Meet Tricia Thompson. As a former special education teacher and a current IRIS consultant, Tricia full-heartedly believes in self-determination and the power of making ones own choices. She strives to encourage people to make their own decisions and to take chances in life. Shes an extremely positive person and we are so fortunate to have her on the Self-Determination Network. Learn more about Tricia in this months Member Spotlight.

How are you involved with self-directed supports and self-determination? Why did you join the SDNetwork?'

I joined the SD network after learning about a "Coffee Break" that involved a discussion regarding the recent proposed state budget and thelong term care proposed changes. As with everything in life, I have found I learn a lot from the questions and concerns other people have. Currently, I work as a long term care consultant with IRIS. Believing in self-determination is in my blood. As the eldest of nine children I quickly learned that I had to take charge of my own life. I grew up making my own choices. Sometimes these choices resulted in growth and sometimes.......well.......I learned from mymistakes. I never appreciated the value of being able to succeed and fail from my own choices until I started working as a special education teacher in the central city of Milwaukee. The families I worked with who felt like they were a part of the decision making regarding their children, were also the families who took more ownership of their responsibility to those decisions. They felt like their opinion was whatmattered and would not allow anyone else or a system determine what they felt was right for their child with a disability. In effect, their ability to embrace self-determination in their own life also helped their own children grow up with the same beliefs. It was a pattern of decision makingthat was created basedon empowerment and not hopelessness. I strongly believe that self-determination is within all of us and can be temporarilysilenced or empowered. As a consultant, I strive to encourage individuals to make their own decisions about their own life in a way they feel they can and want to. I also speak about the importance of taking chances and that it's ok if they try something and fail. It's what makes us human.

Tell us some good news - what's the most exciting thing happening for you (or in Wisconsin) in terms self-determination or Self-Directed Supports?

Good News.....ah yes.....how I love to think about good news these days more than ever. Many of the people I have been working with have been with me the entire four years I have worked as a consultant. The amount of time we have worked together is significant because we have built a very trusting relationship. They trust I have their best interest at heart and know I will follow through with what I say I am going to. For some, this is the first experience they have had with a "system" of supports that has resulted in positive outcomes and experience with a "case manager." So, even when there are multiple changes happening all at once, they are able to trust that I willcontinueto do the best I can for them given the unique circumstances.

What tip or resource would you like to share with people who want to direct their own supports, or who would want to be more self-determined?

The best tip or resource I can offer to those who want to self-direct their resources, is to make a connection with one of the many great advocacy groups, such as the Board for People with Developmental Disabilities (BPDD). With the explosion of group specific Facebook pages, it is possible for anyone to reach out to someone anywhere in the world. These pages offer the opportunity tolearn from each other and share resources as well as provide support and direction on every issue imaginable.

What message would you like to share with themembersof the SDNetwork?

Four years ago I started working in my current role. Five monthsafter I started running, I signed up for my first 5K and then my second race one month later was a 10K. When it comes down to it, I despise running. Truly. What I love is the feeling of success afterwards and the stress relief that follows. Running has become my coping method for dealing with the stress in my life. Some days there isn't enough road for me to cover while other days a quick two mile run is enough to help me refocus. My point with all of this is that self-care is not just about taking a class on how to care for yourself. Self-care shouldmeanacceptingthat I have to define for myself what I need most and to hold myself accountable to doing something for me. Some days I am motivated and some days I want to just curl up on the couch and pretend reality doesn't exist. Some days I am only able to find the time to breath in and out five deep breaths in silence before reality comes screaming. Some days though I run until my legs won't go any further. When there is so much in life these days that I have no control over and changes happen no matter what I think or believe, it is important that I always remember I have the choice to breath in and out slowly for five breathsor go for a run.

What's your dream vacation?

