Special Needs Living Indy December 2023 Digital Issue

DECEMBER 2023

MEET THE

GRAHAM FAMILY PHOTO BY TARA STROHL PHOTOGRAPHY

Now hiring BCBA, RBTs, and Montessori teachers, send resumes to

HR@montessoriaba.com

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December 2023

Every 3RD FRIDAY OF THE MONTH ALL PROFITS go to chosen charity of the month.

Jump. Climb. Get Active.

Sensory Hours

Thursday's 6:00 p.m.- 8:00 p.m.

Special accommodations taken during sensory hours.

WAIVER FORM

PLEASE FILL OUT BEFORE JUMPING We love to throw Birthday Parties!

TODDLER PLAY AREA • TRAMPOLINE PARK • ARCADE WARPED WALL • ZIP LINE • AND MORE...

10080 E 121st St Suite 182 • Fishers, Indiana 46037 317-572-2999 • www.adrenalinefishers.com Special Needs Living Indy

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ISSUE PREVIEW

Meet Patrice

• Pages 42-46 Featured Family: Meet The Graham Family • Page 27 Pastor’s Corner: Divine Compassion: Jesus’ Healing Ministry and People with Disabilities • Pages 48-49 Sponsor Spotlight: My Quillo • Pages 28-29 Nonprofit Spotlight: Child Care Answers • Pages 16-18 Indiana Waiver Changes Are Coming • Pages 30-31 Single Mamas Seen: Christmas Time Volunteer Opportunities • Pages 38-39 Meet Patrice • Page 51 Sensory Blurb!

• Pages 32-34 Joni and Friends: Victim or Victor?

• Pages 40-41 Self Advocates: Meet Rusty Hatchett • Page 13 Upcoming Events at Janus Developmental Services • Page 50 Save The Date: Special Needs Living Family Fun Day at Adrenaline • Pages 20-22 Local Events

Self Advocates: Meet Rusty Hatchett

OWNER/ADVERTISING INQUIRIES

Jamie McCabe 248-882-8448 Jamie.McCabe@n2co.com Scan the QR Code to Subscribe or Nominate: Joni and Friends: Victim or Victor?

Nonprofit Spotlight

Sponsor Spotlight

Featured Family: Meet The Graham Family Single Mamas Seen: Christmas Time Volunteer Opportunities

Scan to share a story or check out https:// linktr.ee/community.stories

Looking to advertise or connect more? Scan to schedule an appointment with Special Needs Living Indy.

Facebook (@specialneedslivingmagazine) Instagram (specialneedsliving) 4

December 2023

Midwest Academy is an intentional educational community serving students in grades 3-12 with ADD/ADHD, language-based learning differences, high functioning autism, and processing challenges.

The school is designed to develop academic achievement, self-acceptance, and personal accountability.

We offer our students a small, engaging educational setting, an inspiring progressive curriculum, and a culture focused on the development of the whole child.

Schedule a tour today. 317-843-9500 www.mymwa.org | 1420 Chase Ct. Carmel, IN | admissions@mymwa.org Special Needs Living Indy

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I M P ORTA N T

n2co.com

NU MBERS

Delivering Neighborhood Connections © 2023 The N2 Company, Inc.

317-977-2375 317-676-4222 800-609-8448 877-241-8144 800-545-7763 800-545-7763

800-622-4968 888-673-0002 800-403-0864 317-232-7800 317-925-7617 877-511-1144 317-466-1000

Arc of Indiana www.arcind.org Autism Community Connection www.autismcc-in.org Autism Society of Indiana Blind and Visually Impaired Services (BVIS) Bureau of Developmental Disabilities Services (BDDS) Bureau of Rehabilitation Services (BRS) Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services (DHHS) DHHSHelp@fssa/in.gov Disability Determination Bureau Division of Aging (IDA) Division of Family Resources (DFR) Division of Mental Health and Addiction Down Syndrome Indiana Early Childhood and Out of School Learning (OECOSL) Easterseals Crossroads https://eastersealscrossroads.org

Scan to view the past issues of Special Needs Living Indy

CREATIVE FIRST IMPRESSIONS.

911 800-545-7763 574-234-7101 317-232-0570 844-323-4636 317-233-4454 317-232-7770 812-855-6508 317-233-1325 844-446-7452 855-641-8382 800-332-4433 800-457-4584 317-232-7770 988 800-772-1213 800-772-1213 877-851-4106 317-871-4032 800-545-7763

Emergency First Steps INSOURCE – www.insource.org Indiana Department of Education: Office of Special Education – www.doe.in.gov/specialed Indiana Family to Family - www.inf2f.org Indiana Family and Social Services Administration (FSSA) – www.in.gov/fssa/index.htm Indiana Governor’s Council for People with Disabilities (GPCPD) Indiana Resource Center for Autism Indiana State Department of Health Indiana Statewide Independent Living Council (INSILC) Indiana Works INSOURCE – http://insource.org/ Medicaid Disability Medicaid Waivers National Alliance on Mental Illness Social Security Administration (SSA) Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) Special Education Questions United Cerebral Palsy Association of Greater Indiana Vocational Rehabilitation Services (VR)

EMBRACE LIFE

DISCLAIMER: Any articles included in this publication and/or opinions expressed therein do not necessarily reflect the views of The N2 Company d/b/a N2 Publishing but remain solely those of the author(s). The paid advertisements contained within the Special Needs Living magazine are not endorsed or recommended by The N2 Company or the publisher.

Therefore, neither The N2 Company nor the publisher may be held liable or responsible for business practices of these companies. NOTE: When community events take place, photographers may be present to take photos for that event and they may be used in this publication.

TO THE FULLEST

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December 2023

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Healing Hands Personal Services is here for you,

wherever life takes you.

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• Online and in-home onboarding for your convenience • Dedicated parent attendant care staff to answer your questions • We are here to support you because even caregivers need care sometimes.

Healing Hands Provides: • Parent Attendant Care • Senior Attendant Care • Structured Family Caregiving

Parent Caregivers and Nurses Receive: • Competitive pay • Health, Dental and Vision Insurance • Paid vacation time (cash out option) • Community Resource Support

317.788.0777 | healinghandsindiana.com Special Needs Living Indy

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Schedules are important and oftentimes transitions can be more challenging for special needs families.

Looking to move?

NICOLE LYON

NICOLE.LYON@TALKTOTUCKER.COM WWW.TALKTOTUCKER.COM/NICOLE.LYON 10 NORTH FIRST ST., ZIONSVILLE, IN 46077 8

December 2023

Call me today at 317.501.0639

Meet the Special Needs Living Indy Team

Jamie McCabe — Publisher and Area Director

Tasha Cleaver — SNL Account Executive

Christina McGairk — Editor and Writer

Angela Arlington — Community Engagement Coordinator, Writer and Contributor

Maria Smietana — Editor-in-Chief

Dr. Darolyn “Lyn” Jones — Content Coordinator and Writer

Heather Gregg — Photographer, 21 Vines Photography

Christie and Nathan Buonanno — Buonanno Photography

Kendal Ford — Kendal Nicole Photography

Paul Hathcoat — Writer and Contributor

Christia Woodford — Publishing Assistant and Local Events

Tanya Sood — Writer and Contributor

DeAndra Yates — Writer

Dorie Zipperle — Writer and Contributor

Sheila Wolfe — Writer and Contributor

Jane Gailey — Contributor

Aaron Olson — Writer

Angelica N. Gray, MA, BCBA, LBA — Writer

Isaac Roman — Writer and Photographer

Charles Spray MS, LMHCWriter and Contributor

Matt Knight — Writer

Kate Miller- Writer and Contributor

Special Needs Living Indy

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This section is here to give our readers easier access when searching for a trusted neighborhood partner to use. Get to know the businesses that make this magazine possible. Please support them in return and thank them if you get the chance!

ABA & COMPREHENSIVE SERVICES K1ds Count Therapy (317) 520-4748 Mindful and Modern ABA Therapies (317) 827-7777 ABA SERVICES Grateful Care ABA (317) 572-5315 gratefulcareaba.com/ Link to Learn (317) 863-8388 Piece by Piece Autism Center (765) 481-2261 The Umbrella Center (463) 701-0909 ABA SERVICES - IN HOME B Above Services (317) 773-0500 www.baboveservices.org ABA/COMPREHENSIVE SERVICES The Hope Source (317) 578-0410

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ATTORNEY-WILLS/TRUSTS/ ESTATE PLANNING Law Office of Elizabeth A. Homes LLC (317) 660-5004

HOME CARE & TRANSPORTATION ABC Community Services LLC (317) 516-1178 www.abccommunityservices.com

PEDIATRIC HOME CARE Guardian Care (317) 360-0359 myguardian.care/

BEHAVIOR MANAGEMENT Supportive Behavior Services (765) 337-1895 www.supportivebehaviorservices.com

HOME HEALTH CARE Comfort Care (317) 552-2039

REALTOR F.C. Tucker Nicole Lyon (317) 501-0639

CASE MANAGEMENT Connections Case Management (317) 440-0637 IPMG - Indiana Professional Management Group (866) 672-4764 COMMUNITY SUPPORT Achieve Community Services (317) 918-0337 acssupports.com/ Indiana ACT for Families (317) 536-6900 DAY / BEHAVIORAL SERVICES Developmental Disabilities Systems INC. - DDSI (317) 477-8240

ADOPTION Indiana Adoption Program (855) 677-5437 www.indianaadoptionprogram.org/

DENTAL Children’s Dental Center (317) 842-8453

ADULT INDEPENDENCE Janus Developmental Services, Inc. (317) 773-8781 www.janus-inc.org/

FINANCIAL ENABLE Special Needs Planning, LLC (765) 585-1050 enablesnp.com

ADVOCACY/EVALUATIONS PEAS for Kids (920) 980-1172

WestPoint Financial Group Gordon Homes (317) 567-2005

ATTORNEY Hostetter & Associates (317) 852-2422

HOME CARE Amiable Home Care Inc. (317) 802-1746

December 2023

HOME HEALTH SERVICES Tendercare Home Health Services (317) 251-0700 www.tchhs.net/ HOME MODIFICATIONS / SPECIALTY EQUIPMENT Specialized Home Care Services (888) 506-4182 www.specialized4u.com/ INSURANCE State Farm John Cole (317) 430-1958 Thomas Agency (756) 561-5138 MEDICAL EQUIPMENT & PHARMACY George’s Pharmacy & Medical Equipment (855) 600-6251 www.georgespharmacy.com MORTGAGE CrossCountry Mortgage (317) 666-4679 MUSIC THERAPY Dynamic Music Therapy (317) 829-6654 NEUROFEEDBACK THERAPY Indy Neurofeedback (317) 888-8500

SCHOOL Dynamic Minds Academy (317) 578-0410 Midwest Academy (317) 843-9500 SCHOOL - SPECIAL NEEDS The Fortune Academy (317) 377-0544 SENSORY SPACES Corporate Interior Solutions (317) 691-4156 SUPPORT SERVICES Easterseals Crossroads (317) 466-1000 Joseph Maley Foundation (317) 432-6657 www.josephmaley.org My Quillo (317) 626-4387 myquillo.com/ The ALTRUIST Group, LLC (317) 547-3041 x1005 THERAPY & TESTING SERVICES The Brain Center (317) 748-0034

Special Needs Living Indy

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ALTRUIST

IT'S ALL TRUE: U COME BEFORE I

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December 2023

Create enjoyable experiences in the community!

