tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36756601451419039012024-03-05T07:16:06.943-08:00Sue Dymond SaysSue Dymondhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15418995208712298522noreply@blogger.comBlogger68125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3675660145141903901.post-1643476704460678932018-08-07T22:34:00.001-07:002018-08-07T22:38:25.106-07:00We want a Level Playing Field<h2 style="text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222;"><u><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: small;">A LEVEL PLAYING FIELD</span></u></span></h2>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222;"><u><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: small;">A situation in which everyone has a fair and equal chance of succeeding.</span></u></span></h2>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Has anyone who has a disability or looks after a family member with a disability noticed how there are different rules for them than for everyone else?</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">When Miss Chloe's dad committed suicide a few years back, his superanuation group were not going to give her what was rightfully hers, because she was 18yo and I was not her legal guardian. I called the VCAT to inquire about the process. When it was described, I was mortified and disgusted...talk about degrading and humiliating! When I mentioned this to the <i><b>lovely </b></i>man from VCAT, his response was: </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMgmsTjF1mTnSpwMg9POfvEQgtHobywge1cI7QwV9WNz3QTtUdqF657U0hTZb6GRAvJyLTmgF7GIvuzP1ZP4EMhoR1hgf3HYf7-BW6zO-IuIvNXOV6dPEW0M9cdoJQhHi9z3840l3XV_2n/s1600/guilty.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" data-original-height="350" data-original-width="730" height="95" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMgmsTjF1mTnSpwMg9POfvEQgtHobywge1cI7QwV9WNz3QTtUdqF657U0hTZb6GRAvJyLTmgF7GIvuzP1ZP4EMhoR1hgf3HYf7-BW6zO-IuIvNXOV6dPEW0M9cdoJQhHi9z3840l3XV_2n/s200/guilty.jpg" width="200" /></span></a></div>
<b style="background-color: yellow;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">"Families of people with disabilities are GUILTY UNTIL PROVEN INNOCENT</span></b><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Seems they are the only demorgaphic in Australia to have this honor! </span><br />
<span style="background-color: yellow;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><b>Because SOME people rip off their loved one with a disability.</b>..</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Some people in general society murder and rob others,but that doesn't change the premise of innocent till proven guilty for the rest!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Needless to say, I am still not her legal guardian!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Fast forward to recent times...NDIS times</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Now this is an organisation that has successfully removed any semblence of fair play when it comes to the people they are supposed to be helping.</span><br />
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<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">They have changed the concept of 'Fair & Reasonable' from being about the participants needs to being about how fair & reasonable it is to the NDIA.</span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiniSqFTSN3laFwFmiMVoG_8rKvsXasScCLnLSZfErMjLQXoeMU0AXg2RkPFWXiRG73sOCGUv02yGusgSnCrKT35PFqbGYl5JcCyscD-7KiQtr1R4i9LWHXmK4VBp4M26V9mT-1T9Mv3Kw0/s1600/path_to_success.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" data-original-height="370" data-original-width="370" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiniSqFTSN3laFwFmiMVoG_8rKvsXasScCLnLSZfErMjLQXoeMU0AXg2RkPFWXiRG73sOCGUv02yGusgSnCrKT35PFqbGYl5JcCyscD-7KiQtr1R4i9LWHXmK4VBp4M26V9mT-1T9Mv3Kw0/s200/path_to_success.jpg" width="200" /></span></a></div>
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<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">No participant is allowed a copy of what is being submitted from the plan to the NDIA.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">No participant has the right to refuse their plan and be reinstated with their previous supports </span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">(they can appeal, which can take up to 6 months) but they still only have what NDIA has given them.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">They refuse to give the participants any information on how they arrived at a plan that is nothing like was talked about in the meeting, when the participant needs to appeal or have a review done.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">You never, ever get to speak to the same person twice and you never get the same information twice! The running joke around the ridges is: </span><i style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif;"><b>If you don't like the answer, just call again!</b></i></li>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Now they have created a new policy: A participant is not allowed to record <b><i>their</i></b> planning meeting, <b><i>about themselves</i></b> for <i><b>their own personal records</b></i>. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Frightening, considering the police have informed us:</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: yellow;"><b style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">ANYONE is entitled to do this, as long as they let everyone in the room know they are recording it. If the planner is uncomfortable, NDIA must supply another planner..</b><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">.</span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"> BUT the NDIA doesn't care about this entitlement, They have said no and that is that. So now there is absolutley no way for a participant to even know what was discussed in the planning meeting if they need to appeal or have a review! YET, the NDIS has all the information when making their decision on the blind request for review....</span><br />
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<b><span style="background-color: #b4a7d6; color: yellow; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">GROSSLY UNFAIR!!!!</span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Apparently, we are allowed to take notes, but it is very hard to scribe a 2.5 hour meeting and are the planners going to sign off on the notes so the participant has a record that they are true and correct? <span style="background-color: yellow;"><b><br /></b></span>Hummmm, we shall see..........</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The time has come for participants to stand up against the inequality and demand we get given the same rights as everyone else.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihnf6kQ6gWadRrPpkdb4yaG_FrgjAF61icMNrwnPuFX5hG75ggDJkBhd1d4KRUsmpTYKPKBYMJ0OjXny_iuk4Bj4RDO4wPLgIqNKdvo00QSzuAYsCPbrHQotLMVzerhcoDqS8MfJwpDRyH/s1600/inclusion_cut_out_header.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" data-original-height="750" data-original-width="1600" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihnf6kQ6gWadRrPpkdb4yaG_FrgjAF61icMNrwnPuFX5hG75ggDJkBhd1d4KRUsmpTYKPKBYMJ0OjXny_iuk4Bj4RDO4wPLgIqNKdvo00QSzuAYsCPbrHQotLMVzerhcoDqS8MfJwpDRyH/s320/inclusion_cut_out_header.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The Federal Government needs to take some responsibility here and make the NDIA allow participants the right to have access to all the information they need when needing to submit a review or appeal.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: #b4a7d6; color: yellow; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b><i>A LEVEL PLAYING FIELD FOR AL</i></b><b><i>L</i></b></span></div>
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Sue Dymondhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15418995208712298522noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3675660145141903901.post-78934581038714045152018-07-11T22:55:00.002-07:002018-07-11T23:04:06.169-07:00A Leaf out of Bunnings Book<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Ahhhh Bunnings, a massive business with almost as big a heart!<br />
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Now this is NOT an advert for Bunnings, but more so a pat on the back for a huge organisation that a massive amount of good to the local communities.<br />
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Anyone who has visited Bunnings on a weekend knows all about the Sausage Sizzles. </div>
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But Bunnings does sooo much more for the locals.</div>
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<b><i>The Bunnings Community Involvement approach is built on the principal that they are part of the local communities in which they operate.</i></b><b><i>They focus their efforts on giving meaningful support where it makes a difference.</i></b></h2>
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And what a massive difference they make!</div>
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Here are but a few things each Bunnings store does in their local communities (other then Sausage sizzles):</div>
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<a href="https://www.bunnings.com.au/-/media/images/about%20pages/in%20the%20community/returned%20servicemen%20%20women%20image_2.jpg?h=170&w=296&hash=E8E541C3882FAA8213DCDA5EAF05112B4CE62426&la=en" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="Returned service men and women " border="0" height="114" src="https://www.bunnings.com.au/-/media/images/about%20pages/in%20the%20community/returned%20servicemen%20%20women%20image_2.jpg?h=170&w=296&hash=E8E541C3882FAA8213DCDA5EAF05112B4CE62426&la=en" width="200" /></a></div>
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<li>Allow Community groups/Charities to run cake stalls, </li>
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tin rattling and raffles in-store<br />
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<li style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;">Participate in needed projects at communities sites ( ie: create playground for kinders etc) <img alt="hands on" height="110" src="https://www.bunnings.com.au/-/media/images/about%20pages/in%20the%20community/picture1.jpg?hash=2AD50AB1B87854473CB55F503D6479565F61EAF6&h=164&w=296&la=en" width="200" /> <img alt="senior citizens" height="110" src="https://www.bunnings.com.au/-/media/images/about%20pages/in%20the%20community/senior%20citizens.jpg?h=164&w=296&hash=95215785CD0CFCF9CC6F8CCAFD84EBBE895CC789&la=en" width="200" /></li>
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<li>Donate items for raffles etc</li>
<li>Create and host regular free, in-shop projects for speciality groups ( people with disabilities, children etc).</li>
<li>Have a Community groups/Charities awareness day,where these organisation have an opportunity to speak about what they do and raise community awareness and some money.</li>
<li>Have events to celebrate and thank Community groups/Charities and give them valuable networking opportunities.</li>
<li>Promote the Community groups/Charities who are hosting the sausage sizzles on their website </li>
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<b style="background-color: #b4a7d6;">IMAGINE IF EVERY LARGE ORGANISATION TOOK A LEAF OUT OF BUNNINGS BOOK AND GAVE BACK TO THEIR LOCAL COMMUNITIES IN THE SAME WAY.</b></div>
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There would be much less need and much more equality, dignity and connection!</div>
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Community groups and Charities would not have to be constantly begging for basics and looking for grants and donations.<br />
It is time for the big organisations in our local communities to start meaningfully putting back into their communities and truly become a part of their local communities. Lets Change<br />
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<b> this </b><br />
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<a href="https://libcom.org/files/images/blog/nn.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Image result for begging" border="0" height="191" src="https://libcom.org/files/images/blog/nn.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<b>To this</b><br />
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To learn more about iDareU go to:<br />
<b><a href="http://www.idareu.org.au/">www.idareu.org.au</a> </b>or like us on<br />
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/idareuaus/" target="_blank"><b>facebook: </b></a><br />
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Sue Dymondhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15418995208712298522noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3675660145141903901.post-77829621662044325952018-06-04T00:18:00.001-07:002018-06-04T00:23:43.697-07:00NDIS - How did they get it so wrong?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi92kXEQjRByACbupTVixt262VS1ydKEFoHsviyZN3e1rXDSLrish0deYL2kqNhge99aLo3ohQv7bFWkEsx35wAqYwqdGkv-IPcZZLSemkGlONxhlQL68aHBv_0a0u10Po5TkiXVp8mNbw9/s1600/Dignity-and-respect.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="671" data-original-width="808" height="165" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi92kXEQjRByACbupTVixt262VS1ydKEFoHsviyZN3e1rXDSLrish0deYL2kqNhge99aLo3ohQv7bFWkEsx35wAqYwqdGkv-IPcZZLSemkGlONxhlQL68aHBv_0a0u10Po5TkiXVp8mNbw9/s200/Dignity-and-respect.gif" width="200" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: 13.5pt;">We are a huge supporter for the CONCEPT of the NDIS.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 13.5pt;">It is supposed to bring respect and dignity to people with
