Braedon Ramer wants people to know there is more to him than meets the eye. The 23-year-old has been singing with local bands for years. Recently, he released his first single, "Not Just A Boy In A Wheelchair".
Ryan Braun
Director of Community Relations
Lisa Danford Community Relations Coordinator
James Harley, Anna Leah Swafford, Amy Hayden, Michael Ginn
Anna Leah Swafford, Amber Smith, Ryan Braun, Lisa Danford, Cincinnati Art Museum, Jamie Miller, Dee Henry, Braedon Ramer, Amy Hayden, Michael Ginn, Ann Myres, A Ghra Photography, Jenny Castrucci
Have a question, comment or story idea? Email magazine@hamiltondds.org or call (513) 794-3300
Performing CPR can increase the chance someone survives a heart attack. A new toolkit has interactive activities and games to make it easier for everyone to learn life-saving skills.
Leading an independent life means accessing your community. CILO is hosting a new event that empowers people to identify potential barriers to accessibility.
Applying for Social Security benefits might seem intimidating. However, HCDDS representatives can help you understand your options and how work may affect your benefits.
As we celebrate the arrival of spring, I’m happy to share a vibrant bouquet of articles in this issue.
Our cover story spotlights Braedon Ramer, a local country music singer who recently released his first song. Braedon’s story is inspiring and, if you like country music, you can play “Not Just A Boy In A Wheelchair” on repeat from the major streaming services.
In one of our feature stories, you’ll learn more about how HCDDS can guide you through the process of applying for benefits. Understanding and navigating benefits is essential, and our experts can empower you in that process.
Speaking of navigating, another feature story explores the impact of CILO’s accessibility audits and how you can participate. You’ll learn how these audits are promoting inclusive, accessible spaces while also building community.
Another way to help your community is to learn CPR. Jamie Miller, a nurse at HCDDS, discusses new toolkits to learn and practice the skill, no matter your abilities.
Whether you’re a nature lover, a thrill seeker, or a history buff, Amy Hayden shares ideas for being a tourist in your own hometown. As the weather warms, there’s no better time to get out of the house and experience something new!
You’ll also meet many interesting people in this edition’s My Voice interviews. And I’m especially excited to share our 5 Questions interview with Vernon Jackson, the local barber whose viral videos spread joy last year.
I hope this spring issue of My Life sparks ideas for following your dreams, fostering community, and exploring your hometown. Enjoy!
The Cincinnati Art Museum (CAM) is excited to host the annual “Accessible Expressions Ohio,” a statewide art exhibit by Ohio artists of all ages with disabilities. It opens on March 29 and is the first time CAM has displayed an entire show of works by people with disabilities.
The opportunity comes from a longterm partnership with a Columbus-based nonprofit, “Art Possible Ohio.” It’s a juried exhibit, which means a panel of practicing artists, educators, and arts administrators review all submissions in three categories. This team also decides which artworks will receive awards.
Museum visitors will see dozens of different artworks, including two- and three-dimensional pieces. “Accessible Expressions Ohio” runs through May 12. Admission is free.
After premiering at the Cincinnati Art Museum, the exhibit will travel to other museums and venues throughout Ohio.
The Transformation by Sarah Brown, Mixed Media, Euclid, Ohio
"Accessible Expressions Ohio" is the first time the Cincinnati Art Museum has displayed an entire show of works by people with disabilities.
Did you know Hamilton County has a stateof-the-art mass notification system to warn residents about emergencies? It’s called Alert Hamilton County. Residents can sign up to receive alerts through text messages, email, and phone calls.
• To sign up, go to AlertHC.org
• Register your contact information
• Select the alerts you want to receive. You can choose from 42 different alerts like air quality, severe weather, and evacuation or shelter-in-place orders
• Choose how you would like to receive alerts and notifications.
You can also sign up for a Smart 911 profile. This allows first responders to access critical and potentially life-saving personal information. You can provide as much or as little information as you’d like. This could include medical conditions, photos of family members or pets, and vehicle information. Learn more at Smart911.com.
Nominations for the John Romer Advocacy Award will open April 15. The award recognizes someone whose exceptional advocacy work on behalf of themselves and others made a significant impact on their community. Nominees must live in Hamilton County and be at least 16 years old.
