One Size Does Not Fit All!

This is the second party off my interview with James we discuss his organization Handicapable Fitness (www.handicapablefitness.com). Jim talks about what inspired him to start this organization and what they do. James and I also discussed issues people with disabilities encounter in society. These issues include The Ride (a form of public transportation for individuals with disabilities and Senior Citizens) in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. We also discuss the cost of equipment for individuals with disabilities such as wheelchairs and transportation. Other topics that James and I discuss include work opportunities and the barriers to these opportunities, public restroom accessibility, and a lack of overall awareness by society in general for people with disabilities. Lastly, we discuss James' first in a series of four Children's books he is the author of and why he is writing these books and what the future holds for book two, three and four. For more information about James Norris go to www.handicapablefitness.com and on his site you will be able to contact James and also purchase his book Feeling Left Out. To purchase James' book on Amazon go to: https://a.co/d/8FK1MJO For more information on the Concerned Advocates of New England go to: www.concernedadvocatesofnewengland.org or www.askcane.org. For more information and to listen to our podcast One Size Does Not Fit All go to: www.onesizedoesnotfitall.org.

In this episode of One Sized Does Not Fit All (https://www.onesizedoesnotfitall.org) the Podcast of the Concerned Advocates of New England (https://www.concernedadvocatesofnewengland.org) I speak with James Norris Founder and Executive Director of Handicapable Fitness (www.handicapablefitness.com) and Author of "Feeling Left Out" (https://a.co/d/8FK1MJO⁠) the first in a four part series of children's books. James Norris was diagnosed with Cerebral Palsy (CP) at two years old after an operation during which his oxygen supply was cut off for over five minutes. In this, episode we discuss what happened and James' experience growing up with CP. We also discuss how COVID 19 has effected the disability community; effects such as more isolation, and related mental health issues. James and I also discuss the need for better acceptance in the community and workplace for individuals with disabilities. For more information about James Norris, and Handicapable, visit his website (www.⁠handicapablefitness.com)⁠. On he website you will be able to contact James and also purchase his book Feeling Left Out.  To purchase James' book on Amazon go to: ⁠https://a.co/d/8FK1MJO⁠ For more information on the Concerned Advocates of New England go to: ⁠www.concernedadvocatesofnewengland.org⁠ or ⁠www.askcane.org⁠.  For more information and to listen to our podcast One Size Does Not Fit All go to: ⁠www.onesizedoesnotfitall.org⁠. 

A Night to Shine is an unforgettable prom night experience centered on God's love, for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities as well as other special needs ages 14 and older. A Night To Shine was started over eight (8) years ago by the Tim Tebow Foundation (www.timtebowfoundation.org). Around the world on a night in February faith based and non-profit organizations host "proms" for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, their families and care givers.  In February 2020 Hope Christian Church (www.hopechristianchurch.org) in Winchester MA hosted its first Night To Shine. On February 6, 2022 HCC will host its 3rd Night To Shine. To register as a guest or volunteer go to: www.hopechristianchurch.org and click on the event.   Please watch HCC's video about what this years Night To Shine will look like... https://vimeo.com/652942367 For more information on Concerned Advocates of New England and the advocacy and work we do go to our webpage: www.concernedadvocatesofnewengland.org

In this episode of ONE SIZE DOES NOT FIT ALL podcast (www.onesizedoesnotfitall.org) George and I discuss our advocacy efforts in Washington DC with the national organization VOR and the impact of those efforts.  Listeners Note: Some terminology used may be offensive but accurate to the times being discussed.

In this episode of ONE SIZE DOES NOT FIT ALL podcast (www.onesizedoesnotfitall.net) George and I discuss what is a community?  We discuss the push to close all facilities in MA by then Governor Romney and con tin to discuss the tactics used by Fernald and the other facilities to keep these amazing facilities open.  Listeners Note: Some terminology used may be offensive but accurate to the times being discussed.

In this episode of ONE SIZE DOES NOT FIT ALL podcast (www.onesizedoesnotfitall.net) George and I continue to discuss "Equal or Better" and the importance of guardianship especially during the nationwide wave of Intermediate Care Facility (ICF) closures throughout the country. We also discuss the difficulties of siblings and guardianship discussions as our loved ones guardians (parents) age in years.  Listeners Note: Some terminology used may be offensive but accurate to the times being discussed.

