In February, Beverly Porter, Executive Director of ARC of Whatcom County, spoke to the Healthcare Issues Team about resources available in Whatcom County for individuals with developmental disabilities and, importantly, what is lacking. Beverly joined ARC and became an advocate for individuals with disabilities when her child faced challenges in elementary school due to disabilities.
One of the challenges that Beverly noted is 12% of individuals enrolled with Developmental Disability Services (DDS) are not receiving any paid services. She added that there are programs funded with state and federal dollars that support families. Nevertheless, for about 25% of families with a child with a disability, one parent needs to quit their job to take care of the child. Two income families become one income families. Challenges continue as these children become adults. How do they fill their day with meaningful activities when they are no longer in school? With a job coach some are able to participate in supported job placements. She described many more challenges as well as resources. A recording of her presentation is posted on the LWVBWC website under the tab, Our Work/Healthcare.
The next meeting of the Healthcare Issues Team will be March 17th from 10 am to 11:30 am on Zoom. Nancy Simmons, Director of VSED Northwest, will join the Healthcare Issues Team to discuss end of life choices. Planning for a compassionate death that reflects a person's priorities, values, and beliefs is one of the most difficult, but important, decisions anyone will ever make. Knowing the options, and then deciding what is compatible with one's beliefs is critical. Come join us for the discussion! This topic is a good lead in to the April meeting when Donna Inglis and Amber Asbjornsen, will be back with an update on palliative care. As always, I welcome your suggestions for topics and/or speakers.
