Organizers of a cricket series between teams of disabled people hope to ignite a big future for the less conventional version of the game. Amiruddin Ansari, secretary of the Pakistan Disabled Cricket Association and himself a former first class cricketer, says he hopes the matches between England and Pakistan will be a “a landmark series and will be well received in the world, sending the message that no disability can stop human beings from shining.” Ansari’s goal for the movement is far from modest: “We want to stage a World Cup for disabled cricketers.” Pakistan is led by Salim Karim, whose right leg withered from polio and whose left leg was damaged in an accident, AFP reports.

Disabled Pakistani cricketers celebrate during a match in Karachi last year. (AFP photo)

‘Reality’ show: 2 men, a wheelchair, friendship

Sharon Cohen of the Associated Press wrote this great story about Mike Berkson, “a sharp-witted, movie-obsessed 22-year-old college student” who has cerebral palsy, and Tim Wambach, his aide, who brought their relationship to the stage in a 80-minute show. “They’ve dubbed themselves two men and a wheelchair, but their show is really about the journey of a disabled kid with enormous smarts who grows up — and the friend who has helped him navigate along the way,” Cohen writes. “Berkson compares himself to a blind person whose other senses become sharper. ‘My mental state is not better or stronger, but it just fires a little quicker or goes a little faster than the average person,’ he says. Or as he tells the audience: ‘My body is in a wheelchair, my mind is not.’”

• Related: ‘Wit’ playwright sees lessons in teaching cancer-themed work

Prison dilemma: Surging numbers of older inmates

In corrections systems nationwide, officials are grappling with decisions about geriatric units, hospices and medical parole as elderly inmates — with their high rates of illness and infirmity — make up an ever increasing share of the prison population, the Associated Press reports. “U.S. corrections officials now operate old age homes behind bars,” says Jamie Fellner, a Human Rights Watch special adviser. One corrections department director said officials confront such questions as whether to retrofit some cells with grab bars and handicap toilets, how to accommodate inmates’ wheelchairs, and how to deal with inmates who no longer understand instructions.

A nursing assistant helps an elderly inmate to his cell at the California Medical Facility in Vacaville, Calif. (2008 AP photo/Rich Pedroncelli)

More reading:

• The Social Security Administration says it will resume mailing benefit statements to workers age 60 and older in February.
• Spirit Airlines has been fined $100,000 for allegedly failing to appropriately record and respond to complaints about the airline’s treatment of passengers with disabilities.
• A month after having embryonic stem cells injected into her eye, a legally blind 51-year-old woman could read the top five letters on an eye chart.
• Why an autism diagnosis can change as a young patient grows up
• Investigators are probing reports that disabled children at a public elementary school in Connecticut were locked in a room to control their behavior or as a punishment.
• A study finds the hospitality industry is not a friendly one for disabled workers.

Battle by Frank Allen

The Construction and Deconstruction of a Noise Curtain – Original Art and Music by Frank Allen

New abstract art from the hidden depths of Franks Subconscious.

What If People Were More Like Cats?

Sometimes, I wish people were a lot more like cats. No, I don’t want random strangers launching themselves into my lap. That would be weird. But cats seem to have this very calm acceptance about things. They don’t care if you’re up and walking one day and sitting the next.

Cats First Reaction to Crutches

When I first came home with crutches the cats were confused and curious. They sniffed. They watched. They ran away a couple times. But over time they adjusted just fine. Now, the only time my cat gives me a second glance is when she’s trying to figure out how to get into my arms or lap.

Cats vs. Wheelchair

There are times when we fight over my wheelchair as she finds it ridiculously comfy. I’ll be trying to move her from the seat and she’ll be clinging onto the cushion for dear life and the minute I sit back in it, she’ll be launching herself into my lap.

Cats Unconditional Love

Cats don’t ask questions. They don’t look at you in awkward ways. They don’t judge. Okay, that’s a lie. Cats are very judge-y creatures, but if you still pet them, pay attention to them, and treat them as royalty, they judge you worthy no matter your gimp level.

