Bringing Visibility to Invisible Disabilities | Awareness and Education | #support

Summary

The Invisible Disabilities Association (IDA) was founded by Wayne and Sherri Connell to educate, encourage, and connect those affected by invisible disabilities worldwide. The script shares personal stories of individuals with conditions like multiple sclerosis, brain injuries, and rare heart conditions, highlighting the challenges of living with unseen illnesses and the societal misconceptions that can lead to isolation. The IDA aims to raise awareness, provide support, and create a community where people can share their experiences and find understanding, emphasizing the importance of believing and supporting those with invisible disabilities.

Takeaways

• 😔 People often doubt the existence of disabilities that aren't visibly apparent, leading to disbelief and isolation for those affected.
• 🌟 Wayne and Sherri Connell established the Invisible Disabilities Association (IDA) to educate, encourage, and connect individuals with invisible disabilities worldwide.
• 🌱 IDA addresses societal issues beyond specific diseases, focusing on the perceptions and misconceptions surrounding invisible disabilities.
• 👥 Everyone has a personal story or knows someone with an invisible disability, emphasizing the widespread impact of these conditions.
• 🚫 The lack of visible symptoms can lead to insensitive comments like 'you don't look sick,' which can be hurtful and invalidating.
• 🎶 Pete Ohlin's music and his daughter's rare heart condition exemplify how invisible disabilities can affect anyone, even those who advocate for awareness.
• 👁 Cassandra Perkins' experience with hemi-blindness highlights the challenges of living with an invisible disability and the impact of others' misunderstandings.
• 🧠 Living with a brain injury can be particularly isolating, as it affects daily functions and memory, often going unnoticed by others.
• 🗣️ The IDA provides a platform for individuals to share their stories, fostering a sense of community and support among those with invisible disabilities.
• 💪 The association aims to show the public the perseverance and strength of those living with invisible disabilities, advocating for understanding and acceptance.
• 🌐 By visiting InvisibleNoMore.com, people can join the movement to create a more inclusive and understanding world for those with invisible disabilities.

Q & A

What is the main issue addressed by the Invisible Disabilities Association?

The Invisible Disabilities Association addresses the disbelief, prejudice, isolation, and loneliness faced by individuals with disabilities that are not visibly apparent.

Why did Wayne and Sherri Connell establish the Invisible Disabilities Association?

Wayne and Sherri Connell founded the Invisible Disabilities Association to provide education, encouragement, and connection to those affected by illness, pain, and disability, aiming to treat societal misconceptions about invisible disabilities.

What kind of disabilities does the Invisible Disabilities Association focus on?

The association focuses on invisible disabilities, which are conditions that affect a person's daily life but are not immediately apparent to others, such as multiple sclerosis, brain injuries, and rare heart conditions.

What was Sherri Connell's personal experience with disability before founding the association?

Sherri Connell had bouts with paralysis and was eventually diagnosed with multiple sclerosis at 27 years old, which led to her being paralyzed from the ribs down.

How does Pete Ohlin relate to the cause of invisible disabilities?

Pete Ohlin's interest in invisible disabilities was initially through his music, which he believed could help others struggling with such conditions. His personal connection deepened when his daughter was diagnosed with a rare heart condition.

What challenges does Cassandra Perkins face due to her invisible disability?

Cassandra Perkins, who has hemi-blindness, faces challenges such as people not believing her condition and making fun of her, as well as difficulties in performing daily tasks like showering and washing her hair.

What is the common misconception that people with invisible disabilities often encounter?

A common misconception is that if someone 'looks fine,' they must not have a disability or be in pain, leading to disbelief and lack of understanding from others.

How does the Invisible Disabilities Association aim to support individuals with invisible disabilities?

The association aims to support individuals by providing a platform for sharing stories, offering a safe place to discuss their experiences, and educating others on how to understand and help those with invisible disabilities.

What is the significance of the phrase 'Invisible No More' mentioned in the script?

