Friends For Life Podcast Tony Stuart

In this episode of "Disability Support And Parenting with Sarah Davies," Sarah engages with Charles and Michael from Film Toledo, an organization dedicated to fostering the local film community. Both guests share their journey in the film industry, starting from independent filmmaking to creating a collaborative network that supports diverse film projects and local talents. The conversation also highlights their roles in Film Toledo, with Charles as the executive director and Michael as the networking coordinator. They discuss the challenges and triumphs of running the organization, the importance of networking, and their efforts to boost the local economy by providing more job opportunities in the film sector. The episode delves into the specifics of Film Toledo's initiatives, including community events and partnerships that aim to enrich the local film scene. It also touches on their involvement in community projects, like the community film festival, which collaborates with local film professionals to help individuals from the disability community bring their creative visions to life. This inclusive approach not only improves the quality of local cinema but also empowers people with disabilities by providing a platform for their voices and stories. Additionally, the discussion covers the broader impact of their work on personal growth and community development, emphasizing the power of film as a tool for advocacy, education, and social connection. This engaging dialogue underscores the transformative potential of inclusive community efforts and the significant role of arts and culture in fostering understanding and cohesion in diverse communities. 

In this episode of IDD Health Matters, Dr. Craig Escude welcomes Andrew Kelly to discuss health services for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). With a background in healthcare insurance and pharmacy management, Kelly shares his unintentional but impactful journey into the IDD field. Initially joining a pharmacy owned by a large agency, he moved through various roles that emphasized the importance of accessible and effective medication management for IDD individuals. His career progression led him to a technology-based company, where he currently focuses on improving documentation and operational efficiencies through electronic health records and other tech solutions.
Kelly underscores the critical role of Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) in managing complex medication regimens and the enhancements brought by integrating technology to support these efforts. He discusses his current work with iCare Manager, an enterprise solution providing comprehensive electronic documentation to improve health outcomes and operational management within IDD services. Highlighting the importance of accurate and thorough documentation, Kelly illustrates how such practices are essential not just for compliance but for enhancing the quality of care and supporting better health outcomes for individuals with IDD. The episode touches on the satisfaction derived from making a meaningful difference in the lives of others, a recurring theme in careers within the IDD care sector.



 
 


 










 
 

Join hosts Tony and Paul on the Friends for Life Podcast, where they delve into the vibrant lives and pressing issues facing individuals with developmental disabilities. This episode not only entertains but also educates listeners on the significant history and evolution of disability care in the United States. The discussion traces the journey from early informal family care through the dark period of the Eugenics movement, to the transformative post-World War II era, and the civil rights activism of the 1960s and 70s.
The narrative continues through the legislative advancements that shaped today’s disability care, highlighting the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and the landmark Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990. Today’s approach to disability care in the U.S. emphasizes principles of inclusion, accessibility, and equal opportunity, showcasing a significant transformation from past practices.
Whether you're a professional in the field, someone looking for services, or just interested in learning more about the historical context of disability rights, this episode offers comprehensive insights and a reflection on how far we have come in recognizing and respecting the dignity and rights of people with disabilities. Tune in to be informed and inspired.

In this enlightening episode of IDD Health Matters, Dr. Craig Escude engages with two specialists, Dr. Jennifer Lecomte and Dr. Wendy Aita, who are making significant strides in healthcare for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The discussion centers on their innovative practice in Southern New Jersey, which uniquely integrates primary medical care with behavioral health services.
Key Discussion Points:
Interdisciplinary Care: Dr. Jennifer Lecomte, a med-peds physician, outlines her practice's approach to providing comprehensive care for patients with both intellectual disabilities and mental health conditions. This includes embedded behavioral health within the primary care setting to ensure holistic management of patients.
Behavioral Health Integration: Dr. Wendy Aita, a clinical psychologist and co-director of the Risen Center, discusses the integration of behavioral health into primary care. She explains the "three touches" model: primary care assessment, social work intervention, and psychological evaluation, which collectively address both the physical and mental health needs of their patients.
Specialized Facilities and Services: The practice is noted for its thoughtful design, featuring amenities like ceiling lifts and wheelchair scales in every suite, underscoring their commitment to accessibility and preventive care. They also focus on sensitive areas such as reproductive health and screenings, often overlooked in this population.
Challenges and Innovations: The conversation also covers the specific challenges faced by individuals with dual diagnoses of intellectual disability and mental health issues. The guests emphasize the importance of understanding and dismantling the barriers to care, including caregiver support and the need for trauma-informed approaches.
Outreach and Education: Dr. Lecomte and Dr. Aita share insights into their efforts to spread their integrative care model through partnerships and educational initiatives aimed at improving care accessibility and quality for this underserved population.
Impact and Vision: The episode not only sheds light on the specialized needs of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities but also provides a model of care that prioritizes inclusivity, accessibility, and comprehensive management. Drs. Lecomte and Aita express a hopeful vision for the future of healthcare in this field, aiming to expand their integrative approach to more communities.
Conclusion: IDD Health Matters continues to be a pivotal platform for discussing advanced healthcare strategies and advocating for enhanced health equity among the intellectually and developmentally disabled population, with this episode further enriching the conversation.

In this episode of the Friends for Life Podcast, we delve into the profound impact of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (ADA), a pivotal piece of civil rights legislation in the United States. Designed to eliminate discrimination against individuals with disabilities, the ADA spans several critical areas including employment, public accommodations, government services, telecommunications, and transportation. We explore how the ADA has transformed societal views and infrastructures, from increasing employment opportunities to enhancing physical access through innovative assistive technologies like wheelchair ramps and Braille signage. This legislation not only safeguarded rights but also heralded a new era of inclusion and equality, ensuring that people with disabilities enjoy the same freedoms and opportunities as everyone else. Join us as we discuss the ADA's ongoing legacy of fostering a more inclusive society, where diversity is not just acknowledged but celebrated.

In this enlightening episode of IDD Health Matters, host Dr. Craig Escude is joined by Lisa Burck from The Arc of Mississippi. With decades of experience in the field of intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD), Lisa shares her profound insights into the dynamic and responsive nature of advocacy work. The conversation delves into the multifaceted roles that The Arc plays in Mississippi, from handling abuse investigations and training direct support professionals, to innovative programs like their Archangel Christmas initiative and addiction programs tailored for community integration challenges.
Lisa highlights the transformative power of supported decision-making—a dignified alternative to guardianship that honors individual needs and preferences. The episode also explores the critical importance of direct support professionals and the severe impact of staffing shortages on employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities, a crucial aspect of life that fosters purpose and integration.
Join Dr. Escude and Lisa as they discuss the practical challenges, emotional rewards, and the ongoing journey towards better health equity and quality of life for people with IDD. This episode is a must-listen for anyone involved in or caring about the disability support sector.