Advocacy has personally had an impact on my life. My brother has autism and has had a tremendous amount of developmental delay and educational impact, as a result. My mother found an advocate to work with his speech therapist when he was first diagnosed, due to her lack of knowledge about what challenges were to come. She also used her to be involved in his IEP meetings. If there was any terminology or techniques that she may have not been familiar with, the advocate and other educators in the meeting were there to advise her of the services that they suggested. This also helped her to become comfortable with the advocate and ensure that the best interest of my brother was at hand.
The advocates name as Mrs. Ann, and she really became apart of the family. When my brother received his diagnosis, they lived in Tennessee. The school system lacked funding for many services that were highly recommended for him, and the advocate pushed and ensured that he received what he needed. He needed a full time nurse, that was able to go to school with him and also be home with him as well. The advocate also found programs that provided diapers and thickening solution for his liquids, for free of charge. This was a big help to our family and provided us with a great sense of relief and trust.
Hi Jasmine
ReplyDeleteI could imagine how difficult this was for you and your mother. It is moments like these when we really need someone to advocate for us. I am thrill that your mother could find a caring person to help her, it is hard feeling alone not knowing what to do. Mrs. Ann is truly an advocate with all the support she gave your brother and mother but was important also she became a part of the family. It’s good to know that your brother is taken care of.