They say experience is the best teacher. Learn from the personal stories of people with developmental disabilities and their family members from every corner of Illinois. Find encouragement in their victories. Draw inspiration from their resilience. Be comforted knowing that they too have encountered tough times. These are our stories.
What’s yours?
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JoanNorthbrook, ILLifeMyWay means: To our family, it’s about rights, freedom and independence. Greg and I have raised our children with the freedom to make decisions. They choose what movie they want to watch and what they want to eat (to a reasonable extent, of course!) Their choices should not be limited because they have a disability. I believe in my children and their right to a bright future. Through my experiences, I have learned about the importance of equipping your children with independence skills to help them transition out of high school into a more stable, community-oriented environment. They deserve these valuable life experiences, like anyone else. |
Tazewell mental health provider questions state's funding cuts
By: Sharon Woods Harris
Peoria Journal Star
2/2/12
A colorful "Happy birthday to you" sign hangs on the wall at 1423 Valle Vista, but there are no celebrants wishing the birthday boy well.
Teen with autism shot to death by police
By: Becky Schlikerman and Liam Ford
Chicago Tribune
2/2/12
Calumet City police had been called to subdue Stephon Watts 10 times in less than two years, using Tasers at least once on the 15-year-old with Aspberger's syndrome.
Changing The Autism Spectrum
By: Fanna Haile-Selassie and Randy Livingston
WSIL TV
1/30/12
Workers at a local center are applauding the decision to change what classifies as autism. The stricter criteria for diagnosing the disorder will likely mean fewer people are considered autistic.