March Is National Developmental Disabilities Month
Aunt Rita's signature smile - she is pictured above with Chris and Chris' wife, Darla.
Developmental disabilities are defined by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) as impairments in physical, learning, language or behavior areas.
Today, we celebrate the opportunities that arise when we embrace our differences.
The National Association of Councils on Developmental Disabilities (NACDD) has chosen for its theme this year A World of Opportunities – raising awareness of the contributions of people with developmental disabilities (DD) in all aspects of community life.
Most of us recognize that a diverse workplace, classroom, athletic team or book club will challenge conventional thinking, encourage fresh ideas and help us all grow. Inclusivity is a social responsibility, too. I learned about this early in life from my Aunt Rita.
When Rita was an infant, she had an illness that caused a high fever, coma and brain damage, resulting in developmental and physical disabilities. She wasn't expected to live beyond her teenage years. Against all odds, Rita will turn 83 years old in June! She has lived with my parents since just before I was born so I have had the privilege of knowing Rita my entire life. I have observed her greet family members, friends, guests and caregivers with warmth, enthusiasm and her huge, signature smile. Rita loves everyone she meets and approaches life believing that everyone loves her too (and they do!). Rita is a very special person to our family and we have been blessed by Rita's life in many ways, not the least of which is learning from her as she finds joy in all circumstances.
Thank you for joining me this month in celebrating all our differences and shared opportunities.
