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Approved-By:  Bill McGarry <wtm@SHELDEV.SHEL.ISC-BR.COM>
Newsgroups: bit.listserv.l-hcap
Date:         Fri, 4 Sep 1992 17:00:27 EDT
Reply-To:     Bill McGarry <wtm@sheldev.shel.isc-br.com>
From:         Bill McGarry <wtm@sheldev.shel.isc-br.com>
Subject:      Handicap Digest # 2935

                             THE HANDICAP DIGEST

                                 Issue # 2935

                         Friday, September 04, 1992

Today's Topics:


                                ******


                                Free At Last
                            Reasonable Accommodat
                              Re: welcome back
                            Health care and jobs
                       Re: Jerry's Orphans Needs You!
                                 Hello Again
                           COFFIN-LOWERY SYNDROME
                       Re: Jerry's Orphans Needs You!
                           Article: "Reminiscing"
                                    HELP!
                                Re: lightning
                              General Interest


                                ******


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                              Bill McGarry (Moderator)
                              (203) 337-1518



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Subject: Free At Last
From: Earl.Appleby@p4.f429.n275.z1.fidonet.org (Earl Appleby)
Organization: FidoNet node 1:275/429.4 - HandiNet B B S, Virginia Beach VA


[This is from the AbleNews Conference]

ABLEnews

                        Free At Last

A judge has ordered the release of Adolfo Gonzales from the Oregon State
Hospital in Salem, ruling the Mexican migrant worker had been wrongly
diagnosed as paranoid schiziophrenic "for speaking in tongues."

The "tongues" in question were not a charismatic or Pentecostal
phenomena, but Gonzales's native Indian dialect of Trique.

Fortunately, a Catholic priest, Father David Zegar deciphered the speech
of the young man, believed to be in his 20s.

Unfortunately, the frail 5-foot-4 grape-picker had been a sedated inmate
of the mental hospital for two years at that point.

Hospital staffers ruled Gonzales, who spoke neither English nor Spanish,
"uncommunicative" and said the Indian made "peculiar gestures" such as
standing on one leg and squatting while eating.

"They thought he was mentally ill," said Rebecca Hillyer, the lawyer who
handled Gonzales's case. "He didn't understand why he was in prison and
why they were giving him medication. He was very sad. He hadn't spoke to
his family....They thought he was dead."

...For further information, contact CURE, 812 Stephen Street, Berkeley
Springs, West Virginia 254511 (304-258-LIFE/5433).

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Uucp: ..!uunet!bunker!hcap!hnews!275!429.4!Earl.Appleby
Internet: Earl.Appleby@p4.f429.n275.z1.fidonet.org




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Subject: Reasonable Accommodat
From: Joe.Chamberlain@p1.f175.n150.z1.fidonet.org (Joe Chamberlain)
Organization: FidoNet node 1:150/175.1 - Busted Flush BBS, New Castle DE


[This is from the AbleNews Conference]

 CS>ADA only deals with disability as in handicap.

Which kind of Handicap?

A lack of money is a handicap.  An inability to see, hear, and
taste are handicaps.  A woman unable to have children is
handicapped.  A newcomer who only speaks arabic is handicapped.  A
snake charmer with a fear of snakes and a veterinarian allergic to
animal fur are both handicapped. AIDS, alcoholism, leporsy, and
psoriasis can be handicapping.

The ADA does not define what constitutes a disability and it fails
to define 'reasonable accomodation.'

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Internet: Joe.Chamberlain@p1.f175.n150.z1.fidonet.org




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Subject: Re: welcome back
From: Pandora.Nigh@p0.f554.n157.z1.fidonet.org (Pandora Nigh)
Organization: FidoNet node 1:157/554.0 - Analytical Engine B, Willoughby OH


   Hi JP, long time no type. I'm glad to be back. I'm doing alright just a lot
slower. I picked a bad time to extend my activities last year. As I took on
more my body gave up more. But I'm getting pretty much adapted again now.
  Glad to hear about the new little ones. Are they as spoiled as the other?
(You'll have to excuse me but I forgot the little one's name). I also noted
that your trailer is still working and your going to try and run it to the
ground.
  I'm still doing my tv show and won The Ohio Public Images Award for tele-
vision this year. I'm also now on the Board of Directors Portage County
Easter Seal Society, my local area society. This really keeps me rolling.
 I got them to institute a new program called Access Aids and Appliances and
so I'm kind of stuck setting up and helping out a lot with it. Basically what
the program does is offer anyone anywhere heavy discounted prices on adaptive
devices and Aids-to-Daily Living. If you've seen any of the ADL catalogs you
know what a killer the prices are. Well we convinced a supplier to sell to
Easter Seals at whole sale and we add a little to cover shipping exspense and
pass that huge saving on. Basically we can cut between 30% -70% depending on
the items in the catalogs. We have set up a tryout area at the Easter Seal
site so that local people can try out and see what works best for them. Because
we are selling the items and not giving them out we have no geographic limits
from the National Easter Seal Society on the program. I'm so happy and
enthused over this, being one that needs alot of adaptive ADLs I know how much
the savings can add up. For example a company wanted $40 for a shampoo tray, I
got lucky and was able to purchase the same item through Easter Seals for $19.75
That is a good break since the difference gave me money to buy also a plastic
bag opener, a ziplock bag closer, a tab can opener, a boxtop opener , and a
couple of spill proof cups.
   I'll post more on the program and how to get things if anyone is intrested.

