Category: Member Spotlight
What's your story? Tell us a little bit about yourself.
On March 16, 1997, Jenny was a victim in a tragic drunk driving accident, leaving her paralyzed from the chest down. At age 24, she was lost, living life wondering why she survived that horrific day and what was her purpose in life. “The independence, livelihood, career and dignity I once took for granted were all stripped away. I found myself living a life surrounded by physical limitations,” she explains. As she chose to be an individual who aspires to live life to the fullest, with the same freedoms as the rest of the world, she found it to be even more challenging. Since that time, she committed her life to raising awareness for individuals suffering from paralysis and neurological disorders.
In 2001, Jenny reigned as Miss Wheelchair Wisconsin which in turn jumpstarted her career as a Motivational Speaker. Over the years, she shares that she has been blessed with the opportunity to share my personal testimony and experience with a countless number of schools, colleges, universities, churches and correctional institutions. Highlighting topics such as the consequences of reckless driving, importance of medical research and overcoming adversity, just to name a few.
Jenny tells us that it had been her dream to organize and direct a fashion show and community awareness event completely comprised of models in wheelchairs to help raise money for medical research such as, spinal cord injuries and other neurological disorders. She decided to propose this idea to a few key friends that she knew could help her vision come alive on the runway such as, her now good friend, Bryon Riesch. Bryon was in a devastating accident that left him paralyzed from the chest down on April 25, 1998. His friends and family helped establish the Bryon Riesch Paralysis Foundation (BRPF) to assist others faced with a similar situation.
After his injury, Jenny explains that they were introduced in hopes that they’d become a good support system for one another. And they did! It was clear that their friendship was going to last a long time. Hence, “This is How We Roll" was created. A Fashion Show, Fundraiser and Community Awareness Event highlighting the importance of medical research, wheelchair accessibility and inclusion within the community by breaking down barriers and changing the stereotypes society has about wheelchair users. It also provides each model with a life changing experience by promoting positivity, self-worth and life skills. Models include a diverse group, ranging from teachers, nurses, lawyers, school children and even pageant titleholders. Check out 2023 Fashion Show highlights by going to https://vimeo.com/826538529.
Jenny goes onto explain that the Fashion Show is a perfect example of how communities and people working together can do great things. Since its fruition, they have introduced over 300 remarkable models (men, women, and children of all ages), representing the Midwest, to the runway. All wheelchair users. All “Rolling the Runway for Research". To date, they have raised over $217,000.00 for medical research and their fight against Paralysis!
For more information on how you can get involved with the Fashion Show contact Jenny at addisjenny@yahoo.com or 715-802-3456.
Learn more about the Bryon Riesch Paralysis Foundation go to www.brpf.org.
How are you involved with self-determination? Why did you join the SD Network?
Jenny has been enrolled in IRIS since 2008 (I Respect, I Self-Direct) which is a state program designed for disabled individuals like myself who are able to direct their own services and support. She explains that it allows her to make her own decisions, including determining her daily activities and the types of support or assistance she need to meet her long-term care needs under an established budget. Individuals choose where they want to live and who is caring for them. “I live in a remote area so hiring has always been challenging but now with the caregiver crisis and the lack of people working has hit my life hard. I keep plugging along though and don’t give up,” she says.
Tell us some good news - what's the most exciting thing happening for you (or in Wisconsin) in terms of self-determination?
For Jenny, it’s exciting to see firsthand individuals with disabilities living life. “I’m inspired every year to see these amazing models overcoming adversity whether they are a student, career driven, a parent, athletic or a state titleholder. They are looking beyond their disabilities and living fulfilled lives,” she tells us. It has confirmed why events like the fashion show and organizations like the BRPF are so important in Wisconsin.
What tip or resource would you like to share with people who want to be more self-determined?
Jenny encourages people to follow their dreams. She explains that if she hadn’t pursued her vision and her dream, the fashion show, that offers so much hope to so many deserving individuals, would not exist. “We need to keep our hope and faith first and foremost,” she says.
Two of her favorite Bible verses that she lives by are Matthew 11:28-29 and Luke 17:6
“For I know the plans I have for you,” says the Lord. “They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope.”
God has reminded me that I am here for a reason and a purpose. All I need is faith the size of the smallest seed on this earth – a mustard seed!