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Upcoming Events at Janus Developmental Services Janus Developmental is excited to expand offerings in Fishers.

It is located at SouthPointe Village Apartments, near downtown Fishers.

SouthPointe is an affordable housing apartment building with about Fishers out and about 20 apartments designated for people with disabilities. Janus has a room near the lobby with a working space, a kitchenette, and a sensory area. The apartment building has several amenities that Janus can use as well. They include a full kitchen, exercise room, 3rd floor deck, and a craft room.

The program a SouthPointe will start with 2 groups with a 4:1 ratio of participants to caregivers and will focus on community involvement. Whether it be volunteering opportunities or having lunch at a favorite restaurant, the schedule will be made around the interests of the people supported. An example is a person we support who loves music, so they’ve been checking out local music stores and learning about musical instruments. A monthly calendar will be given to each participant so they know what to expect or what they will need to bring for each day. Activities on the November calendar include visiting the library, bowling, job skills activities, cooking classes and volunteering at Carmel Friends Church.

We are currently enrolling people 18 or over with a disability. You can reach out to Abbie McIntyre, Community Supports Manager, at amcintyre@janusinc.org, if you’re interested in learning more.

JANUS UPCOMING EVENTS: * Janus Jingle Open House-- Sunday, December 3 to benefit

the For the Love of Janus Guild. Refreshments will be served on a tour of themed Christmas trees that include Christopher Radko, Patriotic, Elf, All Things British, Frosty the Snowman, Peppermint Tree, and Vintage Tree to name a few. There are 36 trees in total with all the garlands, villages and other décor to take in. Tickets sold in time slots 1-2 pm, 2-3 pm, and 3-4 pm. A great way to get in the holiday spirit and support Janus at the same time. Tickets are available through a Guild member or Jerry Jamison at jjamison@janus-inc.org or 317-773-8781 ext100. * Festival of Music and Art--December 10 - 2 concerts 4 PM. & 7 PM at the First United Methodist Church, 2051 Monument Street, Noblesville, IN 46060. The Janus Choir will sing with the Noblesville First Chancel Choir and Orchestra in a beautiful evening of Christmas Music. Janus will also sell artwork before and after the concert.

JANUS HOLIDAY STORE HOURS:

The Janus Art Store will be open on December 7 and 8 from 10 AM – 2 PM and again on December 14 and 15 from 10 AM – 2 PM. This is a great way to support the Janus Artists and purchase beautiful Christmas gifts for Janus Store your family and friends.

All the items are created by Janus Artists, and they receive a commission on each piece of art that is sold.

There is everything from birdhouses and birdfeeders to paintings, note cards, Christmas cards, Christmas ornaments, and more. Come and support our artists and check a few items off of your holiday shopping list.

Special Needs Living Indy

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HeartSOS

Children, Adolescents, Young Adults with ASD & Related Needs

Mental Health Counseling

Anxiety, Depression, Attachment, PTSD & Relationships

Speech Therapy

Self-Advocacy, Articulation, Feeding, Apraxia & Relationships

Family Guidance

Social Communication, Emotional Regulation, Flexible Thinking & Relationships

Occupational Therapy

Executive Functioning, ADLs, Sensory Processing & Relationships Indy & Terre Haute Clinics 14

December 2023

Outpatient Services for Individuals & Families

We Hear Your SOS! Reach out at asdheartsos.com

Special Needs Living Indy

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Indiana Waiver Changes Are Coming

BY DAROLYN “LYN” JONES AND TENDRA DUFF

Introduction

The following article is a synopsis of critical information from the Ask the Arc Webinar Series titled “Waiver Transition and Redesign Update” with Director of Arc Advocacy Karly Sciortino-Poulter and Cathy Robinson, Associate Director of the Division of Disability and Rehabilitative Services (DDRS).

In this webinar, Robinson explained how the end of the Covid public health emergency (PHE) impacts flexibilities to the Indiana Medicaid Waivers enacted during the PHE and also discusses changes and updates to the Aged and Disabled (A&D) waiver, and administrative reclassification of the Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) waiver.

You can watch the entire webinar, “Waiver Transition and Redesign Update” at https/www.youtube. com/watch?v=3ciedI6Lwk4.

If you want more general information about the Indiana Medicaid Waivers, you can learn more about what those waivers are, who qualifies, and how to apply here: https/insource.org/files/pages/0093Medicaid_Waiver_Guide_2013.pdf In Indiana, the Division of Disability and Rehabilitative Services, or DDRS, is under the Family and Social Services Administration (FSSA). The DDRS oversees the Bureau of Disability Services (BDS), Vocational Rehab Services, and First Steps, among other disability services. Learn more about the DDRS and its programs and services here https/www.in.gov/fssa/ddrs/ Public Health Emergency (PHE) Ends

In January of 2020, during the COVID-19 pandemic, the federal government declared a public health emergency (PHE), which 16

December 2023

allowed for critical services, including free Covid home tests, telemedicine, and flexibility for Medicaid Waiver services. The PHE officially ended May 11, 2023.

Some emergency services, such as free Covid home tests, ended immediately. States have six months, or until November 11, 2023, to transition out of other changes made during the PHE. The transition process is informed by what the state has learned during the PHE and from listening to families and individuals who receive those services.

The end date was determined by the federal government.

During the PHE, a limited time flexibility was granted to parents and legal guardians of minor dependent children enrolled in the: • Family Support Waiver (FSW) • Community Integration and Habitation (CIH) waiver.

The parent/guardian could be compensated for support provided to their dependent for up to 30 days when the minor child or their direct support professional had tested positive for COVID-19.

The services to which the flexibilities applied were:

• participant assistance and care • community based rehabilitation • residential habilitation A common question is whether parents will continue to get paid to care for their minor children under these two waivers. The answer is no. This PHE flexibility will end by November 11, 2023.

Note that parents of adult children under these two waivers will continue to be paid for 40 hours of care per week, as was true before the pandemic.

Waivers NOT impacted by the end of the PHE flexibilities are the:

• Aged & Disabled (A&D) waiver • Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) waiver Parents and legal guardians may be paid caregivers of minor, dependent children through two A&D and TBI waiver services in approved waiver service plans: • attendant care • home and community assistance services Some families may be familiar with this guidance as “medically complex warriors” guidance.

Note that the TBI waiver will not undergo changes at this time, other than to be administratively moved to DDRS. FSSA has a FAQ publication for waiver transition questions.

Find that document here: https/www.in.gov/fssa/ddrs/files/ FamilyWaiverTransitionFAQ.pdf To learn more about considerations, feedback, and recommendations, check out these two important publications: • The Indiana Waiver Redesign Concept Paper was written in 2020 and explores the changes the state was considering to the waivers. https/www.in.gov/fssa/ddrs/files/ IndianaConceptPaper_FINAL.pdf • The Path Forward publication is a follow-up to the Indiana Waiver Redesign Concept Paper and explains updates and recommendations for changes to the FSW and CIH waivers. https/ www.in.gov/fssa/ddrs/files/IN_ Path_Forward-July-22.pdf DDRS will continue to solicit feedback from families and individuals at waiver transition stakeholder engagements, virtual listening sessions, and quarterly building

bridges meetings. Find information about those opportunities here https/ www.in.gov/fssa/indiana-pathwaysfor-aging/stakeholder-engagement/ How are services impacted by the changes to the A&D waiver?

For families transitioning from the A&D to the Health and Wellness Waiver, you can remain with your same case management and your services and budgets will remain the same.

The wait lists should not necessarily be impacted by these changes because the qualifiers are not changing for the new waiver.

I need help or I still have questions!

We encourage individuals and families to reach out to other individuals or families they know, to their Medicaid case managers, to the ARC of Indiana https/www. arcind.org and to parent support organizations like Family to Family https/www.inf2f.org/ and INSource https/insource.org to learn more.

As parents ourselves, we would encourage families to consult MORE than one source for best clarification of questions.

If you want more information about how to be paid to be your child’s caregiver, reach out to Tendra Duff at Guardian Care: tendra.duff@myguardian.care Waiver Transition, Renaming, and Future Changes Coming Individuals who are age 59 and under and currently have the A&D

waiver will now be covered under the Health and Wellness Waiver.

This waiver will be moved from the Division of Aging to the DDRS. Individuals who currently have the A&D waiver and who are 60 and over, will now be covered by the Pathways for Aging Waiver. Learn more about these changes here https/www.in.gov/fssa/indianapathways-for-aging/managed-longterm-services-and-supports/ Special Needs Living Indy

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ASK THE ADVOCATE

Free Live Zoom Events Sponsored

by IEP Services, LLC

Sheila A. Wolfe; Special Education Consultant

WHEN: December 11, from 6:30 pm to 8:00 pm

Do you need help getting your child with special needs the services they NEED and DESERVE at school? Each session will begin with a short informative presentation followed by an open Q & A session where parents can get answers about their child’s circumstance and their right to a free appropriate public education.

Please email sheilawolf@sbcglobal.net for more information.

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December 2023

Welcome! You are invited to join a meeting: Ask the Advocate.

After registering, you will receive a confirmation email about joining the meeting.