disabilities and their families.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 13.5pt;">And enabled these people to lead a better life with choice and control.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 13.5pt;">Sadly, the NDIS is bringing
frustration, bullying, crisis’s and suspicion to this group. As if they didn't
have enough to deal with before!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 13.5pt;">No-one could have envisioned a
system worse than the old system, but boy, the way the NDIS is operating, this is
exactly what has appeared for way too many people. They are randomly stomping on vulnerable peoples lives and making a huge mess.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzl6KAHuHnuKogSA6dPyaABzba3o9EuHDR_4UmrlYnP7YOVW74Ji_ThNBIz3n1TpIf9H1LWMm_pETkQCer9xBPmyIwB3exBXYe93mYNjVCQ9FpsQNiI1wUJ4rzMf6qMyOUIDB82IWRSTRp/s1600/kpis-768x511.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="511" data-original-width="768" height="132" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzl6KAHuHnuKogSA6dPyaABzba3o9EuHDR_4UmrlYnP7YOVW74Ji_ThNBIz3n1TpIf9H1LWMm_pETkQCer9xBPmyIwB3exBXYe93mYNjVCQ9FpsQNiI1wUJ4rzMf6qMyOUIDB82IWRSTRp/s200/kpis-768x511.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: 13.5pt;">Because of the insane staffing
caps the Gov has put on the NDIS, planners are bullying clients, treating them
as a pest, insisting on meetings happening – whether the participant is ready or
not – just so they can TRY to reach unreachable KPIs and burning out.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-size: 13.5pt;">There is no follow-up for a
participant or their nominee once they have completed the planning meeting.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-size: 13.5pt;">On many occasions, they don't
even get a copy of what the LAC is going to submit! <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-size: 13.5pt;">The next piece of communication
is when they receive the NDIS approved plan and it is final unless you submit a
review!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifjB4M-ZRdlz2AQAHVD4OYpO2i9ln3HIiTbbWAQWbFNA8Kd9B67I-kSCyVv8BPFtkYE5dsVk_iHSx9lg1AGXO2Ot1XGf9vjlYFWZS3wzkbrPw3n7c9S6TrABPfkZzG41BshkhGC9RNVT8y/s1600/bulling+.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="520" data-original-width="780" height="133" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifjB4M-ZRdlz2AQAHVD4OYpO2i9ln3HIiTbbWAQWbFNA8Kd9B67I-kSCyVv8BPFtkYE5dsVk_iHSx9lg1AGXO2Ot1XGf9vjlYFWZS3wzkbrPw3n7c9S6TrABPfkZzG41BshkhGC9RNVT8y/s200/bulling+.jpg" width="200" /></a><span style="font-size: 13.5pt;">So the participant has no right
to see whether the LAC has correctly captured their situation, they don't sign
off on the plan, they have no safety net if the plan is completely
inadequate ( if they were already getting funded services) and they are not
entitled to see the paper trail to see where the failure came from when
preparing a review...<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span style="font-size: 13.5pt;">LAC’s are discouraging self-management. Annual reviews are falling short of
participant needs (even when the previous years funding was all used up). There is no consistancy from one planner to the next.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<b><span style="background: yellow; font-size: 13.5pt;">COME ON….REALLY</span></b><b><span style="font-size: 13.5pt;"> <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span style="font-size: 13.5pt;">It is not that hard to do better, and it won’t even cost anything –
in fact, if the NDIA includes the participant/ nominee more the planning
process, there will be less reviews and that will mean less money being spent
and less staff hours being spent on reviews that could easily have been
prevented.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<br /></div>
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<b><span style="background: yellow; font-size: 13.5pt;">We don’t need another crisis driven disability sector.</span></b><b><span style="font-size: 13.5pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></b><br />
<b><span style="background: yellow; font-size: 13.5pt;"><br /></span></b>
<br />
<b><span style="background: yellow; font-size: 13.5pt;">If you need any help with your plan, contact iDareU at: connect@idareu.org.au</span></b><br />
<b><span style="background: yellow; font-size: 13.5pt;"><br /></span></b>
<b><span style="background: yellow; font-size: 13.5pt;"><br /></span></b></div>
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<br />Sue Dymondhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15418995208712298522noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3675660145141903901.post-35810989246675410292018-03-26T00:03:00.000-07:002018-03-26T00:06:09.635-07:00Carers are not machines<br />
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With the advent of the NDIS, it seems the unpaid carers are not being recognised to their vital role in caring for their loved one.<br />
The NDIS is all about the person with the disability and their needs and this is a good thing.<br />
To begin with, the planners and NDIA didn't take the welfare and well being of unpaid carers into account at all.<br />
They realised, rather quickly that if they do not look after this group, people with disabilities are going to cost Australia millions more then it is now, due to carers not being able to manage or cope.<br />
<br />
In saying this, unpaid carers are treated like machines....<br />
<ul>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhN5hfnOUYMvKad02oJelP1NXqKewThEvzMBsReYmUlCoQI-nm2rT0RY2i3u8yhRNgQtG57x1MPofy3cWRW5_0C2creu8f9m9hB70auFFVvtBCC2A2hRqf544R6a0_LnhxtJAvQVfX4aLZ3/s1600/Nottodo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="276" data-original-width="460" height="120" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhN5hfnOUYMvKad02oJelP1NXqKewThEvzMBsReYmUlCoQI-nm2rT0RY2i3u8yhRNgQtG57x1MPofy3cWRW5_0C2creu8f9m9hB70auFFVvtBCC2A2hRqf544R6a0_LnhxtJAvQVfX4aLZ3/s200/Nottodo.jpg" width="200" /></a>
<li><b>No you are not entitled to timeout from your duties as a carer...</b></li>
<li><b>What do you mean, you need time with your other family members?</b></li>
<li><b>Why should you have down time for yourself?</b></li>
<li><b>Of course you can't have a holiday without our loved one with a disability.....</b></li>
<li><b>You are lucky you get anything.......</b></li>
</ul>
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And the list goes on........</div>
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<div>
I find it interesting how many people leave the industry after a certain amount of years, due to carer burnout, yet they don't truly get that unpaid carers don't have the luxury of leaving in spite having carer burnout ( unless they relinquish their loved one).</div>
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<br /></div>
<div>
<b>Isn't it time the unpaid carers are truly recognised and rewarded for what they do for this country?</b></div>
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<b><br /></b></div>
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<b>Isn't it time the carers are included as part of the solution - not seen as part of the problem?</b></div>
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<b><br /></b></div>
<h2>
<b><span style="background-color: #ead1dc;">Even machines break down, if they are not well maintained</span></b></h2>
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<b><span style="background-color: #ead1dc;"><br /></span></b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfTEp6ALR0an82rGJMT5iDg9r2hiuSlQGU53TKVZj-LhqxMpi1hz_8OrWONKpNWh6c0T_CvRRZ8Iknqw0Z1lLCteoc33M_MmnMGe0xM_QBgB8VFFVoBxwBs9Vw-UYzdCYTm852tlth8-1p/s1600/road-man-broken-car-6078.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="133" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfTEp6ALR0an82rGJMT5iDg9r2hiuSlQGU53TKVZj-LhqxMpi1hz_8OrWONKpNWh6c0T_CvRRZ8Iknqw0Z1lLCteoc33M_MmnMGe0xM_QBgB8VFFVoBxwBs9Vw-UYzdCYTm852tlth8-1p/s200/road-man-broken-car-6078.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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<b><span style="background-color: #ead1dc;"><br /></span></b></div>
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<b><u style="background-color: #ead1dc;"><br /></u></b></div>
<div>
<b><span style="background-color: #ead1dc;">If the NDIS & Governments continue to only pay lip service to the unpaid carers, the NDIS will go from a preventative program to a crisis program very quickly and we are back to the dirty old system we had before. But worse, because we spent all this money on the NDIS to have..the same old, same old...</span></b></div>
<div>
<b><span style="background-color: #ead1dc;"><br /></span></b></div>
<h2>
<b style="background-color: white;">We need to ensure the carers are well supported whilst carrying out their selfless duties</b></h2>
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<b style="background-color: white;"><br /></b></div>
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<div style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #351c75; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>www.idareu.org.au</b></span></div>
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Sue Dymondhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15418995208712298522noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3675660145141903901.post-36200525321855443572018-01-29T02:12:00.000-08:002018-03-26T00:03:41.126-07:00We all need time with our mob<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<br />
<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;"><br /></span>
<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">Have you ever noticed how sometimes, out of the blue,
we feel a need to contact someone - a family member or an old friend; attend an
activity or an event, which simply makes us feel good for no reason other than
it just does?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">Humans are known to be creatures of a pack and so by
nature, we don’t operate well in isolation.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;"><br /></span></div>
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<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">The emergence of NDIS, seems to have created a
tendency for one-on-one (individual) support, where a<a href="https://www.blogger.com/null" name="_GoBack"></a>
person with a disability is being taken out from their group setting to receive
one-on-one support instead.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span style="background-color: #f3f3f3;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;"><span style="background-color: #f3f3f3;">Don't get me wrong here, one-on-one support is
wonderful and many people with disabilities ca</span>n learn quicker, have access to
the community around them easily and, with more dignity when receiving this type
of assistance. There is also the benefit
of more flexibility as activities can be tailored to a person’s needs and
passions.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">However, the biggest problem with one-on-one support
is the tendency for isolation to creep in, as there is no avenue for
interaction with like-minded people. This
lack of interaction, makes it difficult for such individuals to develop
socialising etiquette with others, namely members of the public, and could eventually
cause<span style="background-color: white;"> mental health problems.</span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">I tend to see it as spending time with their 'mob'. We all know there is just something about this
that makes people feel wholesome including people with disabilities. </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">They don't have to be with their 'mob' all the time
and it doesn't have to make sense to anyone else...but they do need this time.</span><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;"> </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">Be it once a week, thrice a week, or even
once a month.......</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">We often hear from families with intellectually
disabled children, that one of the issues their children face when attending
mainstream schools, is difficulty in making ‘real’ friends among their
peers. We need to find a way to give
these children an opportunity to spend time with their 'mob' and create a sense
of belonging among them.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">Chloe Dymond has a candid way of introducing herself
when asked where she is from - she always responds saying she <b><span style="background: yellow;">'Comes from Down </span></b></span><b><span style="background: yellow; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">S</span></b><b><span lang="EN-GB" style="background: yellow; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">yndrome'.</span></b><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;"> I simply love this phrase, as I think it
gives her that sense of belonging, and I visualise “Down Syndrome” as just
being another country, with people of different views and cultural backgrounds.
