“A Conversation about Mental Health” Panel Discussion

Three speakers will share personal experiences about bipolar disorder and ways that the stigma of mental health can be eliminated As part of its Dialogues on disABILITY Speaker Series, the Museum of disABILITY History will host a free presentation called, “A Conversation about Mental Health,” on Friday, December 1, from 7 to 8:30 p.m. at its location, 3826 Main Street, Buffalo, NY. The panel discussion will feature Keith O’Neil, former NFL football player who wrote a memoir titled, Under My Helmet: A Football Players Lifelong Battle with Bipolar Disorder ; Karl Shallowhorn, who contributed to the book, Buffalo State Hospital: A History of the Institution in Light and Shadow ; and Stephen Nawotniak, author of Handbook for Healthy Living with a Mood Disorder .  The speakers will share their personal stories, discuss key components of getting help and maintaining health, along with helpful tips for relationships and the workplace. They will also discuss ways that the stigma of mental health can be eliminated.  O’Neil is a former NFL football player who played for the Dallas Cowboys, Indianapolis Colts and New York Giants. During his professional career, he served as team captain and was a member of the Colts Super Bowl XLI Championship team. O’Neil played in the NFL with an undiagnosed mental illness of bipolar disorder. He is the president and founder of the 4th and Forever Foundation, which brings awareness to mental health and funds research for mental illness. He is passionate about helping others with mental health issues and is devoted to erasing the stigma of mental illness. Karl Shallowhorn is the director of Community Advocacy for the Mental Health Association of Erie County and Compeer of Greater Buffalo. He is a New York State Credentialed Alcoholism and Substance Abuse counselor, a certified Mental Health First Aid instructor and a mental health consultant. Shallowhorn serves on the Board of Directors for the Mental Health Association in New York State and the Erie County Mental Hygiene Services Board. Shallowhorn’s diagnosis of bipolar disorder and his role as clinician have given him unique perspectives.  Stephen Nawotniak was diagnosed in 2012 with bipolar disorder after a weeklong hospitalization for severe depression and is in the process of recovery. In his book, Nawotniak offers an experienced-based sharing of skills and tools. Relying on his expertise as a licensed occupational therapist, he focuses on constructing a meaningful quality of life using skills that are effective and important, while addressing the needs unique to bipolar disorder. He is also the author of the Mubu the Morph children’s book series, which speaks to the inner journey people face as they discover their purpose.  During the event, there will be books for sale and each presenter will be available for book signings. Event registration is encouraged. For more information or to RSVP, email David Mack-Hardiman at dmack@people-inc.org or call 716-629-3626. Established in 1998, the Museum of disABILITY History, a project of People Inc., is the only one of its kind in the United States and is dedicated to advancing the understanding, acceptance and independence of people with disabilities. Located in Buffalo, NY, the Museum’s exhibits, collections, publications, archives and educational programs create awareness and a platform for dialogue and discovery.

“A Sens-ible Home” and Our Changing Senses

Lecture presented by Center for Disability Studies at the Museum of disABILITY History February 24, 2012: Our senses change significantly throughout the lifespan, but too often the designs of homes do not reflect this fact. The Center for Disability Studies will present “A Sens-ible Home” on Friday, March 2, from 4 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. at the Museum of disABILITY History, 3826 Main Street in Buffalo (just north of the University at Buffalo South Campus). The discussion will be led by Professor Beth Tauke, a faculty member at the University at Buffalo School of Architecture and Planning and the Director of the University Educational Activities for the Center for Inclusive Design and Environmental Access (the IDEA Center). Professor Tauke will discuss the LIFEhouse TM , a universally designed concept house and model residence that was developed by University at Buffalo’s IDEA Center and a number of partners. LIFEhouse TM provides an example of a residence adapted to a person’s changing needs throughout the course of a lifetime. The house and its site incorporate multisensory perception with universal design principles. LIFEhouse™ won the 2012 National Home Builder’s Association Best Universally Designed Home Award. For more information or to schedule a tour of the Museum of disABILITY History, call 716.629.3626. The Museum of disABILITY History, a project of People Inc., is dedicated to the collection, preservation, and display of artifacts relating to the history of people with disabilities. The mission is to tell the story of the lives, triumphs, and struggles of people with disabilities as well as society’s reactions. The Museum of disABILITY History offers educational exhibits and activities that expand community awareness. People Inc. is a not-for-profit health and human services agency providing programs and services to more than 10,000 people with special needs, their families, and seniors throughout Western New York. Since 1971, People Inc. has assisted individuals to achieve greater degrees of independence and productivity.