There’s no huff, puff, fuss, or mess with them. As long as they’re being treated properly, they just don’t care.

Why humans have difficulty accepting things I just don’t know.

But on the mornings when I start feeling awkward about using my chair, when I start worrying about what people will think regardless of the fact whether it’s their business or not, my cat’s more than willing to be thrilled that I’m using my chair so she can get more hugs.

And that helps. A lot.

Related Posts:

• Balancing Relationships
• Easy Living
• Who Needs It?

Image Credit

Some rights reserved by bichromephoto

Cast and Crew

Starring:

Katherine Heigl, Jason O’Mara, Daniel Sunjata, John Leguizamo, Sherri Shepherd, Debbie Reynolds, Debra Monk, Adam Paul (II), Fisher Stevens 

Directed by:

Julie Anne Robinson

Writers:

Stacy Sherman, Karen Ray, Liz Brixius, Janet Evanovich

Full Cast and Credits »

Related Posts:

• Disability in Once Upon a Time
• The Blind Film Critic: “GIRL WITH THE DRAGON TATTOO″ review
• Blind Film Critic: Blind Man vs. Paper Money

This review was originally posted on UNDERWORLD: AWAKENING review (no spoilers) – BLIND FILM CRITIC

Us and Them by Frank Allen

A Video inside Franks creative process. A world with no rules.

35 Minute of Improvised Art in 3 Minutes. Music and Art by Frank Allen

Cast and Crew

Starring:

Kate Beckinsale, Stephen Rea, Michael Ealy, Theo James, Sandrine Holt

Directed by:

Mans Marlind, Bjorn Stein

Writers:

Len Wiseman, John Hlavin, Allson Burnett

Full Cast and Credits »

Related Posts:

• Disability in Once Upon a Time
• The Blind Film Critic: “GIRL WITH THE DRAGON TATTOO″ review
• Blind Film Critic: Blind Man vs. Paper Money

This review was originally posted on UNDERWORLD: AWAKENING review (no spoilers) – BLIND FILM CRITIC

Everyone has different needs, regardless of disability or ability, and everyone must figure out how to meet their needs and those of their partner in different ways. Unlike the notion of equality, where everything is equal, we prefer the notion of equity, the idea that everyone in a relationship be given fair access to meet their particular and different needs.

Long-term relationships take a lot of work under the most ideal circumstances, and people with disabilities are often beset with complications that are less than ideal. Even with the support of a paid caregiver (or other assistance outside of your relationship specifically for disability accommodations), your partner will probably end up in a position of being a caregiver at some point. Paid caregivers may not show up for shifts or do their job correctly at times. Many of us rely on our emergency support network (including our partners) to get through problem periods and staffing issues. How do we go about keeping our relationships healthy and balanced when one or both (or more) partners has particular needs related to their disability? Our GimpGirl Community members got together and compiled a list of personal suggestions based on what they have learned in the course of their relationships.

Open and Honest Communication

Being open and honest in terms of how we communicate with a partner might seem obvious, but it bears repeating. The importance of communication is noted in every contemporary article written about healthy relationships for good reason. However, when there are additional requirements by one member of the relationship, communication becomes crucial. Everyone in a relationship has to be able to express their concerns and needs, and have those respected by their partner, but more importantly they have to feel that it is safe to do so.

Not only are people with disabilities often socialized to not speak up for themselves, in an effort to “lessen the burden” they place on those around them, but when our partners are put in the role of being a caregiver, they can have feelings of guilt when asserting their own needs. Needs arising because of a disability can often be more immediately obvious, but they should not necessarily be seen as requiring priority. And they may not be as obvious as the person in need might think. Fundamentally, if the person in the role of the caregiver does not assert their own needs in balance with the needs of their partner, the potential for unnecessary resentment is always present. One of the greatest dangers stems from differing expectations and a sense that someone should know something that has not actually been said or explicitly stated. No one should be expected to have to guess what their partner needs or feels.