Similar to how many immigrants build a
sense of belonging through community centres that reflect their ethnic origins
and have a tendency to gravitate to suburbs where people from their country of
origin tend to reside.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
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<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">Chloe needs to spend time with people from her ‘country’
to feel connected to the world.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">I hope the NDIS does not take away these people’s opportunity
to 'recharge their batteries' with their mob and further reduce opportunities
for the general public to engage with people with disabilities, and learn from
them. Collectively, families who have
people with disabilities, need to work together to create a healthy lifestyle
balance, for the people we care about, as well as play our role in educating
others on creating an inclusive society.</span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span><br />
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Sue Dymondhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15418995208712298522noreply@blogger.com0Ringwood North VIC 3134, Australia-37.799883 145.22687700000006-37.850075000000004 145.14619600000006 -37.749691 145.30755800000006tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3675660145141903901.post-75837979774179727962017-12-22T03:34:00.007-08:002017-12-22T03:34:56.260-08:00And so this is Christmas...<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">What should I buy?...</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">It is that time of the year again?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">That went waaaay too quick!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Are you one of those people who have trouble buying for your loved one with a disability at Christmas? </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Or worse, having to give suggestions to grandparents and others?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Here is a few tips:</span><br />
<b><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></b>
<b><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Purchase gifts around what skills your loved one may be learning at the time, such as;</span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></b>
<b><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Cooking <span style="color: #b4a7d6;"> </span> </span></b><br />
<br />
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Cook Books</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Cooking tools, such as; measuring cups, electric beaters, customised equipment for those with limited motor skills, baking tools, knife sets that are safe for learners</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Cooking kits; groovy sets with all the ingredients to just put together, cup cake and slice mixes and decorations</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The list is endless.</span></li>
</ul>
<br />
<span style="background-color: yellow;"><span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>NB: Give them their own cupboard for their </b></span></span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>equipment</b></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b style="background-color: white;">Gardening</b></span><br />
<br />
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Gardening tools such as; rakes, shovels or basic equipment like gloves or a water can</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Easy growing plants such as; herbs or pot based vegetables.</span></li>
</ul>
<br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<b><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Empower through experiences:</span></b><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Either something they love doing like:</span><br />
<br />
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">A footie membership</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Train rides to country</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Going to live theatre</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Concerts</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Gold pass movie tickets</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Attending a chocolate cooking class ( or any other cooking class).</span></li>
</ul>
<br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">O</span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">r things they may never have experienced like:</span><br />
<br />
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Yarra river boat cruise</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Hot air ballooning</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">High tea.</span></li>
</ul>
<br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<b><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">TIPS:</span></b><br />
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Make the most of the companion card ( if they have one)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Actively use your free rural/regional train travel with the pension card</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Sign up to Living Social or Scoopon Daily deals ( there are many daily deals sites), these have great experiences at great prices</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Get a few people to go in for a bigger present.</span></li>
</ul>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Here is hoping these ideas are helpfu!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b><br /></b></span>
<b><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: lime;">Wishing everyone</span><span style="background-color: red;"> a wonderful and </span><span style="background-color: lime;">peaceful Christmas </span><span style="background-color: red;">2017, f</span></span><span style="background-color: red; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">rom all at iDareU.</span></b></div>
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<br />Sue Dymondhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15418995208712298522noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3675660145141903901.post-16407115882741513952017-11-01T04:17:00.000-07:002017-11-01T04:28:30.012-07:00Dear Doctors, ENOUGH!!!! <div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">This is a letter from my book </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; text-align: center;"><i>'Removing the Fear of Raising a Child with Down Syndrome - Waising Miss Chloe' .S</i></span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">adly, it is more relevant today than it was 4 years ago, with the advent of the Down Syndrome blood test imminent in Australia.</span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Please don't allow Australia, to go the way of Iceland and eliminate a group of people because..well no-one really knows why they have to be eliminated.</span></div>
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<h2>
<u><span lang="EN-US" style="color: purple; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: small;">Open letter to
Doctors and Obstetricians.</span></u></h2>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">My name is
Sue Dymond and I have a young adult daughter who has Down Syndrome. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Fortunately
for me, her and all who know her, I was too young to have the amniocentesis when
I was pregnant. I say fortunately, because when my baby had tested positive to
Down Syndrome, I would have terminated the pregnancy. I wanted nothing to do
with a disabled child and all the hard work I imagined went with that job.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">If this had
happened, I would have missed out on knowing one of the most pleasant,
self-assured, calm and confident young women I have ever met. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I find it
very, very sad in the 21<sup>st</sup> century that there is still such a strong
bias by the medical profession towards termination when Down Syndrome is
detected prior to birth. It is very important that we are open-minded and give
parents a balanced view of the positive and negative issues surrounding raising
a child with Down syndrome.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">NEVER
ASSUME; not all parents want to terminate, and the reason many others do, is
because it is painted as such a negative, unusually an incorrect outlook of theirs and
their child’s life.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I can fully
understand this attitude 30 or 40 years ago, but today, when there are so many young people in society with Down Syndrome proving to all around them that they are very capable of learning and
being productive people in society. Admittedly they need some guidance and assistance,
but I would love some one to tell me which child doesn’t?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">An
interesting statistic from an Australian
survey conducted in Feburary 2013 by Sue Blandford, Down Syndrome Victoria,
shows: </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b>53.5% said their child's health had been mostly excellent since birth, </b>m</span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">y daughter
is one of those statistics. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">This is over half of all babies born with Down Syndrome being healthy, so why are we advised to terminate on a less than 50%
chance of having an unhealthy baby?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Yes, I
found the first ten – twelve years hard work, with running around to lots of
experts and professionals and teaching her basics, boundaries and consequences. </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I have to
say though, the past ten years she has been a delight (well mainly).</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">She does
volunteer work with Meals on Wheels, she helps an organisation feed the poor
every second Tuesday, she has a black-belt in Karate and is a helper teacher. </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Yes, she
still needs guidance and I imagine always will need some, due to her inability
to manage unforeseen circumstances.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I was
recently told by a friend that I have everything a parent would ever ask for
with Chloe. I have a child who loves me and enjoys my company and visa
versa. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Our journey
has had its challenges and will continue to, but isn’t that true of anyone who
has children? <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">More than
the challenges though, it has been rich with learning the important lessons in
life – and some of those lessons are not true of anyone who has children. They
are a gift to those who have a special needs person.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I ask the
medical profession to please become more learned about what happens to people
with Down Syndrome after they leave your care and then deliver the balanced
information to parents who find out they are expecting a child with Down Syndrome.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">As I
mentioned at the top of this letter, the world would have been a way less rich
place, if my choice had been different based on knowing that Chloe had Down Syndrome before she was born.</span></span><br />
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Sue Dymondhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15418995208712298522noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3675660145141903901.post-87100297337579625152017-09-24T20:37:00.000-07:002017-09-24T20:37:05.187-07:00Carer Tips - Language Please.....<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">One of the biggest divides between disability service providers or organisations and people with a disability and their families, is the language used by professionals.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Goodness, some conferences even have presentations advertised as 'easy english'.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Here are a few things that need to be investigated if we want to make the disability sector vibrant, open and easy to navigate.</span><br />
<ol>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">When you don't think something is possible, don't default to no, suggest you are not sure, but will find out and follow up </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Privacy, workplace health & safety and lately NDIS, are unacceptable excuses for not working with or for a clients needs</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Never, ever, use acronyms without explaining what it means, 90% of our clients have no idea. We do not want to look incompetent by saying so, please just dont use them</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">When writing letters or emails, remember your clients like short, simple and clear messaging.</span></li>
</ol>
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<b><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">NOT THIS!!!!!</span></b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8ehtqIHOJVXdBmsQH54o7xwd8dwVskXe7c_6XPpoTlzY5H1lJr6XFMk6KQ3o7_Ku6YWN36TPV2Jd2DiEwGAJoHP9FmmYkrohGgxY9ycjdQ4IIQtUUdq0-P-auAlsGA9EnzEEgtH4yv6Vk/s1600/letter+from+NDIS+001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1164" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8ehtqIHOJVXdBmsQH54o7xwd8dwVskXe7c_6XPpoTlzY5H1lJr6XFMk6KQ3o7_Ku6YWN36TPV2Jd2DiEwGAJoHP9FmmYkrohGgxY9ycjdQ4IIQtUUdq0-P-auAlsGA9EnzEEgtH4yv6Vk/s200/letter+from+NDIS+001.jpg" width="145" /></span></a></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiISu4jUr0n2PQw_MmCb3X3ebWL5ij3Sdok3KVhJhpcYX-SX9zwjB_zIojSXYodVu9C6qLr9hR-L9gWCIZmJf-v_-GCzZORC44y8cHYD9mhXCGuFa3SRgQasvxyC7ciKE85UosCr5953Vad/s1600/letter+from+NDIS+002.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1164" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiISu4jUr0n2PQw_MmCb3X3ebWL5ij3Sdok3KVhJhpcYX-SX9zwjB_zIojSXYodVu9C6qLr9hR-L9gWCIZmJf-v_-GCzZORC44y8cHYD9mhXCGuFa3SRgQasvxyC7ciKE85UosCr5953Vad/s200/letter+from+NDIS+002.jpg" width="145" /></span></a><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">A letter written to all the perspective participants going into the NDIS!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">And what are they really saying......</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<b><i><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">" We are sorry, but due to higher demand then expected, the NDIS roll out will take longer. We are sorry for any inconvenience"</span></i></b><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Well that's what we THINK they are trying to say. This letter has one sentence with 58 words in it, a little too much to read I believe.</span></div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">The very scary issue is; if this is the type of communication from the NDIS which believe is acceptable, why should other disability service providers or organisations change their language?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">NDIS needs to lead by example and break the cycle of unclear and complex language.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">The very best way to create inclusive language is to deliver a message for all types of communication levels, from a school year 9 through to sitting in the pub </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">or other social gathering with your friends.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Bring THAT language into all communications with participants and families of people with a disability.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Great communication can melt away barriers, encourage positive interactions and end in a much more constructive result!</span><br />
