When Life Gives You Lemons

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What if we told you the wheelchair has a history as rich and intricate as any invention? Join us as we uncover its evolution, from King Philip II's custom chair in 1595 to the birth of the first generic wheelchair. Discover the challenges we've faced firsthand while finding the perfect mobility solutions for ourselves and our loved ones, like custom designs for Pommy’s father. Through personal stories and a deep dive into the innovative spirit that continues to drive accessibility tools, we aim to inspire and inform those living with disabilities, their families, and allies.

Traveling with a wheelchair can feel like an adventure in itself. In this episode, we share practical tips and relatable anecdotes about navigating the trials of accessible travel. From securing a reliable vehicle to dealing with airline policies, we cover essential preparations to make journeys smoother. Hear about our experiences with wheelchair-accessible vehicles and how they impact family life. And don’t miss out on contributing to our community by sharing your stories and suggestions—visit us at www.whenlifegivesyoulemons.net and explore our YouTube channel, Making the Lemonade, to connect and collaborate further.

1.https://abilitytools.org/blog/history-of-the-wheelchair/#:~:text=The%20first%20known%20wheelchair%20purposefully,legs%20and%20an%20adjustable%20backrest.
2.https://www.wheelchairjunkie.com/history/
3. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Paralytic_illness_of_Franklin_D._Roosevelt#:~:text=He%20was%20diagnosed%20with%20poliomyelitis,efforts%20to%20conceal%20in%20public.
4.https://www.quantumrehab.com/resources/consumer-article-motorized-wheelchairs-then-and-now.asp
5.https://www.fastcompany.com/90906945/airplanes-accessible-delta-products

I am also starting on a Facebook Group to interact with listeners, Come along for the ride.

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Uncover the transformational journey of Franklin Delano Roosevelt, one of America's most influential leaders, who turned his personal struggles into a powerful force for change in disability advocacy. Kevin and Palmi Henry, your hosts, promise you'll gain an intimate understanding of how FDR's journey from a polio diagnosis to the presidency shaped public perceptions of disability. We explore the intriguing possibility that FDR may have battled Guillain-Barre syndrome, a theory that casts new light on historical narratives, and discuss how the media played a pivotal role in crafting his public image.

But the story doesn't end there. We venture beyond FDR's era to examine the evolution of disability rights, spotlighting the profound impact of laws like the Americans with Disabilities Act and the enduring influence of organizations such as the March of Dimes. We tackle the pressing issues of accessibility in legacy buildings and workplace discrimination, showcasing the resilience and determination of the disability community. Join us as we reflect on the past, celebrate the progress, and contemplate the future of equality and accessibility for all.

1.https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Franklin_D._Roosevelt
2.https://facts.net/franklin-d-roosevelt-facts/
3.https://www.nps.gov/articles/000/prologue.htm
4.https://gov.texas.gov/governor-abbott
5.https://www.britannica.com/biography/Greg-Abbott
6.https://www.ada.gov/

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Prepare to uncover groundbreaking insights and personal stories as we, Kevin and Palmi Henry, reflect on an extraordinary year of advocating for the disabled community on the When Life Gives You Lemons podcast. Join us as we share the emotional and transformative journey of navigating Kevin's battle with spinal cerebellar ataxia, while also exploring the advancements in brain implant research that's breaking barriers, including the potential to restore vision. Hear our heartwarming and often humorous take on the challenges and triumphs of disability advocacy, from celebrating Cerebral Palsy Month to raising awareness about Parkinson's Disease. We also tackle the timely and critical issue of holiday season fraud, especially the deceptive allure of AI-generated content on platforms like YouTube, ensuring you stay informed and vigilant.

