By Adria Nassim When I speak with different audiences, I typically mention one of the key elements that led to me living a meaningful independent life in young adulthood was my parents’ belief in the dignity and importance of risk in planning for independence. They both accepted very early on that I would have challenges…. Read more »
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Lessons from 15 Years of Independent Living
By Adria Nassim Recently, I heard a conversation in which someone said 2008 was fifteen years ago. In the fall of 2008, I had just moved to Bloomington where I started college at Indiana University. At that time, I also enrolled in a program for college age students with autism and learning disabilities which helps… Read more »
The Building Blocks of Independence: One Brick at a Time
By Adria Nassim Many times, when I talk to parents of teens and young adults with disabilities, they ask me what it took for me to live independently. I am not a parent, clinician, or a practitioner, so I share my own experience. My parents set very high, but realistic, expectations for me. Knowing full… Read more »
What it’s Like to Care for a Service Dog
By Adria Nassim A couple of my favorite things about caring for service dogs are the bond created and helping them develop their confidence and improve their skills. I really love working with Thomas every day and consider him to be part of my family. I love spending time with him whether we are working,… Read more »
Will I Ever Have Kids?
By Adria Nassim Someone recently asked me if I ever plan to have children. After a lot of thought, I decided to write a blog post on the topic because I know this can be something many young adults with disabilities may consider at some point, just as other young adults do. For many young… Read more »