PROMOTIONS

THIS MAGAZINE IS – FOR YOU – BY YOU –

TO SUPPORT AND CONNECT YOU – HERE IS HOW YOU CAN BE INVOLVED –

FOR ADVERTISING: Do you run a business that supports the special needs community and is looking to advertise in Special Needs Living Indy magazine? Email Jamie.McCabe@n2pub.com .

HIGHLIGHTING ALL SPECIAL NEEDS BUSINESSES Do you have special needs and run a business?

We will highlight all those with special needs who run a business for free — email us or go to Linktr.ee/Community.Stories and click on (Special Needs Living Indy – Business Profile Q&A).

HAVE A STORY TO SHARE Would you like to share a story in an upcoming issue of Special Needs Living Indy ? We want to hear from you. To share a story or to nominate someone else to be in an upcoming issue of Special Needs Living Indy, email your story ideas or nominations to SpecialNeedsLivingIndy@n2pub.com.

To view several story options with quick links to answer questions and upload photos go to Linktr.ee/Community.Stories .

Accomplishments/ Achievements/Milestones Would you like to share a story? Scan here to submit a story to be in a future issue of Special Needs Living Indy!

LOOKING TO CELEBRATE ALL SPECIAL NEEDS INDIVIDUALS Some accomplishments and milestones take years ... We want to recognize you/them! Are you or your child celebrating a birthday, milestone, achievement, or accomplishment? We want to recognize you — email us at SpecialNeedsLivingIndy@n2pub.com.

CALLING ALL 501C3 ORGANIZATIONS THAT SUPPORT THE SPECIAL NEEDS COMMUNITY Each month we will highlight a nonprofit for free to let the community know more about how they support and impact families and individuals with special needs. Do you run a nonprofit or know of one that supports the special needs community? Email us at SpecialNeedsLivingIndy@ n2pub.com .

Scan here to view the past issues of Special Needs Living Indy!

scan to schedule an apt

LET’S GET SOCIAL To keep up to date with all things happening with Special Needs Living Indy • Upcoming Events • Socials/Gatherings • Stories and Highlights • Ways to be Involved Follow us on Facebook@ specialneedslivingmagazine.

Special Needs Living Indy

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Local Events

Christia Woodford — Publishing Assistant and Local Events

BY CHRISTIA WOODFORD

Note: Don’t forget to apply for the Access Pass! The Access Pass Program allows families that meet the specific requirements listed below to visit The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis and all participating locations for $2 per family member per visit for up to two adults and all dependent youths living in the household. You qualify if you receive: • Hoosier Healthwise Insurance (Indiana’s health care program for low-income families, pregnant women and children) • SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) • TANF (Temporary Assistance for Needy Families) • Apply here: https/www. childrensmuseum.org/ visit/hours/access-pass.

Museums The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis First Thursday Nights Dec. 7, 4:00 pm The first Thursday of every month, 4:00 PM-8:00 PM. Go back in time to the Age of the Dinosaurs and explore the basics of science through fun, hands-on activities in Dinosaur Train: The Traveling Exhibition Travel to Greece without leaving Indiana in Take Me There®: Greece Uncover ancient artifacts in National Geographic Treasures of the Earth https/ www.childrensmuseum.

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December 2023

org/visit/calendar/ event/273/2023-04-06

Nov. 24- Dec. 17- Dec. 21 and 22, 5:30 pm- 9:30 pm

WinterFaire Nov. 18- Feb. 11, 2024 WinterFaire is a magical indoor world featuring a festive, carnival-like atmosphere, fun-filled games, loveable critters, and hands-on activities. Play, laugh, and make lifelong memories together in this one-of-a-kind indoor winter experience.

Zoom down WinterSlide The animals of WinterFaire have used the frozen fountain’s magical water to turn the beloved slide in the Sunburst Atrium into the icy WinterSlide! The “snow” on either side will light up as you race toward the bottom. How fast will you go?

Join us for Central Indiana’s most beloved holiday festival and make the season magical at A Merry Prairie Holiday. Across acres to explore, surround yourself with thousands of lights and capture that perfect moment.

There is something for everyone to enjoy this year.

Returning this year— The William Conner House will be transformed into a magical 3D projection mapping holiday show that will capture the feel and nostalgia of the holidays.

Bring the whole family to see our presentation of “’Twas The Night Before Christmas,” and see how 3D projectors can be used to transport you 200 years back into the story.

Leave the skates at home and take a spin at Frosty’s Skating Rink where you can slide around like you are skating on real ice. Socks are not provided, but the fun is!

Explore the illuminating LED Reynolds lights. With new displays across acres to explore, be wowed by the thousands of lights that capture the spirit of the season.

Step into historic Prairietown for Historic Holidays and Christmas Eve traditions of the 1800s.

Experience our “Holidays From Around the World” old-fashioned crankie show at the Potter Shop Kiln Shed.

Then, head over to the North Pole Village to

Visit with Santa Santa arrives at WinterFaire on Nov. 24, collecting water from the frozen fountain to help power his sleigh and reindeer, gathering gifts from Artisan Square, and posing for photos with you! More details about dates and times coming soon. https/www.childrensmuseum. org/exhibits/winterfaire Various Events Dec.1-Dec. 31, Opens at 10 AM 3000 N. Meridian St., Indianapolis, IN 46208, 317-334-4000 https/www. childrensmuseum.org CONNER PRAIRIE — INDIANA’S Living History Museum A Merry Prarie Holiday Festival

get a selfie with Santa and meet Mrs. Claus and the elves as they get ready for the big night.

Have you been naughty or nice this year? Trinket Puddingmoon, Santa’s official list keeper, knows.

Check-in and find out what list you made.

With thousands of twinkling lights to guide your way, explore the grounds and experience a memorable winter wonderland stroll.

Stop by Café on the Common and sing along to a revolving roster of local performers in Blitzen’s Bandstand.

Don’t forget to take a ride on Kringle’s Carousel or get a rush zooming down our 150-foot Polar Bear Plunge tubing hill.

From glowing lights to warm delights, there is something for everyone to make lasting memories and get into the festive mood.

For Tickets: https/www. connerprairie.org/explore /things-to-do/merryprairie-holiday/ Breakfast With Santa December 2–3, 9–10, 16–17, 8:30 am and 11:30 am Breakfast With Santa is our annual holiday tradition.

Gather as a family for a memorable experience and enjoy a special breakfast with an opportunity to visit with Santa. Santa will regale the room with lively tails of Christmas past before moving to a special stage where he can visit with each family’s youth individually.

Families will enjoy a delicious hot breakfast buffet with everyone’s favorites.

Don’t miss our signature freshly made waffles! We hope you’ll join us for this annual holiday tradition! https/www.connerprairie. org/explore/things-to-do/ breakfast-dinner-with-santa/ Sensory-Friendly Hours The second Sunday of every month, from 10 AM to noon, are sensory-friendly hours at Conner Prairie!

Enjoy a calm environment Dec. 17 Check-in with Guest Relations, stating that you are here for sensoryfriendly hours. You will get free admission and may stay as long as you wish.

Various events Dec. 1- Dec. 31, 10:00 am- 10:00 pm 13400 Allisonville Road, Fishers, IN 46038 Phone: 317-776-6000 or 800-966-1836 https/www. connerprairie.org/events/list SPORTS Indy Fuel Dec. 2, 3, 8, 9, 16, 27, 29, 30 Indiana Farmers Coliseum, 1202 E 38th St, Indianapolis, IN 46205 https/www. indyfuelhockey.com/ Indianapolis Colts Dec. 17 Steelers, Dec. 24 Falcons, Dec. 31 Texans Lucas Oil Stadium, 500 S Capitol Ave, Indianapolis, IN 46225 https/www. colts.com/schedule/ Indiana Pacers Dec. 18, 20, 23, 30 Gainbridge Field House, 125 South Pennsylvania St. Indianapolis, IN https/www.nba.com/pacers/

Family Fun Down Syndrome Indiana (DSI) Holiday Dance and Desserts Dec. 2, 6:00 pm- 9:00 pm Lady T’s Wedding and Event Venue 507 National Ave, Indianapolis, IN 46227 We are so excited to announce that our Annual DSI Holiday Dance and Desserts will be on Saturday, December 2, 2023! Bring your dancing shoes and holiday spirit!

Activities will also include dancing, a DJ, Santa, and desserts.

Please RSVP to register@ dsindiana.org or call (317) 925-7617. https/www.facebook.com/ events/down-syndromeindiana/dsi-holiday-dancedesserts/ 416309579052937/ Janus Jingle Sunday to Benefit the For the Love of Janus Guild Dec. 3rd Tickets sold in time slots 1-2, 2-3 & 3-4.

Join us on Sunday, December 3rd for the Janus Jingle Open House. Refreshments will be served with a tour of themed Christmas Trees that include Christopher Radko, Patriotic, Elf, All Things British, Frosty the Snowman, Peppermint Tree, and Vintage Tree to name a few. There are 36 trees in total with all the garlands, villages and another décor to take in. A great way to get in the Holiday Spirit and Support Janus at the same time. Tickets are available through a Gild member or Jerry Jamison at jjamison@janus-inc.org or 317-773-8781 ext100.

Festival of Music & Art Dec. 10th

First United Methodist Church in Noblesville at 2051 Monument Street Noblesville, IN 46060 The Janus Choir will sing with the Noblesville First Chancel Choir and Orchestra in a beautiful evening of Christmas Music. Janus will also sell artwork before and after the concert.

CHRISTMAS NIGHTS OF LIGHTS Nov. 10- Dec. 31 Use the entrance at Gate 12 - located on 42nd Street Christmas Nights of Lights is returning to Indianapolis for the 2023 season!

Come see over 1 million lights synchronized to traditional and newer, rocking Christmas music played through your car stereo.

Pack your vehicle full of friends and family to enjoy the show and begin a new Christmas tradition with us.

ONLINE RESERVATIONS ARE REQUIRED No cash or credit will be accepted at the ticket booth.

With the new reservation system, wait times should be under an hour. https/ www.indianastatefair.com/ events/2023/christmasnights-of-lights2 TICKET EXCHANGES With limited tickets available each night, there are NO REFUNDS. Exchanges for a different night or time slot based on availability.

Exchanges can only be made 5 days prior to your original ticket date.

To exchange your tickets, please call 317-593-4046.

INDIANAPOLIS ZOO Christmas at the Zoo Nov. 18- Dec. 30, 5:00 pm- 9:00 pm, 10:00 pm Fridays and Saturdays

EXPERIENCE OUR BELOVED HOLIDAY TRADITION! Dating back to 1967, the Indianapolis Zoo was the first zoo in the nation to hold a holiday lights event. Year after year, Christmas at the Zoo continues to grow.