<br />Sue Dymondhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15418995208712298522noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3675660145141903901.post-59423516034827935172017-08-05T01:40:00.000-07:002017-08-05T01:40:02.183-07:00The importance of Charity Membership <div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Membership is so much more.</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">There are many upsides to membership and very few downsides.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">One of the big benefits is feeling a part of something bigger than yourself. </span><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">If a person believes in something or is passionate about something, becoming a member is a great way to walk that passion.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiq8KR2w5zQM00eWwbc_AaJzlDgN6ZMApQF1Y-iCa4g_9BGUCTid2NQn_EZbQI2gSMNc0U5SSuU7agqJf94hsl_DYVLTQCOU5RPqtzcw_AfLAziFt8HpSaB2YD1JBm6iXZrShZQpzx8XAMV/s1600/Sues+Blog+August.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="789" data-original-width="940" height="268" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiq8KR2w5zQM00eWwbc_AaJzlDgN6ZMApQF1Y-iCa4g_9BGUCTid2NQn_EZbQI2gSMNc0U5SSuU7agqJf94hsl_DYVLTQCOU5RPqtzcw_AfLAziFt8HpSaB2YD1JBm6iXZrShZQpzx8XAMV/s320/Sues+Blog+August.png" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b>Becoming a member of <a href="http://idareu.org.au/" target="_blank">iDareU</a></b>, for example, is very exciting as this is a vibrant and passionate organisation. </span><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">Membership is for everyone, as our mission to create natural inclusion for families with disability and becoming a vital part of their local communities.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Membership is seen as a commitment, but it is often not a huge commitment. </span><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">There is a cost and you have the ability to have a say in the direction of the organisation, at the AGM or by becoming a board member. These are by no means compulsory, though.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><div style="text-align: justify;">
The most important things about becoming a member are:</div>
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<ul>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">a sense of belonging and purpose</span></li>
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<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">satisfaction from knowing that you are making a bigger difference</span></li>
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<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">access to membership information and portal</span></li>
</ul>
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<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">discounted products and training</span></li>
</ul>
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<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, FreeSans, sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px;">helping iDareU reach their goal of natural inclusion.</span></span></span></li>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , "freesans" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 12px;">If <a href="http://idareu.org.au/" target="_blank">iDareU</a> is not the charity for you to become a member of, please consider one that would align with your vision and purpose and become a member. W</span></span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , "freesans" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 12px;">hatever you do, become a member and support a community of like-minded people.</span></span></div>
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<b style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Go to: <a href="http://idareu.org.au/" target="_blank">http://idareu.org.au/</a> to join</b><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;"> </span></div>
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Sue Dymondhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15418995208712298522noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3675660145141903901.post-15678470543574523612017-07-10T03:46:00.000-07:002017-07-10T03:46:55.958-07:00Carer Tips - Prepare early for independance<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">We all want our children to be independent (not dependent upon us). It is most parents biggest dream AND fear.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Sadly, although many dream of this, not as many actually implement strategies to teach and maintain the taught practices to their person with a disability.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">There seems to be a belief that they will do everything for this person and one day, <b><i>they will just morph and become totally independent!!!!</i></b></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuvSOAPMbcDpbaYbLo6HAT7TTrVj2RsfeWkEFG0-dmSQbyB6XjmLTSWUASX7HqERIkvFcT4-x_ICTE87dykdkdymsgcpMlSoHYACRRWx17E7ypYuNDJ1st6t2vqwFiZZcnRs-rNF_wMYis/s1600/41747670_s+%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="450" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuvSOAPMbcDpbaYbLo6HAT7TTrVj2RsfeWkEFG0-dmSQbyB6XjmLTSWUASX7HqERIkvFcT4-x_ICTE87dykdkdymsgcpMlSoHYACRRWx17E7ypYuNDJ1st6t2vqwFiZZcnRs-rNF_wMYis/s200/41747670_s+%25281%2529.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Intellectually no-one believes this BUT in reality, this is what happens time and time again.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span><b><i><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Below are some tips, if this sounds like you, but you have no idea where to start:</span></i></b></h4>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b>Start early</b>: Start as early as possible, ensure the task is suited to age. Instead of asking what your two years old would like to have read to them, show them a book in each hand & give them the choice of 2</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b>Build confidence</b>; As they get older and conquer the required task, add another & another, don't stop, because they can have archived one thing</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b>Goal setting</b>; Set 2 - 4 goals per year to be taught</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b>Empower</b>; STOP being their mouth piece. Every time you speak for them, you are telling them they are not important.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b>Priorities</b>; HOW IMPORTANT IS IT? Is it really a major disaster if the clothes are not pegged properly?</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b>Teach</b>; the old-fashioned things; like washing up and drying the dishes. Even if you have a dishwasher. It the skills you are teaching - not the convenience</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b>Communicate</b>; Teach from the level they understand; not try to get them to understand you, use short sentences and only 1 or 2 instructions at a time.</span></li>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTNGoro9cre2k6-cr0OqY7hu7u_zb_Fk-LZsuMiKr3xbhKF6pV78EOvoRNqC5fsm7Ucsswy87sXTjv4qbhg0MErhSMLa-fUi8a8rGlBa609QJ7I3CBE8gitu5E7T2Os7L7UPT61zsLCeyz/s1600/12237353_s.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="300" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTNGoro9cre2k6-cr0OqY7hu7u_zb_Fk-LZsuMiKr3xbhKF6pV78EOvoRNqC5fsm7Ucsswy87sXTjv4qbhg0MErhSMLa-fUi8a8rGlBa609QJ7I3CBE8gitu5E7T2Os7L7UPT61zsLCeyz/s320/12237353_s.jpg" width="213" /></a></div>
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Over time this becomes a complete task, achieved by them with your support.</span><br />
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</ul>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">This is just the tip of the iceberg. Next blog will be more tips towards independence.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Meanwhile pop over to the iDareU website & check out what is going on</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #0000ee; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b><u>http://www.idareu.org.au/</u></b></span></div>
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<br />Sue Dymondhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15418995208712298522noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3675660145141903901.post-39259966839509411072017-06-21T18:12:00.000-07:002017-06-21T18:14:37.402-07:00Carer Tips - going the distance better!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">When a loved one is first diagnosed with a disability, people tend to go into shock for a while. </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">From there, it is full steam ahead, as they madly chase around to find the very best outcomes for the person. Many carers remain in this mode and even when things are calmer, they find things to keep them at the crisis-driven, edge tipping point.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">This way of living is unsustainable over a long period of time.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">The direct results are Carer burnout, not being able to cope with unexpected issues, mental illness, isolation, relationship breakdown and many other uglies.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Being an unpaid carer is NOT a sprint, it really is a marathon and people need to learn to pace themselves to ensure a good quality of life.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5bYVIR440kECih1oxKqPyJubcNNIXB6Nybzsd8D1VEGUuQrhF4cqpc20VlaxQYPpQ-KgFuMkQ7UEanOHKwuuQ7tq2DvWtBZGjtUg9BTTpJfgQVfivy8xM2NhwOk2cb24s-OodabdH-jNp/s1600/15490315_s.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="300" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5bYVIR440kECih1oxKqPyJubcNNIXB6Nybzsd8D1VEGUuQrhF4cqpc20VlaxQYPpQ-KgFuMkQ7UEanOHKwuuQ7tq2DvWtBZGjtUg9BTTpJfgQVfivy8xM2NhwOk2cb24s-OodabdH-jNp/s200/15490315_s.jpg" width="133" /></a></span></div>
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<b><u><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></u></b>
<b><u><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Here are some simple tips to assist with finding and keeping balance in your lives</span></u></b><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> </span><br />
<h4>
<u><b><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">When things are not in crisis, relax </span></b></u></h4>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><u><b><br /></b></u>This is the time to recharge your batteries. Have a long walk, or bath, or read a book or anything else you find pleasurable. The housework and other non-urgent things will keep.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Many people find themselves playing housework catch-up when their loved one goes to respite instead of relaxing.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span> <span style="color: purple; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Restoring your energy is more important than a clean house!!!</span><br />
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<h4>
<b><u><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Create a sustainable plan</span></u></b></h4>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b><u><br /></u></b> NDIS has come or is coming. Ensure your plan is not just a crisis avoidance plan. That is how you live now. <u>The plan needs to be looking at sustainable and healthy living for all.</u> This is the only way for Australia to save money in the long run.</span><br />
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<h4>
<b><u><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Allow and ask for help</span></u></b></h4>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b><u><br /></u></b> Being all to everyone ensures we will burnout. It is not a natural way for any relationships. Give your loved ones your best and outsource the rest. This way, you are able to enjoy the people closest to you and not be caught with those ugly friends called: RESENTMENT & GUILT.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Don't assume people will say no. </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">If you don't ask the answer is guaranteed to be NO. If you ask, you have a 50% chance the answer will be YES...</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="color: purple;">Remember the gift of giving.</span> </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Don't deny others the opportunity to give to you and your family, as you are denying them a precious gift.</span><br />
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<h4>
<b><u><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Laugh & Meditate</span></u></b></h4>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b><u><br /></u></b> Two very simple, yet effective ways to help yourself and give you more energy and reduce your mental stress. Yes, you DO have time....you don't have time NOT to do these things.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Meditation need only be 15 min a day to start with...in the shower, if need be.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span> <i><b><span style="color: purple; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Go on - give it a go......</span></b></i><br />