In 2023, Hamilton County DD Services (HCDDS) created this award in honor of John Romer, former Advocacy Director. A giant in the disability advocacy world, Romer lifted the voices of people with disabilities and encouraged them to speak up about what is important in their life.
The nomination form and additional details will be available in early April on the HCDDS website, HamiltonDDS.org.
The Civic Garden Center is premiering a new event this spring. GrowFest is Saturday, May 4 at the organization’s headquarters in Avondale.
“We see a need for camaraderie and conversations, for accessible learning opportunities and access to hard-to-find materials—and that’s what GrowFest will provide,” said Executive Director Karen Kahle in an email news release.
GrowFest is an evolution of the semiannual Plant Sale. It includes food trucks, live music, educational sessions, and more. You’ll also have an opportunity to buy herbs, vegetable starts, native plants, and pollinator-friendly flowers. Learn more at CivicGardenCenter.org.
Cardiopulmonary resuscitation, or CPR, is a simple skill that involves using chest compressions when someone’s heart has stopped beating. CPR helps circulate blood to the brain and other vital organs.
Studies show that CPR can double, or even triple, the chances of survival in an emergency. Additionally, people who learn this skill feel empowered. Knowing CPR decreases anxiety and increases confidence during emergencies. And the best part is that anyone can learn CPR skills, including people with disabilities.
According to the American Heart Association Training Center, “Thankfully, all it takes to save a life using CPR is a willingness to learn and an instructor who is willing to help students adapt to any challenges that they may face.”
Last year, Hamilton County DD Services collaborated with Walk of Joy, Project SEARCH at Cincinnati Children’s, and The Attainment Company to develop and pilot a CPR + AED Basics Toolkit. The toolkit is an introduction to CPR for people with various abilities.
The toolkit reinforces CPR skills through interactive practice and gameplay. People from Halom House, Walk of Joy, and Active Day attended classes to learn the basics of CPR and how to use an AED. Participants learned everyone has a role in initiating and performing CPR. Many said they felt less anxious about their ability to help in an emergency. Some participants even expressed a desire to pursue official CPR certification!
Learn more about the CPR + AED Basics Toolkit at AttainmentCompany.com. Walk of Joy will periodically offer an “Introduction to CPR” course for people with disabilities. Contact Jessica@WalkOfJoy.org, for details.
All photos provided
Robert Shuemak makes his way down the sidewalk near his home in Avondale. Barriers like flowerpots or benches in the pathway make it more difficult for him to navigate.
The Center for Independent Living Options
(CILO) is starting a new Community Walk & Roll this year. It’s a social event that will also serve as an accessibility audit for our streets and public spaces. Anyone who lives or spends time in Cincinnati is invited to join.
With the Community Walk and Roll, we hope to:
• Build community with our neighbors
• Promote mobility rights and disability justice
• Identify and bring attention to inaccessibility in our city
Part of CILO’s mission is to empower people with disabilities to lead independent and inclusive lives. This means that our community spaces must be accessible, including sidewalks, parks, and businesses.
An accessible space is one that everyone can access and use without barriers. People with disabilities often face more barriers to accessible spaces.
Barriers are conditions or obstacles that prevent disabled people from using or accessing a space, service, or knowledge. Some examples include a sidewalk not having a curb cut, uneven terrain, or a crosswalk without audible messaging.
Accessibility means that persons with disabilities have the choice to live independently and participate fully in all aspects of life.
We have legal protection against exclusion from a public space based on our disability. The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), which became law in 1990, requires public spaces to be accessible to people with disabilities. One tool we can use to check accessibility is an audit. An accessibility audit can help determine what barriers to accessibility exist. We can use this information to remove these barriers and prevent others.
CILO's Walk and Roll is also an opportunity to meet new friends. Participants will attend a short training course on accessibility and the ADA. After the training, we will walk and roll through part of Cincinnati on a predetermined route. Along the way, we will get to know each other as we point out examples of potential ADA violations. Then, we will submit these accessibility issues to the city of Cincinnati.
