RM 207 E-Portfolio (Disability & Inclusion)

This week, we have learned about PERMA, also known as the Flourish technique. It is a method we can use to help those who are going through a difficult time or struggling with their mental health, and it aids with their overall well-being.  PERMA P: Positive Emotion E: Engagement  R: Positive Relationships M: Meaning  A: Accomplishments  Video:  PERMA - Positive Psychology Did you know?  Rock climbing can help with your overall well-being and mental health. Watch the video below to gain a deeper understanding.  Video:  Benefits of Rock Climbing

Reflection This week's learning we learned about hidden disabilities, developmental disabilities, mobility impairments, and brain injuries. Below are some of the things we have learned and some other items I have added to complement the lessons learned this week.  Hidden Disabilities:    Epilepsy Diabetes Mellitus Cancer Access and Interactions:  Provide an environment conducive to self-disclosure. Once a person identifies as having a disability, a discussion can follow about what accommodations they need. Ask questions that will help you understand. Developmental Disabilities: Down Syndrome Fetal Alcohol Syndrome (FAS) Fragile-X Definition:   Developmental disability is defined as having a severe or chronic disability. It is associated with mental/physical impairment, acquired before age 22, to be indefinite, functional limitations and defined by the accommodations needed.  Access and Interactions: Interact with the individual as a person.  Do no...

Today marks four weeks since starting the RM 207 Disability and Inclusion class, and so far, it is going well, and I am learning a lot to further my knowledge in the field of disabilities. I have worked with Chrusalis in Calgary, Alberta, and have done my disability studies with them to acquire certification to work with those with complex medical needs and various disabilities. Working in this area was very rewarding for me and the clients I had a chance to work with.  Unfortunately, back in 2011, I had to resign and focus on my daughter, who had to have a surgery to save her life with a multi-organ transplant (double lung and heart transplant. Due to being on life support, it has affected her ability to function in certain areas as she suffered a bleed and hematoma in her head due to life support (ECMO), resulting in having disabilities that need help from not only me, but also others to make sure she lives the best life possible. I miss working with Chrusaylis, and it was my fav...

Not Being Inclusive Here is a clear example of how our city is failing to be inclusive in Calgary, AB.  This issue concerns the parking stalls designated for individuals with disabilities and wheelchair users at our local hospitals. My friend Joe, who is from Calgary, has been struggling with parking due to the insufficient space provided.  Our hospitals need to do  better, be more inclusive, and make these stalls larger to allow for better access and parking. I truly believe we must advocate for change to create a more inclusive and accessible environment. As a city, we need to do better, be better. Keep advocating and do not give up.  

This week, I learned about inclusion and first-person language when addressing those with disabilities.  Inclusion:   Creating and providing access to equal opportunities for everyone, no matter what. It is making sure that everyone has the right to participate in any activity. It also provides the necessary accommodation and support a person may need to benefit equally.  I have found a great video on inclusion about a child who is helping his mother, who is blind.  Click the link to open the video in a new tab.    https://youtu.be/QXY5TyCUTlo?si=F6UjiErqkye2WDF5   Person First Language:   It is the proper way to speak to or about someone who has a disability. For example, if someone said "handicapped," you would direct them to say "disability". Another example would be "Oh, he is confined to a wheelchair." You would correct them and say, "An individual who uses a wheelchair".   We need to focus on the person rather than the disability itself...

 What I have learned: I learned that leisure has three common meanings, which are as follows. Leisure as time  - Free from obligations and time to do individual wants. Leisure as a recreational activity  - Freely chosen activities with positive outcomes; sports, games, art, hobbies and music. Leisure as an attitude (state of mind)  - Feeling of satisfaction, positivity, happiness, how we feel during an activity. Some might find leisure in work, outdoors and recreation instructors.  Play- Working on developing emotional and cognitive development, as well as learning through play. Leisure is a positive and productive use of our time, and when we use it wisely, it can refresh our bodies and our minds.