ARIZONA BRIDGE TO INDEPENDENT LIVING: Novmber 2003 Newsletter

The Bridge

News from the Arizona Bridge to Independent Living

Volume XIV, Number 12

DECEMBER 2003

ABIL offers and promotes programs designed to empower people with disabilities to take personal responsibility so they may achieve or continue independent lifestyles within the community. ABIL is a member of the National Council on Independent Living (NCIL). "Not just responding to change, but leading it!"

SeasonТs Greetings from the Staff at ABIL!

ABIL Empowers Consumers to УLiveФ with a Disability

Phil Pangrazio, ABIL Executive Director

The holiday season is once again upon us. We at ABIL have much to be thankful for during this season of good cheer. For many, however, especially those with disabilities, the holiday season is often a time when we feel isolated and depressed. When I think about what we here at ABIL do, I often forget how hard it is for a person who is newly disabled to make the adjustment to УlivingФ with a disability.

I remember my own experience as a person recovering from a spinal cord injury. Upon being discharged after a ten-month stay in a rehabilitation hospital, I found myself having to sleep in a hospital bed in my parentТs living room. The bedrooms were upstairs. No lift had yet been installed so I could not come and go as I pleased. My brothers would push me up and down a make shift ramp made of 2x12 planks. My friends, although supportive, were not calling and inviting me to participate in the kinds of things I had been accustomed to as a 19 year-old boy, like shooting hoops, playing softball, or just horsing around. Life as I previously knew it had drastically changed. I felt isolated and very alone. Making the adjustment to this new life seemed inconceivable. What would it mean to really УliveФ with a disability?

When I say Уliving,Ф of course, I am referring to living a positive, responsible and independent life. Although I sometimes take this for granted as if I have Уmade it,Ф I know that adversity is always lurking around the corner. For instance, a secondary illness or other health setback is not uncommon for those of us living with a disability. After all, as Ed Roberts, the father of the independent living movement once said, Уdisability is an equal opportunity club, anyone can join at any time.Ф Some of us, in fact, may feel like we have joined more than once. No matter your situation, however, positive adjustment is possible if you do the right things. Importantly, our disabilities can be managed to a mere inconvenience. We can still do many of the same things we always did, we just do them a little differently and maybe a little slower.

Making the adjustment is where ABIL comes in. All of ABILТs programs are directed toward identifying resources and information that empower consumers to make choices that lead to independence and improved self-esteem. For some, this may mean getting a home modification that includes the installation of a ramp, widening of a door, or the construction of a wheel-in shower. For others, it may mean obtaining in-home personal assistance services in order to remain in the community and continue living in their own home. Finally, for some it may mean getting assistance finding employment or understanding the myriad of rules and regulations related to social security work incentives.

Whatever the situation, ABILТs programs provide a complementary and integrated combination of resources that solve the independent living challenges and goals of consumers throughout Maricopa County and beyond. We are certain you will agree that programs promoting personal responsibility and choice are what enable people with disabilities to fully realize independent living and achieve positive adjustment to disability.

ABIL Board o f Directors

Joseph Mikitish ....................ЕЕ.ЕЕЕ......... President

Tom Ringhofer ...............................ЕЕЕЕ... Vice President

Edward L. Myers, III ...............................................Treasurer

Jim Brahaney ...............................ЕЕЕЕЕЕ... Secretary

Marjann Fletcher ...................Е..................... Past President

Pamela Allan ........................Е.......Е............Е...Е. Member

Sharon Atwood .....................................ЕЕ....ЕЕ.. Member

William Harper ................................ЕЕ....ЕЕ.... Member

Lynn Houston ................................ЕЕЕЕЕЕ. Member

F. Lee Jacquette ..............................ЕЕЕЕЕЕ. Member

Nikki Jeffords ..............................ЕЕЕЕЕЕ. Member

Nicholas L. Perry .....................................ЕЕ....ЕЕ.. Member

Susan Scott .....................................ЕЕ....ЕЕ.. Member

Scott Turner ........................................ЕЕ....ЕЕ.. Member

The Bridge newsletter is a free monthly publication of Arizona Bridge to Independent Living (ABIL). To add or remove your name from our mailing list, or to place a disability related personal or business classified ad, call or write to us at:

The Bridge c/o ABIL

Attention: Editor

1229 E. Washington Street, Phoenix, AZ 85034-1101

(602) 256-2245 1-800-280-2245*

(*outside the 602, 623, 480, calling areas)

FAX: (602) 254-6407

e-mail: azbridge@abil.org

Website: www.abil.org

ABIL-Thomas office

2345 E. Thomas, Phoenix, AZ 85016

ABIL Advocacy Unit, Ste. 285

ABIL Employment Services, Suite 310-A

(602) 667-0277

FAX 602-667-0318

ABIL - Metro Center office

10000 N. 31st Avenue, Suite D-405

Phoenix, AZ 85051 (602)-424-4100

FAX (602) 424-4118

ABIL-East office

225 E. First Street, Suite 206

Mesa, AZ 85201 (480) 655-9750

FAX (480) 655-9751 Voice/TDD (602) 256-2245

1-800-280-ABIL (outside 602, 623, 480 calling areas)

FAX (602) 254-6407

e-mail: azbridge@abil.org

Website: www.abil.org

Staff email: First name, initial of last name, @abil.org

To Receive УThe BridgeФ by e-mail automatically each month, send your request including phone number, to: pennyf@abil.org or Penny c/o ABIL, 1229 E. Washington Street, Phoenix, AZ 85034-1101, or call (602) 296-0518. Please also indicate if you would like to discontinue receiving the hard copy by mail.

ABIL Administrative Staff

Phil Pangrazio, 296-0513 .........Е........Е............. Executive Director

Stacy Budge, 296-0511...................... Business Office Director

Maribel Diaz, 296-0515 ......................ЕЕ.................... Receptionist

Louise Downey, 296-0519..........ЕЕ......... Accounting Assistant

Nancy Fleming, 296-0512 ..............Е.................... Billing Clerk

Penny Fore, 296-0518 ..............ЕЕЕ.......... Executive Assistant

Sandy Guinn, 296-0514 ........Е...Е.......... Director of Operations

Tina Hedges, 296-0522 ...................ЕЕ............... Billing Clerk

Bertha Garcia, 296-0510 ....................................... Program Aide

Cathy Lacy, 296-0551 ............................................ Payroll Clerk

Jason Miller, 296-0539 ..................................... Billing Assistant

Jay Murrillo, 296-0517.................... Van Driver/Facilities Maint.

DeMarQues Thomas, 296-0538 ........ Van Driver/Facilities Maint.

Advocacy

Donna Kruck, 296-0520 ............Е..........................Unit Director

Lynn Bejnar, 667-0277, Ext 16 Е..... УThis is My LifeФ Prg. Mgr.

David Carey, 296-0523 .....................ЕЕ.... Advocacy Specialist

Erik Jensen, 296-0527 ...........ЕЕ..... Work Incentives Specialist

Donna Lorti, 424-4105 ...................... Work Incentives Specialist

Ann Pasco, 667-0277, Ext 14 .......ЕЕ....Volunteer Coordinator

Carolan Quenneville, 296-0524Е.. Graphic Specialist/Newsletter

Rhonda Webb, 296-0509 ...................... Work Incentives Specialist

Employment Services

Susan Webb, 667-0277, Ext 11 ...........ЕЕЕ..........Unit Director

Lynda Connors, 667-0277, Ext. 12 Е....... Employment Coordinator

Joe Connors, 667-0277, Ext 15 ............... Employment Coordinator

Marilon Cox, 667-0277, Ext.17, ......... Program Support/ Billing Coord

Dan Siegler, 667-0277, Ext 10 ЕЕЕ..... Employment Technician

Community Integration

Darrel Christenson , 296-0530 ...........ЕЕЕ...........Unit Director

Judy Benshoof, 296-0532 ............ ILA/Home Mod. Coord (Mesa)

Peter Clute, 296-0525 .......................... Information & Referral

Fernando Cruz 296-0526 ............................ Reintegration Coord.

Jon DeWinter, 296-0537 .... Home Mod.Coord.(Glendale/Peoria)

Tony DiRienzi, 296-0534 ..........Е....... Early Intervention Coord.

Paula Grodecki, 480-222-4212 .....Е......... Reintegration Coord.

Tyrone Harrington, 424-4103 ............ Com. Liv. Options Coord.

Leanne Jones, 296-0535......ЕЕ.. Soc/Rec, Youth Outreach/ILA

Rosalie Perry, 296-0536 .... Independent Living Skills Advocate

Joanna Savidan, 296-0531.......Е..... Home Mod. Coord. (Phx)

Leonard Smith, 296-0533 ......Е...... Reintegration Coord.

Personal Assistant Services

Gwen Dean, 296-0541.......................ЕЕЕ............Unit Director

Mary Avila, 296-0528 ......................................... PAS Feild Rep.

Pam Burdette, 480-222-4204......................Е......... PAS Field Rep.

Jerry Chee, 424-4107 ..............................ЕЕ Program Manager

Gerry Davis, 296-0546 .....ЕЕЕЕЕЕЕЕЕ. Payroll Clerk

Maria Deleon, 480-222-4203 ................................. PAS Field Rep.

Pamela Geans, 480-222-4201 .... Mesa Receptionist/Program Aide

Lyndora Hall, 296-0529............Е........................ PAS Field Rep.

Judy Ludlow, 296-0542 ...............................Е..... PAS Field Rep.

Teodoro Marquez, 424-4102 ............................... PAS Field Rep.

Kelli Martin, 296-0544ЕЕЕЕЕЕЕЕЕЕЕ. Program Aide

Sheri Mecca, 296-0547...............................Е. Program Manager

Diane Patton, 480-222-4206 .............ЕЕ......... Program Manager

Christine Pinedo, 296-0552 ЕЕЕЕЕЕЕ..Е. Program Aide

Colleen Podmore, 424-4108 ......Е...................... PAS Field Rep.

Shannon Rose, 424-4101, ...... Metro Receptionist / Program Aide

Pat Trouts, 296-0506 ............................................. Payroll Clerk

Christina Velasquez, 424-4104 ...............Е........ PAS Field Rep.

Grace Walstad, 296-0540 ..........................Е..... PAS Field Rep.

Roxanna Williams, 424-4106 .................................. PAS Field Rep.

Melanie Woods, 480-222-4205 ....................ЕЕ.. PAS Field Rep.

Bonnie Zanardi, 480-222-4202 ........................... PAS Feild Rep.

WARNING:

Domestic Violence Can be Hazardous to Your Health

By Donna Kruck

You may have noticed there was a lot of press in October, УDomestic Violence Awareness Month,Ф about domestic violence victims, perpetrators and remedies. Although two months late, I still want to address this important issue. I am not an expert on the subject, but I am a Уsurvivor,Ф in some ways a Уperpetrator,Ф and was a crisis counselor for several years. I have struggled with a hot temper all my life. I wasnТt a hitter, but I was a critcizer and a yeller and so was my mom. My precious daughter suffered for it, as did others I love. I regret my behavior and have taken many steps to address it: physical (food choices), mental (therapy and anger management) and spiritual (prayer). Violence is on a continuum from ignoring someone, to name calling, to threatening, to hitting, or worse. Violence can be a way of coping and if it is used regularly tends to escalate - get more frequent and more violent.

At one point in my life, my ex-husband tried to drown me in the bathtub. This happened in front of our two year old. In breaking a window to yell for help, I cut an artery. I was in my early 20Тs and had low self-esteem. I loved him and didnТt think I could raise our daughter alone, nor did I want to. He told me if I pressed charges he would go to jail and be molested. I was afraid to leave him, but did eventually, seeking a safer environment for myself and my child. I look back now and wonder why I let him back into our home. He had not even admitted any wrong doing, nor sought treatment for it. It took me two more years before we separated and divorced. Twenty-five years later, thankfully he is sober and sane and safely in his daughterТs life. I still have scars to remind me of how far I have come.

There are few studies on the prevalence of domestic violence among persons with disabilities. I believe that the damaging public misperception that people with disabilities are less valuable, less loveable, a УburdenФ, or Уbetter off dead than disabledФ increases the risk for experiencing abusive behavior from family members. Individuals with disabilities are more likely to live in poverty, thus may have fewer options to escape the violence. However, wealth does not prevent or protect one from domestic violence.

Another reason people stay in abusive relationships is fear - fear they canТt make it on their own, fear the perpetrator will follow them or escalate their violent behavior, fear no one will believe them, fear they canТt raise their children alone, fear of failure (divorce or being unable to stop the violence. УMaybe I did something to cause it, maybe I deserved it.Ф) There is also the question of where the person with the disability can go to be safe. Until recently, most shelters were inaccessible and even if they are accessible, there may not be any vacancies. We may be embarrassed or ashamed to tell our family or friends whatТs happened. We may be too proud to ask for help. We may be afraid for our lives and paralyzed by the fear.

Let me be clear - NO person deserves to be violated by violence in their home by family members - no matter who they are or what they have done. It is never OK. And if the person committing the violence is unwilling or unable to admit their damaging behavior and take ACTION to stop, then the one being abused will need to seek help and find safety away from the one who is violent. Abusers rarely stop on their own. They think they are right, or that they canТt help their feelings and their behavior. They often believe they are the victim. They are only willing to change their attitudes and behaviors when they have to, either because they stand to lose their beloved (victim) or are faced with jail.

In a domestic violence situation both parties need to change their behavior. The media most often provide a crisis phone number for those being abused by violence in the home - but rarely anything for the abuser to get help to stop abusing. I was gratified when I became a Diamondback fan, and started listening to ESPN sports radio to hear adds encouraging men to admit violent behavior and seek help - with toll free numbers they could call. Not that all domestic violence is caused by men, sometimes women are the abusers. However, men are often the abuser and they need help to stop their behavior

What can you do to prevent domestic violence? If you are abusive or in an abusive relationship seek help - it usually cycles into more violence unless you take action to change it. If where you are is unsafe, seek to protect yourself - you deserve it! DonТt buy into or let your friends buy into the attitude that you deserve less than full respect. Here are some web sites and resource numbers that can help:

If you are in danger now call 911

National 24 Hour Domestic Violence Hotline

(For abusers and victims to get local resources or to talk to someone about your situation):

1-800-799-SAFE (7233) Voice or 1-800-787-3224 TTY

AZ Coalition Against Domestic Violence

www.AzCADV.org

Call for resource information, referrals or legal advice - open business hours. 602-279-2900 Voice 602-279-7270 TTY or 1-800-782-6400

Congratulations!

СEzТ Bachand and Natividad СTitoТ Garcia

Adapted from http://www.honkachina.org/ and http://www.ci.phoenix.az.us/NEWSREL/counts03.html

Hon Kachina Volunteer Award

Every year, deserving volunteers receive the Hon Kachina Volunteer Award for outstanding community service. Sponsored by a volunteer council of business and professional men and women in support of St. LukeТs Health Initiatives, honorees are selected from all parts of Arizona. ABIL congratulates УEzФ on being awarded this honor. Here is some of what the Council said about Ez.

Ezward УEzФ Bachand
At age 23, rodeo rider Ezward Bachand Jr. went flying off his horse. Suddenly quadriplegic, with a new wife, his life had taken a U-turn. That was 40 years ago. Since then BachandТs volunteer efforts have been focused on empowering people with disabilities and assisting them in living independent lives. He has been volunteering an average of about 10 hours a week for the past 30 years. While working at APS Ez helped to establish the Arizona Bridge to Independent Living or ABIL. ABIL has touched the lives of over 20,000 people since its inception. Ez served as President of the ABIL Board, and is currently serving as Chairperson for Statewide Independent Living Council (SILC) a Governor appointed and federally mandated council advocating for the rights of people with disabilities. He often acts as a Peer Mentor offering information and advice to recently paralyzed individuals while demonstrating how they can enjoy self-reliant and successful lives.

Ability Counts Community and Student Awards

Fourteen Valley individuals and organizations were recognized recently for their ability to overcome barriers and contribute significantly to the advancement of people with disabilities at the 2003 Ability Counts Community and Student awards luncheon. The Phoenix MayorТs Commission on Disability Issues and the cityТs Equal Opportunity Department coordinate awards program. The student award recognize outstanding students with disabilities for their personal and academic achievements.

Natividad УTitoФ Garcia (third place), Greenway High School - Natividad or УTitoФ has never given up. After living a life as an average teenager, a drive by shooting by a yet unknown assailant left him with a visual impairment and paralysis. Although he had to miss seven months of school and school officials did not expect him to graduate until he turned 21, Tito expects to graduate next May at the age of 19. He has turned his condition into motivation. Not only does he persevere in his academic pursuits, but he also speaks at United Way fundraisers and volunteers at nursing homes. Despite his disability, Tito lives a happy life. He does his own shopping and has attended his schoolТs Christmas and Homecoming dances with dates.

Tito is the son of Donna Jones, who recently worked as a Program Aide for ABIL. Congratulations to you BOTH!

Prescription Drugs Canada

ABIL offers this presentation to our consumers solely for informational purposes. ABIL neither sponsors nor endorses Prescription Drugs Canada and is not responsible for the quality of claims or services

ItТs no secret that the costs of prescription medications are spiraling upward. Some people think they have no choice but to have their prescription filled at the local pharmacy. Others meanwhile have turned to alternative sources, some of which can be of questionable quality and safety. Prescription Drugs Canada LLP(PDC), claims they are the safe alternative choice for consumers. According to PDC, they can provide physician approved prescription medications from Canada, ensuring customers greater savings, security, safety, and convenience.

PDC, based in Scottsdale has been in business two years. The company credits their lower costs to volume buying, CanadaТs lower drug pricing and the strength of the US dollar. According to PDC quality is maintained through the employment of licensed Canadian physicians who rewrite the US prescription and licensed accredited pharmacies where medications are dispensed.

PDCТs claim is that customers can have the peace of mind by dealing with a US company, following US rules and regulations. In response to the requests from the Spanish speaking community, PDC has a Spanish version of their website and offer both telephone and walk in customer service in Spanish.

To learn more about this program please join us for a informational presentation by Prescription Drugs Canada. See page 7 for details.

ABILТs Benefits Assistance Program a Success

By Donna Kruck

Three years ago, ABIL received a 5 year grant through the Social Security Administration (SSA) to provide work incentive counseling to SSA beneficiaries with disabilities living in Arizona under 65 years of age. Our mission is to outreach the 150,000 beneficiaries living in Arizona to let them know about new and continuing SSA work incentives, help them understand how employment affects their cash and medical benefits. Services are provided by eight trained and certified work Incentive Specialists located at four Centers for Independent Living: ABIL (Phoenix Metro area and central AZ), DIRECT (Tucson and Southern AZ), New Horizons (Prescott Valley/Flagstaff and Northern AZ) and SMILE ( Yuma county and Parker AZ.)

Services provided by the Arizona Freedom to Work statewide Social Security Work Incentive benefit planning, assistance and outreach program:

▐ 2,959 beneficiaries have received information, advocacy, benefits analysis and advisement and management this past year - Over 5,204 have received services since the program began.

▐ 911 community members received Work Incentive information and referral this year Ц 1,948 since the program began.

▐ We have networked with 162 groups/agencies this past year Ц 432 since the program beganЕ

- Reaching another 1,119 individuals this year Ц

3,223 since the program began

▐ 94 trainings on the Social Security Work Incentives have been provided this year Ц 201 since the program beganЕ

- To 756 individuals this year Ц 1,126 since the program began.

ArizonaТs state DES/Rehabilitation Services Administration has recognized the essential and valuable work incentives information our Arizona Freedom to Work program provides for individuals receiving vocational rehabilitation services. We are the first benefits planning, assistance and outreach program in the nation to receive supplemental funding to expand our capacity to assist all working SSA beneficiaries and have served an additional 300 VR customers that are beneficiaries wanting to work over the last six months as a result.

We are passionate about removing barriers to employment for any individual with a disability who desires to work, full or part-time by providing them with accurate, timely information about how the Social Security rules and incentives affect their unique situation. We also can help them understand how working will affect other benefit programs they may be enrolled in such as food stamps, HUD Section 8 housing and veteranТs benefits. Several of our Work Incentive Specialists have received Social Security benefits and understand the beneficiaryТs concerns. That is why we worked so hard in the last three Arizona legislative sessions (with your help!) to create and protect the new AHCCCS Freedom to Work program that allows individuals with disabilities to work and earn higher incomes and still remain AHCCCS eligible. This removes the fear of loosing health care as a barrier to employment for individuals with disabilities. It even allows them to accumulate more resources than allowed under the traditional AHCCCS (Medicaid) program so that a person can work their way out of poverty and save to buy a car or home.

To speak to a Work Incentive Specialist call 602-256-2245 or 1-866-304-WORK (V/TTY).

Social Security Work Incentives Q&A

By Erik Jensen

Q: I have met with a Work Incentive Specialist this year, but IТve just recently decided to begin working. With 2004 almost here, is anything changing?

A: Social SecurityТs work incentives will still work the same way in 2004 that they did in 2003. However, the dollar amounts relating to most of the incentives will increase effective January 1. For example, if you received SSDI in 2003, earnings of $570 or more in gross wages in a month counted toward your Trial Work Period. In 2004, it will take $580 each month.

For more information on how these changes may affect you, call one of our Work Incentive Specialists at (602) 256-2245.

SAVE THIS DATE: JANUARY 20th 2004

The annual Disability Legislative Awareness Day sponsored by the GovernorТs Council on Developmental Disabilities will be January 20th 2004. A legislative training sponsored by AZ Disability Advocacy Coalition will be held at 9 am. Invite your legislators to have lunch with you at noon. Event ends at 1:30, but you can stay around and meet with your legislators or go listen in to legislative hearings.

Advocacy Presentations/Workshops

All Advocacy presentations are free - Participants must RSVP with David Carey, 602-296-0523. Presentations/Workshops without a minimum of 4 participants are subject to cancellation.

For accommodations or alternative format please call in advance. For ABIL van transportation please call as soon as possible. ABIL requests a $1+ donation (each way) for ABIL van transportation. Consumers must be 18 years+ or their own legal guardian.

Social Security Work Incentives

Speakers: Erik Jensen, Rhonda Webb, & Donna Lorti - Work Incentives Specialists.

Workshops for Service Providers

Learn how ABILТs Benefits Planning, Assistance and Outreach program, granted through the Social Security Administration, can help people on SSI and/or SSDI understand how employment affects their cash and medical benefits. Over the last few years, several new work incentives have been created through Social Security and other public programs. Our trained and certified Work Incentive Specialists are also happy to provide presentations at your agency location.

Tuesday, December 16 1:00 p.m. Ц 3:00 p.m.

Location: 2345 E. Thomas Rd. Ste. 285, Phoenix

Workshops for SSI/SSDI Consumers

Consumers come and learn how employment will affect your cash and medical benefits. Please sign up for the workshop that matches the kind of Social Security you receive. If you are unsure which kind you receive, David can help you figure that out when you call to RSVP. We are holding separate workshops for each type of benefit: Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) because each program has different rules and different work incentives. If you receive both, let David know and he will help you get an appointment with a Work Incentive Specialist. Family members and/or support person are welcome.

Work Incentives & SSDI

Friday, December 19 1:00 p.m. Ц 3:00 p.m.

Location: 2345 E. Thomas Rd. Ste. 285, Phoenix

Work Incentives & SSI

Monday, December 8 10:00 a.m. Ц 12:00 p.m.

Location: 225 East 1^st St. Ste. 206 Mesa

Thursday, December 11 1:00 p.m. Ц 3:00 p.m.

Location: 2345 E. Thomas Rd. Ste. 285, Phoenix

Monday, December 15 1:00 p.m. Ц 3:00 p.m.

Location: Metro Center Office

(10000 N. 31^st Avenue, Ste. D-405), Phoenix

Prescription Drugs Canada

Come and hear from representatives of the Scottsdale Arizona Company, Prescription Drugs Canada as they discuss how their program can lower the costs of your prescriptions while assuring the quality of what you buy. This is a hot topic so RSVP ASAP.

Monday, December 8 1:00 Ц 3:00 p.m.

Location: 1229 E. Washington Street, Phoenix

Can They Hear Us Now? Chances Are That They CanТt!!

A 2000 Harris Poll revealed that people with disabilities register to vote at a rate that is 16 percentage points less than the rest of the population. Until state and federal lawmakers do begin to hear from more of us, they arenТt going pay attention to our issues - issues of concern to people with disabilities. Join us for a workshop on the importance of casting your vote and learn more about how to you can help register other voters with disabilities and ensure that they do hear us in the next election.

Guest Speaker: Jami Snyder

Monday, January 5, 2004 1:00 Ц 3:00 p.m.

Location: 1229 E. Washington Phoenix, Mesa

Post Holiday Pick-Me-Up!

Women & Self-Esteem Workshops

By Judy Benshoof

January 6th, 13th, & 20th, 2004

9:00 am to 4:00 pm

ABIL Mesa office, 225 E. 1st St #206.

For those of you who have survived the Holiday rush, the less than СNorman RockwellТ family gatherings, the expansion of waistlines and credit card bills, have we got a deal for you! You are invited to attend our three-day Women with Disabilities and Self-Esteem workshop, learn how to develop your own action plan for practicing self-care, and become a member of our network of supportive women.

Bring your lunch and leave with a new attitude. Space is limited, so RSVP early. Call Judy, 602-296-0532.

True Medicare Reform or Smoke and Mirrors?

By Donna Kruck

As youТve probably heard, Congress is struggling to come to agreement on changes to Medicare that would add a prescription drug benefit. President Bush has kept pressure on Congress to pass a bill this year. Why now? Social Security beneficiaries and their families have demanded a prescription drug benefit. The president and Congress want to get this bill passed before election time so they can say they finally did something. When Medicare was originally created, many of the prescription drugs used now for treatment and prevention of serious illness were not developed. Most health care costs went towards surgery and lengthy hospital stays. Now, more of the health care costs are spent on tests and prescriptions to prevent and treat illness and disability. President Bush is correct; Medicare needs to be Уmodernized.Ф But wait Ц what are we really getting?

The House (HR1) and the Senate (S1) bills differ in critical ways. Here are their common characteristics:

№ Monthly Premium on Medicare beneficiaries who are not low-income

№ A deductible for beneficiaries who are not low-income

№ Co-payments Ц some of which may be reduced for some low-income beneficiaries

№ A УdonutФ where there is no drug coverage for expenditures after a certain amount has been spent on pharmaceuticals, with 90%-100% coverage resuming after additional expenditures. SI has no donut for low-income beneficiaries.

Bills have passed through the House and the Senate and are in a conference committee where they are trying to hammer out their differences and get enough votes to pass the bill on both sides. This legislation was on the fast track until citizens successfully lobbied and protested to their Congressional delegation enough to slow it down. We slowed it down because Congress seemed more interested in restructuring Medicare than relieving Americans who are struggling to pay for their medications. Our own Senator Kyl has been on the conference committee. As of today, here are the problems with the bills as I see it:

1. Neither plan does anything to contain the spirally costs of prescription drugs. Pharmaceutical companies and HMOТs are the big winner. We need to use the same bulk buying power that the VA uses for Medicare prescription benefits.

2. The Senate bill does not provide Prescription drug coverage for 5.8 million low-income beneficiaries who are also enrolled in Medicaid. This will give states an incentive to reduce or drop Medicaid coverage for seniors and people with disabilities. The result would likely be higher costs for health care for those individuals.

3. The House bill does cover Medicaid beneficiaries but leaves them vulnerable to high out-of-pocket costs in addition to paying premiums without getting any prescription cost assistance with УdonutФ expenses. U.S. Action estimates that a low-income senior or person with a disability who has $3,000 of prescription drug costs would have to pay about $1,114 in drug costs under HR 1.

4. Deductibles and co-payments will rise and new co-payments for laboratory services (S 1) and home health care are imposed (HR 1). 214,000 Ц 256,000 Arizona citizens would likely pay more for Prescriptions under both bills. U.S. Action estimates that 579,000 Arizonans will pay more for doctor visits under both Medicare bills, and for laboratory services under the Senate bill.

5. The Congressional Budget Office estimates that 32-37% of retired Medicare beneficiaries would lose employer-sponsored prescription drug coverage under both bills.

6. This plan wonТt really take affect until 2006 Ц AFTER the next election Ц voter beware!

Congress does not have the will to shore up their promise to the American people and УmodernizeФ Medicare in a way that benefits the citizen, over the pharmaceutical and health insurance industry Ц both are large contributors to Congressional campaigns. Instead they offer the wealthiest Americans tax breaks! They want you to believe that it is now or never, that this is the best they can do. If the Medicare issue is important to you, let them know you are watching and let them know what you want them to do. They are listening or this thing would have whizzed through. They donТt want to be listening, but they are!

You can reach your Congressman and Senators at www.house.gov or www.senate.gov or call the House at 202-224-3121 Voice or 2020-225-1904 TTY

Senator Jon Kyl - 202-224-4521

Senator John McCain - 202-224-2235.

Living Today

For Tomorrow

The 4th Annual Southwest Spinal Cord Injury Educational Conference Health Fair

December 4th-5th

An interactive experience for consumers, families & service providers. Educational Conference, Friday Dec.4th, from 7:00AM-7:00PM. Southwest Spinal Cord Injury Health Fair, Dec. 5th. from 10:00AM-8:00PM.

Sheraton Mesa Hotel, Mesa

200 N. Centennial Way

Information: www.azspinal.org

E-mail: azscia2003conf@cox.net

Phone: 623-572-0819

Presented by the Arizona Spinal Cord Injury Association, Arizona GovernorТs Office on Head and Spinal Injuries, & Paralyzed Veterans of America, Az Chapter

Neuro Institute Free Seminar

УBladder Management from a PatientТs PerspectiveФ

Saturday, December 13th 11AM -1PM.

1221 West Warner Road, Suite 102, Tempe.

For more information call 480-735-0124.

ABIL Community Calendar Ц RSVP for All Events

Funding for Social and Recreational activities is provided (in part) by the Area Agency on Aging, Region I, Inc. and the Arizona Department of Economic Security. ABIL requests a $1+ donation (each way) for transportation provided on the ABIL van. Consumers must be 18 years+ or own legal guardian for ABIL van transportation. Please do not wear scented products or smoke when attending events. Reasonable Accommodations, including Sign Language Interpreters and Personal Assistants, will be provided at ABIL events upon request.

Dec 02 SR/Zoo Lights, 6-7:30 PM. Phoenix Zoo, 455 N Galvin Parkway Ц Come see Phoenix Zoo decorated with thousands of Holiday Lights. Cost: $7.00. Leanne Jones, 602-296-0535

Dec 02* Improbable Theatre Co., 6-8:00 PM. *Every Tuesday. Call for location. Kathy Tweet, 602-296-0503

Dec 03 Healer Within, 1-3:30 PM. Thomas/Conf Room. WomenТs wellness group: Using body, mind and spirit to achieve wholeistic health. Donna Kruck, 602-296-0520. New women attendees must RSVP.

Dec 05 SR/Holiday Party, 1-3:00 PM. Longview Recreation Center, 4040 N. 14th Street, Phoenix.. Leanne Jones, 602-296-0535

Dec 08 EVDAG/TRIP, 1-3:30 PM. Mesa/Classroom. Transportation & Community Advocacy Meeting. Bob Payne, 480-642-8445 or Mary Hartle-Smith, 480-733-5266

Dec 08 Prescription Drugs, 1-3:00 PM. Phx/Kitchen. See details on page 5. David Carey, 602-296-0523

Dec 08 SSI/Work Incentives, 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM. Mesa/Classroom. See details on page 7. David Carey, 602-296-0523

Dec 08 V.O.I.C.E. & COMPASS, 11:00 AM - 2:00 PM. Monthly support groups for persons with disabilities, their families and rehabilitation providers. 3rd Annual V.O.I.C.E. & Compass Chili Cook-off at the Encanto Park Clubhouse at Encanto Park in Phoenix. Clayton Guffey. 602-789-9129

Dec 11 SSI/Work Incentives, 1-3:00 PM. Thomas/Ste 285. See details on page 7. David Carey, 602-296-0523

Dec 15 SSI/Work Incentives,1-3:00 PM. Metro/Classroom. See details on page 7. David Carey, 602-296-0523

Dec 15 SR/Newsletter Assembly Party, 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM. Phx/Kitchen. Leanne Jones, 602-296-0535

Dec 16 PDBTAC Teleconference, 12 Noon - 1:30 PM. Phx/Kitchen. УAfter the Supreme Court: How Are the Lower Courts Handling Cases Brought Forth Under the ADA?Ф Barry Taylor, JD, Director of Litigation Services, Equip for Equality. Darrel Christensen, 602-296-0530

Dec 16 Social Security Work Incentives for Service Providers, 1-3:00 PM. Thomas/Ste 285. See details on page 7. David Carey, 602-296-0523

Dec 17 Healer Within, 1-3:30 PM. Thomas/Conf Room. WomenТs wellness group: Coping with the Holidays. Donna Kruck, 602-296-0520

Dec 19 SSDI/Social Security Work Incentives, 1-3:00 PM. Thomas Ste 285. See details on page 7. David Carey, 602-296-0523

Dec 19 SR/Holiday Shopping, 10:30 AM - 3:00 PM. Arizona Mills Mall, 5000 Arizona Mills Cir, Leanne Jones, 602-296-0535

Dec 25 & 26 Happy Holidays! ABIL Offices closed.

Questions about the ADA? The Pacific Disability and Business Technical Assistance Center (PDBTAC) can answer questions on all aspects of the ADA and/or provide you with literature in print or alternative formats. Call 1-800-949-4232 or log on to: http://www.pacdbtac.org

Classified Ads EARLY DEADLINE: DECEMBER 3rd

Call 602-296-0524 or send by email marked УWant AdФ to carolanq@abil.org ABIL provides space for individuals to place personal disability related ads free of charge and is not responsible for the quality of advertised items or services. The fee for a disability related business ad is $25. Please call to renew ads.

For Sale:

С88 Ford E-150 wheelchair van. 302 engine, raised top & door. New AC, alternator, & tires. Fairly new engine w/40k miles. Good for C5-C6 quad or para. Dual sun roof, security alarm, limo tint, custom leather int. Runs great. Must Sell. $6000 OBO. John, 602-861-1139.

С89 Ford Econoline Van 150, w/Ricon Lift, and hand controls. 69k miles. Good condition. $5000 OBO. Oxy-lite portable oxygen machine, model 301, w/ 4oxygen tanks. Asking $300. Hoyer Lift, 400 lb capacity. $150. Call 602-522-2581.

С90 Cad Fleetwood, RWD, 5.7 350 motor. Runs great. Gold package. Scooter lift & scooter. $4000 OBO. 480-225-4567.

С98 Full conversion Chevy Van, Blk w/gray int. Loaded. UVLift, electric bed, Captains chair, tie downs & automatic lock downs, TV/VCR, headphones, CD player holds 10. Vacuum cleaner. Tinted windows, rear air, 5 yrs old. $12,000. Sharon, 480-834-2938 or 480-430-0388.

С95 Chevy conversion Van, w/Braun 800L swing out lift. Only 44K miles, new tires & heavy duty battery, front & rear a/c, new door openers & remote controls. Like new inside & out. Must sell. $12,000 OBO. Please call Bill 602-866-1095.

Т99 Dodge Grand Caravan, fully converted for wheelchair use. 60K miles. Asking $25,500. Call Vicki, 480-703-2998

С90 Ford E-150, lowered floor van, w/Ricon Lift. Tie downs, EZ-Lock system on driver & passenger sides, great mech. cond. New 134A dual AC, radiator, lift battery and four 6ply tires. Two rear captainТs chairs and one for driver which can be switched to passenger seat when driven from wheelchair. Wht ext/Mauve Int. E&J electric wheelchair incl. 106K miles. $5500 OBO Call 602-942-3689 or 602-561-1750.

Quickie manual fold up wheelchair, exlnt cond., blue, seldom used. New pneumatic tires. exc. upholstery, w/slight 8 degree back bend. Comfortable seating w/choice of swing away arm rests, (padded or rubber coated.) & swing away foot rests. Incl. Roho cushion & velcro cushion cover! Exc. cond.! As is, $750 Firm! Must see. Incl. 2 wall grab bars, FREE! Serious calls only, please. Thx! 480-425-0902. Leave message if no answer.

Manual wheelchair w/leg lifts & cushion, used twice. $100. Electric hospital bed w/trapeze bar, side rails, like new. $300.

Exogen bone stimulator. $300. Call Pat, 602-870-7736.

Invacare mid-wheel drive power chair. 16Ф wide, great indoors & out. Low profile Roho cushion thrown in. Candy apple purple, 5 yrs old, new wheels, new adjustible back, well maintained. Cost new $11k, asking $2500. John, 602-861-1139.

Power Ranger X wheelchair. Black. Cost new 4-5k. Asking $800. Call Christine, 480-835-5440.

Jazzy 1170 XL power chair w/versatilt seating. Midnite blue. 4 mo.s old, used 3 times. Cost new $14,000. Silverstar electric wheelchair lift, 325lb wt capacity. 4 mo.s old, used 3 times. Cost new. Will sell Jazzy & Lift as set for $4,900 OBO. Call Lisa 480-895-6791 or (c) 480-221-8171

Shower chair, new, foot rests, arms drop. $250 OBO. Bill 480-857-9178.

Action Ranger X power chair w/charger & new tires. $1500. 3 whl scooter w/charger. $300. Melissa, 480-731-9933

Elec/man hospital bed, 7Т long, 3way, w/head & footboards, rails, remote. Mattress/cover incl. $210. Call 623-825-9845.

Invacare Pronto M6 powerchair, barely used, new batteries. Cost new $6800, asking $1900. Jim, 623-572-9336.

2 Wheelchairs. Both-very good cond. Quickie P300 w/newer battery, $1,800. Quickie 2, very light weight, $900. Call Mary Ann, 602-717-2398.

Accessible Home. Glendale, near I-17/Loop 101. Updates: paint, carpet installed 9/03, newer smooth top stove, СfrigeТ & washer. Also incl. dishwasher & dryer. Living/Dining rm combo, bayed eat-in area in kitchen, decorator mirrors, tiled countertops, floor tile. Easy maint. landscape, playpool. 2BR/Den/2BA/2car garage. Immaculate, move in ready. Call Mary Ann, 602-717-2398 for directions & details.

Accessible home, W Phx., 1522 sqft., 2BR/2BA. (formerly 3BR, now huge master BR suite) w/patio door exit, beautiful lite wood & other upgraded flooring. Dome ceiling in kitchen, roll-in shower, wide doors & many other improvements. Carport fits vehicle w/lift. Large lot w/RV gate. $113,000. Pam/Denise, 623-848-1456.

Accessible patio home. E. Mesa, off Recker/McKellips. 2BD/2BA. Wide doors, raised toilet, hand rails in MR BA. Master BR/patio door. Great neighbors. Wallpaper, flooring, kitchen appliances all fairly new, 2 yr old carpet, was a non smoking home. $99,900 OBO. Email: jenniferpfromkc@comcast.net

Accessible home, open floor plan, roll-in shower, wide hallways, lots of tile. 4BR/2BA, approx 1600 sqft, covered patio, ramps in front & back, 2 car garage. Low maint. desert landscape. $154,900. Call Linda or Tim, 480-985-7243.

Accessible Home. Beautiful, custom built, 2545sqft, North Phoenix, 3BR + den/2BA, lots of upgrades, lowered counters, roll-in-shower, security system & intercom at front door, 3 car garage, spa. $289,000. For more details call 602-468-1153 or 480-941-2933.

Wanted/Seeking:

Stand up Lift, Standing Frame, Mae-walker unit that supports and allows person to move around while in standing position. Marilyn, 480-922-1817.

Full Size Hi-top van. Bill 480-857-9178

Donated Van for couple w/disabilities. May arrange to work off costs. Scott or Bobbi, 602-334-1813.

I want to be a roommate. Cannot be a caregiver or driver. 40 year old female w/disability. I have no ex, kids, or pets. I go to school at 15th Ave/Thomas - hope to live relatively close. Please e-mail me; ks43425@yahoo.com

Medical equipment & supplies. The AZ chapter of the Paralyzed Veterans of America needs wheelchairs, shower equipment, walkers, crutches and unused medical supplies. Items are refurbished and distributed to low income people w/disabilities. Pick up/drop off. Tax deductible. 602-244-9168.

ABIL Soc/Rec Events, Jan - Feb 2004