The Center for Independent Living Options (CILO) is a non-profit organization providing services for people with disabilities in Greater Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky. If you’re interested in joining CILO’s Community Walk and Roll or have an accessibility issue in Cincinnati you would like to report, please contact Disability Rights and Advocacy Specialist Dee Henry, at (513) 241-8046 or dhenry@cilo.net.
Local musician releases his first country song
By Lisa Danford
“Hey Alexa, play ‘Not Just A Boy In A Wheelchair’ by
BraedonRamer on Amazon Music.”
As the song plays, Ramer is beaming. It’s still surreal for him to hear his song. Earlier this year, Ramer, 23, released his first single with help from local musicians. “It makes my heart happy knowing I can do what I want to do,” he said. “People like my song and it feels pretty wonderful.”
The country tune is about an experience he had at a show. Ramer was trying to say hi to a few people, and they just overlooked him. “I felt ignored. That’s what the song is about,” he said.
Music has always been a part of Ramer’s life, and one of his favorite sayings is “Music is life— that’s why our hearts have beats.”
His mom, Jenny O’Brien, said music calmed him down as a child. When she played his favorite songs, he always smiled and sang along.
Ramer started singing with his uncle, Rodney Alan Combs, when he was eight years old. “It’s my favorite thing to do,” he said. “It feels good doing what I love.”
For the past few years, he’s been a regular at regional venues, singing a few songs with some of his favorite local bands. Jason Owens, who helped Ramer record his song, met him at a show in Cincinnati. “He asked me if he could sing with us, and he’s been
Braedon Ramer plays with local musician and friend Dan Varner. They’re on a stage his family built in their backyard.
See Braedon Ramer live from 6-9 pm on Saturday, April 27 at the Grove Park Grille in Anderson Twp., 6735 Kellogg Rd.
singing with us ever since!” Owens said. “Anytime someone new sees Braedon sing, it lights them up. The joy in his heart is like nothing else.”
" Music is life—that’s why our hearts have beats"
Ramer also regularly sings with The Dan Varner Band and has earned the nickname “rockstar” from the band’s singer, Dan Varner. “He remembers every word to every song,” Varner said. “Braedon get standing ovations everywhere because people don’t expect that voice. The reaction is priceless!”
His confidence as a singer has soared, and Ramer is comfortable singing in front
Braedon Ramer with his mom, Jenny O’Brien. They’re on their way to the VOA Country Music Festival.
of large crowds—some with an audience of close to 1,000 people.
“I’m thankful that I have these musicians around me. I really appreciate the support I’ve gotten over the years,” he said. “It feels good to have people singing along. It brings joy to me, and I really love it.”
Ramer plays somewhere almost every weekend, and he has a regular gig at Grove Park Grille in Anderson Township. His family even has a stage on their deck, where Ramer plays for friends and family. This year, he hopes to write and record more songs.
O’Brien said her son has formed close bonds with different local musicians who continue to support his dreams. “It’s pretty special to see that they embrace Braedon as part of their family,” she said.
“Not Just A Boy In A Wheelchair” is available on Amazon Music, Spotify, Apple Music, Pandora and YouTube.
Scan to hear
All photos provided
Turning 18 is a significant milestone. And for people with disabilities, it also means it’s time to apply for Social Security benefits.
Jenny Castrucci needed help filling out Social Security forms for her son, Ryan. “It got to the point where you don’t even understand what you’re reading. It’s hard to decipher what it all means,” she said.
Through her son’s service & support administrator (SSA), they connected to the HCDDS Benefits Team. Benefits Analyst Teresa Schlemmer worked with Jenny and Ryan to provide direction and help the family understand the Social Security application process.
“I meet with the person we serve and their legal guardians, if they have one, and we apply for Social Security and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) at the same time,” Schlemmer said. “We also talk about how work may impact their benefits.”
Throughout the process, Schlemmer provided guidance and reassurance to the Castruccis. “Teresa really made a big difference for us,” Jenny said.
In addition to initial applications, Schlemmer can also help when people have problems with Social Security, like if their checks stop coming.
Schlemmer said she enjoys assisting others in applying for much-needed benefits. “This role makes it easier and more accommodating for our families. It has made a world of difference for people we support,” Schlemmer added.
Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), or Disability, provides monthly payments to people who have a disability that stops or limits their ability to work.
Supplemental Security Income (SSI) provides monthly payments to people with disabilities and older adults who have little or no income or resources.
Benefits Representatives at HCDDS help people we support obtain and maintain public benefits. Reach out to your SSA or call (513) 794-3300 to get connected with the benefits team.
Each issue of My Life features five people who live in Hamilton County. They share their interests, what issues are important to them, how they improve the community, their proudest accomplishments, and more.
I am proud of playing classical music on piano at home. I like to play Mozart and listen to the WGUC with my mom. I’m also a movie lover and part of the movie club at Cinemark Western Hills. I can describe music from classical to movie soundtracks like the movie Up, James and the Giant Peach, and Detective Pikachu.
I’m a big animal lover, and I have always loved learning about them. Some of my favorite animals are penguins, lemurs and meerkats. They are always so cute to watch. One place I like to go to is the Cincinnati Zoo. I also love to go to the Newport Aquarium as well. Plus, both places are great for photography. I love taking pictures of the beautiful animals and nature.
From 2007 to 2014, I attended four different colleges — three of them told me that I wouldn't make it because of my learning disability. But I refused to accept it. When I went to the National College of Business and Technology, my professors saw something in me. They worked with me so I could graduate. I was so proud of myself, and I cried because I proved people wrong. Now I am a proud business owner, as an independent beauty consultant for Mary Kay and sales representative for Avon.
I love doing magic. I’ve been practicing magic for a very long time and performed a magic show at a nursing home. I got my love of magic from my dad and DreamLand Magic. My favorite magic trick is tossing a light with my thumbs. It’s my favorite because it’s a gift from my dad, and I loved magic ever since then.
I have many talents. One of them is that I can wiggle my ears on command. I am also able to imitate voices that I hear on TV and from movies. I like imitating Stitch from Lilo and Stitch. One of my other talents is that I am strong and able to lift heavy things that people aren’t normally capable of lifting, like heavy rocks or tables.
with Vernon Jackson, owner of Noble Barber & Beauty and founder of The Gifted Event
How did you get into this field?
I'm licensed as a cosmetologist. In high school, they were recruiting kids and a teacher said, “you might want to check out this program.” I toured the campus and gravitated to the environment. Initially, I didn’t have the desire to own my own shop because I was focused on being a poet and author. But eventually I knew I couldn’t be renting a chair—I had to be the owner.
I needed a space where I could dedicate time to the population of my clients who were on the (autism) spectrum or who needed a little bit more time, attention, and patience. I had a conversation with a friend and then decided to do The Gifted Event on the third Monday of each month.
One of your Gifted Event videos went viral last year. What was that like?
Going viral—it’s a hell of a monster, but it’s a beautiful one. It shows you that you’re not alone in what you love and enjoy. You also get to literally see how you impact people. My inbox was full of parents, grandparents, and people with disabilities who were grateful to be seen, have representation, and to see their story. You have a black male with a child with Down syndrome sharing an authentic human experience, and no one is thinking about what the difference is. We’re laughing and there’s joy.
What are some of your favorite spots in Cincinnati?
For fine dining, Boca—it’s a treat to myself. I also love going to Nostalgia jazz bar, and Ghost Baby.
Who inspires you?
The kids. When I meet them, especially the ones that are having a hard time, they feel my energy. You can see them working through an experience that they are not comfortable with at all. They’re leaning into me with trust. That really matters and inspires me to go harder for them.
As the weather gets warmer, people are ready to get outside and travel. If long road trips or expensive vacations aren’t in your budget, Greater Cincinnati has plenty of spots to explore.
For Thrill Seekers
Kings Island has 50 roller coasters and rides, an attached water park, and a variety of dining and entertainment options. You can even take a ride to the top of the Eiffel Tower for unmatched views of the park and surrounding landscape (pictured right).
Miami Valley Gaming is a harness racing track and casino between Monroe and Lebanon. It has seasonal live horse racing five days a week and live entertainment every weekend.
