I am well aware of concern by a number of individuals about the work "disabled," especially when it pertains to learning disabilities. While personally, I'd like to choose another term, the "disability" term is currently what qualifies individuals for services from schools, the public VR system, from colleges & post-secondary institutions, and from entities which I don't have time to think of right now.
At present, the term "disability" is used to qualify people for a number of government-funded services.  Good thoughts about language though.


>>> ebrown at parkland.edu 2/9/2006 2:21 PM >>>


Try to think of a disability in terms of someone who uses a wheelchair.  There are many different types of wheelchairs and some work better than others in given situations.  Use of a wheelchair will allow the person to be mobile but the disability remains.
Evelyn Brown
Learning Disability Specialist
Parkland College
Champaign, Illinois



I still remain deeply troubled and in fact  confused as to what I feel about 
the"disabled" word.  It suggests perhaps a  life long disability with no 
chance  of remediation or change.   Suppose a person is terrified of the water and 
finally learns to swim.   This has always bothered me.

Thanks.

Andrea



Evelyn Brown
Learning Disability Specialist
Parkland College
2400 West Bradley
Champaign, IL 61821
217.351.2587 fax 217.353.2305
ebrown at parkland.edu 

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