A simple example of this dynamic: a person with a physical disability really needs help going to the bathroom and their paid caregiver has left for the day. They ask their partner for help, not knowing that they both really need to go to the bathroom at the same moment. Ideally, a brief discussion would be initiated wherein both decide who gets priority in that particular situation. This situation may seem silly, but it is a really common one that arises. Situations like this often can lead to feelings of resentment if not dealt with in the moment through open communication. The most simple, taken-for-granted, assumptions often lead to the greatest conflict. And when one takes the time to acknowledge the needs of others, even when wanting to take priority, there is the greatest chance for open dialogue and sharing.

Sharing and listening to each person’s views on disability and caretaking, and how the views have formed can clear up a lot of the misunderstandings that stem from being confused and hurt by unexpected reactions. This is especially true for friends or romantic partners who come from different backgrounds or experiences in growing up. Plan to have this conversation intentionally at a time that works for both or all of you, and feel free to repeat as necessary.

Another really important conversation to have relates to what protocol to follow when stress levels are high, or you are upset with each other. A couple needs to know how to communicate when there is anger or frustration. When complications arise of any sort, both individuals need to know how to ask for their needs in that moment. If you are in the middle of a fight with each other, and one of you needs help with something that’s really important in the moment (again, like going to the bathroom), how will that be handled in a way that is fair to both of you? What should someone do if they need space, and how will you handle any emergency needs in order to respect that person’s space? How will you support the needs of your partner when you are also frustrated or in distress? These are all questions that can be answered, and should be addressed before the situation arises in order to maintain balance within the relationship.

Getting Support

Everyone needs support, and no one is capable of handling everything life throws at them. We all live within the massive support structure that is our culture and society.  Whichever member of a relationship has a special need, sooner or later both partners will need assistance and support from paid professional caregivers, and emotional support such as counselors or friends. Getting meaningful input, support and an external perspective from others is vital in keeping a healthy balance in all relationships. One important thing to remember in relationships where disability is involved is that ideally these outside supports should be peers or professionals who have experience with this type of situation. Too often people who have no experience with this type of situation have extreme biases that do not reflect the reality of the lived experience that those of us with disabilities have.

It is still a commonly held view in society that people with disabilities are a greater burden than others. Even if someone does not say this overtly, it is so pervasive a thought that it influences the opinions of many as to what is happening within your relationship dynamic. Most people will see the person with the most apparent disability as the greatest receiver of effort and energy in the relationship, even though that may not be the case at all. Everyone has both needs to be met and assets to share in a relationship. Just because someone has a very obvious physical or social need, such as requiring help going to the bathroom, or functioning in a social situation, does not mean that they do not more than make up for what they appear to lack in some other part of the relationship, perhaps in their financial sense, wit, insight and wisdom, compassion and humor, or skills with non-physical or social contexts.

Perspective

Physical help is often the most overt form of assistance one might require, but the support lent by both people must be understood and honored to maintain a healthy balance within the relationship. This is even important for the person with greater apparent needs. It can help him or her with self esteem and related issues that often stem from viewing him or herself as constantly receiving and not contributing to the relationship in equitable proportion. It is important to remember that this is a commonly held societal view, even when not promoted by those in a relationship. Most people with disabilities are steeped in this mindset if they are raised with a disability, and have been taught to believe that they are always the recipient of charity.

Keeping a relationship balanced requires that we strive to maintain a perspective regarding the help that both parties provide, and the beneficial impact of that balance on the quality of life for everyone. Human relationships are complex, and all healthy relationships require a balance of give and take. Collectively discussing what energy each of you is putting into the relationship and how you both add to a healthy balance will help keep perspective in the long run.

Mindfulness

Try to be mindful of the impact that physical states have on mental and emotional health. The fallout from stress caused by crabbiness from pain or exhaustion can have unintended and very intense side effects for both people, and your own frustration borne of discomfort can have unintended consequences. Also be mindful of panic triggers² that both people have.

