliving many moments in my head of all of the previous IEP meetings we had. I was remembering how several people doubted (out loud!) Nick would graduate high school in regular education classes and when we talked about college, people looked at us like we were in major denial! I always believed Nick would show them what he could do and that is just what happened. We were called "overly hopeful" parents by one school professional and Nick was labeled "non-restorable" by our insurance company as an infant. It makes me sick to think what would have happened if we or he believed that. Yeah, I guess they were wrong! We had hope and no one should ever take away a family's (or individual's) hope. We felt that we'd do everything we could and if their predictions were right, we'd love Nick and know we did everything we could. It didn't take long though before we knew how smart he was and they thought we were just crazy parents! Then later, it was Nick's (and our) goals that were crazy. I felt like the "crazy pain-in-the-ass" mother every time I walked into the school! ( I thought that's what THEY thought:)!) I can honestly say, I wouldn't change anything when I look at how Nick showed us all what he CAN do! Yeah Nick!
Grade school was up and down, jr, high was tough for Nick socially, and each year of high school got better and better for Nick in every way. I'd say he is now the happiest he's been in school. We've developed a good working relationship with the school over the years, even though we've had MANY disagreements, meetings to resolve issues, we've been respectful of each other and now here we are! So many people doubted Nick and us. Nick did it, all As and Bs, and he's graduating! I just had a real sense of peace I've never had before or after any other meeting.
I know we have a lot of work to do to help Nick figure things out for college, getting a van with a lift, services, etc., but I feel we can do it and I know he can do it! It can and will be done. We will likely have some ups and downs along the way, but we can do it as a team. As long as Nick wants us to, we'll be here to help him succeed (Isabella too!) and do whatever it takes. Team Hyndman!!
Blessings:)
Amy
Yesterday, April 12, 2011, was Nick's LAST IEP (Individual Education Plan) Meeting!
For those of you who don't know what an IEP meeting is, here is a brief explanation from http://www.nichcy.org/ (National Information Center for Children and Youth With Disabilities):
"When a child receives special education services under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), he or she must have an Individualized Education Program (IEP). This is a written document listing, among other things, the special educational services that the child will receive. The IEP is developed by a team that includes the child’s parents and school staff.
The IEP is an extremely important document in the educational lives of students with disabilities receiving special education under IDEA. The resources we’ve listed below will help you learn more about IEPs—what the law requires, what information a typical IEP contains, how IEPs are developed, and so on."
So, by law, infants and toddlers with disabilities receive early intervention services and the family and professionals have IFSP meetings every three months. Nick had these services and we had his IFSP meetings every three months. Then, when Nick was turning three, and starting preschool, he qualified for special education services under the IDEA (Individuals with Disabilities Education Act).
We had Nick's first IEP meeting when he was 2 1/2 and his last was yesterday at the age of 17. He could receive special education services until the age of 22 but he is graduating from high school next month and starting college in the fall. I'll be doing research on what services Nick will qualify for in college and from which agency he receives services from over the next year and I'll be blogging about all of that. Basically, I'll share our journey as we go. As this is going to be all new to us, we can go on the journey together and I'll share anything I learn in case anyone else can benefit from the information! I just want to get through graduation next month and then my focus will be college!
Back to Nick's last IEP yesterday, we basically just met to go over his final summary of performance his teacher wrote up so we can share it with the university. It outlines what services Nick has needed to be successful in school so far and what he may need in college. Every college has a disability services office, which they are all named something different, and that's who I'll be contacting next month.
The meeting yesterday was brief and relaxed, very unlike many of the previous IEP meetings we had over the years.
I was reliving many moments in my head of all of the previous IEP meetings we had. I was remembering how several people doubted (out loud!) Nick would graduate high school in regular education classes and when we talked about college, people looked at us like we were in major denial! I always believed Nick would show them what he could do and that is just what happened. We were called "overly hopeful" parents by one school professional and Nick was labeled "non-restorable" by our insurance company as an infant. It makes me sick to think what would have happened if we or he believed that. Yeah, I guess they were wrong! We had hope and no one should ever take away a family's (or individual's) hope. We felt that we'd do everything we could and if their predictions were right, we'd love Nick and know we did everything we could. It didn't take long though before we knew how smart he was and they thought we were just crazy parents! Then later, it was Nick's (and our) goals that were crazy. I felt like the "crazy pain-in-the-ass" mother every time I walked into the school! ( I thought that's what THEY thought:)!) I can honestly say, I wouldn't change anything when I look at how Nick showed us all what he CAN do! Yeah Nick!