For our 55th year, we’re adding beautiful new décor to enhance your holiday experience. And the best part is it’s all included with regular admission!

Under the Bicentennial Pavilion, you’ll discover Santa’s Village featuring: Extra Opportunities to Visit Santa: Meet the Kris Kringle in Santa’s Study warmed

by Peterman Brothers from 5 pm until close. Or escape to the tropics to see Vacation Santa from 3-9 pm at Flights of Fancy. With the help of his flamingo flock and some holiday magic, the Jolly Old Elf can be in two places at once to greet even more children this year. Visits with Santa continue through Dec. 23.

Mrs. Claus’ Kitchen: Visit with Mrs. Claus and help decorate cookies through Dec. 30.

Santa’s Barn: See Santa’s sleigh and a few of his reindeer through Dec. 30.

Polar Pathway: Have your camera ready to remember the moment you step inside the glittering tunnel and are surrounded by glowing lights!

Look for the one-way entry through the tunnel this year.

Storytime with Sprinkles & Holly: Meet our new holiday characters, Sprinkles and Holly, and enjoy their nightly storytelling outside of Cafe on the Commons.

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Penguin Encounter: Get up close to these winter-ready birds from 6-8 pm (animal and weather-dependent).

Tinsel Tavern: Enjoy holidaythemed cocktails featuring Hotel Tango spirits and wines from Daniel’s Vineyard.

Mirror Maze: Laugh your way through the fun twists and turns of the Mirror Maze! https/www.indianapoliszoo. com/events/christmasat-the-zoo/ Breakfast with Santa Dec. 2, 10:00 am- 12:00 pm Join us for a fun-filled morning of merriment and holiday cheer, complete with a full breakfast, a live and interactive holiday music performance, holidaythemed activities and one-on-one time with the jolly old elf himself. Take advantage of great photo opportunities as kids chat with Santa in his red velvet chair. Tickets are $25 https/www.indianapoliszoo. com/events/breakfastwith-santa/ Various events are scheduled daily Check the calendar for events. https/www.indianapoliszoo. com/visit/daily-schedule/ 1200 W. Washington St., Indianapolis, IN 46222 317-630-2001 9 AM - 5 PM, Mon. - Thur., and 9 AM - 7 PM, Fri.-Sun. and holidays Special Needs Living Family Fun Day at Adrenaline Dec. 7, 6:00 pm- 8:00 pm Adrenaline Family Adventure Park,10080 East 121st Street #Suite 182 Fishers, IN 46037 22

December 2023

Special Needs Living Family Fun Night (Sensory Friendly hours) Adrenaline is hosting this event for the special needs community, individuals, families, DSP, and Caregivers, of any age, along with the supporters of Special Needs Living.

This will be a great way to connect with other families in the community, enjoy an evening of fun, and connect with some great resources.

Come out and enjoy this fun evening. Register here to reserve your spot.

Tickets are normally $25 each and socks are $3 but for this event, you can pay the day of at Adrenaline they are lowering tickets to $10 each and that will include socks. To save time please fill out your waiver here: https/ adrenalinefishers.pcsparty. com/sign/ Over 50,000 square feet of fun and adventure for all ages! All your favorites: dodgeball, slam dunk, jousting, ninja warrior course, trampolines...plus all-new attractions! Ropes course, warped wall, stunt fall, avalanche slide, all sports course, climbing and more!

Our attractions are perfect for active fun at parties and special events! Loved by kids of all ages!

ACC Breakfast with Santa (Greenwood) Dec. 16, 9:00 am- 11:00 am New Hope Church5307 W. Fairview Rd. Greenwood, IN 46142 Our annual Breakfast with Santa will have a delicious breakfast, “reindeer” games, holiday crafts, carriage rides, and a chance to meet with Santa Claus! Breakfast with Santa is for families affected by autism. Lots of

fun for all ages and everyone in the family to enjoy.

Registration is required to attend Breakfast with Santa and will cost $10 per family.

Registration for the event will be open beginning November 2023. https/autismcc-in. org/breakfast-with-santa/ The Studio Movie Grill 3535 W. 86th St., Indianapolis, IN 46268 317-315-8113 Sensory-friendly screenings of movies! Check the website for movies and times. https/www.studiomoviegrill. com/movie/specialneeds-screenings THE ARTS Beef and Boards White Christmas Nov. 24- Dec. 31 A Christmas Carol - 2023 Dec. 1- Dec. 22, selected dates 9301 Michigan Road, Indianapolis, IN 46268 317-872-9664 https/www.beefandboards. com/Online/default.asp Jubilate Choir Butler University, Lilly Hall, Room 133 Wednesdays, 6:45-7:30 PM The Jubilate Choir is for singers with special needs in grades 3-9. Singers with varying abilities meet each week to grow musically.

This tuition-free choir focuses on proper singing techniques, music theory and sight-reading, partsinging, and social skills involved in being a member of a musical ensemble.

Though Jubilate has, at its core, the same goals as other choirs in the Indianapolis Children’s Choir

(ICC), singers in Jubilate engage in additional activities like visual and tactile experiences that are catered specifically to the current members of the choir.

Director: Lauren Southard For more information, contact Lauren Southard at 317-940-8065 or lsouthar@ icchoir.org. https/icchoir. org/special-needs/ Gigi’s Playhouse Various classes during the week.

5909 E. 86th St., Indianapolis, IN 46250 317-288-8235 indy@gigisplayhouse.org https/gigisplayhouse.org/ indianapolis/sfcalendar/ EVENTS Ask the Advocate Free Live Zoom Events Sponsored

by IEP Services, LLC. Oct. 9, Nov. 13, Dec. 11, and Jan. 8 from 6:30 pm- 8:00 pm The second evening of each month Do you need help getting your child with special needs the services they NEED and DESERVE at school? Each session will begin with a short informative presentation followed by an open Q & A session where parents can get answers about their child’s circumstance and their right to a Free Appropriate Public Education. Please email sheilawolf@sbcglobal. net for more information.

Zoom link: https/us06 web.zoom.us/meeting/ register/tZwvceCs rTIiGdzwNGqnTmJ_ q7Yf6af985qV#/registration Is there a local event for the special needs community you would like us to promote in an upcoming issue? Email us at SpecialNeedsIndy@n2pub.com.

PEAS for Kids PEAS for Kids specializes in educational consultation, advocacy, and customized assessment plans for children (grades PK-12+).

Assessment plans address emotional concerns and learning disabilities such as Dyslexia, as well as characteristics of Autism Spectrum Disorder and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD).

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PEAS for Kids strives to utilize the results of our evaluations to provide recommendations for, and work with parents in advocating for their child's educational needs within the school setting.

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Get Immediate Results – And Long-Term Support

Allison M Charette, Ed.S.

Experienced Attorneys Serving Hendricks, Boone, and Marion Counties and beyond.

Nationally Certified School Psychologist Founder, PEAS for Kids (920) 980-1172 • www.peas4kids.com allison@peas4kids.com

Call us today 317-852-2422 or visit hostetterlegal.com to schedule your consultation.

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We see your child.

We see you.

Navigating the world of autism can feel overwhelming. But we believe that your child, with all their unique strengths and potential, deserves the best shot at success. Whatever the journey brings, we’re here.

Our work goes beyond providing ABA therapy; it’s about igniting that spark of joy and confidence in your child.

From high-functioning children to those who require more support, our family-oriented, in-home Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) services are personalized for every level. We are passionate about nurturing your child’s individual potential and bringing out their best, right where they’re most comfortable—at home.

Whether your child has already received an ASD diagnosis or you’re still figuring things out, we can help.

NEW TO INDIANA 317.773.0500 | baboveservices.org info@baboveservices.org | @BAboveABA 24

December 2023

Special Needs Living Indy

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At Guardian Care, we know that no one takes care of family like family.

If your child has a complex and/or chronic medical condition, you may qualify to be their paid caregiver.

WITH GUARDIAN CARE, MY MOM GETS PAID TO TAKE CARE OF US.

• Experienced Child Advocacy to get your child approved for the appropriate Waiver and ongoing supports.

• Our caregivers earn an average of $2,000 - $4,500 per month!

• Streamlined process to get you approved and working in as little as one week.

Down Syndrome Awareness

317.360.0359 care@myguardian.care WHERE EVERYONE IS FAMILY

www.myguardian.care

Amiable Home Care Inc. is a multi-service home care agency.

We specialize in helping individuals from all age groups.

We assist with errands, light house work, medication reminders, bathing, food preparation, and lots more!

We accept A&D and TBI Waivers.

For private pay, ask about our rates.

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December 2023

Providing Behavioral Health Services under the Family Supports Waiver (FSW) and Community Integration and Habilitation Waiver (CIH).

We currently offer Participant Assistance and Care (PAC) Structured Family Caregiver Levels 1, 2, 3 Family and Caregiver Training Wellness Coordination Residential Habilitation & Support and Day Habilitation Attendant Care and Respite

317-802-1746 • amiablehomecare.org

@AmiableHomeCareinc

PASTOR’S CORNER

Divine Compassion: Jesus’ Healing Ministry and People with Disabilities

BY PAUL HATHCOAT

I

n the pages of the Bible, one cannot help but be captivated by the remarkable stories of compassion and healing performed by Jesus Christ. Amid the myriad accounts of miraculous transformations, one common thread emerges — Jesus’ profound love and care for individuals with disabilities. For parents of children with disabilities, understanding the motivations behind Jesus’ actions can offer profound comfort and reassurance that God’s love transcends human limitations.

Let’s look at these examples, from a Pastor’s perspective.

Throughout the New Testament, the Gospels reveal that Jesus dedicated a significant portion of his ministry to healing those with disabilities. He restored sight to the blind, enabled the lame to walk, and even cast out evil spirits that had tormented the afflicted.

These divine acts of healing hold powerful implications, emphasizing the boundless love of God for those facing physical, mental, or emotional challenges.

One of the most renowned stories of healing is the account of the blind man in the Gospel of John. The man had been blind from birth, a condition that was commonly associated with sin in the cultural context of the time.

When questioned by his disciples about the cause of the man’s disability, Jesus responded, “Neither this man nor his parents sinned, but this happened so that the works of God might be displayed in him.” (John 9:3, NIV).