The phrase 'Invisible No More' signifies the goal of the Invisible Disabilities Association to raise awareness and recognition of invisible disabilities, ensuring that those living with them are seen, understood, and supported.

What steps can people take to learn more or get involved with the Invisible Disabilities Association?

People can visit the website InvisibleNoMore.com to learn more, share their stories, and join the association in its mission to support and advocate for individuals with invisible disabilities.

How does the association help caregivers and friends of those with invisible disabilities?

The Invisible Disabilities Association helps caregivers and friends by providing guidance on how to support and communicate effectively with individuals living with invisible disabilities, as well as resources to understand their challenges.

Outlines

00:00

🌟 Invisible Disabilities: The Unseen Struggle

The first paragraph introduces the concept of invisible disabilities and the challenges faced by individuals who have them. Natalie Tysdale discusses the skepticism and prejudice that people with invisible disabilities often encounter, such as those who park in accessible spots without visible wheelchairs. The Invisible Disabilities Association (IDA), founded by Wayne and Sherri Connell, aims to educate, encourage, and connect people affected by these conditions globally. The paragraph shares personal stories of individuals like Sherri, who was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis, and Pete Ohlin, whose daughter has a rare heart condition. These stories highlight the need for understanding and support for those living with invisible disabilities.

05:03

💪 Empowerment Through Awareness and Community

The second paragraph continues the narrative by emphasizing the importance of acknowledging and supporting individuals with invisible disabilities. It features personal accounts of how these disabilities impact daily life, such as Cassandra Perkins' experience with hemi-blindness and the social stigma that follows. The Invisible Disabilities Association is portrayed as a beacon of hope, providing a platform for those with invisible disabilities to share their stories and connect with others. The paragraph concludes with a call to action, inviting people to visit InvisibleNoMore.com to join the movement towards a world where those living with illness, pain, and disability are recognized and supported.

Keywords

💡Invisible Disabilities

Invisible Disabilities refers to conditions that limit a person's movements, senses, or activities but are not obviously apparent to others. In the video, this term is central as it highlights the challenges faced by individuals who have illnesses or disabilities that are not physically visible, such as multiple sclerosis or brain injuries. The video emphasizes the need for understanding and support for these individuals, as society often fails to recognize their struggles.

💡Prejudice

Prejudice in this context refers to preconceived opinions or judgments that are not based on reason or actual experience. The video discusses how individuals with invisible disabilities often face disbelief and prejudice from others who cannot see their conditions, leading to feelings of isolation and loneliness. The script mentions how people might say 'you don't look sick', reflecting a common prejudice against those with non-visible disabilities.

💡Isolation

Isolation is the state of being separated from others or being in a place or situation that is apart from others. The video script describes how individuals with invisible disabilities can experience isolation due to a lack of understanding or support from others. This can result in them feeling alone and disconnected from society, as illustrated by the experiences shared by the individuals in the video.

💡Education

Education, in the context of the video, refers to the process of increasing the awareness and understanding of invisible disabilities among the general public. The Invisible Disabilities Association (IDA) was founded to provide education about these conditions, aiming to change societal perceptions and misconceptions. The video underscores the importance of educating people so they can better empathize with and support those living with invisible disabilities.

💡Encouragement

Encouragement is the act of giving support, confidence, or hope to someone. The video highlights the role of the IDA in providing encouragement to those affected by invisible disabilities. It emphasizes the importance of a supportive community that can uplift individuals facing challenges, as exemplified by the stories of people finding strength and hope through the association.

💡Connection

Connection refers to the act of linking or establishing a relationship with others. The video script mentions the importance of connection for individuals with invisible disabilities, as it allows them to share their experiences and find support from others who understand their struggles. The IDA aims to facilitate these connections, helping to combat feelings of loneliness and providing a sense of community.

💡Multiple Sclerosis

Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is a chronic disease that affects the central nervous system, causing a range of symptoms that can include muscle weakness, problems with vision, and difficulty with coordination and balance. In the video, Sherri Connell shares her personal story of being diagnosed with MS at a young age, which significantly impacted her life. Her story exemplifies the challenges faced by those with invisible disabilities and the need for increased awareness.