My dream vacation has already happened. In 2010, I was chosen to accompany Oprah and 300friends to Australia for a 10 day all-expense paid trip. While there I stayed in five start resorts, was treated like royalty and ate food I couldn't pronounce. Prior to that trip I had never been out of the country. My only vacation as a child was when our family was moving from one state to another.I don't know honestly how I can top that trip because it was so completely unrealistic in every imaginable way possible. I guess what I will say is that the vacations I take with my family are very special to me because I am able to show my children and the brother I adopted a world I wish I could have experienced when I was a child. Our vacations together are fun and help us remember what really is important in this life. I need to mention, though, that I am not and will never be a fan of camping or long car rides and I am pretty sure my family wanted to leave me on the side of the road when we all went to Yellowstone several years ago.

***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.

Meet Mary Sykes. As a strong advocate for people with disabilities, Mary is very passionate about person-centered planning. She has been involved in numerous disability organizations over the years, and full-heartedly believes in self-determination for all people. Learn more about Mary in this months Member Spotlight.

How are you involved with self-determination? Why did you join the SDNetwork?

Ive been connected to people with developmental disabilities and the disability rights movement in one way or another since my high school days (which were many years ago!) as a member of Youth-ARC; as a citizen advocate; as a program coordinator for Citizen Advocacy; as a member of and volunteer with the Arc in Dane County; and as a PATH facilitator since 1997. (PATH is one of many person centered planning tools.) Currently, a colleague and I are developing a consulting business that would offer training and support in relationship and community building with and for people with disabilities. Since March of 2014, Ive also worked for Disability Rights Wisconsin, part time, as a training coordinator for the Disability Benefit Specialists program there.

The principles of self-determination have always made sense to me. I remember hearing Tom Nerney speak about self-determination this was many years ago but I still remember the goose bumps elicited by his stirring words, his call for justice, dignity and freedom. Self-determination, for me, is inextricably linked to relationship and belonging independence, for any of us, is not possible without interdependence. None of us can be our best and most powerful selves without love and support and help.

I joined the SD Network because I want to connect with like-minded people! I love that Network members hail from a wide variety of backgrounds and life circumstances, and from all parts of Wisconsin. I was particularly drawn to the Person-Centered Facilitators group because of my work as a PATH and inclusion facilitator.

Tell us some good news - what's the most exciting thing happening for you (or in Wisconsin) in terms self-determination?

The strong and passionate response to the threats to IRIS and other resources posed by the Governors budget proposal has been inspiring and the fact that its had a positive impact gives me hope.

I am privileged to witness individuals and groups articulating their dreams and creating action plans in the service of a bright and shining future and I know this is happening all across this state! I see people continuing to learn about person centered planning and striving to use those tools in a meaningful way. I am inspired by people thinking outside the box, being creative in their thinking and action, coming together to support someones vision for a better life. I am inspired by people with disabilities sharing their dreams and gifts and talents. Truly, we are better together!

What tip or resource would you like to share with people who want to direct their own supports, or who would want to be more self-determined?

Dont give up if something doesnt work, look for another way. Our best resource is one another think outside the box in terms of whos in your corner, who your people are. Sometimes the best ideas come from unexpected sources!

These words come to mind please substitute for God whomever/whatever has meaning for you (this has been attributed to Nelson Mandela but may actually be the words of Marianne Williamson):

Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate. Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure. It is our light, not our darkness that most frightens us. We ask ourselves, Who am I to be brilliant, gorgeous, talented, fabulous? Actually, who are younotto be? You are a child of God. Your playing small does not serve the world. There is nothing enlightened about shrinking so that other people won't feel insecure around you. We are all meant to shine, as children do. We were born to make manifest the glory of God that is within us. It's not just in some of us; it's in everyone. And as we let our own light shine, we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same. As we are liberated from our own fear, our presence automatically liberates others.

What message would you like to share with themembersof the SDNetwork?

It would be the same as above dont lose hope. Dont hold back. And take care of yourself do what you need to do to feed your mind, body and spirit.

What's your dream vacation?

I recently returned from one of my most favorite spots on earth the North Shore of Lake Superior. Being there with my sweetheart, my spouse. Just sitting on the rocks by those big, expansive, wild, beautiful waters. Hiking on the Superior Hiking Trail. Having dinner at The Angry Trout caf in Grand Marais. We are already scheming about when we can go back!

