Spring Has Sprung

To me, March feels like a buffer between winter and spring. As the weather warms, we're inundated with ways to prepare for what lies ahead. Spring cleaning and yardwork. Swapping out parkas and boots for raincoats and umbrellas. Adjusting our clocks to "spring forward." And more daylight for more of what we need to get done.  For families with disabilities and complex medical needs, planning and preparation -- especially in March --  are definitely not optional.

Transitioning Times

Preparing for an IEP meeting this spring, or helping your child transition from high school to "the world beyond"?  If so, you'll definitely want to check out  this informative and free recorded webinar. It’s hosted by Laura McKenna, the mom of a 22- year-old son and student with autism and an advocate, professor, and writer. Laura has a special knack for addressing the very things that concern us as parents and offering actionable tips to reduce worry and help you plan for your student and your family. Like me, she’s passionate about educating parents and empowering them to creatively prepare for whatever lies ahead – including what questions to ask as your child approaches “the transition years.” You can signup for Laura’s free newsletter here.

Tax Time

Planning is also required at tax time. And tax time is now, unfortunately. This 10-minute podcast from Exceptional Lives offers important things for you to pay attention to if you're filing with or for a disabled dependent in your home. Although the podcast is not a substitute for advice from a tax professional, I still found it helpful and hope you will, too.

Helen Helps Humanity

A friend, reader, and busy “special needs mom” recently told me about a wonderful publication called Helen. Named to honor Helen Keller, this Journal of Human Exceptionality puts persons with different abilities, family members and clinicians at the heart of its coverage. It’s the official publication for People Advocating for Optimal Health (PAOH) and is filled with articles that celebrate, guide, explain, and examine important aspects of health and well-being for families like mine (and perhaps yours). Check out Helen's wonderful website and archive of this powerful publication here. So much to learn and share!

Medicaid Momentum & March 12 Webinar

Media coverage abounds about the status and future of Medicaid coverage for people with disabilities in the United States. As financial advisor and special needs dad Eric Jorgensen reminds us, "Cuts to Medicaid will be felt by every family not worth a Billion (with a “b”) dollars. Maybe not directly, meaning it won’t be you or your spouse. But I have no doubt someone you’re related to, or someone you know well, will be impacted." This article explains why supporting Medicaid matters so much right now. To learn more about how you can advocate to safeguard coverage for your loved one(s), check out this free webinar on Wednesday, March 12th.