💡Brain Injury

A brain injury refers to any trauma or damage to the brain, which can result in cognitive, physical, and emotional impairments. The video script includes a personal account of someone who suffered a brain injury after an accident, leading to memory issues and difficulties with daily tasks. This narrative illustrates the impact of invisible disabilities on a person's life and the need for societal understanding and support.

💡Hemi-Blindness

Hemi-Blindness, also known as hemianopia, is a condition where there is blindness in half of the visual field of one or both eyes. Cassandra Perkins in the video shares her experience of being born with this condition in one eye, which is not visibly apparent. Her story highlights the challenges of dealing with an invisible disability and the misunderstandings and insensitivity she faces from others.

💡Caregiver

A caregiver is someone who provides care and support to a person who is unable to care for themselves due to illness, disability, or old age. The video mentions the importance of supporting not only the individuals with invisible disabilities but also their caregivers. It acknowledges the emotional and physical toll that caring for someone with an invisible disability can take and the need for resources and understanding for these individuals.

💡Social Media Platform

A social media platform in this context refers to online communities or networks where individuals can connect, share experiences, and support each other. The video discusses how such platforms can be particularly beneficial for those with invisible disabilities, providing a space for them to connect with others who understand their experiences, as mentioned in the testimonials where individuals find solace and support through these platforms.

Highlights

People with invisible disabilities often face disbelief and isolation due to the lack of visible symptoms.

Wayne and Sherri Connell founded the Invisible Disabilities Association (IDA) to educate, encourage, and connect those affected by invisible disabilities.

IDA addresses societal perceptions and misconceptions about living with an invisible disability.

Sherri Connell shares her personal journey of being diagnosed with multiple sclerosis at 27, which drastically changed her life plans.

Pete Ohlin discusses how his music aims to help those with invisible disabilities and his personal connection through his daughter's rare heart condition.

Cassandra Perkins talks about living with hemi-blindness, which is often misunderstood and can lead to ridicule and isolation.

The importance of understanding that invisible disabilities are real and valid, even if they are not visibly apparent.

The challenge of daily life with a brain injury, where even basic tasks like bathing and dressing become difficult.

The emotional toll of being told 'you look fine' when struggling with an invisible disability.

The impact of insensitive comments on the mental health of those with invisible disabilities.

The realization and empowerment of recognizing one's own invisible disability and finding a community.

The value of a support system and a safe space for people with invisible disabilities to share their experiences.

The Invisible Disabilities Association's role in showing the public the perseverance and strength of those living with invisible disabilities.

The IDA's mission to support not only those with disabilities but also their caregivers and educate others on how to help.

The call to join the IDA and share stories to envision a world where those with illness, pain, and disability are seen and understood.

Embracing one's disability and refusing to hide or be ashamed, advocating for visibility and understanding.

The IDA's commitment to be a voice for those with invisible disabilities and the encouragement for others to join in this advocacy.

Transcripts

(Natalie Tysdale) Have you watched someone parking

in an accessible spot

but they're not using a wheelchair?

Have you wondered if they really have a disability?

Has someone ever shared with you

about their illness or disability

and you can't see the symptoms

and you might think

or actually say to them

"you don't look sick?"

Well these situations

and many others like them

often end in disbelief,

prejudice, isolation and loneliness.

Wayne and Sherri Connell founded

the Invisible Disabilities Association

for these very reasons

over twenty years ago.

they wanted to provide education,

encouragement and connection

to the millions who are touched

by illness, pain and disability

around the globe.

IDA is treating the deeper roots

of problems in society

not just specific diseases

but the perceptions

and misconceptions

and deep-seated notions

of what it means

to live daily with an invisible disability

or to care for someone who does.

Everyone has a story

a friend,

a family member,

a co-worker,

maybe even yourself?

Here are some of their stories.

(Sherri Connell) I had great plans for my life.