“He replied, “If you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mulberry tree, ‘Be uprooted and planted in the sea,’ and it will obey you.”
What are some of your hobbies?
In Jenny’s free time, she enjoys spending it outdoors adaptive waterskiing, kayaking, hiking and spending time with family, friends and her puppy LuLu (service dog in training).
***We love hearing the views and opinions of Network members. We need to mention that the views and opinions expressed on this site are those of the person who is sharing them. They do not necessarily reflect InControl Wisconsin or any of our supporters and funders.
What's your story? Tell us a little bit about yourself.
David is a 41 year old self-advocate. He shares that when he was 13 months old, he contracted a strep infection that his body couldn’t fight. He had a compromised immune system which mutated into full-blown arthritis. He doesn’t let the daily constant pain stop him from leading a successful life. He uses a power wheelchair and has found a treatment that works for him.
He lives in his own home and has lots of technology equipment in place to help him in case of an emergency. He also has an accessible van that he drives independently. This allows him to be an active member of the community. He had held several different jobs and has served on various disability advocacy boards.
In addition to his work in advocacy, David appraises antiques and used goods. he’s also a registered officiant and performs various types of religious ceremonies. He is working on writing a book about his life story as well. He lives in Richard County and is involved in mediating and relationships. “We all watch out for each other and help in any way we can” he says.
How are you involved with self-determination? Why did you join the SD Network?
Although his professional advocacy journey began in 2009, David began advocating for himself when he was a young child. He shares that when he was young, he allowed to come to his doctor appointments to learn about his condition. He also, when asked, points people in the right direction and shares how he overcomes his struggles in hopes to steer them in the right direction in their journey. “Sometimes it’s some of the most important jobs that involve no pay that are the most notable and rewarding in this world. Through my positions I do not seek fame and recognition, I only seek solutions and viable means of maintaining programs and funding for my state and local community,” he tells us.
Currently, David is the Chairman for the Richmond County Commission on Ageing and Disabilities Board, Chairperson of the Aging and Disability Resource Center of Eagle County Governance Board, and Vice President for the Movin Out Board of Directors. He’s also a member of the Inclusa/Family Care Grievance and Appeals committee.
Tell us some good news - what's the most exciting thing happening for you (or in Wisconsin) in terms of self-determinations?
David is excited about all of the projects he’s working on. “Stay tuned,” he says.
What tip or resource would you like to share with people who want to be more self-determined?
David left us with the following quote and we didn’t want to paraphrase it because it’s so good.
For every good day that I have there are usually two not so good days to go along with it. The key to my success is surrounding myself with enough positivity to overcome the negative events that take place in my life. Always have goals and dreams no matter how far out of reach they seem. As we age things are bound to progress in the wrong directions making things harder. Tendons will stretch, muscles will atrophy, pain will be in plenty dished out as three square meals a day. Even still I shall trudge on at all cost. Adapt and overcome. No matter the odds never give up, for life is so short anyway and there are so many wonderful treasures this life has to offer.
What are some of your hobbies?
In his spare time, David enjoys watching sports, going deer hunting, watching the sunset over the Wisconsin River, and, most importantly, spending time with his three dogs. “They keep me company and are always there,” he says.
***We love hearing the views and opinions of Network members. We need to mention that the views and opinions expressed on this site are those of the person who is sharing them. They do not necessarily reflect InControl Wisconsin or any of our supporters and funders.
What's your story? Tell us a little bit about yourself.
Emily turned 30 years old on St. Patrick's Day. She has a boyfriend named Mitchell, and they have been dating for eight years. “We like to sing karaoke, go to parties and dances, and bowl together,” she says. She lives in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin now, but she’s from Illinois. She sings in a choir and also does lots of activities with Champions of Fond du Lac which is a group for people with disabilities. She enjoys taking an online cooking class every week and she also bowls.
What does Self-Determination mean to you? Why is it important?
Emily explains that she likes to make her own decisions and vote. She wants to spend time with people she likes, and she wants to work to make money. “I want to do things for myself like shopping, deciding what I want to eat and where I want to live, and planning my activities,” she says. Her iPad is important to her, so she can do online classes, Facebook, and Facetime with her friends.
Tell us some good news - what's the most exciting thing happening for you (or in Wisconsin) in terms of self-determination?
