What are some milestones your family has had this past year?
This past year Lyra achieved a green band in swimming! This band allows her to swim independently around the pool! Lyra started swim lessons over 3 years ago. She has worked extremely hard and passed her test. The test consisted of swimming 2 entire laps of the pool, then tread water for 60 seconds, finishing with 2 more full laps. We are very proud of her determination and accomplishment!
What are some resources or programs of the Institute on Disabilities that you have utilized in the past?
Parent 2 Parent is an amazing organization that our family has utilized and now participates in. Of course, C2P2, a terrific program that fosters and builds not only parents confidence but relationship with other parents as well!
What is your fondest memory of the past year?
Every accomplishment or goal Lyra meets is a celebration- big or small- so I have many fond memories from this past year!
How have you used your advocacy skills to impact your community?
Last year I was a part of a group of parents that started my school's district SEPAC (Special Education Advisory Council). This council works to bring resources to the families within our school district. Our SEPAC also works openly with the district's administrators to bring ideas as well as concerns forward to them from the community. We are instrumental in creating new ideas and ways that our district can become more inclusive for the special needs community!
What advice would you give to a new parent of a child with a disability?
I would say remember these 3 things: 1. No one can determine the future of your child! 2. Have Hope- Baby Steps are still forward progress! And 3. Help where you can! This journey is a difficult one but the way we all get things accomplished and improved is by supporting one another and standing together!
