Tennessee Kindred Stories of Disability

A collection of stories from individuals with disabilities, families, friends, and disability service providers in Tennessee



34 Stories Found

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Results related to: Student interview of parent / Education

Patrick (23), Pervasive Developmental Disorder not otherwise specified (PDD-NOS), Williamson County

The main goal that Dena has set for Patrick is for him to become as self-sufficient as possible. ”

Jackson (4), Autism, Rutherford County

The one service [ABA] that has been deemed “optional” and thus not eligible for coverage is the one service most vital to Jackson’s progress.”

Christian (0), Tessier cleft lip and palate, Cannon County

Anything that I can do to make Christian's life better, I want to do.”

Sharmane (38), Down syndrome, Davidson County

Sharmane’s IQ cannot predict how much she has been able to achieve and learn.”

Ginger (24), Cerebral Palsy, Davidson County

Lots of parents in the rural areas get lost and overwhelmed by the laws and what the rights are.”

Adelai (15), Intellectual Disability, Davidson County

In terms of educational instruction, Adelai’s IEP was ignored.”

Preston (13), Asperger Syndrome, Davidson County

During elementary school, Preston had to switch schools a number of times in a search for appropriate services.”

Kevin (12), Autism, Shelby County

Kevin is looking forward to working just like anyone else.”

Emily (11), spina bifida, Davidson County

Lisa and Jeff teach Emily about her diagnoses and medications so that she can be a strong advocate for herself when they are not around.”

Deshaun (5), Autism, Williamson County

I don’t think we should just settle for our kids learning how to clean their clothes and cook. I want my son to learn what it is to earn a paycheck, to drive, all that stuff.”

Charlotte (0), Other, Davidson County

Everybody needs to feel a part of something. My daughter is no different.”

Claire (3), Hearing Loss, Davidson County

Claire’s Law- Newborn Hearing Screening was signed into effect on July 1, 2008 by Governor Bredesen. ”

Heath (3), Down syndrome, Davidson County

So while the parent is looking at the individual the government is more concerned about how to pair down the costs. ”

Adelaide (14), Intellectual Disability, Davidson County

As a strong advocate for justice, Adelaide’s mother believes that there are many improvements that can be made in order to make the lives of children and families of someone with a disability better.”

Eric (23), Down syndrome, Williamson County

If it doesn’t seem right, I don’t care who’s telling you, if it’s not right, you make it right. You have to make it work. You do whatever you need to do. You need to always understand what your rights are and what your child's rights are, or else you may get short changed.”

Jessie (8), CHARGE Syndrome, Rutherford County

In the community and their social circles, Angie feels that Jesse is generally accepted. They are well-supported through their church community and by other homeschooling families who take all three children to home school PE so Angie has a few hours free. ”

Matthew (11) John Michael (7), Other, Dickson County

Because the disability is part neurological and part developmental, it’s a piece of a lot of different puzzles. I don’t think that anyone has really studied it enough to know what it is.”

Jeff (47), Cerebral Palsy, Davidson County

If my son had been in a regular school system…he might be able to do some things he can’t do now.”

Michael (43), Other, Davidson County

My basic hope and prayer is that I outlive my son.”

Stephanie (28); Jessica (26), Intellectual Disability, Davidson County

In just six years, the girls had eight different special education teachers. By the time they got used to one teacher, they would get new one.”