Emily tells us that at a recent People First meeting they talked about voting rights. She was happy to learn that she can get help filling out her ballot.
What tip or resource would you like to share with people who want to be more self-determined?
Emily encourages people not to be afraid to say what you want and to ask for help. Try new things and be safe online. She encourages people to join People First and go to state meetings like the Self-Determination Conference.
What are some of your hobbies?
Emily is looking forward to getting outside more when the weather is nice. She loves to bowl and play bocce. She also likes to do chores around the house like laundry, take out the trash, get the mail, keep her room clean. she likes to travel. She tells us that they are going to Arizona in a few weeks, and in July, they are taking a train across the country to San Francisco.
***We love hearing the views and opinions of Network members. We need to mention that the views and opinions expressed on this site are those of the person who is sharing them. They do not necessarily reflect InControl Wisconsin or any of our supporters and funders.
What's your story? Tell us a little bit about yourself.
Stephenie is a self-advocate with Cerebral Palsy (CP). She lives in the Fox Valley Area with her husband, Ben and three cats.
For as long as she can remember, she has been advocating for things that she needed or wanted to do. She shares that it’s something her family encouraged her to do from a young age. Being one of four siblings, and the only child with a disability, she was “along for the ride.” “My parents and siblings included me in most of the daily goings-on. They have always believed that the list of things I can do is longer than the list of things I can’t,” she says. To this day, if there is something she unable to do, it usually comes down to either a moderate risk to her health/safety or lack of the suitable adaptations that make it possible for her to do it.
That said, Stephenie explains that her family’s belief in what she’s capable of and the dignity of risk gave her the freedom and confidence to seek out and embrace new experiences. From getting a college degree to moving out on her own, to international travel, dating, and getting married. She explains that she generally doesn’t let setbacks stop her. Instead, if there’s something she wants to do, she works at it until she finds a path or opportunity to do it. It hasn’t been easy. She shares that there are a lot of barriers and limitations to work around. “I get frustrated and discouraged sometimes, so I take breaks to work through that and recharge. Then, I try again. It takes time and perseverance, but 9 times out of 10 it’s worth it,” she says. As she has gotten older, she really wants to help other people with disabilities discover what they are capable of and pursue their goals and dreams. That desire led her to Disability Rights Advocacy and seeking change not just for herself but change within her community too.
What does Self-Determination mean to you? Why is it important?
For Stephenie, self-determination is having a voice and a choice in what happens in your life. She believes that for it to be successful, accommodations and adaptations may be needed, because the playing field isn’t level. But in the end, what you say goes and your choice is supported. It is important because it allows all of us to experience a life more fully lived. “We all have goals, dreams, and wish lists. Everyone’s wants something different out of life. Self-determination allows you to embrace life and make it your own,” she explains.
Tell us some good news - what's the most exciting thing happening for you (or in Wisconsin) in terms of self-determination?
Some exciting news for Stephenie is that she and her husband will celebrate their 5th wedding anniversary this year. She shares that while the road to marriage wasn’t easy, and isn’t for most people with disabilities, she’s excited to celebrate this milestone. It has fueled her work to eliminate the marriage penalties and increase asset and wage limits. She explains that there’s a way to go yet before the penalties are eliminated, but there is legislation in the pipeline to increase the asset limits and make other reforms to SSI that are sorely needed. “I’m hopeful that we’ll see the bill passed and those changes start to happen. We all deserve to experience love without limits if we choose to,” she says.
What tip or resource would you like to share with people who want to be more self-determined?
Stephenie’s self-determination tip is to set goals. “With self-determination, ideally the floor is yours. The world is your oyster. The question is, now what? What is it that you want to do?,” she tells us. She explains that answering that question may feel overwhelming. Stepping back and setting goals can help break things down into manageable steps. It can also help you set a target to aim for. It usually doesn’t happen right away, but when you hit that first target, it not only gives you a sense of pride and accomplishment, but it also motivates you to set the next goal. As your goals build on each other, your confidence will grow. You may find yourself more solution-minded, open to new experiences, and excited to see what’s around the next corner. Goal setting has been really positive for her, she hopes it is for others too. Just remember, to set reasonable timelines for whatever you want to accomplish. And keep an eye on your energy and stress level. Take breaks for your mental, emotional, and physical health when you need to. The goal will still be there to work toward after you recharge.