Grade school was up and down, jr, high was tough for Nick socially, and each year of high school got better and better for Nick in every way. I'd say he is now the happiest he's been in school. We've developed a good working relationship with the school over the years, even though we've had MANY disagreements, meetings to resolve issues, we've been respectful of each other and now here we are! So many people doubted Nick and us. Nick did it, all As and Bs, and he's graduating! I just had a real sense of peace I've never had before or after any other meeting.
I know we have a lot of work to do to help Nick figure things out for college, getting a van with a lift, services, etc., but I feel we can do it and I know he can do it! It can and will be done. We will likely have some ups and downs along the way, but we can do it as a team. As long as Nick wants us to, we'll be here to help him succeed (Isabella too!) and do whatever it takes. Team Hyndman!!
Blessings:)
Amy
Another Great Quote
Hi all,
I've said it before, I'm a "quote-a-holic". A friend shared this one with me and I love it! I've always been annoyed by people who don't "get involved" or are just self-involved. Standing by and saying or doing nothing when bad things are happening, to me, is just not right. I think all human beings have a responsibility to protect children and innocent people, people with disabilities, and those who are elderly, and just anyone who can't protect themselves. Anyhow, I don't want to get on a soap-box. I'm just saying this as the quote my friend sent me reminded me of these beliefs.
Anyhow, here it is:
"The darkest places in hell are reserved for those who, during times of moral crisis, maintain their neutrality." - Dante Alighieri
Blessings:)
Amy
I've said it before, I'm a "quote-a-holic". A friend shared this one with me and I love it! I've always been annoyed by people who don't "get involved" or are just self-involved. Standing by and saying or doing nothing when bad things are happening, to me, is just not right. I think all human beings have a responsibility to protect children and innocent people, people with disabilities, and those who are elderly, and just anyone who can't protect themselves. Anyhow, I don't want to get on a soap-box. I'm just saying this as the quote my friend sent me reminded me of these beliefs.
Anyhow, here it is:
"The darkest places in hell are reserved for those who, during times of moral crisis, maintain their neutrality." - Dante Alighieri
Blessings:)
Amy
Sunday, April 10, 2011
Last Day Of Spring Break
Hi all,
This past week, the kids have been on spring break and today is the last day. Luckily, Greg was off for all of the break but he had to go back to work today as he is saving days for our trip in June! So the kids and I are having a lazy day today, catching up with e-mails, hanging out.
Because we're going to Hilton Head in June for Nick's graduation, no big trip for spring break. We just spent the week eating out, watching movies (Hop was SO cute!), staying up late, sleeping in, having sleep-overs with friends and getting together with friends and family. It was perfect! It's nice to have the time together, just the four of us, and do what we want to do when we want to do it:)
I am almost finished with Nick's graduation announcements and plan to mail them out this week. (yeah!) So, the countdown is on for the end of school, Bella's dance recital, Nick's graduation and getting ready for our trip. We got the house for our trip, a beautiful three-story beach house, with our own pool and jacuzzi, lots of amenities and room for us and family. We're so excited to see the dolphins and sea turtles and just "chill" on the beach and in the pool. Can you tell we're excited?
We found out this week, Nick's going to have his wisdom teeth pulled this summer. Once we get through the next few months, it's full speed getting ready for college and there will be so much planning to do with this. I will be writing a lot about it and plan to do some research on useful information for individuals with disabilities and college planning, which I plan to post over the next year as I find it. Maybe it will be helpful for someone else too.
Until next time........
Blessings:)
Amy
This past week, the kids have been on spring break and today is the last day. Luckily, Greg was off for all of the break but he had to go back to work today as he is saving days for our trip in June! So the kids and I are having a lazy day today, catching up with e-mails, hanging out.