  I finaly got my permobile wheelchair after a wait of 1 1/2 years thanks to
the idiot med equip. store here. It was a real nightmare. That was one of the
things that added to keeping me offline for so long. The chair is what supports
me upright and makes it possible for me to sit up for long periods of time.
With that and my new hand prothetics that should be coming soon I'll really be
able to get into the old swing again. Well I've really bent your ear on this
one so I better let you get a rest and I'll talk to you later.......

                                                      Pandora

... My hard disk is full! Maybe I'll try this message section thing.

--
Uucp: ..!uunet!bunker!hcap!hnews!157!554.0!Pandora.Nigh
Internet: Pandora.Nigh@p0.f554.n157.z1.fidonet.org




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Subject: Health care and jobs
From: Patricia.Bregman@f24.n3602.z1.fidonet.org (Patricia Bregman)
Organization: FidoNet node 1:3602/24 - ADAnet One (tm) Net, Pinson AL


        Another sign in California that the "cost" of a national health
        insurance system may be less than the "cost" of the current
        system.  GM announced today that they are closing a 45-year old
        plant in Van Nuys, employing 2500 people, because it is more
        efficient and cost effective to move the manufacturing to its
        plant in Quebec.

        Despite the fact that Canadian wages tend to be somewhat higher
        than the US, and taxes may be somewhat higher, one of the
        reasons that the Canadian plants are able to be competitive is
        the fact that the company does not have to pay health insurance
        premiums for the employees.  This was cited by the GM executives
        as a significant factor in the move.  This was also apparently a
        factor in the decision to keep two other Ontario GM plants open
        while closing others.

        In addition, GM announced that they would not longer pay health
        insurance premiums for its employees, other than those protected
        by a collective agreement.

        In 1991 when it was making decisions about its plants, the
        company did a survey which showed a great disparity between the
        health care costs in different US cities. They said that health
        costs for workers in Youngstown, Ohio were twice the medical
        bills in Grand Rapids Michigan, 200 miles away.  The costs in
        Ohio added $1.00 per hour to labour costs.  GM in fact told the
        Youngstown plant that if these costs were not controlled it may
        result in the plant closing.  On average, health insurance costs
        $3100 per employee.

        According to a Fortune magazine article in July 1991,medical
        bills for US companies grew at twice the rate of inflation in
        1989. That amount, $173 billion, equalled 100% of their net
        profits.

 * OLX 2.1 TD * Hello, I am part number
===
 * QNet3 * ADAnet: Ability OnLine - Toronto Canada - 416/650-5411

 # Origin: ADAnet(tm) NetHub Birmingham, Alabama (205)854-9074  (94:94/1)

--
Uucp: ..!uunet!bunker!hcap!hnews!3602!24!Patricia.Bregman
Internet: Patricia.Bregman@f24.n3602.z1.fidonet.org




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Subject: Re: Jerry's Orphans Needs You!
From: Robert.Bowes.V@p0.f4.n382.z1.fidonet.org (Robert Bowes V)
Organization: FidoNet node 1:382/4.0 - River City MailBox, Austin TX


Janina,

I would like to see and/or hear more detailed message(s) on what
your reason(s) is/are for putting down a man who is funny in the
movies but is also very compassionate for those people who are not
able to do what we wish they could or not as abled as some of us
are. My biggest question is are you jealous because there is a
telethon for these people & maybe not any help or telethon for your
disability (if you have one)?

I would like to know & I would like for you to watch the telethon &
tell me what he does that you're not happy about. I have epilepsy &
it is not as well known as Muscular Dystrophy which is what his
telethon is but I'm not b****ing or complaining just because there
isn't an epilepsy telethon. I would like to hear more from you
before I can agree with you about your subject.