What are some of your hobbies?
In her free time Stephenie enjoys writing, painting, and making jewelry. When she’s not doing that, you’ll probably find her cuddled up by the fire with a good book or taking a bath to relax. She also loves spending time with animals and traveling with her husband to see new/favorite places and have adventures together. She likes to cook and decorate; take opportunities to spend time with friends and family. In warmer weather, she’s either in the pool or in the garden.
***We love hearing the views and opinions of Network members. We need to mention that the views and opinions expressed on this site are those of the person who is sharing them. They do not necessarily reflect InControl Wisconsin or any of our supporters and funders.
What's your story? Tell us a little bit about yourself.
Amy has a master's degree in special education and school social work. In the past, she was a 504 coordinator. Currently, she’s a special education teacher at an elementary school. “I have a passion for education and working with kids and making policy changes that make positive changes for all people,” she says.
She has a two-year-old service dog named Beans. She was Miss Wheelchair Wisconsin and Miss Wheelchair USA.
What does Self-Determination mean to you? Why is it important?
To Amy, self-determination means living life to the best of her ability. She explains that it's important because it's a weight that everyone has and she thinks we need to do a better job with attendant care, transition, jobs and education for people with disabilities. “The possibilities are limitless when given opportunity but, unfortunately, we are not given opportunities,” she says.
Tell us some good news - what's the most exciting thing happening for you (or in Wisconsin) in terms of self-determination?
The most exciting for Amy is that, even though it’s a struggle sometimes, every day she’s able to live in my own apartment and work a job as a special education teacher--while nagging over 13 specialists, needing attendant care, and not being able to drive.
What tip or resource would you like to share with people who want to be more self-determined?
Amy encourages everyone to never give up and don't let people speak for you. “It’s not who you think you are that holds you back, it's who you think you're not,” she explains.
What are some of your hobbies?
During her spare time, Amy enjoys hanging out with friends, being with her service dog Beans, volunteering, water skiing in the summer, and watching and playing wheelchair basketball. “I’m always an advocate,” she exclaims!
***We love hearing the views and opinions of Network members. We need to mention that the views and opinions expressed on this site are those of the person who is sharing them. They do not necessarily reflect InControl Wisconsin or any of our supporters and funders.
What's your story? Tell us a little bit about yourself.
Jeremiah shares that he was diagnosed at about the age of three with autism from the Waisman Center in Madison, WI. He was non-verbal and low-functioning at the time. However, with the strong will power of himself, his parents, therapists, and educators, He was able to become higher functioning on the autism spectrum. “Please note that this process did not happen overnight. I went from school to school as often my needs were not being met to its fullest. Perhaps having gone through so many schools as an adolescent, learning became my passion,” he explains. He graduated from Nicolet High School in 2009. He then graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater in 2013 with Bachelor degrees in General Management and Political Science. After that, he earned a Master’s degree in Public Administration from the University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh in 2019. Since the government system put a lot of time and investment through itself into him, he wanted to give back to the community that has helped him. He has worked for the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs in Milwaukee, WI over seven years. He explains that he first started out as a Claims Assistant in 2015. In 2017, he moved into Finance where he primarily did payroll. In late 2021, he moved further into Finance when he helped to process debt waivers and make decision determinations for our nation's veterans. Most recently, he became a Program Support Specialist for Human Resources. “If I learned anything, it's that time passed by too quickly,” he says.
What does Self-Determination mean to you? Why is it important?
Jeremiah’s definition of Self-Determination is “if you want something in life, go get what you want.” He explains that the best advocate is yourself. No one will have 100% of your best interests in mind except for yourself. For example, for many years he did not drive even though he had my driver's license. Part of it was the stress of having to worry about other people, while the other issue was personal finances. However, on many occasions, he wanted to go somewhere, but couldn't because he didn't have someone to drive him. If his parents could drive him, he tells us that he didn't want them to also be at his friend's party. “I wanted to become more independent. Being independent means more freedom to me where I do not have to wait for the city bus or for an uber,” he says. One day, he had enough, and decided to drive himself. He shares that he first started doing short haul trips and drove just around the suburbs where he lives nearby. Eventually, through baby steps, he started driving himself further and the rest was history. He explains that he wanted to do something in honor for two of his coworkers that passed away. “They always believed in me that I could drive myself, so I wanted part of their legacies to live on,” he says.