***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.

Meet April Nutter. Shes a devoted mother who strongly believes that self-determining who your care workers are can make a world of difference. Shes a fantastic advocate for her son Joey. Read more about April in this months SD Network Member Spotlight.

How are you involved with self-determination? Why did you join the SDNetwork?

I joined the SD network looking for answers to the upcoming budget problems and the removal of IRIS. I got very scared at the thought of losing the ability to choose who can work with our son since he is very complicated. Joey is 21 and has seizures, cognitive delays, and mood disorders.

Tell us some good news - what's the most exciting thing happening for you (or in Wisconsin) in terms self-determination?

Self-determining our care workers has helped us choose who is a good match for his needs and ours! We live in a rural farm area with many animals and have other children in our home. We have been able to find people who can help keep Joey involved in his interests and share the same interests! At first, I was nervous about self-determination, but the IRIS consultants are amazing; they have been more like family rather than workers. Self-determination has also given us the flexibility to change schedules if need be, and change transportation methods when needed. As much as we try to keep every day routines the same, life throws twists in there that need adjusting and its nice to know we can adjust when needed. Because we have found the right people Joey now has kept two jobs for two years!

What tip or resource would you like to share with people who want to direct their own supports, or who would want to be more self-determined?

I would just recommend being confident, dont be afraid to ask a lot of questions, and remember that self-determination is easier than sounds because you already know whats best and what a lot of the future goals are!

What message would you like to share with themembersof the SDNetwork?

Just remember you are never alone...there are soooo many wonderful people to help guide you through the good and bad times!

What's your dream vacation?

We have never really talked or thought about it... Joeys dream vacation is to see his brother in England--he is in the Air Force.

Meet Lynn Breedlove. Hes the board president for InControl Wisconsin and has many years of experience in the disability field. He full heartedly believes in Self-Determination and is a very strong advocate for people with disabilities across Wisconsin. We are so fortunate to have him as a member of the Network! So, lets shine the Member Spotlight on Lynn.

How are you involved with self-directed supports and self-determination? Why did you join the SDNetwork?

I was around when Family Care started and we advocated for the inclusion of a self-directed supports option. Later I was one of the people who helped Department of Human Services plan the IRIS program. Self-Determination is probably the most exciting idea I've come across in my 38 years in the disability field.

Tell us some good news - what's the most exciting thing happening for you (or in Wisconsin) in terms self-determination or Self-Directed Supports?

People First and other self advocates have made self determination one of their top priorities, and more and more self advocates are letting decision-makers know that. That reinforces my belief that this is the Way of the Future.

What tip or resource would you like to share with people who want to direct their own supports, or who would want to be more self-determined?

Take control of your job search. Use your own personal networks and your family's networks to find opportunities for volunteer work, unpaid work experiences, or a real job. Don't wait for the vocational system to make it happen for you.

What message would you like to share with themembersof the SDNetwork?

Don't be discouraged by forces that are getting in the way of you self-directing your services. A lot of people believe you have a right to do that. If we all keep believing in it and fighting for it, it WILL happen.

What's your dream vacation?

I went to New Zealand once. I find myself re-living that trip more than any other one. That must mean something.

What do you love about the community you live in?

I live in the little village of Paoli, 15 miles southwest of Madison. We have 4 art galleries and no gas station. It's a quirky place and it attracts quirky people. Perfect for me.

How are you involved with self-directed supports and self-determination? Why did you join the SDNetwork?

I have been involved with adults who have developmental disabilities and focusing on their life in the community for 33 years. I have known since I was in high school that I was not someone destined for corporate life, but rather that my work was meant to be working side by side with individuals who have a disability. To my good fortune that often has come with family, friends and community who surround those individuals. Working with people to identify the possibilities their lives hold and working toward the realization of hopes and dreams for their futures has been my lifes work and passion. I have met wonderful people and have been part of people's community-based homes and lives for many years. Being part of this ever-growing and transforming movement of life in the community and self-determination has been a blessing in my life. I was asked to help host the SDSnetworkand my hope is that through conversation and connectedness, that we together can find a sense of common purpose and sharing through this on line community.