“CarFit” Event for Older Adults at People Inc. Pine Senior Living

CarFit is an educational program that offers older adults the opportunity to check how well their personal vehicles “fit” them. Do you have a clear view out your vehicle’s windows? Are you able to reach and manage all controls and adjust the seat and seat belt so they are secure and comfortable? Find out at the CarFit – Helping Mature Drivers find their Safest Fit event on Wednesday, July 8, from 3:30 to 6:30 p.m. at People Inc. Pine Senior Living, 6231 Tonawanda Creek Road North, Lockport (off Transit Road near Millersport Highway). CarFit is an educational program that provides a quick, yet comprehensive review of how well you and your vehicle work together. The program, which was developed by AAA, AARP and the American Occupational Therapy Association, provides information and materials on community-specific resources that may enhance your driving safety and increase mobility. According to the CarFit website, driver safety programs improve adult driver safety by addressing cognitive abilities and skills, however, older drivers can also improve their safety by ensuring their cars are properly adjusted for them. A proper fit in one’s car may increase not only the driver’s safety but also the safety of others. Making adjustments may help you benefit from vehicle safety features by improving comfort, control and confidence behind the wheel. Additionally, during the event, there will be an opportunity to tour apartments at People Inc. Pine Senior Living, which provides affordable and safe apartments for independent seniors ages 62 and up who meet income guidelines. Monthly rent is based on income; some utilities included. People Inc. Pine Senior Living apartments include a living room, one bedroom, kitchen with appliances, accessible bathroom and safety features. The apartment building includes a furnished community room, laundry facilities, 24-hour on-call building services and group transportation to grocery stores. Tenants are welcome to have a small pet. Service coordinators are available to provide connections to services as needed to tenants at no extra charge. For those who like to remain active, there are a variety of activities held throughout the year. The event is hosted by AAA, Niagara County Sheriff’s Department and People Inc. Pine Senior Living. To register for the event or for more information, call 716-433-3381. People Inc. is a not-for-profit health and human services agency providing programs and services to more than 12,000 people with special needs, their families and seniors throughout Western New York. Since 1971, People Inc. has assisted individuals to achieve greater degrees of independence and productivity.

“Stay Well on Your Feet” Presentation at People Inc. Pine Senior Living in Lockport

Whether thinking of downsizing or removing the burden of household maintenance, People Inc. Pine Senior Living provides older adults the chance to live affordably. Seniors and their families are encouraged to schedule a tour or attend their free upcoming event. People Inc. Pine Senior Living will host an Open House on Wednesday, November 16, from 1 to 5 p.m., at 6231 Tonawanda Creek North, Lockport. A presentation called “Stay Well on Your Feet” will be held from 1 to 2 p.m., presented by DeGraff Memorial Hospital and McLaughlin Center. Tips will be shared to prevent falls, along with balance and Tai Chi exercises and tips for a healthier lifestyle. Tours will be available of the apartments, which are for independent seniors age 62 and up who are income eligible.  Monthly rent is based on the tenant’s and/or couple’s income. As an added cost savings, some utilities are included. The one-bedroom apartments include a kitchen with appliances. Tenants are welcome to have one small pet. Service coordinators are available to provide tenants assistance to supports and services at no extra charge. Group transportation to grocery stores is provided. For tenants who like to socialize, there are a variety of social events and community outings held throughout the year. Registration for the presentation is encouraged. For more information, call 716.433.3381. People Inc. manages 19 senior apartment locations throughout Western New York. For information about other locations, call 716.817.9090. People Inc. provides programs and services to more than 12,500 people with special needs, their families and seniors throughout Western New York and Rochester. Since 1970, People Inc. has assisted individuals to achieve greater degrees of independence and productivity. To learn more, visit people-inc.org . Like us on Facebook at People Inc . and follow us on Twitter @PeopleIncNews .