Tell us some good news - what's the most exciting thing happening for you (or in Wisconsin) in terms of self-determination?
Some recent good news for Jeremiah Is that he was able to become part of Human Resources by becoming a Program Support Specialist.
The other piece of good news for him is when he was able to get a partial refund from his Medicare insurance that he used to have. He shares that he’s still waiting for the rest of the money. He says that it has only been over six months, so he then contacted his legislative representatives to put in a congressional interest for him. “Perhaps that will help to speed up the process,” he tells us.
It makes him more self-determined when he’s finally able to get some of the things that he has been waiting for.
What tip or resource would you like to share with people who want to be more self-determined?
Jeremiah’s tip to become more self-determined is “if there is a will there is a way.” He explains that, in life, there will always be mountains and maybe the traditional way is to climb that hard terrain, but with some of our physical and or mental/emotional limitations, climbing might not be feasible under certain disabilities. However, we have many other abilities and hidden talents where it is often overlooked by other people in society. Who said we can't climb to the top of the mountain by digging underneath it, going around it, or taking a helicopter to get to the top of it. In the United States, our primary mode of transportation is by car, but when there are rivers or other deterrents the human race is known to improvise.
He gives this example: for instance, to get from one side of the river to the other in a major city, they often provide water taxi where you can travel by boat. When there is a problem that the majority of people have, society fixes it. But if it's an issue for just a 'small' number of people, it becomes too bad and so sad. But what if both sides can coexist together? There was a video that discussed how we use texting on cell phones and pizza cutters (along with other resources) where it was first created for people with disabilities. If we focused on accommodating the minority of people, it could very well end up accommodating the majority of people in the long run. This would make many more people happy. When we design for disability, we all benefit | Elise Roy - YouTube
What are some of your hobbies?
Jeremiah has many hobbies. He likes to surf the internet (“though I don't seem to be catching any waves,” he jokes) and have conversations with friends on Facebook. He also enjoys listening to Youtube music. He shares that music keeps him calm or relaxed, and it helps to boost my level of happiness. When he is away from the computer, he enjoys watching a good tv show or movie. Mystery films or good comedies tend to be some of his favorites. He loves spending time and napping with my dogs. “A dog will always love you unconditionally and during this cold winter they are perfect bed warmers. They are my fur babies forever,” he says. Another hobby that has recently picked is looking for 'money' during his free time. Perhaps it's a store parking lot or in a movie theater auditorium. “Those dimes and nickels add up. I have often used this pocket change money to help fill up my car's gas tank or put towards other essential items like groceries,” he exclaims.
***We love hearing the views and opinions of Network members. We need to mention that the views and opinions expressed on this site are those of the person who is sharing them. They do not necessarily reflect InControl Wisconsin or any of our supporters and funders.
What's your story? Tell us a little bit about yourself.
Desi is 32 years old and lives in her own apartment. She has a helper come in twice per week to help with meal prep and household chores. She is very determined and outgoing lady. She spends her time volunteering at various places. She volunteers at a animal shelter twice per week, a place where foster families can get clothes once per week, and the Donna Lexa Art Center twice per week. “I enjoy splatter painting at the Art Center the most,” she says. She’s also involved with some of the activities at LOV Inc and serves on the Wisconsin Board for People with Developmental Disabilities.
What does Self-Determination mean to you? Why is it important?
To Desi, self-determination means, “independence and living on my own with support.” It’s important to her because it makes her happier.
Tell us some good news - what's the most exciting thing happening for you (or in Wisconsin) in terms of self-determination?
Desi is creating a presentation that will help law enforcement better understand how to interact with people with disabilities. She hopes that by educating them about certain behaviors or reactions people may have, it will cut down the number of people with disabilities getting hurt or traumatized.
What tip or resource would you like to share with people who want to be more self-determined?
Desi encourages people that if you fall, to dust yourself off, and get right back up. “You’ve got it,” she exclaims!
What are some of your hobbies?
In her spare time, Desi loves doing arts and crafts. She enjoys making bracelets for law enforcement and fire departments. She also enjoys biking around her neighborhood and hopes to get into backpacking someday.
***We love hearing the views and opinions of Network members. We need to mention that the views and opinions expressed on this site are those of the person who is sharing them. They do not necessarily reflect InControl Wisconsin or any of our supporters and funders.