This verse is a profound reminder that disability is not a result of divine punishment or a lack of love from God. Rather, it is an opportunity for God’s love and glory to shine through. For parents of children with disabilities,

this message can be a source of hope and strength. Understanding that their child’s condition is not a reflection of their worthiness or lack thereof, but a canvas upon which God’s love can be displayed, can provide great comfort.

Furthermore, Jesus’ interactions with individuals with disabilities also demonstrate his desire for inclusivity and social justice. In a society that often marginalized and excluded those with disabilities, Jesus reached out to them with compassion, restoring their dignity and place in the community.

This serves as an essential reminder to society today, to embrace and include those with disabilities, offering them equal opportunities and recognition.

The story of the paralytic man, whose friends lowered him through the roof to be healed by Jesus (Mark 2:1-12), is a powerful testament to the significance of community support. This narrative highlights the importance of rallying around individuals with disabilities, ensuring that they have access to the supports and opportunities they need.

God’s love for individuals with disabilities is not confined to their earthly existence. Parents of children with disabilities often wonder about their child’s future and what awaits them beyond this life. The Bible offers reassurance that God’s love extends to the eternal realm. In the Book of Revelation, John paints a vivid picture of heaven, where he sees a multitude “from every nation, tribe, people, and language, standing before the throne and before the Lamb” (Revelation 7:9, NIV). This passage assures us that people from all backgrounds, including those with disabilities, will be present in God’s eternal kingdom.

Moreover, the Bible teaches that in God’s eyes, we are all fearfully and wonderfully made. In Psalm 139:14, it is stated, “I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well” (NIV). This verse serves as a reminder that God sees the unique beauty and purpose in every individual, regardless of their physical or mental abilities. For parents of children with disabilities, it is a comforting message that their child is a precious creation of God, deserving of love, acceptance, and a place in His eternal kingdom.

In conclusion, the stories of Jesus’ healing ministry in the Bible, particularly his interactions with individuals with disabilities, reveal a profound message of love, compassion, and inclusivity. Understanding the motivations behind Jesus’ actions can provide solace and inspiration for parents of children with disabilities, assuring them that God’s love transcends earthly limitations and extends into eternity.

God’s love for individuals with disabilities is a powerful testament to the infinite depth of His compassion.

In a world that often measures worth based on physical and mental abilities, these stories are a reminder that every individual, including those with disabilities, is a cherished creation of God. As parents of children with disabilities navigate the challenges of life, they can take comfort in the knowledge that God loves their children and has a plan to bring them to heaven with Him one day. This message of divine love and inclusion provides hope and strength not only for parents but for all of us, reminding us of the boundless compassion of our Creator.

Do you have a thought, idea or information that you would like to see in this section in an upcoming issue? Email Paul Hathcoat at phathcoat@wrcc.org.

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NONPROFIT SP OTLIGHT

CHILD CARE ANSWERS

BY ANGIE ARLINGTON

C

hild Care Answers is a local child care resource and referral agency for families, including families with special needs children.

They are a part of a statewide system known as the Child Care Resource and Referral Network. Specifically, they serve Hamilton, Hendricks, and Marion Counties. All of their services are in English and Spanish, and they support all languages through their partnership with Luna Language Service.

“Since 1985, Child Care Answers has been a go-to resource for all things child care: an advisor, a collaborator, a guide, and—most importantly—a hand to hold,” shared Jamie Le Sesne Spears, the organization’s family engagement specialist. “Our goal is to create a seamless experience for families, providers, and community partners, working together to minimize any unnecessary hoops. All the services we provide to families, child care programs, employers, and community partners are completely free to anyone who lives or works in the counties we serve.

Since we are a part of a statewide network, the same resources are available in every

county across Indiana.” To learn more visit brighterfuturesindiana.org.

Child Care Answers helps families know what to look for in a high-quality inclusive childcare program. They provide parents with questions to ask and educate them on

“Since 1985, Child Care Answers has been a goto resource for all things child care: an advisor, a collaborator, a guide, and—most importantly—a hand to hold,” 28

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what to look for when touring these programs. They believe families are the first teacher and best advocate.

They help families know their rights and direct them to organizations and systems that can support their child.

Jamie explained, “We are a starting point for families who have children with special needs. For many families, this is their entry into education services. It is overwhelming for any family, but when there are medical or additional needs to be considered, it can be exponentially more challenging.”

“We know that parenting can be challenging. We offer one-on-one support to help family’s advocate for and answer questions about quality child care or connect them to local resources as findhelp navigators.”

Jamie added. “As a navigator, we can refer families to local community organizations that can offer additional financial or social supports.”

“At the end of the day, the best way to support our work is to spread the news about our resources,” Jamie said. “Apart from that, we are always looking for volunteers who know Central Indiana and/or the early care and education field. We also believe that your voice, along with others, can make a huge impact in early care and education.”

TESTIMONIALS: One family navigating concerns with their daughter’s development and child care shared, “Child Care Answers went above and beyond helping with some difficulties we encountered.

Between reaching out to my kid’s daycare provider and me, we got things figured out quickly! I can’t thank them enough for her help!”

After receiving a list of child care programs and specific questions to ask programs as they toured, another family shared, “Thank you so much for the information, especially the specific questions that I should ask related to my son’s disability.”

Another family highlighted the difficulty of finding care and how our services supported them: “Thank you so much for the information! You provide such an invaluable resource for the community. It’s daunting trying to find the right child care for our family - particularly because (all parents/we!) want what’s best for our child. Your services gave us direction and things to consider when looking for a suitable provider.”

Child Care Answers helps families know what to look for in a high-quality inclusive childcare program.

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SINGLE MAMAS SEEN

CHRISTMAS TIME Volunteer Opportunities

BY CHRISTINA MCGAIRK

C

hristmas time is here. Time for happiness and cheer. Well, for some. As parents of exceptional needs humans, we know that the holiday season can be stressful for them. The bright twinkling lights, loud holiday music playing in crowded stores, gingerbread and pine scents wafting in the air are just some of the triggers than can send our sensitive loved ones into sensory overload.

I wanted to do the same traditions with TiTi that my parents did with me. Like watching the tree lighting in downtown Indianapolis or going to a Disney On Ice show. But I know the crowds and lights would bother her. So I had to become creative.

I thought what could a single mother with an exceptional needs child do around Christmas time?

Then, the idea came to me. We

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can spread love and cheer! Yes, being a single parent of a child with exceptional needs can be trying, but there are people who are less fortunate than us. My daughter and I are very blessed and I thought it would be wonderful to share our blessed life with others.

So I will share some Christmas volunteer opportunities that TiTi and I have done or will do in the future.

Maybe you may find one that you want to participate in locally or remotely.

CHRISTMAS ON-SITE VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES: NEAR EASTSIDE Westminster Neighborhood Services

This non-profit organization serves families by meeting educational, health, and food needs. Every year volunteers gather together to

assemble Christmas baskets for families in need. The baskets include two weeks of groceries, hygiene items, winter wear such as gloves and hats for an entire family, and Christmas gifts for each child.

If you would like to volunteer, please call 317-632-9785 or visit https/ www.westmin.org/get-involved.

FISHERS Good Samaritan Network of Hamilton County

This not-for-profit helps the residents of Hamilton County all year round, but especially during the Holidays.

The first week of December hundreds show up at the 4H Fairgrounds in Noblesville to deliver toys for kids and food for the elderly, shut-ins, and families in need. TiTi and I absolutely love doing this every

year. Visit https/www.gsnlive.org/ ivolunteer or call 317.842.2603 to sign up. Hurry! Spots fill up quickly.

CHRISTMAS REMOTE VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES Cards for Hospitalized Kids

This charitable organization brings smiles to kids’ faces who are in the hospital. People can make cards and they are sent to children’s hospitals in 50 states. TiTi and I love creating dazzling Christmas cards for them every year. To read the guidelines and where to send the cards, visit https/www. cardsforhospitalizedkids.com/makecards2.html or call (872) 395-1796.

The Angel Card Project

This charity event gives people the opportunity to spread Christmas cheer by making cards for the less fortunate. This is a holiday tradition TiTi and I started participating in last year. She likes putting stickers on cardstock. Once registered for the project, a list of those who love to receive cards will be e-mailed to you.

You can make cards for them all or just a few. To learn more about this, visit https/www.theangelcardproject. com/volunteer-to-send-cards What Christmas traditions do you participate in with your family members with exceptional needs? Let me know at christina.mcgairk@gmail.com.

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Lone Tree

Joni and Larry King

Joni and Friends: Victim or Victor?

BY JONI EARECKSON TADA

“I am the victim of a terrible diving accident,” I said in a flat and factual way to the lawyer. “It has left me completely paralyzed from the shoulders down.”

Our family attorney quietly jotted copious notes as I droned on.

I was numb and hurting. I didn’t flinch at all at the idea of making Maryland Beach, Inc. pay. As far as I was concerned, it was their fault the water was too shallow.

I was insistent on making my accident everybody else’s fault. I wanted everyone to pay. My physical therapist owed me time off if I didn’t want to go to PT. Vocational rehab owed me a better case manager. And I really pushed the victimization thing at home: “You were the ones who brought me into this world.

It’s all your fault, Mom and Dad!” Looking back, most of my anger and depression was rooted in seeing myself as a victim – as an innocent bystander drawn into a 32

December 2023

terrible tragedy. A culture of comfort encourages an entitlement frame of mind, so we feel swindled if life is anything less than a bed of roses.

People feel victimized in their marriages or from abusive childhoods, violent crime, or unfair employment practices. Many have convinced themselves that someone else should either pay for the damages owed them or take responsibility for their lives.

People who choose to see themselves as victims choose self-pity.

Back in the late 60s, after I became paralyzed in that diving accident, I was stuck in self-pity. But you can only sit in a corner feeling sorry for yourself for so long. Sooner or later, my heart longed to be free of the suffocating effects of depression and self-focus. After a year of trying to adjust to life in a wheelchair, I began to tire of the blame game.

One day in occupational therapy, I was confronted with the devastating effects of my self-centeredness.

They wheeled in a young ventilatordependent quadriplegic named Tom. He had suffered a high-level spinal injury from a motorcycle accident, leaving him paralyzed from his cervical spinal vertebrae on down (C 3-4 quad). He sat rigid and upright in a bulky, oversized wheelchair. Still new to his disability, he had not yet been fitted with a puff-and-sip device to steer his chair.

