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From: Jay.Steinhardt@f230.n231.z1.fidonet.org (Jay Steinhardt)
Newsgroups: misc.handicap
Subject: Re: hidden disabilities
Message-ID: <19036@bunker.isc-br.com>
Date: 25 Apr 91 18:21:41 GMT
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Hi Donna!
I am a male, 35 years old who also has epilepsy.  I am uncontroalable
and my rate is aprox. 3 to 7 per week.  I have complex-partial seizures
that is a simmilar type to yours.  D do not drive but I do take a bus
and cab.  I also am a social worker for the Indiana Protection and
Advocacy Services office.  I mannage the cases for the capital city.
My case lode is based on protecting the civil rights of the disabled in
my district.
qI use to serve on the Epilepsy Service Commission and run a field
office as a consultant.  Personaly I think your doctor is all wet.  The
way I get around the issue of having a seizure in public is to ware a
MEDIC-ALERT that advises the EMTs of m{y condition and tells them "in
case of seizure do not transport!"  The last time I was transported I
filed an action against the ambulance company.  I have been left alone
since then.  The key to the disabled indiviual is being open and
assertive about the condition.  My folks tried to hide my disability
and told me all kinds of reasons that I should not "risk" expososure.
I found that when I made my {abilities known and exersized all my
rights under 504, 503 and now soon to come the ADA I could go alot
further.
Feel free to writte me if you have any questions

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