I was extremely active goal oriented person.

I was just always on the go

and none of those plans included being sick.

I was also having bouts with paralysis

and they didn't know why

then at 27 years old

all of the sudden

one side went totally paralyzed

the next thing I know

I was paralyzed from the ribs down.

Eventually after being in the hospital for a week,

they diagnosed me with multiple sclerosis.

The world changed

I was in an auto accident

and

the accident.

I was unconscious.

I was injured

and my memory was fading away.

I discovered that I had a brain injury

as a result of the accident.

(Pete Ohlin) [piano music]

Initially I was interested in Invisible Disabilities

because I believe my music

could help others they're struggling

with an invisible disabilities

and then about four years ago

my daughter was diagnosed

with a with a rare heart condition

which would be considered an invisible disability.

[Piano Music]

(Cassandra Perkins) I was born blind in my left eye

and you can't tell

because it's hemi-blindness

people get angry

people would make fun of me

and you know

you don't think that it gets to you

but then it starts to get to you.

I can't even take care of my daily needs

I can barely get a shower

or wash my hair.

It takes takes me days to wash my hair

and get it combed out.

No one can imagine

living alone

with a brain injury.

You don't know if the dishes are done

you don't know if you're taking a bath

you don't know how to dress

you don't know, you don't know

because you don't remember

if you know me, you see me

you don't think that I have this thing going in my head

that I'm constantly battling.

And the hardest part is

people didn't get it.

People would say,

"but you look fine."

"What's the problem?"

People need to see it to believe it!

and that is the hardest part.

And I was this happy, positive,

outgoing, life loving kid

and then everyday being told that

"I'm fat" that "I'm emo"

that "I'm goth" that "I'm ugly"

it gets in your head

it really starts to get to you

and I would go to my mirror

every day in my room and

slowly this person

this Cassandra Perkins that I love

just disappeared.

One of the most insensitive things

I think that I got from

a principal and also a teacher was that

your daughter "looks fine"

"she looks great"

and I get it from people on Facebook

to which in my head

I'm replying like "yeah right

you can you can see

that the blood is pooling in her legs

and that her heart isn't working

correct right?"

[Laughing]

One day I realized

I have an invisible disability!

It's invisible!

People can't see it!

And I was so excited

because it just completely wrapped around

the description of what I was going through.

I think if we give people a platform

and give people a safe place

to talk about these things

they're gonna be more willing to open up

and know that they can make connections.

I have someplace to go

some people to talk to

when I'm starting to get frustrated

or I had a bad day

I can pick up a phone and call

that's very important because

up until recently I was by myself.

There's days where people feel really good,

there's days where people feel really bad,

but they know that they can come

to this social media platform

and be able to connect through that.

[Background Music]

And the Invisible Disabilities Association

shows people the mountain

so that they can see our perseverance

and how hard we fight.

I feel supported

and I feel like I have an organization

that's fighting for me!

Here's why I love Invisible Disabilities

because there's so many aspects of the spectrum

there's helping the caregiver

there's helping the person who's going through it

as well as helping people who are

just outside family or friends

how to help that person

how to say the right things

what to do.

So what I drool?

So what my clothes don't match?

It's my disability,

get over it!

I'm here and I'm not going to go away,

I'm not gonna hide anymore,

I'm here!

[Background Music]

(Wayne Connell) Wow, those stories were amazing

and many of you have a story

maybe it's a story of illness and pain

but really what it is

is a story of people not believing you

and we

want to believe you

we want to understand that just because

we can't see the illness or the pain

that doesn't mean it's not real

so it Invisible Disabilities

we believe you,

we want to acknowledge the difficulties

you're going through

because we know you're the expert

who's living with the illness and pain and disability.

We want to be your voice

and we want you to join us in that.

We want you to join us in sharing those stories

and we want you to be that voice as well

along with us.

So please go to

InvisibleNoMore.com

that's InvisibleNoMore.com

Because let's together

envision a world where people living

with illness, pain and disability

will be

Invisible No More!