Wednesday, August 28, 2013

Mike Zelley's 5 points to become a great advocate!

Mike Zelley, President of the Flint Disability Network took a few minutes out of his busy schedule today to share some words of wisdom with our young advocates. Throughout his career, Zelley has been a critical player in passing laws such as the Ticket to Work (http://www.ssa.gov/work/overview.html#a0=1), which allows individuals relying on social security to enter the workforce without immediately losing their benefits.

Zelley now leads the Flint Disability Network, whose motto is “Nothing about us without us,” meaning that individuals with disabilities need to be involved with any conversation regarding policies or laws that may affect their lives.

Mr. Zelley’s major points to our advocates were as follows:
  1. Do your research on the issues and the lawmakers or advocates you are speaking with
  2. Use a collective voice and build support for your position
  3. Be respectful to those who have differing opinions
  4. Find a reason for lawmakers to care--connect them to the cause
  5. Never ever ever give up.

We look forward to putting Mr. Zelley’s advice to good use in our upcoming advocacy pushes in Lansing. Thank you to everyone at Flint Disability Network for welcoming us to Flint!

Please stay tuned for updates on the upcoming legislation pushes that PEAC will be involved with in the very near future!


Monday, August 19, 2013

Hot off the presses, The Joys of Jennifer!

Our 21st Celebration of Cycling is right around the corner on September 14th and we are pleased and honored to be hosting Carolyn Siewicki, author of her new book, Joys of Jennifer. This book honors PEAC's very own, Jennifer, who has participated in PEAC programming and is a frequent rider at our Thursday night family rides. 

This year, Jennifer will be riding in the 21st Annual Celebration of Cycling on the back on a tandem for a 12 mile route, while Carolyn will be selling first edition autographed copies and $1 from each book will be donated back to PEAC. Click here to learn more and to register for PEAC's Celebration of Cycling!





Would you give up on your child if you were told, right from birth, that there was no hope? If Carolyn had done that, her daughter Jennifer would not have thrived with her many challenges. The Joys of Jennifer will give all parents of children with challenges or special needs the hope, confidence, and reassurance in their parenting skills.

“This book is a must-read for anyone who has ever faced a challenge and wondered why. In this true account of a family raising a child with special needs and facing challenges every step of the way, the reader will be moved by Jennifer’s spirit and her family’s courage and ability to embrace her precious life. Jennifer is an inspiration to all of us fighting the battle against pulmonary hypertension.” ~Erika Berman Rosenzweig MD, Medical Director, Pulmonary Hypertension Center, Columbia University-NYP

“Jennifer’s story is a true example of self-determination. With faith, courage, and a great sense of humor, she has been able to overcome the greatest obstacles in life. Larry and Carolyn define the true meaning of unconditional love and support.” ~Ann Mansour, Independent Support Coordinator for Community Living Services of Oakland County

“As a professor, I try not to pick favorites. But when introduced to a student with as much drive, dedication, determination, and charisma as Jennifer has, it was hard not to acknowledge her as a favorite. Jennifer’s story is one that shows how perseverance, hard work, and maintaining a sense of humor will take you beyond your wildest imagination. This book will be a valuable read to parents, would-be parents, or anyone who wishes to be inspired. Jennifer was a gift in my life, and it was an honor to be her teacher.” ~Christine Stover, Instructor of Communication and adviser to WXOU, Oakland University

“I first met Jennifer when she was twenty-eight years old. She is an inspiring young woman who has overcome many obstacles. This book is a testament to her spirit, courage, and compassion.” ~Dr. Donna M. Martin, MD, PhD, Associate Professor, the University of Michigan Departments of Pediatrics and Human Genetics

“Carolyn Siewicki’s memoir, The Joys of Jennifer, is a beautifully written dedication to her daughter. This inspirational story is about the abilities of a medically challenged young lady who has overcome many obstacles in her life. The dedication, encouragement, and support of her positive family have helped the high-spirited Jennifer achieve many goals and ac-complishments.” ~Melissa Shaw, Special Education Teacher


To order Carolyn Siewicki’s book,
please visit www.carolynsiewickibooks.com,
www.nelsonpublishingandmarketing.com
Also available through Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Ingram and Baker & Taylor.
Orders also accepted at Nelson Publishing & Marketing, (248) 735-0418.

Price is $12.95.


Carolyn was also featured in this weekend's Livonia Observer. Click here to see the story.