I watched as an aide wheeled him in front of a small table-top easel.

My occupational therapist approached Tom with a mouth stick, giving him the same speech she had given me two weeks earlier. “Since you can no longer use your arms, you will need to use this stick between your teeth to type and turn pages.” I hadn’t taken the bite--I had spat out the mouth stick and insisted, “I’m not like other disabled people. I’m going to get back use of my hands!”

Most of the time in OT, I had sat in the corner and watched everyone

else. By the time Tom arrived on the scene, I was ready to make a change – I was tired of being inactive. So I watched closely as this young quad – much more functionally limited than I – reached for the mouth stick. Will he spit it out? I wondered. He didn’t.

Tom slowly scrawled the letters of the alphabet on a paper tablet on the easel. It took him almost 30 minutes to write all the letters with his mouth. As he completed each letter, I felt more shame over my peevish attitude. I was so embarrassed, watching this courageous fellow moving forward into life.

Tom’s courage convinced me that I needed to leave behind feelings of self-pity. I needed to quit looking at myself as a helpless victim. I may not have been responsible for the unexpected sandbar that concealed the shallow water, but I was responsible for my response to the accident. I may have been unable to control the circumstances surrounding my accident, but I could control my attitude.

Still, I needed guidance to pull myself out of depression. I sought the advice of a young friend from church. Steve didn’t know anything about pushing wheelchairs, but he

Fresno, California

knew I needed help… and he wanted to make a difference. His hospital visits became fascinating discussions over what the Bible had to say about depression and self-pity.

“Look,” I said to Steve one day, “there’s no way I can face a life of total paralysis with a happy attitude. It’s just too much, too big.”

He had a wise and ready reply: “I couldn’t agree more. It is too much to ask. And god doesn’t ask it of you either. He only asks you to take one day at a time.”

This wasn’t a platitude lifted off a cross-stitched plaque; this was a powerful and fundamental signpost pointing to the path away from pain. I began to “wheel” the path to a brighter attitude, beginning with a short verse in the Old Testament. Lamentations 3:22 says, “Because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.” I quickly learned this was the only way for me to live: one day at a time with god’s help.

I realized my days in rehab were limited, and if I was going to make progress, I’d better get to work! I began lifting weights, and learning how to write, type, and draw with a mouth stick. I cooperated with my vocational rehab counselor and began to look at my future seriously. I quit badmouthing nurses

and aides and began to express gratitude for their help to me and my family. I moved forward into life.

There were many mornings I would still wake up dreading my wheelchair. But my emotional frailty and physical weakness were the things that drove me to God and to the Bible. I discovered that my weakness could be a friend – like a sheepdog snapping at my heels, driving me to the safety of the Good Shepherd.

I needed god – and whenever I began to forget that important fact, my wheelchair stood ready to remind me.

And now, to this day, even after over 56 years of quadriplegia, I still wake up in the morning needing god’s help.

It is, perhaps, the best way for me to start any day. For god always seems bigger to me when I need Him most.

And the lawsuit against the owners of the beach where I broke my neck? We lost that case. The truth is, I made a stupid, reckless dive without properly checking the depth of the water. Most of all, I realized that playing the victim is not consistent with living for Jesus. God’s children are never victims. Everything that touches our lives, He permits.

The irony is that I can’t imagine a more victimized person than Jesus. The scriptures tell me He had no real home. His friends were, for the most part, the fairweather sort. He was betrayed

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Joni Eareckson Tada

Joni Eareckson Tada, CEO of Joni and Friends, is an international advocate for people with disabilities. A diving accident in 1967 left her a quadriplegic. After two years of rehabilitation, she emerged with new skills and a fresh determination to help others in similar situations.

She founded Joni and Friends in 1979 to provide biblically based programs to families living with disability, as well as training to faith communities.

Joni and Friends serves thousands of special-needs families through retreats and getaways and has delivered over 210,000 wheelchairs and Bibles to needy disabled persons in developing nations. Joni’s lifelong passion is to bring principles from the Bible to the world’s one billion people with disabilities. She and her husband Ken were married in 1982 and reside in Calabasas, California.

Learn more about Joni’s ministry at www.joniandfriends.org or write her at response@joniandfriends.org.

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and unjustly crucified, suffering a death He did not deserve. Yet when He died, He did not say “I am finished,” but “It is finished.”

He did not play the victim and so, he emerged as the victor. This is the example He has set for me.

Victory is mine when I refuse to allow my circumstances to shape and define my life… victory is mine when I allow god to change my heart and lead me confidently into the future.

Knowing my truth has set me free!

PLANNING FOR THE FUTURE M AY F E E L L I K E A B I G T A S K , BUT LIFECOURSECONNECT WILL HELP BREAK IT DOWN FOR YOU.

Whether you're looking for day-to-day ideas and connections or big picture planning, LifeCourseConnect is the ultimate tool for Individuals and Families in Indiana's Disability community.

LCC is here to help you build the future you want for yourself or loved-one, so start today!

As a waiver-supported service, get started creating and living YOUR plan.

(317) 626-4387 | LifeCourseConnect.com/Indiana

We Love Kids!

most dental insurances and Medicaid accepted

5-Star Rated Pediatric Dentistry

• providing tools to use in future appointments • establishing at-home dental hygiene routines • preparing you and your child to work through fear and anxiety Call 317-842-8453 to book an appointment.

9885 E. 116th Street, Suite 100 | Fishers, IN 46037 babytoothcenter.com Special Needs Living Indy

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Music Therapy & Wellness Early Childhood Music Classes Sign & Sing Virtual Classes

EXPERIENCED

NAVIGATORS SUPPORTS SERVICES OUTCOMES

Music Therapy can help individuals of all ages and abilities, including those with: Alzheimer’s Disease and Dementia ° Autism ° Cerebral palsy Developmental Disabilities ° Down Syndrome End-of-life care (Hospice) ° Intellectual Disabilities Mental health ° Neurological disorders Psychiatric disorders ° Rehabilitation

7502 Madison Ave, Indianapolis, IN 46227 (317) 829-6654 dynamicmusicservices.com 36

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Connections Case Managers meet people where they are. We help individuals and families navigate systems as well as share information and ideas to achieve dynamic results. We understand that "life is the journey and not the destination".

Medicaid Waiver Case Management

317-605-0060 | connectionsin.com

Lucky Mama Project Calendar is Here!

The Lucky Mama Project is a program with Down Syndrome Indiana that supports new moms who have a baby with Down syndrome by sending care packages and connecting them with other moms and needed resources.

This is our FIFTH annual calendar fundraiser for The Lucky Mama Project and features over 50 unique individuals with Down syndrome. Proceeds from the calendar sales fund the care packages. Each mom in Indiana expecting a baby with Trisomy 21 receives a care package prenatally and again when their baby is born.

Website for purchase: https/www. createphotocalendars.com/Shop/ theluckymamaproject

Shop Here!

The Brain Center Comprehensive outpatient neuropsychological and psychological assessment services for children, adolescent, adult, and geriatric patients in whom impairments of cognitive or neuropsychiatric functioning are evident or suspected.

Psychotherapy for children, adolescents and adults.

Neuropsychological Testing Forensic/Legal Evaluations Psychotherapy & Caregiver Consults CogMed Training Animal-Assisted Therapy

317-748-0034 braincenteratgeist.com Special Needs Living Indy

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Meet Patrice

BY ANGELA ARLINGTON

I first met Patrice Hunter when she was in elementary school. Her mother, Ledrena Girton, was having issues with the school system. I attended 2 separate IEP case conferences as an advocate for the family. To this day, I wish I had the recording from the meetings, as all of the school professionals agreed that learning math was not important and that her spelling words should be the names of Disney Princesses. The whole case conference committee had extremely low expectations for her because she was nonverbal. Fast forward to 2023, and Patrice has gone above and beyond what the school system ever expected when she was younger.

“Patrice HATED coming home after school because she got to play all day, so I decided to teach her after school,” Ledrena shared. “I rescued a desk being thrown away to use at home. I told the speech therapist, the regular education teacher and the occupational therapist what I was doing and they supplied me with lots of work.”

“Patrice HATED coming home after school because she got to play all day, so I decided to teach her after school,” — LEDRENA 38

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1. 2020 March Disability Awareness Month- Patrice was featured on posters 2. Raising money at the AAI Walk with her family This is 4th grade 3. Volunteering at Day Spring 4. Patrice Hunter 5. Signing for prescriptions

OUT IN THE COMMUNITY

“Taking her into her community is VERY important. They need to know an autistic person lives in the community,” Ledrena explained. Patrice is involved in Girl Scouts, volunteers at many places, and enjoys eating out and shopping. Patrice lives her life to the fullest and enjoys meeting people everywhere she goes.

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6. 2023 March Disability AWARENESS Month Fair at St Luke MBC 7. Voting!

8. Graduation 2015 9. Meeting Dr. Randle, Founder of Black Autism Support Society 10. Paying bills 11. Deborah Hearn Smith, CEO Girl Scouts of IN 12. Becoming a Senate Page in the 118th General Assembly 2013

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SELF ADVOCATES

Meet Rusty Hatchett

BY ZACH ELLIOTT

F

inding your voice can sometimes feel like the heaviest burden we’re forced to confront as people.

That’s to say nothing of the effort that is required to become self-aware enough to realize that as much as our communities can lift us up, the only person who can always be in our corner is the one in the mirror.

Self-advocacy is even more important in the special needs community. No matter how much a person with special needs wants to strengthen their community, they must push for their own opportunities,

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too. Rusty Hatchett understands that responsibility. With help from his mom and friends, Rusty began to pursue self-advocacy and become more invested in the community.

The different things they do and the people they interact with in the community make it all worthwhile.

“I just try to let parents see that people who have Down syndrome can do anything and everything they want – if given the right opportunities,” Rusty said.

Rusty has been working at U Indy Dining for 10 years. He

also works at Kids Abilities and sometimes gets to assist with therapy sessions for the young clients.

He loves to engage with them.

Rusty’s perspective is a great example of what self-advocacy in your community can mean to yourself and others. By trying to be considerate of yourself, you often become a more willing proponent of others.