If there is a stretch of time where any partner has greater needs than usual, or has reduced outside support for those needs, be mindful of how that additional stress is affecting others, whether they are directly acting as a caregiver or not. Be gentle with each other. Life and love can be hard enough without any complications. Nobody is perfect or should expect perfection in another human being.

Conclusion

How are these thoughts different from any recommendations for a healthy relationship? There is little difference. Relationships are always as fraught with challenges as they are with joys. However, people with disabilities are often socialized to think of themselves as being a burden and taught to not speak up for themselves. Also, because of the complications involved in managing accommodations and services, both people with disabilities and those around them can put too much emphasis on those needs. Everyone has needs and countless successful relationships have proven that those needs can be balanced when everyone understands the strengths of the individuals involved.

What has your experience been? Are there any lessons you would add to this list?

Footnotes:

¹ Caregivers (also called carers or personal care assistants) perform many different duties depending on what is needed by in individual with special needs. For people with physical disabilities, this can include help with “daily living activities” (DLAs) such as bathing, dressing, and eating, as well as help with cleaning the house and getting to medical appointments. For people with other types of disabilities (though the individual may be called something different depending on the situation), the needs are very open-ended, and can extend to whatever a person needs to engage with the world to the greatest extent possible.  Ideally, as we have written about in previous posts, the caregiver (or other type of assistant) is predominantly an individual who is not in any other type of relationship with the person they are employed to support. However, complications can arise when a romantic partner is the primary caregiver for their partner.

² A trigger is something that causes an emotional reaction in someone. A trigger can be a touch, a sound, certain words, behaviors, or any number of events or situations which cause someone to either recall traumatic memories or just react with panic or some other emotional response. Sometimes people know that they have triggers, and sometimes they do not. However, learning what your triggers are and those of your partner can be profoundly illuminating.

Related Posts:

• Caregivers and Relationships
• Privacy Issues Continued

Image Credit

Some rights reserved by James Jordan

How has Stephen Hawking lived to 70 with ALS?

Stephen Hawking (Getty photo)

Although he was too ill to make it to his birthday party, Stephen Hawking turned 70 this month in grand style, receiving a special present from London’s Science Museum: an exhibition that draws “on artifacts from Hawking’s study, letters from his archives, and pictures from his family collection to paint a more intimate portrait of the world’s best-known living theoretical physicist.” But, as Scientific American reports, for someone who had a form of the motor-neuron disease amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) diagnosed decades ago, the milestone birthday is a gift in itself. Leo McCluskey, an associate professor of neurology and medical director of the ALS Center at the University of Pennsylvania, says: “On average people live two to three years after diagnosis. But that means that half the people live longer, and there are people who live for a long, long time. … What’s happened to him is just astounding. He’s certainly an outlier.” (Related: Intel is exploring ways to reverse the slowing of Hawkins’s speech.)

‘Personal mobility’ highlighted at major car show

At its exhibition in Detroit this month, the North American International Auto Show debuted a new area focused on transportation for people with disabilities, the Associated Press reports. “It wasn’t that long ago when being disabled meant the end of personal mobility. Those days are gone,” said NAIAS chairman Bill Perkins.

Military amputees inspire through softball

Wounded Warriors (AP)

Imagine a softball team. Now imagine this: “All of the infielders are missing at least one of their legs. Two of the outfielders use those special carbon-fiber running legs, the ones that look like upside-down question marks, for speed. One outfielder is missing a hand, and the right-fielder plays without his entire left arm and shoulder.” The Associated Press profiles the Wounded Warriors, a softball team made up of Army and Marine combat veterans, most of whom rely on prosthetic limbs. Click the photo at right to see more images.

More reading

• Judge rules NYC taxi agency must help disabled riders
• French court fines a discount airline for disabled discrimination
• New Jersey parents say their disabled daughter was denied a transplant
• Why deaf signers might make good airport security screeners

One of my favorite scenes in The Fifth Element (1997) is the formal introduction between Bruce Willis and Milla Jovovich. Willis’ comedic timing is, as always, delightful. Jovovich’s quick, monotone delivery is hilarious. Seeing the full name spelled out in all its hyphenated glory is one of the highlights of the captioned viewing experience: Leeloo Minai Lekarariba-Laminai-Tchai Ekbat De Sebat.