<i><b><span style="color: purple; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></b></i>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><i><b><br /></b></i> <i><b>iDareU has teamed with some amazing people to bring you a host of </b></i></span><i style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Living Well - Taking Care of ME workshops.</b></i><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><i><b><br /></b></i> <i><b>Go to this link and see if anything strikes a cord with you. If it doesn't strike a cord - sign up for the Carer Kit one anyway, you may need a kick start...</b></i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><i><b><br /></b></i> <a href="http://www.idareu.org.au/happenings.html" target="_blank"> http://www.idareu.org.au/happenings.html</a></span>Sue Dymondhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15418995208712298522noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3675660145141903901.post-78232422970925538672017-04-26T20:18:00.001-07:002017-04-26T20:20:52.905-07:00Why should I pay?This is a question I hear many times when we do our workshops. People want to know why they have to pay for the workshop and during the workshop they want to know why, with the NDIS, they will have to pay for everything. This is a direct result of the Government creating a welfare mentality within the disability sector as well as other vulnerable people sectors in this country.<br />
<br />
Many of us send our loved ones off for the day and someone else pays for them to be there. The money doesn't pass through us - therefore people think it must be free. We pay $10 per hour to council for respite and think this is the total payment.<br />
<br />
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<br />
<br />
This is WRONG on both counts! Whenever something is free or cheap - it is because it is being paid for by someone else. We have no idea what the real cost is, so we assume what we see is the real cost.<br />
<br />
There is a lot of nonsense floating around with the advent of the NDIS that everything is going to cost more. In reality, many things are going to be <u style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;">charged to us at the true cost</u><span style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;">. </span>One of the advantages of the NDIS will be the transparency to the clients and their carers of charges and costings. This is powerful on many counts, including:<br />
<br />
<br />
<ol>
<li>We know EXACTLY what something REALLY costs.</li>
<li>Money is just a manner of transfer of giving and receiving. A fair exchange.</li>
<li>We devalue people and the transaction when we expect something for nothing. Every person deserves to be honoured.</li>
<li>We are always accountable to the organisation who is paying - they pay - we have to abide by their rules.</li>
<li>We respect and value things we have to pay for more than things that are given to us. We see this in our workshops - the workshops that are not free to participants (paid for by an organisation) ALWAYS have a much higher percentage of no-shows than the ones where the participant has to pay.</li>
<li>Giving people something for nothing tells these people they are not respected and removes dignity.</li>
</ol>
<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSIgZrgYo9L9kgm_wlwQWwKYg7uRaflkym858yiOLaBU1G9SvMYsL9XI-QjsnS0zwCjIN0lM2GKcCJne41qjNWYuJPxl6rVzWR6hNotwbLoZM28M_VkOoVlv6vEYgB_bzJVmHdAs4yWd8I/s1600/Snip20170427_2.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="208" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSIgZrgYo9L9kgm_wlwQWwKYg7uRaflkym858yiOLaBU1G9SvMYsL9XI-QjsnS0zwCjIN0lM2GKcCJne41qjNWYuJPxl6rVzWR6hNotwbLoZM28M_VkOoVlv6vEYgB_bzJVmHdAs4yWd8I/s320/Snip20170427_2.png" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
I was once asked where the $50 per person charged for a 5 hour workshop which included lunch, refreshments and resources goes! This was a very sad question, as $50 for any 5 hour workshop with the above is dirt cheap and is very obviously not making huge amounts of money, if any at all.<br />
<br />
So the next time someone asks "why should I pay" my answer will be "because I value and respect myself and those I do transactions with".<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.idareu.org.au/" target="_blank">IDareU</a><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Sue Dymondhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15418995208712298522noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3675660145141903901.post-13368903771737098302016-12-12T15:46:00.000-08:002016-12-12T15:53:23.477-08:00There is no cure for Down syndromeI have just finished watching the public hearings into the Disability Support Pension
hearing inquiry and I can truly say that I am speechless!<br />
<br />
Here we are in the 21st century and still there is so much confusion around Down syndrome. Apart from the bizarre comment from a spokesperson from the Department of Human Services (DHS) - that she could not comment whether Down syndrome could be cured because she isn't a medical professional. There is also a massive issue around how something that is not a medical condition can actually be "cured".<br />
<br />
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<br />
<br />
In almost 90% of people who have Down syndrome, there is an extra chromosome in every cell of their body. It is a <i style="font-weight: bold;">chromosomal disorder. </i>It is just the way they are, and I find it very offensive that professionals seem to think there is even anything to cure!<br />
<br />
My daughter has Down syndrome and she doesn't think there is anything wrong with her! She is well aware that she can't do some things as well or as fast as others, but she just accepts that and finds ways around it. She believes she comes from Down syndrome - and I tend to agree with her!<br />
<br />
To say a person needs curing is to say there is something wrong with them in the first place. As one lovely young man with Down syndrome said recently on the topic of aborting foetuses with Down syndrome: <b><i>"We are actually Human Beings first."</i></b><br />
<b><i><br /></i></b>
It would help many professionals to remember this 'minor' fact.<br />
<br />
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<br />
<br />
The idea of thinking of Miss Chloe any other way then what she is is abhorrent! She is witty, resourceful, creative, practical as well as many other things, and if she was to some how have the extra chromosome removed from very cell in her body - <i><b>she just would not be Miss Chloe anymore.</b></i><br />
<i><b><br /></b></i>
Back to the spokesperson from the DHS regarding the cure for Down syndrome:<br />
It is true that a person can be thought a fool until they open their mouths and then they confirm this assumption, so here is a message for you:<br />
<br />
<b><i>You don't have to be a medical professional to see a person without an arm doesn't have an arm and the arm won't grow back. And you don't have to be a member of the medical profession to know there is no way a person with Down syndrome can 'lose or be cured' of their Down syndrome.</i></b><br />
<b><i><br /></i></b>
Here is a message to everyone:<br />
<br />
Ignorant professionals are not just ignorant, they are very dangerous. They open their mouths and other people who are ignorant believe what they say, because they are paid a lot of money to be spokespeople and "must" be right. Please be aware that not all people who are spokespeople have any idea what they are actually talking about.<br />
<br />
I have a wonderful daughter and know many people who just happen to have (or come from) Down syndrome. Yes they have their differences (as do many of us), and I say THANK GOD FOR THEIR DIFFERENCES, because that is what makes them the amazing human beings that they are.<br />
<br />
DHS, you need to re-educate your staff and be a lot more discerning with who you send to public enquiries!<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Sue Dymondhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15418995208712298522noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3675660145141903901.post-8481603335125092832016-10-01T01:46:00.000-07:002016-10-01T01:52:16.423-07:00'Difficult' carers do not have permission to abuse our disabled loved ones!I recently read a book titled: <i>'I've been good so far' by Joan Reid.</i><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEA9lxW43yEIvX-Im9MyqI8ZhhMwDYPJS67yT3-oMuZHG5JdoLXdiXs0pHvs4w6CMgcSydIRoUxYQ7KXNf4XRo1rC7_yVGyuS1HRKq0NyQ5Svzj0-Q7ON73LCKncWBlcFRq-aVc5xlwrNe/s1600/book.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEA9lxW43yEIvX-Im9MyqI8ZhhMwDYPJS67yT3-oMuZHG5JdoLXdiXs0pHvs4w6CMgcSydIRoUxYQ7KXNf4XRo1rC7_yVGyuS1HRKq0NyQ5Svzj0-Q7ON73LCKncWBlcFRq-aVc5xlwrNe/s320/book.png" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
It is not an easy read, as it highlights the reluctance within disability land of anyone to protect our most vulnerable.<br />
<br />
'Floss' has complex and challenging needs. She became too hard for her family when she was 13 years old and they put her into 'care'.<br />
<br />
This book really shines a light on what happens in some of these so called community houses. And no, I am not saying all community houses are the same. I am saying, due to such tight budgets, there are a lot of places that hire people with very little or no experience to work with people with disabilities who have complex needs.<br />
<br />
Poor Floss received so much shocking treatment in more than one of these houses, mainly due to her inability to carry out the tasks she was expected to without help. The other tenants loved ones wanted Floss out as a result of the welfare organisations finding it too hard to enforce things to keep her safe. And the services also decided her mum was difficult, therefore Floss' punishment was justified.<br />
<br />
Floss endured many years of poor treatment. The book covers the period from 1981 until 2013, which means that 'the olden days' can't be used as an excuse.<br />
<br />
I remember when Miss Chloe was around 12 years old, my regular carer was a way for 6 weeks and we were given a replacement during that time. I was very rigid with her bed time and explained to the carer that Chloe needed to be in bed at 8.30pm. For 3 weeks, I would arrive home at 10pm to find Chloe just going to bed (she had to be up for school at 6.30am). I was so frustrated that no matter how many times I told the carer she just would not listen. The carer would simply say 'She (Chloe) didn't want to go to bed', 'She (the carer) can't make her'... Blah, blah, blah.<br />
<br />
I explained she (the carer) didn't have a choice. This woman was the paid adult and all she needed to do was tell Chloe at 8pm that is was 8.30pm and that she had ten minutes to be in bed. Chloe couldn't (and still can't) tell the time. This way, the carer was guaranteed that Chloe would be in bed by 8.30pm.<br />
<br />
The carer didn't take any notice of this information, so the next morning when Miss Chloe got up she was very distressed telling herself she was a very bad girl and started hitting herself (Miss Chloe always self talks and acts out what people say and do to her).<br />
<br />
Eventually I got the gist of what was happening. The carer had verbally and physically abused Chloe.<br />
I notified my case-manager, who contacted the organisation the carer worked for. The response the case manager received was: "No we won't be following up because 'HER MOTHER IS VERY DIFFICULT, YOU KNOW'. Apparently it was OK to abuse someone if their mother was not the complimentary type and made life difficult for the organisation!<br />
<br />
A lot of Floss' issues were exactly the same! Poor Floss was punished because her mum would not accept substandard treatment of Floss. And sadly, these are not isolated cases. I am often hearing of family members who are banned from visiting their loved ones in their residence because the families have complained, been concerned, or questioned things about the care their loved ones were receiving.<br />
<br />
I hope and pray that the NDIS will make these organisations more accountable once they realise the concerned carers/families won't be trapped any more. I hope we will be able to have more flexibility around who cares for these very vulnerable people.<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://idareu.org.au/">idareu.org.au</a><br />
<br />Sue Dymondhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15418995208712298522noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3675660145141903901.post-38149054923431538202016-08-23T05:24:00.000-07:002016-08-23T05:32:13.633-07:00The Art of GivingThere are so many ways of giving. We can give our time, our love, presents, donate to causes...the list goes on.<br />
<br />
But to me, the most generous and kindest way of giving is to give from the heart and to give unconditionally. This is not at all easy to do - although I am sure this is what we THINK we do.<br />
<br />
I spent many years believing I retained some type of ownership over whatever it was I was giving to someone else. If I gave you a present, I would be really hurt if you:<br />
<br />
a. Didn't like it<br />
b. Gave it away<br />
c. Threw it out<br />
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<br />
I would even be silly enough to ask if you liked it (expecting the answer to be yes). Please don't ask this question if you are at risk of being shattered.<br />
<br />
A wise person once told me, "Sue, never ask the question you don't want to hear the answer to". So today I tend to say: "I hope you like it, but if you don't you are free to do as you please with it".<br />
<br />
It totally removes my expectations and the receiver's sense of guilt.<br />
<br />
This is also true of giving your love away. To be able to love unconditionally, we need to learn that it is not up to us to put conditions on that love. You know what I mean; 'If you love me, you would/wouldn't...' 'I love you but...' and any others you can fill in yourself. These are not words of love, they are words of emotional blackmail and are not at all loving.<br />
<br />
If we are not comfortable we can tell them so, why ask if they could change? And if they don't change, then it is up to us to decide what <b>we do </b>- not continue to try to make them adjust! And yes, that is tough! But it is much tougher trying to mold someone to your requirements when they don't want to be that way.<br />
<br />
Then we come the the gift of time - doing things for others. This is ONLY a true gift if you again have <b>no expectations</b> on the outcome and are doing it because you want to. If you find yourself resenting doing things for others, know you are not doing it for love. Love and resentment can't live in the same space. Or, even worse (I believe), is when someone does something for you, then they keep it to use as a lever or bargaining chip later on.<br />
<br />
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<br />
'<i><b>Well, I looked after your child when they were sick, so you SHOULD lend me your car.'</b></i><br />