Raised here in Indiana, Rusty enjoys sports, video games, and hanging out with his rescue cat, Momma Jane. His family also has

a rescue dog named J.J. (short for Jumping Jellybean). Most notably, Rusty is big into WWE wrestling and wants to be a WWE wrestler himself one day.

Rusty does what he can here in Indiana and hopes others can also learn to be what he sees in a selfadvocate: “Someone who shares their beliefs and feelings with others and are willing to speak up for those beliefs and feelings,” he said.

No matter the community in question, self-advocacy benefits the community as much as the individual.

For the special needs community, it gives people the opportunity to blossom and express themselves in ways they wouldn’t otherwise.

For anyone else interested in self-advocacy, Rusty has some pretty approachable advice: “It’s easy. Just get involved.”

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FEATURED FAMILY

MEET THE

GRAHAM FAMILY SUSAN GRAHAM

Paisley was 1 pound 12 ounces when she was born. As a 24-week micro preemie, the medical staff who delivered her explained to her birth mom that she likely wouldn’t cry, but she did. Paisley was life-flighted to the closest Level 4 NICU, which was at Arkansas Children’s Hospital. While she was there, she suffered a grade 3 and 4 intraventricular hemorrhage (IVH), which is a brain bleed.

Three hours away, her recovering birth mom called every day for updates and checked the live feed the NICU provided. Because of the brain bleeds, Paisley developed hydrocephalus and needed a shunt in addition to airway intubation and a feeding tube. Her birth parents visited her whenever they could but they decided they were not ready to parent a second child and made an adoption plan.

In October of 2015, we received an email from Paisley’s birth mom telling us about her beautiful daughter. She explained that Paisley would need brain surgeries throughout her life because of the hydrocephalus. The doctors were also telling her that Paisley could develop cerebral palsy, and may never walk, talk, eat, play, or go to school. As we read her emails, Matthew and I felt a powerful peace that this was our daughter. Her diagnosis was scary but we knew that Paisley was supposed to be part of our family, too.

On November 30, 2015, we met Paisley for the first time. Arkansas Children’s Hospital has a ward-style NICU with 6-8 babies in each room. The nurse leading us through the NICU didn’t know which one Paisley was in and we had to walk through a few rooms before we found her. She was tiny. Our older two children were over eight pounds when they were born but Paisley was only four pounds when we met her. Arkansas Children’s 42

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Hospital didn’t have enough warming beds so she was swaddled, wearing a hat because she couldn’t stay warm. We were told to bring her clothes because the hospital didn’t have enough for her.

Our adoption lawyer wanted to come with us that day but we said no. Having a lawyer present when meeting your child for the first time felt cold.

We wanted to count her toes and ask her if we could be her parents. Nurses and doctors came through, telling us about her medical condition. We sang to her and Matthew told her she needed some more sass. After two days of visits, she started turning her head to look at us when we walked into the room.

On December 3, 2015, we stood before a judge and vowed to love her for the rest of our lives. If you’ve never been to an adoption proceeding, they can be fairly dry. The judge asks some questions and then says something like “The minor child formerly known as Paisley ___ _____ will now be known as Paisley June Graham. Her records are now sealed.”

We prefer something more personal and make this promise to her each year: “We, Matthew and Susan, take you, Paisley, to be our daughter. To hold from this day forward. We’ll rock you through the night and kiss every ouchie. For better or worse, we know

“ WE , MATTH EW AND SUS AN, TAK E YOU, PAIS LEY, TO B E OUR DAUGH TE R . TO HOLD FROM TH IS DAY FORWARD. WE ’LL ROCK YOU TH ROUGH TH E NIGH T AND KISS EVE RY OUCH IE ...

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that things won’t always be great, but we will always be here for you. For richer or poorer, you might not always have the coolest item, but you will always have a warm, safe bed, plenty of food, and lots of love. In sickness and in health.

Oh baby. We know that there is going to be a lot of sickness with you. We are going to hand you over to far too many surgeons and sit in waiting rooms, anxious for news. But we are going to be your advocate. We are going to make sure 44

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you have every chance to live this amazing life, no matter the diagnosis. We will fight for you the rest of our lives.”

We needed a way to transfer Paisley from Arkansas to Riley Children’s Hospital in Indianapolis, but our insurance denied an air ambulance. While we were trying to find a way to bring her north, her shunt failed. We needed a miracle to get her to Riley so she could receive life-saving brain surgery. Our miracle came from an organization called Grace

on Wings. They are based at the old Indianapolis Airport and are a charity air ambulance service. They only charge for fuel and maintenance. The $30,000 flight our insurance company was quoting would only be $5,000 with Grace on Wings. Their staff are medical volunteers from Indianapolis hospitals and are chosen based on the patient’s needs.

Paisley arrived on December 18, 2015, and received her shunt revision surgery on December 20. She spent the next two months fighting for her life before she was discharged on February 23, 2016, after 154 days in two NICU’s. The next few years were a jumble of First Steps therapists, specialist appointments, and emergency rooms. Paisley’s list of diagnoses included spastic diplegia cerebral palsy, hydrocephalus, chronic lung disease, a g-tube, cortical vision impairment, a large atrial-septal defect that required heart surgery, and pulmonary hypertension. I started singing “head, shoulders, knees and toes” in my head whenever doctors asked for her diagnoses. Paisley missed official milestones but created her own. She started rolling so she could chase the cat and take ornaments off the Christmas

tree. The speech centers of her brain had been damaged by her brain bleeds but she started signing “music” and “more”. Signing turned into speaking and rolling turned into crawling. At three, Paisley took her first steps. We threw a party. When COVID hit, we decided to keep Paisley home to protect her. She loved preschool and making friends but we knew her lungs wouldn’t do well if she got sick.

When she turned 5, we were able to enroll her in a private kindergarten program to let her catch up a bit before public school. She made friends, came home singing songs, and got an occasional time out for playing bumper cars with the indoor recess equipment. That was also the year she needed two shunt revisions. The first was the day before Thanksgiving and the second was the week before school started. Three days after that revision, she developed epilepsy. Paisley experienced a 30-45 minute grand mal seizure and started to desat, with oxygen levels in the 80s.

There have been a lot of highs and lows over the past couple of years. Dashing to the elementary school in my jammies because Paisley has had another seizure is always

SIG N ING T URNED IN TO SPEA KING A ND ROL L ING T URNED IN TO C RAW L ING ...

WH E N S H E TURNE D 5 , WE WE R E AB LE TO E NROLL H E R IN A PR I VAT E KINDE RGARTE N P ROGRAM TO LE T H E R CATCH UP A B IT BE FOR E P UB LIC SCH OOL .

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a hard day. But, there are a lot of bright spots too. Paisley started writing her name, recognizes letters, and can tell you the sounds they make. She is excited to get her first self-powered wheelchair, which glows in the dark. Our older two children have nursing skills many veteran nurses struggle with. They know how to replace a g-tube, can handle a feeding pump by themselves, and are able to explain seizure safety to their peers. Most kids don’t have an IV pole in their living room but they generally roll with it, explaining it to their friends.

Our lives look different sometimes but we don’t view that as a negative.

Paisley qualified for the Aged and Disabled waiver as a baby. It helped us pay for her feeding supplies, therapies, and hospital visits over the years.

However, because of her medical needs, I couldn’t work. Making sure your medically complex child receives all of her needed therapies, feeds, and doctor’s appointments is more than a full-time job. When we heard about parent-attendant care, I was ecstatic. Matthew is an engineering manager and while he makes a good income, there were things we wanted to do and couldn’t afford. Paisley threw up every feed for the first 9 months of her life. The carpet has been cleaned multiple times but builder-grade carpet doesn’t hold up to that kind of use and needs to be replaced. While Paisley

has hydrocephalus, a life-threatening condition, she was denied a Wish.

There are trips we want to take her on and things we want to experience as a family. All of these things take money.

We were going to sign up with a home health company but felt uncomfortable with them. They didn’t want to meet Paisley, were not clear about how charting worked, and didn’t have inperson staff to answer questions. We did some digging and found Healing Hands Personal Services. Their inperson staff answered our questions, wanted to meet her, and the president, Tim Paul, called us to give us his cell phone number. I love working with Lydia, the Medically Complex Warrior Coordinator. She’s always ready to help when our schedule changes or we forget to clock in for charting.

The income we receive from parent-attendant care is life-changing. We’ve been able to take our kids to Disney World, make updates around the house, and save for some bigger dreams we’ve put off. Paisley has a better quality of life because of what we can provide through parent-attendant care and Healing Hands. The Christmas season is always an emotional time for us but we are grateful for wonderful Indiana groups like Grace on Wings and Healing Hands Personal Services for helping us give Paisley the best life possible.

Neurofeedback is a non-drug, non-invasive solution to symptoms related to brainwave dysregulation. It's natural and offers a fix to the problem, not just a bandage that masks the symptoms.

Indy Neurofeedback is Changing Lives!

Do you or someone you love suffer from ADHD, Anxiety or Emotional Dysregulation? Let Us Help You Explore Your Options.

"We followed the same path most of the other autism parents do with GFCF, DAN Dr., supplements, HBOT. What really made a difference in our son’s attention span, executive processing skills, and anger management was neurofeedback through INDY Neurofeedback." ~Maria S. (parent)

Schedule a consultation today!

210 E 91st Street, Suite C, Indianapolis, IN 46240 • (317) 888-8500 • www.indyneurofeedback.com 46

December 2023

Our personalized programs offer support to help people of all abilities achieve their hopes, dreams, and goals within the communities they call home.

By encouraging and supporting all individuals to develop and maintain healthy, meaningful relationships within their communities to lead more fulfilling and complete lives, Achieve Community Services supports Individual choice as the centerpiece for all services we provide.

Learn more about our services, contact us today!

(317) 918-0337

acssupports.com Habilitation and Respite Services | Caregiver Training Family Support | Transportation

@AchieveCS 8202 Clearvista Parkway, Suite 6A, Indianapolis

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SP ONSOR SP OTLIGHT

LifeCourseConnect: Real Plans: Real Change There is an exciting new tool for people on the medicaid waiver in Indiana.

Introducing LifeCourseConnect!

Explore, decide, take control of what you do and don’t want in your life, and plan for the future. This exciting new tool is available for anyone on the Family Support Waiver and the Community Integration and Habilitation Waiver.

Real Plans for Real Change

As a tool for people with disabilities as well as their families, Indiana LifeCourseConnect helps create big change through small steps.