Regards,
Robert Bowes V
Moderator-Epilepsy Echo

--
Uucp: ..!uunet!bunker!hcap!hnews!382!4.0!Robert.Bowes.V
Internet: Robert.Bowes.V@p0.f4.n382.z1.fidonet.org




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Subject: Hello Again
From: William.Lewellen@f24.n232.z1.fidonet.org (William Lewellen)
Organization: FidoNet node 1:232/24 - Altered Paradise, Peoria IL


Is that UK as in United Kingdom?
Anybody: know anything about this problem? In the last 1.5 years, my
eyeesight has decreased by 50 points. In the two years before that,
it dropped 100 points (most of that seemed to be while I slept one
night. Something has eaten holes in the back of my eyes. Extremely
sensitive to light. One doctor saaid it was uveitus. Next said
degenerative macular cyst, hole, or pseudohole. It burns, it's
getting worse, and I don't understand it. BTW: my eyes were already
under 20/50 from a different (normal) problem. Thanks.

--
Uucp: ..!uunet!bunker!hcap!hnews!232!24!William.Lewellen
Internet: William.Lewellen@f24.n232.z1.fidonet.org




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Subject: COFFIN-LOWERY SYNDROME
From: Bob.Aviles@f140.n150.z1.fidonet.org (Bob Aviles)
Organization: FidoNet node 1:150/140 - Black Bag BBS, Wilmington DE


I have a 3 1/2 year old boy with Coffin-Lowery Syndrome and am
interested in trading notes re:  development, illnesses,
educational programs, and anything else that can help him.  If you
have a child with this syndrome, please respond.

--
Uucp: ..!uunet!bunker!hcap!hnews!150!140!Bob.Aviles
Internet: Bob.Aviles@f140.n150.z1.fidonet.org




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Subject: Re: Jerry's Orphans Needs You!
From: Gary.Warren@f5.n382.z1.fidonet.org (Gary Warren)
Organization: FidoNet node 1:382/5 - Health-Link, Austin TX


Robert, it is not the telethon per se or MDA which riles a lot of the
disabled (many of those with OR without MD), it is more or less the
"poor-little-cripple" schtick that pervades the program during its 21+
hours.  While such emphasis may have been the main reason MDA is able
to finance its research activities, special camps, etc. (and mind you,
no one denies these things are good), it doesn't make the routine any
more morally right.
Also, MDA doesn't pay for several things its more severely afflicted
clients may need, such as attendant/provider care and medications.
Finally and MOST importantly, it is now established that ANY charity,
no matter how holy or sincere the motives, only devotes 35-45 percent
of its gross contributions to its stated aims.  The rest goes right
toward overhead and administrative costs.  If you downloaded my Nov. 91
disABILITY NEWS-letter from Health Link (and Bruce said he would make
it available upon special request, right, Bruce?  :D  ), you would've
read my story, adapted from WASHINGTON JOURNALISM REVIEW, about Dianne
Piastro, a disabled (from MS, I think) syndicated journalist, and her
stonewalled efforts to get from the national MDA office administrative
salary figures, in spite of the fact that non-profit groups MUST make
available assets and liabilities as part of the public record.  So far,
as far as I know (::ahem::), she hasn't yet succeeeded.
glw, ye olde editor and publisher
disABILITY NEWS-letter

--
Uucp: ..!uunet!bunker!hcap!hnews!382!5!Gary.Warren
Internet: Gary.Warren@f5.n382.z1.fidonet.org




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Subject: Article: "Reminiscing"
From: Jeff.Oberlee@f500.n159.z1.fidonet.org (Jeff Oberlee)
Organization: FidoNet node 1:159/500 - Charlie's Foxhole, Lansing MI


Here it is, Helen!  Fortunately, I found the actual text file, so I
didn't hafra re-type any of it.  :)   I hope ya like it!

			  Reminiscing

			by Jeff Oberlee

 After stumbling out of bed this morning and summoning the energy
to do something other than sleep, I climbed onto my stationary bike
to get some exercise. (I say 'climbed' because I'm physically
handicapped and have to be careful...)  The noise created by the
heavy wheel rubbing against hard rubber clamps was enough to ruin any
pleasant imagery that might crop up in my head.  But I definitely
needed the exercise, so I tried to make the best of it.
 After a few moments, my mind began to wander back to my
care-free, early-teen days -- to the days of city-wide bicycle hide
'n' seek and bike tag -- which weren't so long ago . . .

 I bound out of the house, grab my beloved ten speed and head out.
Why?  Because I love to ride my bike.  Where to?  Probably nowhere in
particular.
 I give no thought to "needing exercise."  I ride so much and so
often that exercise is only occasionally used as an excuse to get out
of the house, away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.  It's
1983, I'm fourteen and at that point in my life where I feel a need
for some extra space, some freedom and independence.
 I round a corner, pedaling effortlessly, in total control despite
gravity and the fact that I'm riding no-handed.  The street I
turned onto was just paved last year and is very smooth.  The gentle
Spring breeze feels so good as I cut the air with ease and grace.
 These aimless (and to some, pointless) bike rides always serve
their hidden purpose:  I feel a distinct connection to nature, an
at-one-ment with my surroundings, an almost inexplicable sense of
peace and well-being--