<i><b><br /></b></i>
<i><b>'Remember when I came and picked you up from the city? Don't get angry at me for forgetting to pick up the child from kinder.' </b></i><br />
<i><b><br /></b></i>
And many more...<br />
<br />
To truly give from the heart, we <b>must give with an open hand, not a clenched fist. </b>Once it leaves our hand, it is no longer ours. We can no longer decide how it can be used or what happens with it. It has become the receivers gift to accept and all we can do is pray that they receive it with the same loving intention it was given with.<br />
<br />
It is very freeing to give with an open heart and hand and it allows us to<b> </b><br />
<b><br /></b>
<b> rejoice in the </b><b>art of giving.</b><br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.idareu.org.au/" target="_blank">iDareU</a>Sue Dymondhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15418995208712298522noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3675660145141903901.post-86073290664386483612016-08-03T01:55:00.000-07:002016-08-03T01:55:40.230-07:00The NDIS Rollout – More than an inconvenience for too manyAs anyone who reads my blogs knows, I am a massive fan of
the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) – once it is rolled out and working properly.<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p><br />
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
What you may not be aware of is that I am extremely nervous about
the journey in getting to that point.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br />
I regularly mention in the <a href="http://www.idareu.org.au/happenings/workshops/event/17-imagine-better-understanding-the-ndis-process.html" target="_blank">Imagine Better workshop</a> that I
see the process of the NDIS as a long renovation that will produce a much better
product than it was before the renovation. And like with any renovation, we are going to have to put up with the
mess and inconvenience whilst the renovations are happening.<br />
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
What I failed to mention is that whilst we are being inconvenienced,
we still have a roof over our heads and we are not in any danger of falling off the edge.<o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Since the introduction of the roll out of the NDIS I have heard some frightening things that are happening, including:<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>A 15km limit on the distance you are allowed
to travel to get a service and that service providers are allowed to
travel to a client.</li>
<li>Services being removed from a person before the
NDIS is in place – leaving people with nothing.</li>
<li>Inexperienced planners preparing incorrect plans and
people being left out in the cold with nothing and nowhere to go to get help
or answers.</li>
<li>Making self-management of the funds so
convoluted and paperwork heavy that no client can navigate them.</li>
</ul>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Although there is a phone number you can call, unfortunately I know from
experience that the wait on hold time is insane. I was on hold for 96 minutes
and in the end I gave up!<o:p></o:p><br />
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I seriously hope these are isolated issues that are
being resolved very quickly, as they are completely unacceptable.<o:p></o:p><br />
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
If even a few of these issues are true, many people are
going to be tipped over the edge and there will be many more bushfires to put
out in the disability community. There are already so many vulnerable people trying to keep it
together, it really won’t take much to have them lose their grip
on that tiny piece of string that barely holds them together.<o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi40_rCpnYIa-2y51CZ4-YDyWCDX63Zx2MgcSmI9hSh9EV-HaJYCeOMzmYyzWIGxS-OkKwlbfDa6834-kKv2lwZKcEAn0iZUAF_a9iSFrWhCF_0dnj90pKo1URr1T7UJ04-SmTUaHE6_PDC/s1600/dew-1164455_1920.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi40_rCpnYIa-2y51CZ4-YDyWCDX63Zx2MgcSmI9hSh9EV-HaJYCeOMzmYyzWIGxS-OkKwlbfDa6834-kKv2lwZKcEAn0iZUAF_a9iSFrWhCF_0dnj90pKo1URr1T7UJ04-SmTUaHE6_PDC/s320/dew-1164455_1920.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<div class="MsoNormal">
I have a dream that the NDIS will be the end of a crisis to
crisis driven industry – as the current system is. We are not helped until there is
a crisis and because the crisis is being created by not helping those who just
need a little bit of help, the crisis are not being managed, as there
are too many that the system has created.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The NDIS is meant to be all about giving people with a
disability the power to live their lives with dignity, empowerment and choice. It was conceived to remove the shackles of the antiquated
system we have endured for far too many years.<br />
<br />
As the Productivity Commission
said in their report: ‘The system in place now is so broken it needs to be
thrown out and completely started again.' Hence the introduction of the NDIS.<br />
<br />
Please don’t make this a
repeat of the old system with even more pain. People with a disability and their carers deserve more than
the scrap heap. We deserve a safety net to be put in place to ensure we are not
worse off whilst this mess is sorted out.<br />
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Come on powers that be</b>, get working on a transition with
dignity – because we certainly deserve it!<br />
<br />
<a href="http://idareu.org/">iDareU.org</a></div>
Sue Dymondhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15418995208712298522noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3675660145141903901.post-18997630167365764192016-06-27T04:16:00.001-07:002016-06-27T04:17:10.625-07:00Burnt Toast Syndrome<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 107%;">I have 2 pieces of toast - one in each hand. </span><span style="line-height: 107%;">In one hand I have a beautiful golden
brown piece. The smell reminds me of a cosy family kitchen. </span><span style="line-height: 107%;">In the other hand, I hold something
you find in the bottom of a camp fire - burnt toast. </span><span style="line-height: 107%;">Which one would you choose?</span><br />
<span style="line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh00ijy77p56aTqcSlVai32d2R6BKlIJrz9uFEQo0DSl9Z_tYjj7awB3LMgHOOtjUJzDw_NdTEEAvI99tr9zf8wXPqlvjPzQgcZBVVI9uLB_LenJAduKN4uW935tyzI5acmRsNv8a1xbc89/s1600/toaster-1311209_1920.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh00ijy77p56aTqcSlVai32d2R6BKlIJrz9uFEQo0DSl9Z_tYjj7awB3LMgHOOtjUJzDw_NdTEEAvI99tr9zf8wXPqlvjPzQgcZBVVI9uLB_LenJAduKN4uW935tyzI5acmRsNv8a1xbc89/s320/toaster-1311209_1920.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 107%;">Let me add something to this scenario: these are the only 2 pieces of bread left in the house and you don’t get paid until
tomorrow. </span><span style="line-height: 107%;">Your child is waiting for breakfast. </span><span style="line-height: 107%;">Which one do you choose now?</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 107%;"><br /></span>
<span style="line-height: 107%;">Burnt Toast Syndrome is more
prevalent in women than men, but men, you need to listen up, because what you
are about to hear and learn will be one of the keys to a happy life.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 107%;">When a woman is on the labour table having her baby, something else arrives with that precious parcel. </span><span style="line-height: 107%;">And once this bundle of joy is placed
in our arms, we hear ourselves promising we will protect them from harm and
pain - </span><i style="line-height: 107%;">no matter what. </i><span style="line-height: 107%;">The love is so enormous that they become
the most important thing in our lives. </span><span style="line-height: 107%;">And so begins our burnt toast
journey.</span><br />
<span style="line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibkqeOcgue1G5GSLkJFCxLqTQ6MSHBxV-NmKo6NQxinTc1dBted3pRnbl2B_IuD0pmN1btJmF9Ig2TcX2fTk-FtvuRexQhwsM_ykmhuE-EjX15AjPpU76zQShuQ5jA4zrak5fEGHKKzxsg/s1600/new-born-615751_1920.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibkqeOcgue1G5GSLkJFCxLqTQ6MSHBxV-NmKo6NQxinTc1dBted3pRnbl2B_IuD0pmN1btJmF9Ig2TcX2fTk-FtvuRexQhwsM_ykmhuE-EjX15AjPpU76zQShuQ5jA4zrak5fEGHKKzxsg/s320/new-born-615751_1920.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="line-height: 107%;"><br /></span>
<span style="line-height: 107%;"><i>‘It doesn’t matter that I am so tired
I can’t function I have to because my baby is calling me and I must go’.</i><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 107%;"><i>'It’s fine that my dinner is cold, I
have to tend my children first, and make sure they are all happy.'<o:p></o:p></i></span><br />
<span style="line-height: 107%;"><i><br /></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 107%;"><i>'Oh, I missed lunch. Never mind, at
least I was able to drop everything I was doing to ensure my darling got to her
party.' </i>The list goes on and on and on.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 107%;">Although we take this role on, we are
also getting a little bitter at YOU lads and eventually our children:<b><o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 107%;"><i><br /></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 107%;"><i>'A little thanks would be nice.'<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 107%;"><i>'Don’t you see what I do for you?'<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 107%;"><i>'It would be nice if you could do
something to help.'<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 107%;"><i>'Why don't you ever do anything nice for
me?'</i><b><o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 107%;">And that list also goes on.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 107%;"><br /></span>
<span style="line-height: 107%;">I am here to tell you why they don’t
tend to that list. The reason is that </span><span style="line-height: 107%;">we have shown them with our
actions that we don’t consider ourselves worthy of anything other than crumbs. We show </span><span style="line-height: 107%;">our offspring that we will do
anything for them – no matter what - and they have no idea that what we are doing
for them is what we call sacrifice! </span><span style="line-height: 107%;">They don’t know to be appreciative
because that is all they have ever known!</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 107%;"><br /></span>
<span style="line-height: 107%;">Often if our partner does
notice what is happening and dares to ask if he can help, we shoot him down, telling
him “It’s easier to do it myself, by the time I explain everything to you, I
could have done it myself.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 107%;">I am here to tell
anyone who suffers from ‘Burnt Toast Syndrome’ that you need to wean yourself
off it. </span><span style="line-height: 107%;">The saying:</span><b style="line-height: 107%;"> </b><span style="line-height: 107%;">‘If we are no good for us - we are no good for anyone'</span><span style="line-height: 107%;"> is spot
on!</span><br />
<span style="line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 107%;">When I spend too much time in Burnt Toast land, I find myself getting really resentful. </span><span style="line-height: 107%;">If I am resentful and feeling
sorry for myself, my loved ones whinge at everything and</span><i style="line-height: 107%;"> I have more misery</i><span style="line-height: 107%;">! </span><span style="line-height: 107%;">So I have to stop! </span><span style="line-height: 107%;">Yes, I love my children to the moon and back but I love myself even more!</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 107%;"><br /></span>
<span style="line-height: 107%;">Now if there is only 1 piece of toast
left – I get my loved ones to share. </span><span style="line-height: 107%;">I eat a hot meal and have found the
world doesn’t end when my loved ones are forced to wait. Instead, t</span><span style="line-height: 107%;">hey see me treating myself with
kindness and dignity and that is what I get back from them in return. </span><span style="line-height: 107%;">I accept help – even if I have to
take the time to explain. I have also figured out that</span><i style="line-height: 107%;"> my right way isn't the only right way!</i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 107%;"><i><br /></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 107%;">So to all the people here that suffer
from burnt toast syndrome – it's time to start looking after the most
important person in your life, and showing others that you value yourself, so
they, in turn can value you.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 107%;">And to the partners (or partners to
be), you can assist by offering to do things that allow your loved one to be
valued. Their no is not an option. </span><span style="line-height: 107%;">When we learn to share the burdens
and to say ‘I am worth it', we never accept Burnt Toast again!</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 107%;"><br /></span>
<span style="line-height: 107%;">And I need to finish with: </span><span style="line-height: 107%;">I am worth it and so are you!</span><br />
<span style="line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<br />
<a href="http://www.idareu.org.au/" target="_blank">iDareU</a>Sue Dymondhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15418995208712298522noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3675660145141903901.post-53004129236479879942016-06-05T17:31:00.001-07:002016-06-08T00:39:46.710-07:00Businesses: get disability friendly!<div class="MsoNormal">
Yesterday in Carlton (Melbourne) seemed to be one of those bazaar days when Chloe was invisible to everyone else except me!</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
We decided to visit one of our favourite and very well known food places in Carlton. Miss Chloe had completed her lovely lunch and decided she wanted an ice-cream. There were a couple of people at the counter waiting to be served, so she waited politely and patiently for her turn. These people were served and left while the girl behind the counter completely ignored Chloe. She started serving people who had arrived at the counter well after Chloe.<br />
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPBckII3g1DCTudEldDOQJXpZmrj1_lErRcT0gKTGSyYjgzxj2_3_XFNwmo5SSHCNmgsXHkEwxLd6-S8UzWJZshoDhMRDw0PWqlyuWCG2L-aJiBuLmEfTGZlzH1aj2hmKiIhYzLDSkgvcr/s1600/ice-cream-410330_1280.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="203" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPBckII3g1DCTudEldDOQJXpZmrj1_lErRcT0gKTGSyYjgzxj2_3_XFNwmo5SSHCNmgsXHkEwxLd6-S8UzWJZshoDhMRDw0PWqlyuWCG2L-aJiBuLmEfTGZlzH1aj2hmKiIhYzLDSkgvcr/s320/ice-cream-410330_1280.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