Each plan is unique because it starts with you. Quillo CEO and founder, John Dickerson said, “I knew there was a better way to inspire, inform and engage people in building their good life and technology can open so many doors.” Using LCC: It’s more than a checklist - it’s an ongoing conversation LifeCourseConnect is not about filling out a form. The tools are an opportunity to picture a future you want and help prompt the important conversations that so often are missed in developing a good life. It is not about units of service or budgets, but a focus on what you want and don’t want for your life.

With access to two new tools, LifeCourseOnline and Quillo Connect, users can create a vision for the life you want and build a plan to get started.

Watch stories to see what has worked for others., and share it with your key people.

Build your plan, keep it updated, and share a calendar to keep

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your trusted people informed. Focus on what is important to you!

One of the tools, LifeCourseOnline (LCO), is a space to plan, connect, and take action on the goals you set for yourself or your family. As a personcentered planning tool, LCO helps users answer questions about what

they want for their future, invite others to join, coordinate schedules, create and track goals, and more, all in a secure online space.

A parent of a young daughter, Ryan shared how LCO helped him feel better about her future: “My biggest fear ever since my daughter got diagnosed with

autism as well is that I’ll be gone, and who will know her the way that I do because we have that really special bond? These are all of the things that I’m desperate for someone other than me to know about [my daughter].

I can see how… I can keep all that information in a place that will be there when I’m gone.”

For those moments in between, there is Quillo Connect. Available on smartphones, tablets, or a web browser, Quillo Connect brings a video library with thousands of 60-second videos right to your pocket. In a minute or less, hear from self-advocates, parents, community members, and more. Maybe you watch a video about Mary’s taking the bus to work, and you consider using public transportation in your own community. Viewers can learn more about self-advocacy, communication skills, tips for getting ready for a job interview, and more.

As a parent, Sue shares that “With the videos in the library, I am able to search topics such as ‘relationships’ and get ideas and other perspectives from authors across the country on how others might handle situations as [my daughter] continues to develop relationships.”

Nate and Molly YouTube Video

Emily uses Quillo Connect to share updates and stay in touch throughout the day. As Sue explains, “We have leveraged Quillo Connect in a way to really help reinforce her independent living skills. I created a Circle for Emily [with] her aunt, her case manager, and a job coach. And so those individuals are able to see the videos that we create.”

Together, LCO and Quillo Connect provide a way for users to think big without the risk of being overwhelmed.

Update your goals in LCO throughout the year or when life changes occur.

Share encouraging messages with others in your Quillo Connect Circle, and use the video library to inspire new goals and plans on your LCO. What others are saying about the tools

“My team is constantly changing.

With Quillo Connect, I recorded ten one-minute videos to introduce my son, who is a non-speaker to new staff.”

“I don’t have to repeat myself explaining what I want in my life and where I want to go.”

“I can make changes to my plan when I want to and send them to my team. I can even ask for help.”

“I started a Circle on Quillo Connect with my team. We talk about

important things, and I can share them with the people I choose.”

How do I sign up to get started?

Indiana LCC is available through FCAR (Family Caregiver and Training) to people on the FSW and CIH waivers. Sign up through Indiana LifeCourseConnect (www.LifeCourseConnect.com/ Indiana), and the LCC team will help you work with your case manager to get this subscription added to your FCAR budget. There is no out of pocket cost for participants.

Getting Support Along the Way

After signing up for Indiana LCC, you will receive one-on-one support to help set up your LCO and Quillo Connect accounts. Virtual 1-1 meetings with LCC staff and optional monthly drop-in sessions provide participants with the chance to ask questions, take the tools further, and connect with others in the program. At the end of the day, LIfeCourseConnect helps tackle the tough questions, opens new opportunities, and builds a real plan with real choices.

For more, contact Cynthia at Cynthia@ LifeCourseConnect.com or visit LifeCourseConnect.com/Indiana.

Hear why Michelle loves LCC

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SPECIAL EVENT!

Special Needs Living Family Fun Day at Adrenaline WHEN: December. 7, 6:00 pm- 8:00 pm WHERE: Adrenaline Family

Adventure Park, 10080 East 121st Street #Suite 182 Fishers, IN 46037 Special Needs Living Family Fun Night (Sensory Friendly hours).

Adrenaline is hosting this event for the special needs community, individuals, families, direct support providers, and caregivers, of any age, along with the supporters of Special Needs Living.

This will be a great way to connect with other families in the community, enjoy an evening of fun, and connect with some great resources.

Over 50,000 square feet of fun and adventure for all ages!

All your favorites: dodgeball, slam dunk, jousting, ninja warrior course, trampolines...plus all-new attractions! Ropes course, warped

wall, stunt fall, avalanche slide, all sports course, climbing and more!

Our attractions are perfect for active fun at parties and special events! Loved by kids of all ages!

Come out and enjoy this fun evening.

To save time please fill out your waiver here: https/adrenalinefishers. pcsparty.com/sign/ Register here to reserve your spot:

Tickets are normally $25 each and socks are $3 but for this event, you can pay the day of at Adrenaline, and they are lowering tickets to $10 each, which includes socks. https/www.eventbrite.com/e/ special-needs-living-familyfun-day-at-adrenaline-tickets687441665527?aff=oddtdtcreator

TRANZACTCARD - Put money back in your pocket!!

Do you know about Tranzact Card?

Instead of getting only 1%, 3% or 5% back using a credit card.

You can now jump on board with Tranzact card and get matched $1 for every $1 you spend. This is not a credit card and you don’t have to open a new bank to use this card. This is backed by the FDIC and Visa system. You use it just like you do your bank card and transfer money onto it and use it to buy the same items you do with your bank debit card. Can you imagine paying your house payment using this card and getting matched dollar for dollar? You can use these ZBucks at the online store to buy almost everything you can buy on Amazon along with access to your zbucks to buy dozens of gift cards to use at any of your favorite stores, along with buying flights and travel packages. Check the links and QR codes below to learn more about this opportunity.

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If you would like to learn more there are calls each Wednesday every hour on the hour from 12-9pm EST. At the link here: www.tranZactCard.live Find out more ways to get additional money for using this card. it’s a great way to stretch your dollar. https/communityimpact.tranzactcard.com/

Scan or Click on this link to learn more about how to stretch your dollar & Get your Tranzact Card today: https://communityimpact. tranzactcard.com/

Check out this video to learn more: https://my-tranzactcard.com/ special-needs

Sensory Blurb!

Sensory items to better support the community Crash Mat and Monkey Jump Because no two people are alike, and neither are their needs.

Adaptive silverware such as self-leveling utensils helps individuals be more independent while at the dinner table.

Whether your loved one lives with sensory integration, cognitive impairment, or any other special needs, we’re confident in our ability to help you find the right specialized equipment for disabilities.

Contact us today Our team at Specialized Home Care Services carries a great selection of air purification systems.

(888) 506-4182 | specialized4u.com 621 N Central Ave, Connersville, IN 47331 specializedhomecareservices@gmail.com.

Sometimes, kids just need to jump and get their energy out!

But they need a safe place to do this so that they don’t get hurt. Having a place for this activity can help meet sensory needs and reduce behaviors that may come from trying to sit still for too long. A crash mat or a monkey jump is great for kids (or adults!) who seek sensory input and enjoy crashing, jumping, falling, etc. If your child has the A&D waiver, CIH waiver or Family Support Services Waiver, we can work with you to get these items through your waiver funding.

Ruth Roberts at Specialized Home Care Services 621 N Central Ave Connersville, IN 47331 ruth@specialized4u.com (317)-348-0708 Mobile (317)-348-0708 Fax

Sometimes, kids just need to jump and get their energy out!

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December 2023

SAVE THE DATE

You’re Invited to the Special Needs Living-Indianapolis & Surrounding Areas NEW YEAR’S BASH Come celebrate the New Year with many special needs families at the New Year’s Bash!

WHEN: January 20, 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.

WHERE: DDSi and Adaggios Banquet Hall, 5999 W. Memory Lane, Greenfield, IN 46140 This will be for adults and kids with special needs, along with the supporters of Special Needs LivingIndianapolis & Surrounding Areas. There will be activities and games for kids, and you are welcome to bring your caregiver to the event to help. Parents will be able to enjoy an evening of fun and entertainment.

We will have live bands, thanks to Rock Garage and Infinity, dancing, appetizers, beverages, games and more!

Live Your Best Life Let Us Help You On Your Path

Special Needs Planning & Elder Law Attorney

Here to help you put plans in place to give you peace of mind.

Elizabeth A. Homes is a special needs planning and elder law attorney. She has been licensed and practicing law since May of 2014.

Her practice at the Law Office of Elizabeth A. Homes LLC is focused on Special Needs Planning, Guardianships, Elder Law, Estate Planning, and Probate Work. This includes Wills, Powers of Attorney, Advanced Directives, Trusts, Trust Administration, Medicaid Planning, Special Needs Planning, Guardianship, and Probate. She is admitted to practice law in the State of Indiana.

We ask "What If?" so you don't have to ask "What Now?"

Residential Habilitation, Day Habilitation, Structured Family Caregiver, Respite, Transportation, Participant Assistance Care, Attendant Care and Home Community Assistance

Supporting Clients by Encouraging Independence 317-516-1178 | 765-615-9356

abccommunityservices.com

6801 Lake Plaza Dr. Ste. A108 Indianapolis IN 46220 We are currently hiring caregivers and accepting new clients.

Elizabeth A. Homes, Esq., MBA ehomeslaw.com | 317-660-5004 elizabeth@ehomeslaw.com 9245 N. Meridian Street, Suite 301, Indianapolis, Indiana 46260

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Happy Holidays from Supportive Behavior Services www.youtube.com/@indianabehaviorassociation

From all of us at Supportive Behavior Services, we thank you for another great year!

Our vision and mission at SBS remain to provide the best possible behavior services in Indiana. We maintain the mindset that if the individuals we serve were to be a family member of ours, how would we want them to be taken care of? We owe this to all our friends and family across Indiana that we are fortunate enough to serve! SBS has built a core leadership team and a team of over 100 highly experienced and amazing behavior consultants that exhibit the right values and ethics that we wish to see across Indiana’s Disabilities Industry.

SBSMain2020@gmail.com • www.IndianaBehaviorAssociation.com • www.SupportiveBehaviorServices.com 54

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9151 Currency St. Irving, TX 75063