The Advocado Press, Inc.

05/08/2025

Post from a recent guest of the Demand and Disrupt podcast.

05/08/2025

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05/08/2025

Are you looking to purchase assistive technology and exploring ways to pay for it?
The Appalachian Assistive Technology Loan Fund (AATLF) offers 0% interest loans up to $7,000 for people who are purchasing assistive technology.
Jerry from McCracken County has a loan with AATLF for hearing aids and has noted how having hearing aids has changed her daily life. “Life has been a lot better because of the hearing aids – a benefit I didn’t have before. I feel comfortable during conversations because I can hear people more clearly,” Jerry said. Read Jerry’s story here: aatlf.org/borrower-stories/jerrys-story/
Looking to learn more about AATLF and how to apply for a loan? Visit our website to learn more: aatlf.org/

(Picture of Jerry, a young woman, sitting in her living room.)

05/06/2025

May is Williams Syndrome Awareness Month. To mark the month, we are reposting Episode 36 of the Demand and Disrupt Podast, Disability Ambassadors, We Salute You. It includes an interview with disability advocate, Tyler Levy. Among other things, Tyler talks about his experiences living with Williams Syndrome. As a way introduction, Tyler provides us with the following:

"I have Williams Syndrome but it doesn't have me. I am different from the rest of the peas in the pod but I am very proud of what I have accomplished. It's a gift."

Kimberly interviews disability advocate, Tyler Levy, and Lisa interviews Aaron Lammers, who gives his own first-hand account of living with autism. Plus, Lisa and Kimberly talk about [Mattel‘s new line of disability Barbie and Ken dolls.](https://shop.mattel.com/pages/barbie-diversity) Thanks to [

05/05/2025

With Center for Accessible Living – I'm on a streak! I've made it onto their weekly engagement list 3 weeks in a row. 🎉

05/04/2025

May is Von Hippel-Lindau Awareness Month. Learn more about this Von Hippel-Lindau in Episode 53 of the Demand and Disurpt Podcast when Kimberly talks with Annie Lapidus about the joys and challenges of being in an immersive theater production about blindness, the importance of connection, and living with a rare disease.

Kimberly talks with Annie Lapidus about the joys and challenges of being in an immersive theater production about blindness, the importance of connection, and living with a rare disease. To learn more about Von Hippel-Lindau, visit [vhl.org](https://vhl.org/) Thanks to [Chris Ankin](https://chri

05/03/2025

Information from Tyler Levy for Williams Syndrome Awareness Month

While individuals with Williams Syndrome are often socially adept and outgoing, research indicates they may have difficulties understanding humor and irony, particularly jokes and non-literal statements. This difficulty can impact their social interactions, as these nuances are common in everyday communication.

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05/01/2025

R.J. Mitte

Sixth in a series of stories by Tina Jackson of famous people with disabilities.

For many years, the issue of casting non-disabled actors in disabled roles has sparked significant debate in the entertainment industry. Many argue that hiring non-disabled actors to portray disabled characters contributes to the underrepresentation of disabled performers and reinforces stereotypes.

Disabled actors often face barriers to entry into the industry, including inaccessible audition spaces and a lack of opportunities. Some productions justify casting non-disabled actors by citing factors like star power or convenience. Still, critics argue that this practice denies disabled actors the chance to represent their own experiences authentically.

Additionally, some believe that casting non-disabled actors in disabled roles perpetuates the idea that disability is something that can be "performed", a practice called “cripping up”, rather than a lived experience. This can lead to inaccurate portrayals that fail to capture the nuances of disability and take jobs from disabled actors. “Cripping up” is also problematic because it takes jobs away from disabled performers who already face barriers in the industry
The conversation around this issue is evolving, with more advocacy for authentic representation and inclusion in Hollywood and beyond, helped by movements such as and , which raised the issue of representation and inclusion in Hollywood.

Disabled actors have a strong advocate working hard to get the industry to recognize the importance of authentic representation. R.J. Mitte is an American actor, producer, and disability advocate. At birth, he was delivered via emergency cesarean section and was not breathing at the time, which resulted in permanent brain damage and a diagnosis of cerebral palsy at the age of three. Despite his disabilities Mitte's family encouraged him to see his condition as a strength rather than a limitation. Mitte used leg braces and crutches during his childhood, but through sports and exercise, he strengthened his body and eventually no longer needed walking aids by his teenage years. In 2006, his family moved to Los Angeles to support his younger sister's acting career, opening doors for Mitte in the entertainment industry.
Mitte's own acting career began with background roles in shows like Hannah Montana. His breakthrough came when he was cast as Walter White Jr. in the critically acclaimed series Breaking Bad (2008–2013). His portrayal of a character with cerebral palsy brought authenticity and visibility to disability representation in media, earning him widespread recognition.

Mitte's career has also included appearances in shows like Switched at Birth and films such as Standing Up for Sunny and Triumph. He has ventured into modeling and breaking barriers in the fashion industry.

Beyond acting, Mitte has been a passionate advocate for disability inclusion. He serves as a celebrity ambassador for United Cerebral Palsy and has worked to raise awareness about the challenges faced by disabled individuals. His advocacy extends to promoting authentic casting and encouraging opportunities for disabled actors in diverse roles.

05/01/2025

Announcing the second financial education workshop at the Center for Accessible Living conducted by the Louisville Financial Empowerment Center.