I watched for a while – very unimpressed. I asked one to the lads on the floor if I could speak to the person in charge. He informed me that no-one was in charge. He asked what the problem was and I explained that my daughter was being ignored. I looked towards the ice-cream counter and the girl behind the counter was starting at us, with a very nasty look on her face (she still hadn’t served or asked Chloe if she was being looked after).<br />
<br />
More people came to be served and she asked what they would like, in the end Chloe spoke up and asked for a mint ice-cream in a cup. The girl proceeded in putting the ice-cream in the cup, meanwhile Chloe had moved along the counter and said she also wanted cookies and cream (two flavours). Well this young lass continued to just put mint into the cup until a man (a complete stranger) beside Chloe told the lady behind that counter that Chloe was actually asking for two flavours. The lass then gave Chloe what she wanted AND THEN ASKED THE STRANGER if there was anything else he wanted!</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Come on, this is 2016 - people with disabilities are actually living and being a part of our community, surely it is time businesses ensured their staff treated EVERYONE with dignity and respect and not make blind assumptions about them.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
As we were leaving, we decided to go the shopping centre toilets. There was a large queue for the disabled toilet, as the ladies toilets were being cleaned. As Chloe was the only DISABLED person there, I moved her to the front of the line, no-one had a problem with this expect for the lady at the very front of the queue. As soon as the toilet door opened, she stepped around Chloe and disappeared into the disabled toilet - at the same time the cleaner re-opened the ladies toilets.<br />
<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixmElQY4CPGwHVPDnf_bu8qiH78TG4l8DytVCzP5l6qCk6Au0UE0X_BykW9V_8LFKXk49ROxCYs6DIGRMPNnaNpwwbUp0aieCkTHHQ2JqtfBUCXHkKW7nw0UFD_xbglxu1we_SUNll87f5/s1600/toilet-942100_1280.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixmElQY4CPGwHVPDnf_bu8qiH78TG4l8DytVCzP5l6qCk6Au0UE0X_BykW9V_8LFKXk49ROxCYs6DIGRMPNnaNpwwbUp0aieCkTHHQ2JqtfBUCXHkKW7nw0UFD_xbglxu1we_SUNll87f5/s320/toilet-942100_1280.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br />
Chloe was standing outside the disabled toilet and as the very abled youngish woman came out, another woman walked up to her and asked her what her disability was. To which she replied, "I was before her". I'm sorry, but if there is a disabled person waiting to go to the disabled toilet - they have precedence over everyone else!<br />
<br />
Surely in this day and age our communities are able to accommodate easily and comfortably people who are different and less abled?<br />
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><i>Please, when doing customer service, instead of 'assuming some-one is just looking or can't speak or waiting for they mum/dad...ASK if they are right - they may just be waiting to be served just like the person before them.....</i></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
Sue Dymondhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15418995208712298522noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3675660145141903901.post-54217900954690219432016-05-16T00:54:00.000-07:002016-05-16T00:54:07.210-07:00Community Inclusion - The Norm<a href="http://www.idareu.org.au/" target="_blank">iDareU</a> recently hosted a <a href="http://www.idareu.org.au/happenings/event/9-idareu-community-fair.html" target="_blank">Community Fair</a>. People with disabilities sold things they created alongside small businesses in the community and iDareU selling lots of amazing, pre-loved things.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiY3zEyVT7VuWSuE_JLzfT8PAPepy2Vs1MFHTDYzr7utZnilEYoDd0AlQ9tjc7xNAXY4dGY4MPegjrzGMebd-unfGuM8Ry1BF_qYzAHQ5RcGAnohkv5CtiNLKqM840eGicHnMwa9lf5JM1z/s1600/MadeLocally.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiY3zEyVT7VuWSuE_JLzfT8PAPepy2Vs1MFHTDYzr7utZnilEYoDd0AlQ9tjc7xNAXY4dGY4MPegjrzGMebd-unfGuM8Ry1BF_qYzAHQ5RcGAnohkv5CtiNLKqM840eGicHnMwa9lf5JM1z/s1600/MadeLocally.jpg" /></a></div>
<br /><span id="goog_2056954632"></span>
We made a decision to not use the word 'inclusion' anywhere in the advertising. "WHY?" - I hear you ask. Inclusion needs to STOP being an announcement and needs to become so common and natural that no-one notices.<br />
<br />
People who have a disability and their families live in a community of some sort. They are mainly in suburbs or towns or districts and co-habitat with everyone else. So WHY then do we need to make a fuss when people with a disability join with other members of their community to do something as normal as selling their goods (whether they make those goods themselves or source them)?<br />
<br />
I loved the story from Dylan Alcott - Australian Open champion and quad wheelchair world No.1.<br />
He tells of a well-meaning woman congratulating him on the way he smoothly transitioned from airplane seat to his chair. He found this a bizarre comment, as this is what he always does - his wheels are his legs. He lightly made the comment that he almost congratulated her on the way she made her way from her seat to a standing position to leave the plane.<br />
<br />
People with a disability are not heroes because they do what comes naturally to them, they are just a normal person. A person who mainly lives in a diverse community and tries to make the most of what they have. The time has come for community to not only embrace people who are different but to just accept them and love their differences...whether they be disabled, immigrants, have different sexuality, whatever! A community that embraces diversity is indeed a much richer and more tolerant community then one that repels it!<br />
<br />
So lets all make a concerted effort the next time we plan a community event to invite and include all involved in your community to participate, and to not make a huge song and dance about the fact you are being inclusive but be natural. This way we teach others to do the same.<br />
<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSx5pD3Pnv5yupkxA34YNFsLQpEYJBNQiA372ltDYH0YWZ3IMeDPRcQLT_dgAJmpmIC3whpRQWJSSSdJFVWvmDPYoH6-XJHiLQT4jPcvtXcETyWR8ntDzrdyQVGO6skujwlihNUQQ4B4Bt/s1600/welcome-sign-760358_640.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSx5pD3Pnv5yupkxA34YNFsLQpEYJBNQiA372ltDYH0YWZ3IMeDPRcQLT_dgAJmpmIC3whpRQWJSSSdJFVWvmDPYoH6-XJHiLQT4jPcvtXcETyWR8ntDzrdyQVGO6skujwlihNUQQ4B4Bt/s320/welcome-sign-760358_640.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Lets all be a part of making community inclusion the norm!<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.idareu.org.au/" target="_blank">iDareU</a><br />
<a href="http://www.suedymond.com/" target="_blank">Sue Dymond</a>Sue Dymondhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15418995208712298522noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3675660145141903901.post-46338452788008808962016-05-02T20:41:00.001-07:002016-05-02T20:41:48.547-07:00The wind beneath my wingsI have recently been presenting workshops for Carers of people with disabilities. These interactive workshops are very casual, yet it amazes me that a large group of people can sit in a room and listen to someone speak for a couple of hours, then get up and leave without connecting with anyone else! However, when you ask people to introduce themselves and actually include everyone in the process of the workshop, the chatter with new friends in incessant!<br />
<br />
<br />
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<br />
<br />
There is a section where attendees can discuss their fears around their loved ones with a disability. They then have to come up with something to remove that fear. The astonishing thing about this exercise is that when people start discussing their fears, they realise <i><b>they all have the same fears!</b></i> And right up until this point - <b>they thought they were the only ones, that they were weak or crazy for having such fears! </b>All of a sudden a huge weight is lifted, as they realise they are normal and like everyone else. I don't believe there is anything more healing for the soul than to realise you are not alone on your journey and there are people like you that are willing to walk beside you.<br />
<b><br /></b>
The most important thing about a Community is talking to each other and finding out we are much more alike than different. I have previously spoken about <a href="http://suedymond.blogspot.com.au/2015/12/being-part-of-community.html" target="_blank">becoming part of a greater local Community</a>, but you should never underestimate the importance of becoming a part of our disability Community. I like to see this Community as my Tribe. My tribe does not have to have a loved one with Down syndrome, they just have to have a loved one with a disability to be able to connect with me on a very different level to someone who has never walked this path. These are the people I don't need to have my '<b style="font-style: italic;">happy face' </b>painted on for. These are the people who really GET IT when I say I just want to run away.<br />
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<b>These are the people who are the wind beneath my wings. They help me fly, as well as allow me to grieve and even throw a tantrum.</b><br />
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<b>THESE ARE PEOPLE WHO ALLOW ME TO BE ME and for that, I thank you!</b><br />
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<b><a href="http://www.suedymond.com/" target="_blank">Sue Dymond</a></b><br />
<b><a href="http://www.idareu.org.au/" target="_blank">iDareU</a></b><br />
<b><u><br /></u></b>Sue Dymondhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15418995208712298522noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3675660145141903901.post-79231390583804839562016-04-03T21:19:00.000-07:002016-04-03T21:19:06.124-07:00Newsflash: People with Down Syndrome don't 'Suffer' from Down Syndrome<div data-dobid="dfn" style="display: inline;">
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If I could get a dollar for every time someone says, "She suffers from Down syndrome", I would never need to work again!<br /><br />The fact is in most cases of Down syndrome, it is just an extra chromosome, 21 in every cell. Just like we don't 'suffer' from our 46 chromosomes per cell, people with Down syndrome don't 'suffer' from their 47 chromosomes per cell.<br /><br />Now don't get me wrong, there are people with Down syndrome who do suffer. They suffer from things like heart conditions, sore feet, colds and respiratory issues, falling over and from many other things that give them pain and suffering BUT Down syndrome on its own is not one of those things. Some people who have Down syndrome are more susceptible to illness and issues that make them suffer BUT NOT the Down syndrome itself!<br /><br />It may seem like a little thing, but when I hear people say this, I cringe inside. The inference is they are not comfortable or must be suffering because they are not what is considered 'quite right'. Who are we to decide who and what is 'quite right' and what is not? Miss Chloe is very proud of who she is and just sees having Down syndrome the same as having blue eyes. Perhaps we can learn a thing or two from her and see people as people and only mention the word 'suffer' when people are ill or in pain.</td><td style="padding: 0px;"><br /></td></tr>
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So please ensure you are not making my girl and others who have Down syndrome suffer because of your negative perception of them. The next time you go to refer to a person with Down syndrome, try just saying:'They have Down Syndrome' it isn't that hard.</div>
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As a side note, there are many times I suffer from Miss Chloe BUT NEVER from her Down syndrome - usually from her bad attitude (way too much like her mum, LOL)!<br />
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<a href="http://www.suedymond.com/">Sue Dymond</a><br />
<a href="http://www.idareu.org.au/" target="_blank">iDareU</a><br />
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Sue Dymondhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15418995208712298522noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3675660145141903901.post-58013955575996455142016-03-14T02:13:00.000-07:002016-03-11T02:34:32.672-08:00The Invisibility of Disability<b><i>Have you ever noticed when you are out shopping with your loved one who has a disability that retail or hospitality staff will ask YOU what THEY want?</i></b><br />
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Miss Chloe has always watched them to see whether I am going to speak for her AND if I do...she has ALWAYS contradicted me!! I spent a few years feeling guilty that I was '<b style="font-style: italic;">wasting people's precious time' </b>waiting for Chloe to get the words out. I also felt it was my job to not have them feel '<i><b>uncomfortable or embarrassed' </b></i>because they didn't understand her the first, second and sometimes third time.<br />
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I am so grateful for her tenacity because she taught it SHE WAS WORTH IT!<br />
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I was unconsciously telling her that strangers were worth more then her when I spoke for her or tired to hurry her up. It is a long time since she taught me this and every retail or hospitality person EVENTUALLY gets what she is saying and today, I see THAT as customer service. They are learning a great lesson in respect and patience as well.<br />
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So next time you speak for your child KNOW you are telling them you don't think they are capable.<br />
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I watch Chloe sometimes and it never ceases to amaze me when she is shopping or trying to buy something from a food court, how many times staff see straight through her! She is a polite person and will just keep standing there...<b>waiting, waiting, waiting</b> until eventually a customer will say; "I think you are next".<br />
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It is very sad that she (and others with a disability) are invisible to most of society where transactions take place. There seems to be this concept that they wouldn't know, so we will just wait for the carer/person with them to come and tell us what they want.<br />