What's your story? Tell us a little bit about yourself.
Kate is a twenty-four-seven Green Bay Packer fan for life! She shares that in 1990, a virus caused her brain to swell, loss of memory, balance, sense of direction, etc… “It made my so-called normal life of almost forty years a real mess,” she tells us! Though it’s been a lot of hard work, her doctor fortunately sent her to Curative Connections Brain Injury and Wellness Day Program in Green Bay, WI when she was out of rehabilitation. She uses a wheelchair, so she says she rolls! She’s thankful to have a sound mind and able to make a difference. She lives outside of Denmark, which is about only fifteen minutes east side of Green Bay. She’s very fortunate to be able to live at home with one of her sisters and they help each other!
What does Self-Determination mean to you? Why is it important?
To Kate, self-determination means using information and friends to allow one to become more independent. She explains that online and on Facebook you can meet many individuals and hear their stories. It’s important to have a good support system. A few years ago, she was invited to join Partners in Policy Making! Transportation is an issue for many, but with covid it was online, so she didn’t need to travel. It was an awesome learning experience for her! She was interested in what was going on with politics and politicians that affect people with disabilities, but had no clue she could make a difference!
Tell us some good news - what's the most exciting thing happening for you (or in Wisconsin) in terms of self-determination?
Kate shares that attending the Self-Determination Conferences in WI Dells has also opened her ability to meet more people and have awesome adventures! Her very favorite is finding out about My Team Triumph! “Before covid hit, they were at the conference, and I was able to ride one of the three wheeled chairs – I was hooked immediately,” she explains! Since then, she has been the captain of several teams of angels running in the Bellin Run and Packer 5k in Green Bay, WI. “It is so amazing being right next to the runners who are trying to improve their personal times, being high-fived and encouraged to continue! When you depend on a wheelchair and mostly feel short, these runners make you feel your full height,” she says.
What tip or resource would you like to share with people who want to be more self-determined?
Kate explains that it’s easy to think “someone else will take care of everything.” She’s so happy she became involved in caring about what is going on in Wisconsin politics. It has really changed her life! Voting has always been important to her, but now she understands how important it is to do your research on the candidates and if they are aware of people with disabilities. https://www.VOTE411.org, gives you the information to make wise choices, and compare candidates that are going to make a difference or not make a difference in your district. She says, “there are other sources as well, get involved, you don’t have run for office, but you will find whatever interests you and want to make a difference – you can…”
What are some of your hobbies?
Kate explains that she that found after she was less able to do physical things all the time, she had an amazing gift for writing rhyming poetry! She continues to bring a great deal of happiness to many. She also enjoys making greeting cards on her computer. She likes going on Facebook to keep up with some of my nieces and nephews who live in different states. “I have only a hundred friends and these people all are important to me, I don’t just friend anyone,” she tells us.
She also enjoys going outside with her power wheelchair, planting flowers, and feeding the cats that live in our machine shed! Volunteering is near and dear to her heart! She volunteers at Curative Connections and, for about thirty years with friends and family members, she has enjoyed ringing Bells for the Salvation Army. “I enjoy every day and love to have fun 😉 I feel it is very important to give back and be thankful… Live well,” she exclaims!
***We love hearing the views and opinions of Network members. We need to mention that the views and opinions expressed on this site are those of the person who is sharing them. They do not necessarily reflect InControl Wisconsin or any of our supporters and funders.
What's your story? Tell us a little bit about yourself,
Jennie is originally from Milwaukee, WI, but she lives in Ozaukee County. She’s 25 years old and works at Panera Bread. She usually helps with prepare food and get it to customers. She tells us that she enjoys working there because the staff is friendly.
How are you involved with self-determination? Why did you join the SD Network?
Jennie has participated in several self-advocacy meetings and conferences over the years. She’s been involved in things like the Youth Summit and the Independence First events where learned a lot about self-advocacy. Currently, she’s learning more about supported decision-making and guardianship. “It's a long process, but I'm slowly learning about those things,” she says. She likes supported decision making because nobody can take advantage of her. “They can’t take my freedom away,” she tells us. She involved with self-determination because my mom and her supporters are teaching her about it. She also joined the virtual conferences, and it was worth the experience. She explains that she didn't enjoy them because it was totally new for her, but, after awhile, she finally got used to them. She joined SD because she wanted to learn more about making her own decisions and avoid having a guardian.
