Tennessee Kindred Stories of Disability

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



23 Stories Found

Showing stories 1 - 20 of 23

Results related to: Education / Davidson County

Maria (18), Blind, Davidson County

Like any other teenager, she loves her family but eagerly awaits full independence. ”

Mark (42), Autism, Davidson County

I feel like if we got waiver services today it would be like being let out of prison. ”

Sharmane (38), Down syndrome, Davidson County

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

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.”

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.”

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.”

Frank (33), Traumatic Brain Injury, Davidson County

Frank always credits the various state and federal programs that have supported him on his new path; the Americans with Disabilities Act, Social Security, Vocational Rehabilitation, Disabled Student Services, and the Federal Workforce Recruitment Program.”

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.”

Morgan (14), Autism, Davidson County

Morgan and Allison each have something unique to offer the world. As parents, we want to do everything we can to help them reach their potential. Our goals for our daughters may be different, but the dream is the same. We want them both to lead happy and fulfilled lives.”

Rachel (17), Down syndrome, Davidson County

I wish there was more research on what happens to individuals with a disability once they become adults. It is not very clear what is to be expected after their twenties, and this lack of clarity leaves many families in the dark and scared for their child’s future.”

Brian (11), Down syndrome, Davidson County

If there won’t be an accurate score, then why should he take an IQ test? We didn’t want a number on the front of his Individualized Education Program (IEP) plan.* We want someone to flip the page and read all about him and not just assume what their expectations should be based on that number.”

Kora (4), CHARGE Syndrome, Davidson County

The public school system is preoccupied with passing the problem down…when it comes to dealing with the educational system, parents must be courageous and willing to battle. ”

Laurie (18), Other, Davidson County

It was hard for me to fight for her, when she fought me everyday. ”

Kora (4), Other, Davidson County

“The public school system is preoccupied with passing the problem down…when it comes to dealing with the educational system, parents must be courageous and willing to battle.””