 But my dream of yesterday was abruptly dashed when my left knee
slammed against the awkwardly placed metal panel housing an
inaccurate speedometer, a broken timer, and the tension knob.  Now I
know why they say, "Keep your knees apart!"  Otherwise, it can be a
slander-provoking, mood-wrecking experience -- not to mention
downright painful.
 No, there's nothing peaceful about riding my noisy, stationary
bike; no wind in my face, no fresh, fragrant air, no motion or sense
of control, no great outdoors, and no at-one-ment with nature.  All
of that is gone . . . (forever?)
 Today, after attempting to enjoy the closest thing to a real bike
that I can physically handle, I'm left with nothing but aching
muscles and a sore knee . . . and my memory of yesterday.

					   -- April '91

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Internet: Jeff.Oberlee@f500.n159.z1.fidonet.org




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Subject: HELP!
From: Jeff.Oberlee@f500.n159.z1.fidonet.org (Jeff Oberlee)
Organization: FidoNet node 1:159/500 - Charlie's Foxhole, Lansing MI


 > Wanted!

 > Ideas on what kind of business my disabled husband can set up at
 > home with a PC.

   Hi Susan!

   Depending on skills and intereests, here's a small list:

   1. Accounting / Bookkeeping
   2. Desktop Publishing
   3. Word Processing / Data Entry
   4. Computer Aided Design (CAD)
   5. Freelance writing (Articles, storie, etc)
   6. Computer Programming   (He'll never be the same... <grin>)
   7. Tutoring 'Computer Literacy' to kids or adults

     and lots more ...  What interests / skills does your hubby have??

                        Best Wishes!

                              - Jeff

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Internet: Jeff.Oberlee@f500.n159.z1.fidonet.org




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Subject: Re: lightning
From: Ralf@p0.f401.n229.z1.fidonet.org (Ralf)
Organization: FidoNet node 1:229/401.0 - The Connection HST!, Oshawa ON


-=> Quoting Jude DaShiell to All <=-

 If I might just add a couple of comments, Jude?

 JD> Lightning has more power in one
 JD> stroke than all of the atomic detonations set off so far.

With respect, this is a bit inaccurate.  A lightning bolt does indeed
convert a good deal of electrical potential to current flow and,
ultimately, heat... but I think you'll find a lighting strike some
orders of magnitude down from even one modest nuke.

This won't make a deceased victim less dead or an injured person feel
better.

 JD> What I would suggest is to find a really good psychologist and a
 JD> really good acupuncture specialist.

When asked my opinion, I might say that carrot juice has done wonders to
relieve my MS symptoms, and who knows, maybe it really does, maybe I'm
the only one.  But I would not publicly urge others to begin consuming
large amounts of carrot juice, asserting that it will benefit them.
Why?  Because it is not a medically recognized, valid treatment.  (BTW
folks, this is an illustration... I really drink single malt ;-)    )

I think you'll find that there is no medical literature which shows the
efficacy of acupuncture in reversing the damage caused by severe
electrical shock; nor do I think you will find literature detailing
polarity-reversal in shock victims.

Thus, you are advocating a treatment which is at this moment not
considered, um, mainstream.  Perhaps it would be appropriate to point
this out?  Like carrot juice, it might be harmless, but it also might be
a tad injudicious to advocate its therapeutic value in a forum such as
this.

 JD> Lee Trevino the golfer was hit by lightning and I think he wrote a
 JD> book about that experience.

I think it was Lee who suggested that the best way to avoid being hit by
lightning on a golf course was to hold up a 1-iron.  Said he, "Even God
can't hit a 1-iron!".

Peace

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Uucp: ..!uunet!bunker!hcap!hnews!229!401.0!Ralf
Internet: Ralf@p0.f401.n229.z1.fidonet.org




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Subject: General Interest
From: Shelby.Sherman@f67.n123.z1.fidonet.org (Shelby Sherman)
Organization: FidoNet node 1:123/67 - Shelby's Swamp, Bartlett TN


[This is from the Chronic Pain Conference]

 > This sounds like good stuff.  I take ibuprofen during the day,
 > and sometimes need something stronger in the evening.  I
 > definitely don't want to take something with acetaminophen in it
 > if I can help it.  All I have now are Tylenol 3's, so sometimes
 > I take those.  Do you know what the clearance rate is for
 > ibuprofen?  I'd like to know how long I have to wait after
 > taking 200 mgs before I can take the codeine.

What type of pain are you treating?  Generally you do not have to
wait, you can safely take NSAID'S together with narcotic pain
releivers.

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                                ******

                  End of Issue # 2935 of the Handicap Digest

                                ******
Comments: Gated by NETNEWS@AUVM.AMERICAN.EDU