The official DVD of The Fifth Element contains two caption streams: a bitmap stream of speech-only subtitles (the video example above), and a text stream of full closed captions (in which all significant sounds are supposed to be captioned, both speech and non-speech). While the closed captioned version below includes verbatim speech (unlike the subtitled version above), it cops out on Leeloo’s full name, opting instead for an unhelpful non-speech caption: [Speaking Unknown Language]. But that’s her name, not an unknown language!

Would anything short of the fully captioned name work in this case? Probably not. Major characters’ names are always important, regardless of length and familiarity. Willis puts special emphasis on Leeloo’s full name when he refers to it colorfully as “that whole thing.” (In the subtitled version, this is unfortunately summarized as “All that’s your name?”) Caption viewers deserve access to “that whole thing” so they can experience it for themselves. (The full name is surprisingly popular, which is one more reason why it should have been captioned fully.)

Put simply, the scene is an introduction and introductions need names. Edited captions and short descriptions make little sense here.

I find the contrasts between these two versions of the official captions puzzling: The speech-only version doesn’t present speech verbatim, while the full version (speech + non-speech) — i.e. the stream intended for deaf and hard-of-hearing viewers — doesn’t caption Leeloo’s full name. Because there doesn’t appear to be a good reason to edit speech in this case, and because caption viewers deserve access to characters’ full names, both streams should have included verbatim speech and spelled out Leeloo’s full name.

Putting both streams together into the same video helps to illustrate the differences. (I moved the closed caption stream to the top of the video so it wouldn’t overlap with the subtitle stream.)

So how do we explain these differences? Well, it’s hard to know for sure from this removed vantage point. I’d welcome input from professional closed captioners on this. Given the marked differences in timecodes for individual captions and my own recent conversations with professional closed captioners, I think it’s safe to say that these two caption files were produced by different captioners, at the very least. Each captioner had no knowledge of the other’s work. The two caption streams may have also been produced at different times by different companies. My own experience with multiple caption streams for the same show (e.g. one made for TV, another for the DVD) has prepared me to expect more than one official version of the captions, regardless of type (closed captions or subtitles).

But rather than try to explain the differences, we need to focus our attention on the importance of verbatim captioning, especially when names are involved and those names are hilariously long and alien.

Related Posts:

• Disability in Once Upon a Time
• The Blind Film Critic: “THE DEVIL INSIDE″ review
• Captioned Hypnosis

Originally Posted on Accessible Rhetoric

[Fair use notice: The videos on this site are transformative works used in good faith, in keeping with Section 107 of U.S. copyright law, and as such constitute fair use of copyrighted material. Read this site's full fair use notice.]

At the same time, Lisbeth Salander, an unusual but ingenious investigator with Milton Security, is hired to do a background check on Blomkvist, a job that ultimately leads to her joining Mikael in his investigation of who killed Harriet Vanger. Though Lisbeth shields herself from a world that has repeatedly betrayed her, her hacking skills and single-minded focus become invaluable. While Mikael goes face-to-face with the tight-lipped Vangers, Lisbeth plies the wired shadows. They begin to trace a chain of homicides from the past into the present, forging a fragile strand of trust even as they are pulled into the most savage currents of modern crime.

Cast and Crew

Starring:

Fernanda Andrade, Simon Quarterman, Evan Helmuth, Suzan Crowley

Directed by:

Brent Bell

Writers:

Matthew Peterman, Morris Paulson, Lorenzo Di Bonaventura

Full Cast and Credits »

Related Posts:

• Disability in Once Upon a Time
• The Blind Film Critic: “GIRL WITH THE DRAGON TATTOO″ review
• Blind Film Critic: Blind Man vs. Paper Money

This review was originally posted on THE DEVIL INSIDE review – BLIND FILM CRITIC (no spoilers)