Because we're going to Hilton Head in June for Nick's graduation, no big trip for spring break. We just spent the week eating out, watching movies (Hop was SO cute!), staying up late, sleeping in, having sleep-overs with friends and getting together with friends and family. It was perfect! It's nice to have the time together, just the four of us, and do what we want to do when we want to do it:)
I am almost finished with Nick's graduation announcements and plan to mail them out this week. (yeah!) So, the countdown is on for the end of school, Bella's dance recital, Nick's graduation and getting ready for our trip. We got the house for our trip, a beautiful three-story beach house, with our own pool and jacuzzi, lots of amenities and room for us and family. We're so excited to see the dolphins and sea turtles and just "chill" on the beach and in the pool. Can you tell we're excited?
We found out this week, Nick's going to have his wisdom teeth pulled this summer. Once we get through the next few months, it's full speed getting ready for college and there will be so much planning to do with this. I will be writing a lot about it and plan to do some research on useful information for individuals with disabilities and college planning, which I plan to post over the next year as I find it. Maybe it will be helpful for someone else too.
Until next time........
Blessings:)
Amy
Wednesday, March 30, 2011
Toledo Crash vs. UT Rockets April 17, 2011
Hi all, Nick will be playing wheelchair football this season with the Toledo Crash football team. They play the University of Toledo Rockets football team (who play in wheelchairs too) on April 17, 2011 from 2-4 PM at the University of Toledo Rec. Center. It is a free event. Nick will be quarterback this year again. Please come watch and spread the word and invite others! Thank you! https://acrobat.com/#d=Zla6Is575lO5ieFsIHTlCg Blessings:) Amy
Friday, March 25, 2011
Prayers Requested
Hi all,
We would like to ask for prayers for my (Amy's) Dad, Nick and Isabella's "PaPa" Jagel. He has kidney disease and just had a port put in for dialysis and is on the waiting list for a kidney transplant. We're not sure when he is to start dialysis but they wanted to put the port in as it may be soon and they wanted to be ready. There's a lot more to it and going on but that is the short version.
PaPa helps Nick out after school, with wrestling and football practices when Greg is working, and Isabella too. He's just a big part of our lives! Selfishly we want him around!:) He could really use prayers!
Also, our friends, the Detzel family, is going through a lot as Larry (the husband/Dad) has been getting treatment and surgery for cancer and is in the midst of recovering from his surgery and with treatment. It's a lot for Larry and his family, so we are keeping them in our prayers and ask for you to do the same please! We met the Detzels when Nick and their son, Stephen were about 6 months old (well, Nick was, and he and Stephen are a month apart in age!) at daycare and became friends and have been friends ever since. They boys are good friends and we get together with them regularly but not enough with everyone's schedules. Anyhow, they've been a part of Nick's life and ours for 17 years now and mean so much to us!
We appreciate any prayers we can get for these special people in our lives! Thank you!
Blessings:)
Amy
We would like to ask for prayers for my (Amy's) Dad, Nick and Isabella's "PaPa" Jagel. He has kidney disease and just had a port put in for dialysis and is on the waiting list for a kidney transplant. We're not sure when he is to start dialysis but they wanted to put the port in as it may be soon and they wanted to be ready. There's a lot more to it and going on but that is the short version.
PaPa helps Nick out after school, with wrestling and football practices when Greg is working, and Isabella too. He's just a big part of our lives! Selfishly we want him around!:) He could really use prayers!
Also, our friends, the Detzel family, is going through a lot as Larry (the husband/Dad) has been getting treatment and surgery for cancer and is in the midst of recovering from his surgery and with treatment. It's a lot for Larry and his family, so we are keeping them in our prayers and ask for you to do the same please! We met the Detzels when Nick and their son, Stephen were about 6 months old (well, Nick was, and he and Stephen are a month apart in age!) at daycare and became friends and have been friends ever since. They boys are good friends and we get together with them regularly but not enough with everyone's schedules. Anyhow, they've been a part of Nick's life and ours for 17 years now and mean so much to us!
We appreciate any prayers we can get for these special people in our lives! Thank you!
