A few years ago I started an online advocacy group for individuals with Down syndrome and their family members, #321Advocate. My goal was simple: to better equip people to be effective grassroots advocates. Many people asked me how to advocate, […]
A few weeks back, Rachel and I had the honor of leading a session at the National Down Syndrome Congress (NDSC) Virtual Advocacy Training Boot Camp. We had the task of sharing with participants how you effectively engage with legislators […]
A Borderline Disability I have considered writing several different books about our journey with Down syndrome. Probably will at some point. From time to time, people sharing this journey post about some of the offensive, ridiculous, silly, maddening, well-intended, sometimes […]
At the end of the school year, I call it IEP Season. I notice an upsurge in social media requests and pleas for help in getting a child included in the gen ed classroom. I also seem to get more […]
When we moved to Olathe, Kansas 10 years ago, I met the Palangi family. Their daughter Ella, who like Rachel has Down syndrome, was a toddler and has now grown into a beautiful young lady who is embracing middle school […]
Four weeks from today Rachel’s college classes as part of the Missouri State University Bear POWER Program begin. Excitement and lists are plentiful around our house! While the key question for a very long time may have been “What will […]
We’ve had about 10 days to recuperate from the election. For most of us, no more election calls or advertisements. I apologize to those of you experiencing recounts or run-offs. For those of us who prioritize policy advocacy, the real […]
It’s National #ABLEtoSave month! Rachel joined Matt Syverson, Financial Planner and Dad to a daughter with Down syndrome, Tom Treacy, Kansas State Treasurer’s Office, and me in sharing about ABLE accounts at the Down Syndrome Guild of Greater Kansas City […]
Back in September, I wrote “What Will Rachel Do Next Year?” Seemed like a smart way to communicate to everyone because it is THE question. I outlined her preferences and some of our options. I said we wanted to enjoy […]
I have a guest blogger today, Katie Locke, MCD, CCC-SLP. A few month ago, Katie posted this on an Instagram picture of Rachel: “I wouldn’t be where I am today without Rachel. So proud of her.” She tells it better than […]