Re: Inclusion

annette (nete1(AT)midwest.net)
Fri, 03 Oct 1997 22:01:25 -0500

At 09:42 AM 10/3/97 -0700, you wrote:
>I will be speaking to a University class on "inclusion", from the
>perspective of a person with a disability (SCI, at least). I would like
>to hear your thoughts about what inclusion means to you. Some of the
>responses will be shared with the class, so please indicate in your
>message if you do not want your thoughts expressed publically. The
>class meets Wed, Oct. 8.
>
>It would be helpful if you would indicate your disability, or if you are
>an AB. Thanks, I look forward to reading the responses.
>
>You may email me privately if you like, my e-address is:
>bchase(AT)garnet.acns.fsu.edu
>
>Brent Chase
>

Brent...

My name is Annette Hanna. I live in Carbondale, IL, a community which is
heavily populated with people with disabilities. I am 38 years of age with
a diagnosis of Post Polio Syndrome. I have used a vent with trach since
1994. I use the vent at night or while napping, otherwise I breathe on my
on with the trach capped. I use a power chair for mobility.

I give you permission in using my thoughts and opinions for you class
project in as much as I have always been open and "frank: about my disability.

I have been thinking about what the term "inclusion" means to me. Most
people always say that they want to be a Person first and a person with a
disability, second. But I have differing thoughts on that. I want to be
included in society's vast scheme of things. But I want you to include
me...as a person with a disability. In a sense, the disability as made me
who I have. Strong willed, stubborn, inventive, open to new thoughts and
ideas, and a survivor.

Don't ignore my disability because it is who I am...a person in a chair who
uses a vent to breathe, who has thoughts, ideas, and feelings. Part of
those ideas have been molded by my disability, some positive and some
negative.

When I was working...I wanted to be "included" in societal workforce but in
order to do that I needed the proper modifications. Therefore my
disability played a big part in how I could perform my specific job.

Today as I go to the mall, movies, and restuarants, in order to be able to
enter those places my disability has to be considered.

Some may not agree with my concept of inclusion..but I feel disability does
need to be considered as a person's being.

Thanks...
Annette M. Hanna
nete1(AT)midwest.net