The most exciting thing for me personally, at this juncture in my life, is that I amnetworkingwith people from around Wisconsin and the United Stated and finding that this movement is BIG! I moved to Madison in 1982 because it was where things were happening- creative, innovative and ground breaking. Today, widening my scope, outside of the world of residential supports in Dane County, I see this movement is BIG around the world! I have met people in the past several years from England, New Zealand, Australia, Germany, Ireland, Canada, Michigan, Cincinnati, Indianapolis, my dear home town of Madison, etcand am so excited to be living and learning in a widenetworkof passionate and energetic people who get-it! I guess I shouldnt be surprised. While I was working hard on a micro level, the world just kept charging forward around this on a macro level! Its awesome!

My tip is, be sure to tell your story. There is wisdom to be drawn on and information deep in your life stories that tell others, in a special way, who you are, whats important to you and what makes you tick. If people are listening well and looking to discover and realize what you are all about, your stories will go a great way in identifying those things. Personally, I believe that telling your life story through conversation goes much farther than answering a lot of questions about yourself on a piece of paper.

Also, identify your gifts; if you dont know what they are, just think about what you have to offer with your head, your hands and your heart. If you cant come up with it on your own, ask those who surround you in your life. You will be surprised with how the list grows once you start asking. Examine and think about what others say your gifts are. Gifts, talents, strengths, what you bring to others lives will be the beginning of your own discovery process and your journey of sharing and building on your lifes dreams.

Identify and grow yournetwork; these are your friends, family, acquaintances, fellow workers, neighbors etc,.., its amazing when people know your stories and dreams where that will lead. People will often reach out to help you discover your lifes goals once they know you value and acknowledge them as important in your life.

Thisnetworkis our common ground, were united by the thread of self-determination and self direction, lets make the most of it. The SDSnetworkis our community so lets engage. We can connect, have conversation, learn, or just run things by one another. The sky is the limit, but it takes each of us to extend ourselves out just a little bit. I know, I myself have wondered about what to post, wondered if it was the appropriate forum, thought about how to word things etc. My commitment is to no longer let that questioning voice get in the way of putting myself out there andnetworkingwith you all. I ask you to do the same. One thing I did do, which you too may find helpful, is make the SDSNetworkone of my home pages. Everyday when I log on to the internet, the SDSnetworkopens up and I have the opportunity to see whats new or better yet to comment and share.

I actually have had a dream vacation that I want to relive. How about that? I went to Grand Cayman Island about 20 years ago on a fluke. It was one of those last minute unbelievable deals that my husband and I could not pass up. To tell you the truth I didnt even know the first thing about the Cayman islands when I got on the plane. The 7-day vacation was such a beautiful experience that I want to go back. The land, the water, the people, were all amazing and beautiful. My favorite experience while on Grand Cayman was snorkeling. I took a sailboat out to a reef and swam with stingrays! I also snorkeled in a beautiful cove where schools of fish came and surrounded me and I swam with them. I could feel their little bodies swimming all around me. It was surreal.

My immediate community is Windsor/DeForest Wisconsin. I have lived here for about 19 years. Its a suburb about 5 minutes north of Madison. Its very green and country-like, but close to all the amenities of Madison. Perfect! The first thing I noticed out here is the country wave. Everybody waves when you drive by. Its heartwarming! I have great neighbors who have come to be good friends over the years. I love country walks and all the natural beauty I live near. As far as Madison; I love the openness, the people, the creativity, the lakes, the neighborhood festivals and the community as a whole. I couldnt think of a better place to live.

Meet Martha Oie, Northwoods gal and Community Connector Extraordinaire. She can't help herself... When she meets you, Martha immediately begins to look for connections, for places where you can share your talents and gifts. Learn more about Martha as we shine the Member Spotlight on her.

Why did you join the SD Network?

I joined the Network to share stories. People learn from each other and I try to do anything I can to widen my network of people. I use the social media that works for me, depending on what Im working on.

Tell us some good news - what's the most exciting thing happening in terms of self-determination or Self-Directed Supports?