In this segment of ONE SIZE DOES NOT FIT ALL podcast (www.onesizedoesnotfitall.org) George and discuss 2003 and the announcement of then Governor Romney to close all ICF/IDD facilities in MA.  At the time Governor Romney stated that by closing all facilities in MA (5 of 7 facilities other 2 facilities closed several years prior) that the state would save over 80 million dollars. George myself and other advocates proved by the endow of Governor Romney's term that the 80 million in savings promised was not accurate. In fact, Governor Romney was forced to admit that it was a breakeven savings at best.  The announcement of closure in 2003 resulted in Glavin Developmental Center and Munson Developmental Center closing sometime between 2003-present and Fernald did not close until 2014. Hogan Developmental Center and Wrentham Developmental Center are still open today and continue to provide superior care for the most vulnerable individuals with I/DD in MA.  These individuals living in these Developmental Centers in MA and throughout the country today do not have a community option due to their medical fragility, required 24/7 nursing care and support needs. Like my brother Christopher who died in 1996 many of these individuals would not survive and thrive in community settings.   #ONESIZEDOESNOTFITALL  Listeners Note: Some terminology used may be offensive but accurate to the times being discussed.

In this episode of ONE SIZE DOES NOT FIT ALL podcast (www.onesizedoesnotfitall.org) George and I discuss the duties of being a guardian especially the representative payee responsibilities. Listeners Note: Some terminology used may be offensive but accurate to the times being discussed.

In this episode of ONE SIZE DOES NOT FIT ALL podcast (www.onesizedoesnotfitall.org) George and I discuss the difference of guardian and advocate.  We also discuss when we became advocates for all individuals with I/DD and how important it is as a guardian to be able to advocate for your loved one. Listeners Note: Some terminology used may be offensive but accurate to the times being discussed. 

In this episode of ONE SIZE DOES NOT FIT ALL podcast (www.onesizedoesnotfitall.org) George and I discuss the differences and similarities of a facility and community setting. Listeners Note: Some terminology used may be offensive but accurate to the times being discussed.

In this segment of ONE SIZE DOES NOT FIT ALL podcast (www.onesizedoesnotfitall.org) We will meet George Mavridis a guardian and advocate for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) for over 50 years. George and I are also friends, guardians and fellow advocates and have known each other for many years. George and I have sat on Boards of several advocacy groups for people with I/DD. George has also been a strong supporter of the Concerned Advocates of New England www.concernedadvocatesofnewengland.org. Listeners Note: Some terminology used may be offensive but accurate to the times being discussed.   

Guardianship is one of the most important decisions you will need to make for your loved ones.  Regulations vary by State, but in Massachusetts when a person turns 18 they are considered and adult.  Listen to this podcast and learn: 1. What happens when a disabled person turns 18. 2. Three things regarding guardianship that is true in every State. 3.  The definition of Guardianship. 4.  Key considerations for determining if a person need guardianship. 5.  Common myths regarding guardianship and thoughts for planning for the future.  For more information on guardianship, visit our website www.concernedadvocatesofnewengland.org or www.askcane.org

Concerned Advocates of New England is a reincarnation of a 50+ year old advocacy organization - CCMR, Inc.  Started by Charles A. Hart, CCMR advocated for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.  The organization was started because Charles' son Christopher was born with profound intellectual and developmental disabilities.   David Hart the surviving son of Charles Hart has dedicated his life to following in his father's footsteps to make sure that those among us who are often forgotten and neglected have a voice.  This podcast is for you if:  - You are an individual with I/DD, Guardian, caregiver, sibling, parent, or friend of a person with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities  - You are in search of advice or resources to make an informed decision on the proper care and education of your loved one.  - You are looking for suggestions for employment opportunities for your loved one to stay connected to society. Then you've come to the right place and this podcast is for you.  For more information on the Concerned Advocates of New England visit our website (www.concernedadvocatesofnewengland.org). Please note the site is under construction. To contact or need information email info@concernedadvocatesofnewengland.org This podcast is dedicated to Christopher Hart who although profoundly mentally retarded brought joy, love and inspiration to everyone he met.