This episode isn't just an update—it's a deep dive into the future of accessibility and inclusive innovation. Discover how ADA-like laws for airlines and a European carrier's pioneering cabin design could revolutionize air travel for wheelchair users, reducing damage and enhancing dignity. We'll share thoughtful, personalized gift ideas for friends and family with disabilities, highlight the importance of mobility options in vehicles like Tesla, and even bring you a laugh with an editing mishap involving Antarctica and Big Ben. Our mission is clear: to educate, inspire, and spark change in the world of disabilities, one story at a time. Join us for a heartfelt conclusion to the year, filled with passion, insights, and a commitment to a more accessible world.

https://youtube.com/shorts/rB8uFMEBxvE?si=KSkdDkogCIXE6cFd (King's Guards)
https://youtu.be/ZxjYE2xwqTc?si=W-mXnWSjgKlvNt1O (King's Guards)
https://youtu.be/8lTVYSW5Kt0?si=oxOZRbP_xP9P78tt (King's Guards)
https://youtube.com/shorts/BXsw6nNxj7k?si=XwXD18DQdSQ9zlBc
https://youtu.be/_rr0s4WwxTc?si=PogWHL4NzKqZv1ff
https://youtu.be/O5hR8W-kZmI?si=I3b9nG4rhJcDbTbt
https://youtu.be/xnkLv-PJVMo?si=MTDbcDw1Mb-rBjvd
https://youtu.be/3_jbmgILUR8?si=E_vtjFT_5MV9myEW (explains the entire Peanut the Squirrel saga)
https://youtu.be/nGeKSiCQkPw?si=VzDX_cKOEHwkMhjT (talking dog)
https://youtu.be/fHDs9_738r0?si=EcfmU3ejy33CNBz1 (Ford Pinto commercials)
https://youtu.be/SQEw8oXkrnY?si=fYncOzHSXvdae9ZX (highlights)
https://youtu.be/50puJl3PrEQ?si=JS3TE1CccPDDGSty (Opening ceremony highlights)
https://youtu.be/5hw3c78CvKs?si=oiEWRYkPGjqzIWgW (Closing ceremony highlights)

Fort McClellan: A Nightmare of Toxic Exposures in the U.S Military | Hill & Ponton, P.A.

Congratulations to Brenda for Winning our Season 2 Giveaway.

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What if a tiny implant could unlock the mysteries of the mind and transform the lives of those with neurological disorders?" Join us as we, Kevin and Palmi Henry, take you on a journey through the cutting-edge realm of Neuralink technology. Having lived with spinal cell viral ataxia for over two decades, we share our unique perspective on how brain-computer interfaces could offer new avenues of hope. We examine Neuralink's ambitious trajectory, from its inception by Elon Musk to the second human implant milestone and discuss its potential to revolutionize treatment for conditions like Alzheimer's and blindness. By drawing parallels to established technologies like cochlear implants, we highlight the promise and complexity involved in translating neural signals into actionable data.

We delve into the latest advancements in brain-computer interfaces, such as thin film arrays and precision-enhancing laser mills. Our conversation sheds light on exciting human trials and the critical impact of patient feedback, emphasizing that while these innovations are not yet widely accessible, their potential could be life-changing for people with quadriplegia, ALS, and other conditions. As we wrap up, we invite you to connect with us on our new YouTube channel, Making the Lemonade, and encourage you to engage with our community through our website. Your insights and participation could contribute to paving the way for these transformative technologies.

robot surgeon
cyborg eye
October Update
Neuralink website

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Can love withstand the test of a life-altering diagnosis? Join us for a heartfelt conversation with Kevin and Pommy Henry as they share their journey navigating marriage with spinal cell viral ataxia in the mix. Their story is a testament to the power of communication, flexibility, and humor in the face of adversity. Kevin and Pommy invite us into their world, where they tackle everyday challenges with grace, support, and a whole lot of laughter. As they explore each other's quirks and preferences, from football allegiances to favorite Dunkin' orders, they highlight the small joys that make a partnership resilient and fulfilling.

Through nostalgic tales and playful banter, Kevin and Palmi reminisce about first dates, dream vacations, and surprise gifts, painting a vivid picture of a marriage filled with cherished memories and mutual understanding. Whether it's planning the next adventure or juggling family life with personal dreams, their reflections reveal the essence of what it means to truly support and cherish one another. Tune in for an episode brimming with insights, humor, and warmth, as Kevin and Palmi Henry open their hearts to inspire couples embarking on similar journeys.

Here is the quiz we used.

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Ever wonder what it takes to revolutionize an industry and change lives for the better? Ralph Braun, the visionary behind BraunAbility, did just that. Join us as we explore his incredible journey and lasting legacy in the world of mobility solutions. From adaptive vehicles like our own customized 2022 Chrysler Pacifica to the innovation BraunAbility continues to deliver, we weigh the pros and cons of purchasing new versus used vehicles for those with mobility challenges. Discover how BraunAbility remains a beacon of accessibility worldwide, even as it navigates challenges like signage shortcomings.

Treating people with disabilities with respect is not just polite—it's essential. Through heartfelt personal anecdotes, we discuss how small gestures, such as simply asking about someone's needs, can profoundly impact those with disabilities. Learn about the often-overlooked nuances of respectful interaction, from avoiding assumptions in medical settings to steering clear of patronizing behavior. In our discussion, we emphasize the importance of empathy and understanding in creating a more inclusive and supportive environment for everyone.

Enter the world of wheelchair etiquette with Kevin as your guide. From the humorous to the awkward, his experiences shed light on the communication and environmental challenges wheelchair users face daily. Discover why asking permission before touching a wheelchair is crucial, and how to effectively assist individuals with low vision. As we wrap up, we invite you to continue the conversation on our new YouTube channel, "Making the Lemonade," where you can share your thoughts and insights. Join us in building a community committed to fostering understanding and respect for all.

The BraunAbility site
The Easter Seals site

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In episode Kevin & Palmi discuss how to access some programs to assist families with disabilities.

ABLE Account
Accessible Go
Department of Vocational Development - This is a state run program we thought it was Federal, sorry.  The Link is to a website that allows one to locate a state program near you.  This website is courtesy of Career Onestop.
Deshae Lott Quality of Life Grant
Disability Benefits 101
Disney Disability Access
JLV College Counseling
National Park Pass
The Red Book
Transitions Abroad
Ruby's Rainbow

I spoke about one woman's tale of getting help getting a Accessible Vehicle.  It is by Disabled in Nature and this link is to part 1 (3 parts total). The videos are labeled in the title by part number.  This Link is to Part I.  You decide when you want to watch parts 2 & 3.

CORRECTION
On a Previous episode I described how to enter our End of Season contest.  Step 1 click on the support our show link.  Step 1 we require a one-time payment (This has changed during our season) of $3.  Step 2 (get you back to a one-time payment) click on the $3 Subscription button.  The following business day cancel the subscription (if you do it same day your bank may start thinking FRAUD).  Step 3 Your done.  Thanks for entering and "may the odds be forever in your favor".

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On the average, American families with a disabled person must earn 28% more than those with the same status. 

There is only one source for this episode. the google AI (Bard), or google "disability Upcharge" on the search engine for more on this topic.

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1. Large Pillow Triangular/Wedge Shaped to help sit in bed.

2. Lap Tray, flat surface with a beanbag like underside.

3. Waterproof items, such as seat covers, rainsuits and for powerchairs a cover for the joystick/electronic controls.

4. Grabber/Reacher.

5. Headlamp.

6. Gloves, again waterproof but durable.  And depending on your climate, WARM.

7. Muscle Stimulator.  Used to stimulate muscles no longer usable.

8. Wheelchair Bag.

9. Beverage Holder.

10. Water Bottle.

11. Fannypack. Backpack. Manbag.

12. Wheelchair Repair kit (Basics).

13. Smooth bottom pants.  Help to avoid pressure sores.

14. Boot Slippers.

15. Power Assist. Manual Chairs.

16. Spare/Custom wheels.

17. Smarthome Devices.

18. Smart TV, voice control.

19. Smart Doorbell.

20. Recumbent bike My apologies after a few days, no handbikes were listed on Amazon. Try here instead.

21. Push rims.

22. Spoke skins.

23. Phone charger.

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 Air Carrier Access Act (ACAA) part of DOT website.

Civil Rights of Institutionalized Persons Act (CRIPA) part of DOJ website.

Federal Housing Administration (FHA) .

Individuals with Disabilities Act (IDEA).

We Will be ending season 2 on 22 November, remember to enter the contest by our last episode.

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