There are a lot of cool connections happening for folks. People are starting to focus on their skills and assets to find ways of helping each other. A couple of people I know who cant read or write are providing cares to some other people. It works for everyone theyre employed and the people theyre supporting are getting great care. Another couple has a farm and are worrying that they wont be able to pay the mortgage. So were getting them connected to some folks who might want to rent out some of their land to focus on sustainable agriculture. Everyone wins that way!

Were also working to make our local timebank (http://www.timetradersnorth.org) more effective. Were learning how help it grow & develop, connecting to more networks. Were learning to ask people, What do you have to offer? Its about the person I can do this, see me for who I am, take the time to know me.

What tip or resource would you like to share with people who want to direct their own supports, or who would want to be more self-determined?

Get connected to the Internet. Look for special programs to get Internet in your home or use the computers at the public library. The Internet provides access to education, whats happening in the world, whats happening in your community.

What message would you like to share with the members of the SD Network?

Focus on what you have (not what you dont have). Join groups youre interested in local book clubs, etc. Start small and get started. Access whats local bring what you have.

What famous person have you met or would like to meet?

I know Rudi Stajduhar, whos originally from Croatia. He was spokesperson for United Nations Secretary-General, Kurt Waldheim. I spend time with him every year and learn so much from him. Hes 93 yrs old and still reads a lot. He inspires me in so many ways.

Are you a dog person or a cat person?

Both! I dont know which Id pick. We have 2 dogs & 4 cats. The cats tend to hide out.

In this SD Network Member Spotlight, we'll meet Patti Becker.

1. How are you involved with the SD Network?

I am involved with SDS in both my work and personal life. My work life has always included working with individuals using services to find the community supports they wanted, not what others thought they needed. Currently, I work with individuals using long-term care supports in both Family Care and IRIS in my role of supporting the work of InControl Wisconsin. InControl has a fantastic group of consultants and dedicated board of directors who do an excellent job of keeping the ideas and resources of self-determination present in Wisconsins landscape. I also work as a consultant to the IRIS program, providing technical support and resources to the IRIS Community Living Initiative. We are working hard to get the message out to Wisconsin IRIS participants that they can have control of where and with whom they live.

In my personal life, I have two third graders at my house, one who uses special education supports and one who uses gifted and talented supports. This year my son began leading his own IEP meetings. Both realized they did not appreciate the segregation their learning styles were creating and have advocated with us for them to return to a more inclusive self-determined school schedule. We are proud of both of them and their school district for keeping up with the paces of change.

2. Tell us some good news - what's the most exciting thing happening for you (or in Wisconsin) in terms self-determination or Self-Directed Supports?

What is most exciting about SDS and self-determination is the momentum it has had in growth these past few years. Wisconsin has gone from a state where SDS was active in a few counties, but now almost 10,000 people use IRIS and more folks are choosing self-determination in managed care than ever before in its history. This growth brings challenges for communities, providers and individuals using services. Challenges bring opportunity and it is exciting to think of the creative changes that are on the horizon.

3. What tip or resource would you like to share with people who want to direct their own supports, or who would want to be more self-determined?

People who want or use SDS need to know that creativity and community connections are their best ally. SDS isnt about how to make the most of your public dollars. Rather it's about how to make the most of your life in the community, accessing public dollars as needed. This can be a difficult paradigm shift to make for many whove lived a system-driven life. But once the shift happens, lives really do get better.

4. What message would you like to share with the members of the SD Network?

I have a number of quotes I hold on to when things get rough. I think everyone should have some. I will share two with the SDS network:

• If you arent living on the edge, you are taking up too much space. ~Lou Whittaker, famous mountainclimber.
• Put your helmet back on and keep marching forward.~self-advocate and SDS leader in Wisconsin, Steve Verriden.

5. Are you a dog person or a cat person?

I have had both dogs and cats in my life. I would say I am more of a dog person. Oddly, our newest dog Herbie a lab/bassett hound mix, is a bit like a cat in his demeanor and behavior.

6. What's your favorite movie or book or song/musician?

This is the hardest question to answer. My favorites vary throughout time, but I consistently am a fan of the blues.