Château Laroche, also known as the Loveland Castle, is a museum on the banks of the Little Miami River. This medieval-style castle took 50 years to build (pictured right). You can take a self-guided tour through the castle and gardens.
The Voice of America Museum in West Chester celebrates the legacy and global impact of the first international broadcasting station. It features exhibits about radio and wireless innovations.
Tucked in the Walnut Hills neighborhood is the William Howard Taft National Historic Site. The house was the birthplace of Taft, who was the 27th president of the United States and the 10th chief justice of the U.S. Supreme Court.
For Nature Lovers
Sawyer Point has something for everyone—from tennis courts and water sprinklers to public art and walking trails. You can also relax on the Serpentine Wall and watch boats on the Ohio River.
Krohn Conservatory in Eden Park features rotating botanical exhibits and an indoor waterfall. It’s also home to the annual Butterfly Show, which gives visitors a chance to interact with the butterflies (pictured right).
Mitchell Memorial Forest in Cleves is home to Hamilton County’s first official mountain bike trail. It also has a pond for catch-and-release fishing and a trail perfect for spotting wildlife.
TruCare Provider Services’ annual Be My Valentine event was a special night for all. People who attended enjoyed food, beverages and fun activities. The evening included plenty of chances for creating connections and celebrating community. Be My Valentine was co-hosted by Diana Mairose, Steve Pelton, and Danae Riggs. Photos by A Ghra Photography LLC
Neighbors in Action and Hamilton County DD Services started a new tradition this year—giving back to the community. Volunteer Days take place every other month. These events are an opportunity for people with disabilities to spend time socializing while making a positive impact in the community. In January, the group made peanut butter & jelly sandwiches for Our Daily Bread soup kitchen. In March, they put together activity bags for St. Vincent De Paul. Photo by Ann Myres.
Nearly 40 people joined the first PigAbilities Meetup of the season on Feb. 25. The Flying Pig mascot also made a special appearance to cheer on athletes. People with disabilities and their supporters gather each week to train for PigAbilities, the one-mile event during Flying Pig weekend. This year’s PigAbilities is set for Saturday, May 4. Photos by Lisa Danford.
April 4. Cincinnati Art Museum.
A monthly gallery experience that explores the intersections of mental health, wellness, and art
Email ProjectCare@YwcaCin.org
April 17. Washington Park.
Enjoy a free, outdoor workout class. Schedule and exercise varies weekly.
WashingtonPark.org
April 28. Sawyer Point.
Walk together to bring awareness to preventable infant and maternal health risks.
MarchForBabies.org
May 3. Memorial Hall.
Annual art auction fundraiser that pairs Visionaries + Voices artists with community collaborators.
VisionariesAndVoices.com
May 3-5. Various locations.
Enjoy a weekend full of fun events for everyone, including PigAbilities, the 50 West Mile, Flying Fur and more.
FlyingPigMarathon.com
May 4. Ensemble Theatre.
A late-night cabaret performance celebrating Broadway and other musical genres.
EnsembleCincinnati.org
May 12. Cincinnati Zoo
Celebrate the special women in your life and your favorite animal moms. Mothers get free admission.
CincinnatiZoo.org
Wednesday, May 15. On Zoom.
Join other adults 18 and older to chat and play games during this weekly get-together hosted by Mike and Amy.
HamiltonDDS.org/calendar
Wheel of Fortune Live!
May 22. Taft Theatre.
This theatrical experience brings America’s Game to you in an exciting live stage show.
TaftTheatre.org
June 16. Freedom Center.
Enjoy free admission to the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center, which has exhibits to create a collective heritage.
FreedomCenter.org
June 21. Riverbend.
Hear the hits of New Kids on the Block, Paula Abdul, & DJ Jazzy Jeff.
Riverbend.org
June 22. Sawyer Point. A parade and festival celebrating and supporting those within the areas LGBTQIA+ community.
CincinnatiPride.org
Audio version available now, thanks to CABVI’s Radio Reading Service!
My Life is a publication of Hamilton County Developmental Disabilities Services (HCDDS).
Our magazine empowers people with independent life skills, shares success stories, and promotes opportunities for advocacy and making connections. It’s created by and for people with developmental disabilities.