Blessings:)
Amy
March Madness
Hi all!I know it's been too long again since my last updates! For Team Hyndman, March has been CRAZY BUSY and I'm sure it's the start of a busy spring. Lots of great things going on here! The boys (Greg and Nick) may love March Madness for basketball but the words have a different meaning to me:) We hope everyone is doing well and as ready for spring as we are!
Let's see.......the first weekend of the month was spent in Columbus, OH. for the State High School Wrestling Championships sponsored by the Ohio High School Athletic Association (OHSAA). I think we may have mentioned this, but Nick was invited down to be interviewed for their magazine and as a guest with his family. We went down with my parents and Nick's service dog, Charger, and had a great weekend! We went to The Cheesecake Factory (one of our favorite restaurants) at Easton Town Center. Oh how we wish they had one near us! The kids got to swim each night in the hotel which they loved! Saturday, we found this great pizza joint on the OSU Campus (we saw lots of cars and knew it would be good and it was!). Then we went to the tournament. We all got to meet with the OHSAA Director of Communication Tim Stried, got to go down on the mats for the set-up, Nick was interviewed and they are going to use the article from last year in The Toledo Blade as well. Also, a reporter from the Wood County Sentinal Tribune who also did an article on Nick last year met us there and he is helping to coordinate things. There will be an article I guess coming out in the Tribune as well as the OHSAA Magazine. We got to eat in the press room and hang out until the tournament started. They took some great pics of Nick which I'll post and when any articles do come out, I'll post the links! We got to stay and watch the tournament and had great seats. The place was packed. I had no idea how many people attend this event! It was pretty cool to see. We ran into some of the Perrysburg Coaches and Wrestlers who were there and some other people we knew as well. Sunday we went to the movies at Easton Mall and Arnold Schwarzenegger was there! Greg got a picture of the side of his head surrounded by his "people". Turns out, the same weekend of the tournament was the busiest weekend of the year in Columbus for hotels because it was the annual Arnold Sports Festival as well! Anyhow, we had fun! My parents are so great to travel with because they just "go with the flow" and are so easy-going. Charger is the perfect travel companion for Nick too:)
We also has other events along with the usual dance and sports activities and school for the kids. Isabella participated in the Wood County Youth Olympics and had a really fun time. I was there with here that day as Greg worked. It was a lot of fun watching her! Nick had a party for the end of the season for wrestling, team pictures, and next week is their awards banquet. Nick also started football practices for the Toledo Crash Wheelchair Football Team at the Ability Center of Greater Toledo. He is the quarterback and he LOVES it. They have a scrimmage next week and they play the University of Toledo Football Team (in wheelchairs) on April 17th. We had a meeting at the Junior High School for parents/students to discuss the transition to Junior High for Isabella next year! Our baby girl will be starting junior high and our oldest "baby" starts college next year:) Where has the time gone? We just got Nick's graduation announcements this week and Isabella's costumes for her dance recital in May! Also, not sure if I mentioned this, think I did, but Isabella had her DARE graduation this past month.
Currently, we're applying for scholarships for Nick. He was awarded a $6000 academic scholarship so far. We'll see what else comes along. Oh yeah, Nick finally decided he'll be attending Bowling Green State University i the fall!
So, we'll be busy over the next few months with end of the year activities for the kids at school, wheelchair football, dance, getting ready for Bella's dance recital, getting ready for Nick's graduation and celebration, for our "graduation vacation" this summer with our family to celebrate Nick's graduation, applying for scholarships, getting ready for summer plans, ETC. Just like most parents!:) We're happy to do it and it's all great stuff but it's making us a little nostalgic and sentimental (and excited!) already! I'll be updating as we go along!
Blessings:)
Amy
Check Out This Blog
Hi all!
I've found a great blog to check out and follow! It's www.lifeofthedifferentlyabled.com. Check it out when you can and spread the word to anyone you know who may be interested as well. Thank you!
Blessings:)
Amy
I've found a great blog to check out and follow! It's www.lifeofthedifferentlyabled.com. Check it out when you can and spread the word to anyone you know who may be interested as well. Thank you!
Blessings:)
Amy
Wednesday, March 23, 2011
Jan.-March 2011 (43 photos), by Amy Hyndman
I'd like to share my Snapfish photos with you. Once you have checked out my photos you can order prints and upload your own photos to share.
Click here to view photos
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