New educational video series offers insights into disability
rights and self-advocacy for individuals living with
paralysis
SHORT
HILLS, N.J., May 15, 2024
/PRNewswire/ -- The Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation,
in collaboration with Shepherd Center, proudly presents
"Raise Your Voice: Succeeding through Self-Advocacy."
This seven-part series empowers individuals living with paralysis
by providing comprehensive resources and education on disability
rights and essential self-advocacy tools. From exploring the
history of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) to navigating
healthcare, employment, housing, transportation, and education,
this series offers expert insights and honest testimonials from
community members.
"The Reeve Foundation is committed to providing the necessary
tools to those living with paralysis to champion their rights and
thrive daily," said Emily Wolinsky,
Director, Outreach and Education, Reeve Foundation. "Through
education and advocacy, and collaboration with our partners at
Shepherd Center, this series spreads awareness on how to break
barriers and build a more inclusive and equitable society while
advocating for yourself."
"After a complex disease, illness, or catastrophic event, it may
be hard to find your voice – both literally and figuratively – to
ask for help and advocate for your needs," said Diane Johnston, Director of Professional
Education, Shepherd Center. "Self-advocacy is more than
speaking up and getting what you need. It includes essential
elements of educating yourself and others to ensure your needs are
met. Self-advocacy helps you to thrive and live your life to your
full potential."
A History of Our Community
As a person with a disability, you are part of a unique
community with a rich history of self-advocates striving to create
a more accessible world. In this video, explore the history of
disability rights and the progress made in building an inclusive
society.
Mastering the Skill of Self-Advocacy
While self-advocacy can, at times, be overwhelming and difficult
to navigate, it can also be an empowering experience that leads to
change –– for yourself and your community. This video will identify
tools to help you develop a successful, assertive approach to
navigating self-advocacy in any situation.
Navigating Healthcare
Accessing quality healthcare, whether primary or specialized,
presents a myriad of challenges for those living with paralysis. In
this video, learn how to navigate the healthcare system to ensure
you receive the care you need, and gain tools to address any
challenges you may face.
Seeking Employment
This segment will explore the challenges of seeking employment
or returning to work as someone living with paralysis. You will
hear expert advice from a certified rehabilitation counselor and a
vocational specialist to assist you in preparing to enter or
re-enter the workplace.
Equal Access to Housing
Whether you want to rent, sell, or purchase a home, knowing your
rights and resources is essential when looking for a place to live.
In this video, discover the crucial tools to secure safe and stable
housing effectively.
Accessible Education
For people living with paralysis, going to school –– whether
K-12 or college –– requires extra preparation. This video is
designed to simplify this process and streamline your educational
journey, making it more accessible, manageable, and, ultimately,
rewarding.
Transportation
Transportation and integration into the community play pivotal
roles in one's quality of life. In this segment, explore your
rights related to pedestrian travel, public transportation, driving
and operating a car, and air travel, and learn practical tips for
navigating transportation barriers.
The complete video series and descriptions are on the Reeve
Foundation YouTube channel.
About the Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation
The Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation is dedicated to
curing spinal cord injury by funding innovative research and
improving the quality of life for individuals and families impacted
by paralysis. Additionally, through a cooperative agreement with
the Administration for Community Living, the Reeve
Foundation's National Paralysis Resource Center (NPRC)
promotes the health, well-being, and independence of people living
with paralysis, providing comprehensive information, resources, and
referral services assisting over 125,000 individuals and families
since its launch in 2002. The Reeve Foundation is committed to
elevating our community's voices and needs to achieve greater
representation and independence.
We meet all 20 of the Better Business Bureau's standards for
charity accountability and hold the BBB's Charity Seal. For more information, please
visit ChristopherReeve.org or call 800-225-0292.
This project is supported by the Administration for Community
Living (ACL), U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) as
part of a financial assistance award totaling $10,000,000 with a portion of the project being
funded by ACL/HHS and the remaining funded by non-government
source(s). The content is those of the author(s) and does not
necessarily represent the official views of, nor an endorsement by
ACL/HHS or the U.S. government.
About Shepherd Center
Shepherd Center provides world-class clinical care, research,
and family support for people experiencing the most complex
conditions, including spinal cord and brain injuries, multi-trauma,
traumatic amputations, stroke, multiple sclerosis, and pain. An
elite center recognized as both Spinal Cord Injury and Traumatic
Brain Injury Model Systems, Shepherd Center is ranked
by U.S. News as one of the nation's top hospitals for
rehabilitation. Shepherd Center treats thousands of patients
annually with unmatched expertise and unwavering compassion to help
them begin again.
Media Contact Reeve Foundation:
Julia Leonard, Media Specialist
media@reeve.org
973-933-7222
Media Contact Shepherd Center:
Kerry Ludlam, Director of
Communications, Public Relations
Kerry.Ludlam@shepherd.org
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SOURCE Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation