CTD40: Inaugural Stories
2018 is a big year for CTD, in part, because we are turning 40! To celebrate our ruby anniversary, we are launching the CTD40 blog series, which will collect stories from our friends, colleagues, founders, supporters, and the people we serve about our shared history.
For our inaugural posting, CTD founding member Pat Pound recalls an early example of Texas cross-disability advocacy, Anne McCann on her years of supporting our Film Festival, and long time CDS attendant Paula Thomas tells what CDS means to her family:
Pat Pound, CTD founding member & Board President 1978-1980
In the early days, CTD involved itself in the regulations for Section 504. One of these involved transportation. I recall chairing a press conference at the Capitol on this issue. Many CTD members came out, most of them were deaf folks. Press were somewhat confused and asked what issues did deaf folks have with transportation. I explained that they generally don’t, but they realize that their friends with reduced mobility and blindness often cannot get transportation and hence could not attend. Also, they have developed trust regarding cross-disability support so that when their issues regarding interpreters come up they know that the support will be reciprocated. True cross-disability in action!
Anne McCann, Cinema Touching Disability sponsor & fan
I was not familiar with CTD until my son, after a frustrating job search, explored becoming a volunteer with CTD, aspiring to be able to help others. When he started the Film Festival, I thought it created a significant outreach to the community to provide education concerning disabilities and was eager to support it and encouraged others to do so as well.
After attending (and we never missed one), as well as making contributions, I had an amazing education about various adult disabilities and the inspirational way people met and overcame their challenges. The films were well chosen, covering a variety of issues and personal stories I will never forget. If all employers could see these films it might change some perceptions about disabilities.
I cannot help but think this continuing educational outreach and film competition would be most helpful in the advocacy and support role CTD plays, as well as a valuable fundraiser.
Above: Film Fest Director William Greer, Kelly McCann, The Little Tin Man star Aaron Beelner, and Anne McCann at the 2014 Cinema Touching Disability Film Festival
Paula Thomas, CDS Division attendant
Being an attendant with CDS allows me to be there for my brothers, who both require home care. Just recently, we were having watermelon for dessert after lunch. My brother John started choking on a piece. I was able to clear his breathing way quickly, and we could continue enjoying our meal. It's important that I can provide this kind of attention to my brothers, and CDS allows me to do this.
Next in CTD40: A Poetic Love Affair, by Maria Palacios >
Have your own CTD story to share? Contact Communications Director Laura Perna at lperna@txdisabilities.org or 512-478-3366 x305.