Tell us some good news - what's the most exciting thing happening for you (or in Wisconsin) in term of self-determination?
The most exciting thing for Jennie is that she has been able to join in-person conferences during the springtime and practice her speaking skills.
She’s also excited that she was able to participate in a couple of videos on the Self-Determination YouTube Channel.
What tip or resource would you like to share with people who want to be more self-determined?
Jennie encourages self-advocates is to be themselves, be satisfied, and be proud of who them are. “Don't ever feel disappointed or ashamed of your abilities,” she says.
Another thing Jennie encourages people to do is to take your time and ask for help whenever need it.
What are some of your hobbies?
Jennie enjoys doing things like singing, dancing, reading, writing, coloring, and watching TV/movies. Her favorite TV shows are Dancing with the Stars, American Idol, and the Ellen Degeneres Show.
***We love hearing the views and opinions of Network members. We need to mention that the views and opinions expressed on this site are those of the person who is sharing them. They do not necessarily reflect InControl Wisconsin or any of our supporters and funders.
What's your story? Tell us a little bit about yourself.
Hannah is 25 years old and lives in Elm Grove. She shares that she has Down Syndrome. “I am living my best life to the fullest,” she exclaims. She moved into her own apartment in January. She loves having her own space and doing the things she wants to do. She explains that her dad was from Iran in the Middle East and that she is Muslim. Unfortunately, her dad passed away in 2013, but she is managing her life the way she knows that he would have wanted her to. She has a mom and a sister whose name is Nahal. They have a dog named Millie. She explains that she loves her family because they are really close and have a lot of fun together. “We like to have fun and be silly sometimes,” she says.
Hannah works a Pick N Save in the floral and bakery departments. She works three days per week and loves it. She also enjoys volunteering. She has volunteered at the Milwaukee County Zoo where she fed the giraffes, and she has volunteered at the Humane Society as well. “I love volunteering,” she says. She is really active in her community and loves social outings.
How are you involved with self-determination? Why did you join the SD Network?
Hannah is very involved in the Down Syndrome Association in West Allis. She attends classes they offer virtually. One of her favorite classes was the Globe class where they learned about different countries. She tells us that they also went to theaters and helped with things like will call tickets and handed out programmed. She volunteers at the Association as well. “It’s my favorite place. Everyone is awesome,” she exclaims!
Tell us some good news - what's the most exciting thing happening for you (or in Wisconsin) in term of self-determination?
Hannah shared a couple of exciting things with us. First, she wanted to tell us that she has a great group of friends that she loves spending time with. She’s been friends with her best friend since they were babies. They went to the same schools have a lot of fun together. One of the best memories she has is when she was prom queen her junior year of high school!
Another exciting thing happening for Hannah is that she is working with a tutor to learn a little bit of the Farsi language and the Iranian culture. By doing this, she is hoping to be able to communicate with her Persian family a little bit.
What tip or resource would you like to share with people who want to be more self-determined?
Hannah suggests sharing your hopes and dreams with your family and friends so they can help you try to achieve them. She tells us that she has a lot of great family and friends who take time to learn about her dreams and help come up with ideas how to make them happen. She also does a vision board to help her sort them out. "Don't be nervous to share," she says. She's also in a family group that's made up of her friends who have disabilities and their families that talks about their goals and how to achieve them. She likes to plan, but she says that if you struggle with planning, find a good support person to help you. She encourages everyone not to get discouraged. " If I can do these things, so can you," she enthusiastically exclaims!
What are some of your hobbies?
Hannah has a plethora of hobbies she enjoys doing. She likes to do all sorts of different crafts such as beading bracelets, looming baby hats with yarn and donating them, and diamond dotting (sticking diamond dots on pictures to make them sparkly) gifts for family and friends. She also likes to write - - especially poetry and affirmations. She writes newsletters for her family and friends. She also writes posts on social media sites like Facebook and Instagram. It helps her stay connected she explains. She also loves getting pictures with family and friends. “My family and friends are super important,” she says. Singing is another hobby she enjoys doing. She has taken voice lessons and loves to sing for fun. Cooking is yet another thing she likes to do—grilled cheese is her favorite food. She surely stays busy!
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