Unique Photography Book Features Images of Abandoned Asylums in Massachusetts

Western New York Native Writes Introduction to book featuring Massachusetts facilities Historian William Loren Katz once said, “If you believe that people have no history worth mentioning, it’s easy to believe they have no humanity worth mentioning.” This quote can be seen on the introductory pages of a recently republished book by the Museum of disABILITY History, located in Buffalo, NY, and its publishing entity People Ink Press. Abandoned Asylums of New England , part of the Abandoned History Series, offers the unique photography of John Gray, who has captured the final throes of the once majestic monuments of medical treatment that were state institutions for treating people with disabilities. Gray, of New England, spent 12 years taking photos that are eerie, yet architecturally beautiful, of abandoned asylums in various towns and villages that mark New England’s landscape. Originally self-published by Gray more than ten years ago, this brand new edition features an expanded collection of images and historical insight by the Museum of disABILITY History. A vast array of Massachusetts institutions are featured in the book exploring some of the region’s most prominent institutions from the nineteenth century, including state lunatic hospitals, state schools for the feeble-minded, tuberculosis sanatoriums and a hospital constructed specifically for people labeled dipsomaniacs and inebriates. Photographs of decrepit hallways, eerie rooms, leftover medical supplies and patient artwork are just some of the scenes that enable readers to envision the lives of the inmates and staff members who once occupied these storied temples of control, treatment and rehabilitation. “When I realized this book was no longer being printed, I contacted John Gray and asked him what he thought about republishing and adding historical content through the Museum of disABILITY History under our recently established People Ink Press,” said James M. Boles, Ed.D., president of People Inc. “We began working together and the interest in the book has exceeded our expectations.” The Abandoned Asylums of New England book is part of the Abandoned History Series published by the Museum of disABILITY History, People Inc. and People Ink Press. Due to a general reluctance to discuss the way those in need were treated in the past, records and memories related to the care and treatment of the poor, sick, and disabled are fading into the past – into the world of abandoned history. The Museum of disABILITY History is committed to preserving the important historical record of these almost-forgotten lives and the institutions and services that evolved over centuries to provide a more humane existence for those in need of care. This book is a part of that effort. The introduction of the book is written by Western New York native Douglas Platt, who is the curator of the Museum of disABILITY History. A resident of Newfane, Platt attributes the closing of institutions to both public outrage at conditions within them, and changing approaches to care. When asked if today’s society has improved the treatment of mentally ill, Platt shared, “The community care model of service delivery for individuals with mental health issues, or other disabling conditions, is a vast improvement over the practice of institutionalization.” One of the goals of the Museum of disABILITY is to introduce the community to a history people may not be aware of: “This book will provide readers with a rich and engaging visual experience, and I hope that it will also lead to a desire to explore the history of individuals who lived out portions of their lives in these and other institutions,” said Platt. “I hope this book will be an opportunity for reflection on attitudes about disability.” The Daily Mail , which is the second most read daily publication in England, wrote a story about the book in its Mail Online. The Australian , Australia’s largest selling national publication ran a story on it as well. The Huffington Post also included an article yielding great interest with more than 800 comments to date. “Due to these articles, we have been getting inquires for copies of the book nationally and internationally,” said Boles. Copies of the Abandoned Asylums of New England book may be purchased online at store.museumofdisability.org or at the Museum of disABILITY History, 3826 Main Street in Buffalo. Proceeds will benefit the Museum of disABILITY History, a non-profit organization. The Museum of disABILITY History and People Inc. established People Ink Press in 2010, which is dedicated to publishing books related to disability history. The Museum of disABILITY History, a project of People Inc., is dedicated to the collection, preservation, and display of artifacts relating to the history of people with disabilities. The mission is to tell the story of the lives, triumphs, and struggles of people with disabilities as well as society’s reactions. The Museum of disABILITY History offers educational exhibits, programs and activities that expand community awareness. People Inc. is a not-for-profit health and human services agency providing programs and services to more than 10,000 people with special needs, their families, and seniors throughout Western New York. Since 1971, People Inc. has assisted individuals to achieve greater degrees of independence and productivity. Newspaper Coverage: Daily Mail: Locked up and left alone: Photographer captures haunting images of the broken windows, rusted chairs and strange sights inside the abandoned asylums of America News.com.au: Photographer John Gray braves America's abandoned asylums The Huffington Post: Abandoned Asylums of New England Photographed In New Book Art Voice: Mainly a Question of Visions, The Pictures