Managing Credit and Debt
Wednesday June 4th
12:30 PM
Center for Accessible Living
501 East Broadway, Louisville

Navigating credit and debt can be challenging, especially for individuals with disabilities. This workshop will provide a comprehensive overview of how to manage credit, build a healthy financial foundation, and avoid common debt pitfalls. We’ll explore the basics of credit scores, how to access and manage credit responsibly, and ways to tackle debt effectively. Participants will learn about resources and strategies to manage credit and debt, empowering participants to make informed financial decisions and achieve financial stability.

Lunch will be provided by the Louisville Financial Empowerment Center.
To register for this event, call Chris Mattingly at 502-537-0949 or email him at [email protected].

(the attached flyer contains the above text and the logos of the Fincanial Empowerment Center and the Center for Accessible Living.)

04/30/2025

MAY DISABILITY DAYS
These awareness months and days play important roles in educating the public, reducing stigma, fundraising efforts, advocating for change, spotlighting challenges faced by millions, celebrating resilience, and pushing for greater inclusivity.

May 5: International Cri du Chat Awareness Day
International Cri du Chat Awareness Day, observed in May, aims to raise awareness about Cri du Chat Syndrome (also known as 5p- Syndrome), a rare genetic condition caused by a deletion on the short arm of the 5th chromosome 5. The name "Cri du Chat" translates to "cry of the cat" in French, referring to the distinct high-pitched, cat-like cry that affected infants often make due to abnormalities in the larynx and nervous System. Symptoms can vary widely but may include intellectual disabilities, developmental delays, feeding difficulties, and unique facial features such as a small head (microcephaly) and widely spaced eyes.

May 12: Fibromyalgia Awareness Day
Fibromyalgia Awareness Day observed annually, serves to raise awareness about fibromyalgia, a chronic condition characterized by widespread pain, fatigue, and cognitive difficulties. The day aims to educate the public, reduce stigma, and advocate for research and treatment options. It also provides an opportunity to support individuals living with fibromyalgia and to foster understanding of the challenges they face. The date was chosen to honor Florence Nightingale, who is believed to have experienced symptoms similar to fibromyalgia. Her resilience and contributions to healthcare make her an inspiring figure for those dealing with chronic illnesses.

May 15: Williams Syndrome Awarenes
Williams syndrome is a genetic condition caused by the deletion of between 26 and 28 genes on chromosome 7. This rare genetic disorder affects many parts of the body and is characterized by distinctive facial features, a friendly and outgoing personality, developmental delays, and cardiovascular problems like narrowing of the blood vessels.Williams syndrome is a genetic condition caused by the deletion of several genes on chromosome 7. This rare genetic disorder affects many parts of the body and is characterized by distinctive facial features, a friendly and outgoing personality, developmental delays, and cardiovascular problems like narrowing of the blood vessels. Symptoms can vary but often include a broad forehead, a small upturned nose, wide mouth, full lips, and a small chin. Individuals with Williams syndrome typically have intellectual disabilities and unique strengths in verbal skills, coupled with heart issues such as blood vessel stenosis. Early diagnosis and supportive therapies can improve quality of life.

May 16: Global Accessibility Awareness Day
(GAAD), observed annually to raise awareness about digital accessibility and inclusion for people with disabilities. The day encourages conversations, education, and action around making digital spaces—such as websites, apps, and software—accessible to everyone, regardless of their abilities.

MAY 30: World Multiple Sclerosis Day
World Multiple Sclerosis (MS) Day, observed annually on May 30th, is a global initiative to raise awareness about MS, a chronic neurological condition that affects the central nervous system. The day aims to educate the public, support individuals living with MS, and advocate for better research, treatment, and care. It also fosters solidarity within the MS community and promotes understanding the challenges those affected face.

ALS Awareness Month
ALS Awareness Month is dedicated to raising awareness about Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), also known as Lou Gehrig's disease. This progressive neurological condition affects nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord, leading to loss of muscle control and eventual paralysis. The month-long campaign focuses on educating the public, supporting individuals and families affected by ALS, and advocating for research and treatment advancements.

ARTHRITIS Awareness Month
Arthritis Awareness Month raises awareness about arthritis, the leading cause of disability in the United States. The campaign focuses on educating the public about the various types of arthritis, such as osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, and gout. It also highlights individuals' challenges with arthritis and promotes research, advocacy, and support for better treatments and care.

National Stroke Awareness Month
National Stroke Awareness Month, obs is dedicated to raising awareness about strokes, their warning signs, prevention, and the impact they have on individuals and families. The campaign emphasizes the importance of recognizing stroke symptoms quickly, as timely medical intervention can significantly improve outcomes. It also highlights lifestyle changes that can reduce stroke risk, such as managing blood pressure, maintaining a healthy diet, and staying active.

Better Hearing and Speech Month
raises awareness about communication disorders and highlightsthe importance of early diagnosis and treatment. It also promotes access to resources like speech therapy, making communication more inclusive
Mental Health Awareness Month
fosters open conversations about mental health, working to break down barriers of stigma and encourage people to seek help. It's a time for advocacy, policy changes, and highlighting the importance of mental well-being.

National Mobility Awareness Month
celebrates individuals with mobility challenges and the technologies and resources that enhance accessibility. It’s a platform for promoting equal opportunities and recognizing their contributions to society.

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