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Chloe was asked to leave a bookshop once because the owner ASSUMED she was under 12 (she was 17). When asked why he didn't just ask how old she was, he looked at me with this look of shock...I really don't think he thought she could talk, so he didn't bother finding out.<br />
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We were at a market once in Melbourne and Chloe was buying a t-shirt. She was holding the t-shirt and was in front of me. I was talking to a friend and the stall holder leaned over Chloe and tapped me on the shoulder and asked if I needed anything.<br />
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Rather annoyed, I pretended I didn't know Chloe, pointed to her and her t-shirt and suggested it looked like SHE is the next customer!<br />
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I spend a lot of time pretending I don't know her and suggest SHE is the customer, so maybe they should ask her...<br />
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Another issue we have is the height of the benches in the food courts. They are so high, that even when the service person eventually sees Chloe, they can't understand her because there is so much glass between her and them on the other side. I also found this an issue when I had my stroke and was in a wheelchair.<br />
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Perhaps Customer Service staff need to be trained to never assume and maybe some clever inventor will create a disability-friendly way of making the retail and eating out experience more enjoyable for those who are not the generic size, shape or look!<br />
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<a href="http://www.idareu.org.au/">www.idareu.org.au</a><br />
<a href="http://www.suedymond.com/">www.suedymond.com</a><br />
<br />Sue Dymondhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15418995208712298522noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3675660145141903901.post-11981686715520278712016-03-11T02:13:00.003-08:002016-03-11T02:39:10.152-08:00Let the Mountain come to youRecently I was involved in a Regional Toastmasters competition where the standard of speeches was exceptionally high. However, there was one speech that really resonated with me and my life.<br />
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The speaker was speaking about mountain climbing and how he kept looking up to see how far he had to go or looking down to see how far up he was. He had a very experienced guide with him but there came a point where he was exhausted and KNEW he couldn't make it all the way to the top. The guide came over to him and quietly said;<br />
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"<b><i>Just worry about your next step and when you have done that one, focus on the one after that. Before you know it, the mountain would have come to you."</i></b><br />
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WOW...what amazingly wise words. How many times in our lives do we look so far ahead, not noticing there are many steps to be taken before we reach there. Once we set our goal (whatever the goal may be), we need to come back to the now and just deal with the very next step. Every time I do this, I am amazed how easy the complete task has been when it is finished, one step at a time...<br />
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With Miss Chloe, I was so overwhelmed when she was born, worrying about what her life would be like when I was gone - I just wanted to hide. This has turned out to be a complete waste of time and energy. I have lost quite a few precious peaceful days worrying. The strange thing is, as every day passed and my little girl developed from a baby, into a girl and into a woman, I have realised that my mindset is nowhere near the place it was when she was born. And her life is wonderful and complete and she will manage exactly as she is supposed to!<br />
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Chloe loves her life and feels complete (yes, eventhough she has down syndrome - she doesn't see this as a big deal). She achieves many things that are just out of her capabilities AND she just focuses on the next step. She has had many mountains to overcome in her lifetime and I am sure there will be many more to come.<br />
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So, the next time you get an attack of the '<b><i>CAN'T or QUIT' just remember - the only thing you need to worry about is the next step, AND before you know it, your mountain would have come to you!</i></b><br />
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<a href="http://www.idareu.org.au/">www.idareu.org.au</a><br />
<a href="http://www.suedymond.com/">www.suedymond.com</a><br />
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<br />Sue Dymondhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15418995208712298522noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3675660145141903901.post-6346727235456168282016-02-28T17:45:00.003-08:002016-02-28T17:54:27.498-08:00Many disabilities DON'T have a wheelchairThere seems to be this very strange practice creeping into society at the moment. It is also very disturbing!<br />
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People with disabilities are coming back to their cars to find rude notes attached to the windscreen.<br />
They have been parked in a disability spot, they have a disability permit to park there and yet people are taking it upon themselves to write nasty little notes.<br />
These notes are stating the obvious....You are not in a wheelchair.....blahblah…..<br />
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I have a couple of issues here and I would like to address these people who feel it is their civic right to behave in this manner.<br />
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<li>SURPRISE!!!!!!! The wheelchair in the image is ONLY to let you know it is a DISABILITY car park...it is NOT A WHEELCHAIR ONLY car park!!! Therefore if a person is NOT in a wheelchair, please don't assume there is nothing wrong with them.</li>
<li>If you are that concerned, why don't you actually approach and ask the person (politely) if they have a disability??? Yes, a novel idea, I know…What? TALK to them and have the issue cleared up? It is much more powerful to assume the worst and leave a message on some vulnerable persons windscreen. This is just a type of bullying - dressed up as doing your civic duty. If it really bothers you - speak to the person.</li>
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People who have a disability that can't be seen clearly have a hard enough time trying to navigate this complex world we live in. Perhaps a little kindness would be a good replacement for this type of behaviour.<br />
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It is the same with public toilets. Miss Chloe has a disability, but can walk. I can't tell you how many people give her dagger looks when she goes to the disabled toilet...<br />
They believe the wheelchair sign means it is ONLY for people in a wheelchair.<br />
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It seems there needs to be a big campaign around re-educating society as to the meaning of the disability logo.<br />
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COME ON big advertising companies, how about you do a huge community service and create a funky ad around this concept?<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><i><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.idareu.org.au/" target="_blank">iDareU</a> to help make our most vulnerable and ill count.</span></i></b></div>
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<b>PLEASE </b>R<b>EMEMBER NOT ALL DISABILITIES INVOLVE A WHEELCHAIR. SHOW COMPASSION AND EMPATHY INSTEAD OF CONDEMNATION AND JUDGEMENT!!!</b><br />
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<b><a href="http://www.idareu.org.au/" target="_blank">Click here</a> to find out more about iDareU</b><br />
<b><a href="http://www.suedymond.com/" target="_blank">Click here</a> to find out more about Sue Dymond</b><br />
<a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/extension/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.blogger.com%2Fblogger.g%3FblogID%3D3675660145141903901%23editor%2Ftarget%3Dpost%3BpostID%3D634672723545616828%3BonPublishedMenu%3Dallposts%3BonClosedMenu%3Dallposts%3BpostNum%3D1%3Bsrc%3Dpostname&media=https%3A%2F%2F1.bp.blogspot.com%2F-jSlzF_4Ri_k%2FVtOiQ5R4YFI%2FAAAAAAAAAxw%2FZtt5qfInRC8%2Fs200%2Fpictogram-884042_1280.png&xm=h&xv=sa1.37.01&xuid=dSz6F8aYMkTQ&description=" style="background-color: transparent; background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; left: 253px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; top: 736px; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a><a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/extension/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.blogger.com%2Fblogger.g%3FblogID%3D3675660145141903901%23editor%2Ftarget%3Dpost%3BpostID%3D634672723545616828%3BonPublishedMenu%3Dallposts%3BonClosedMenu%3Dallposts%3BpostNum%3D1%3Bsrc%3Dpostname&media=https%3A%2F%2F1.bp.blogspot.com%2F-jSlzF_4Ri_k%2FVtOiQ5R4YFI%2FAAAAAAAAAxw%2FZtt5qfInRC8%2Fs200%2Fpictogram-884042_1280.png&xm=h&xv=sa1.37.01&xuid=dSz6F8aYMkTQ&description=" style="background-color: transparent; background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; left: 253px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; top: 736px; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a><a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/extension/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.blogger.com%2Fblogger.g%3FblogID%3D3675660145141903901%23editor%2Ftarget%3Dpost%3BpostID%3D634672723545616828%3BonPublishedMenu%3Dallposts%3BonClosedMenu%3Dallposts%3BpostNum%3D1%3Bsrc%3Dpostname&media=https%3A%2F%2F1.bp.blogspot.com%2F-jSlzF_4Ri_k%2FVtOiQ5R4YFI%2FAAAAAAAAAxw%2FZtt5qfInRC8%2Fs200%2Fpictogram-884042_1280.png&xm=h&xv=sa1.37.01&xuid=dSz6F8aYMkTQ&description=" style="background-color: transparent; background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; left: 253px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; top: 736px; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a><a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/extension/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.blogger.com%2Fblogger.g%3FblogID%3D3675660145141903901%23editor%2Ftarget%3Dpost%3BpostID%3D634672723545616828%3BonPublishedMenu%3Dallposts%3BonClosedMenu%3Dallposts%3BpostNum%3D1%3Bsrc%3Dpostname&media=https%3A%2F%2F1.bp.blogspot.com%2F-jSlzF_4Ri_k%2FVtOiQ5R4YFI%2FAAAAAAAAAxw%2FZtt5qfInRC8%2Fs200%2Fpictogram-884042_1280.png&xm=h&xv=sa1.37.01&xuid=dSz6F8aYMkTQ&description=" style="background-color: transparent; background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; left: 253px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; top: 736px; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a>Sue Dymondhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15418995208712298522noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3675660145141903901.post-67738136225269317612016-02-22T01:38:00.002-08:002016-02-23T23:02:47.288-08:00Let them Flap till they SoariDareU recently hosted a workshop to assist carers of loved ones with a disability to become 'naturally' involved in their local community. I decided to eliminate all the 'YEAH BUTS' and other excuses why this can't be done at the beginning of the session. There wasn't one valid reason for not being involved in the local community.<br />
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The most interesting thing that came out of the workshop was that 'we' (the carers) are the biggest obstacle to allowing our loved ones to become involved in the local community. It's amazing how often we think we need to protect our children from the 'big bad world' and inadvertently make them dependent upon us. We just KNOW if we allow them to become travel trained they WILL be bullied or worse….We KNOW if the train isn't running, no-one will help our loved one...This is so sad…It is just as likely that the OPPOSITE will happen.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKGBNJFX4i_Z0KjKXYoM9V6pkTVMFlIKf9n_SoZc-WDHS9ga98AM73Sp7n-vnNHp8SG-2tolu08ILzn6uZcuhFp3tRBbsnCLIYsbeWwf8DiS6HJkR3Dez-NKziFnnvvPfx9DA9idxGDBoq/s1600/departure-platform-371218_1920.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKGBNJFX4i_Z0KjKXYoM9V6pkTVMFlIKf9n_SoZc-WDHS9ga98AM73Sp7n-vnNHp8SG-2tolu08ILzn6uZcuhFp3tRBbsnCLIYsbeWwf8DiS6HJkR3Dez-NKziFnnvvPfx9DA9idxGDBoq/s320/departure-platform-371218_1920.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Miss Chloe has been out on her own in the community for approximately six years now and not once has she been bullied or ignored. In fact, she will go up to a person, hand them the phone and tell them her mum wants to speak to them. They will let me know the situation and then watch out for her and make sure she gets to the right place. Many times she has asked school kids....zero times have they treated her badly.<br />
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Now I'm not saying that bad things don't happen in the community…But I AM saying:<br />
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NOTHING CAN BE WORSE FOR US OR OUR LOVED ONES THAN KEEPING THEM WRAPPED IN COTTON WOOL AND NOT ALLOWING THEM TO LIVE!<br />
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Life is all about taking risks. Risk taking is how we grow, become empowered and gain self-esteem. Please don't take this powerful gift away from your children because you fear they CAN'T.... Or because you believe they need protecting from EVERYTHING. Get the local community on board and create a safety net, allowing your loved one to take risks and learn to fly.<br />
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A mother bird will push her baby bird out of the nest when it's time for her baby to become independent. They have no idea they can fly until they awkwardly flap their wings about - heading for the dirt. But they keep trying and before they crash, they get the flying thing worked out and they soar.<br />
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I<b>sn't it time to let your loved one flap around and learn to soar?</b><br />
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<b><a href="http://www.idareu.org.au/" target="_blank">Click here</a> to go to the iDareU website</b><br />
<b><a href="http://www.suedymond.com/" target="_blank">Click here</a> to go to connect to Sue Dymond's website</b><br />
<a href="" style="background-color: transparent; background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a><a href="" style="background-color: transparent; background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a>Sue Dymondhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15418995208712298522noreply@blogger.com0