Behind The Mic Book Review UGLY by Robert Hoge

I absolutely LOVE when friends give me book reviews!  I logged onto my facebook page one morning and my facebook friend, Rita Shutes, whom I also know personally, had posted a picture of her daughter Olivia with this book standing outside a nursing home where she reads to the residents.  Rita has really instilled in her children the need to give back and make people's day a little brighter.  I have been a recipient of many of these gifts to make people's days' brighter, when I worked as a receptionist at Olivia's daycare!  When it came to this book, it also brightened my day!  UGLY by Robert Hoge is one marvelous book!!  As I got to know Robert through this book, I was moved by his courage and his fortitude to live life to the fullest, despite how different his appearance is from those around him!  He was able, at a young age, to go through a life changing surgery, yet understanding that the outcome would mean an easier way of living.  Unbelievably brave!  What was also brave to put in this book was the reaction of his mom after he was born.  She told Robert later that the reason for her reaction was pride.  She was worried about what people would think about the way he looked.  After working things out inside herself, Robert's mom's love for him grew strong and fierce!  What I really appreciated about this book is that it helps you to look outside your own comfort zone, coming to realize that you don't have to always go along with what society deems as "approved".  We are individuals, made up of different feelings, reactions, desires, dreams and abilities and we are not robots.  All human beings should be treated with dignity and respect!!  Robert gives this magnificent advice:  "If you're different from other kids, don't worry about the jigsaw puzzle.  Don't judge yourself by everyone else's seemingly beautiful picture.  And don't worry if your final picture doesn't seem clear or if the edges around your story don't seem sharp.  The solution is simple: Be unafraid of living.  The puzzle pieces will take care of themselves"

The sentences above are just one of the many golden nuggets you can keep in your "positive thinking" memory bank when you need it!!

Robert: Thank you so much for telling your story through this book!  It reinforces the adage that you can NEVER judge a book by its cover, but you can learn life changing lessons from it!

Michelle Fischer is host of A View from My Window, a podcast produced by The Arc of Indiana

Pick up Robert's book here: www.amazon.com/Ugly-Robert-Hoge/dp/0425287777/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1523929546&sr=8-1&keywords=ugly+by+robert+hoge

Behind the Mic Book Review: A Beautiful Mind, a Beautiful Life by Lindy Tsang

"An unstoppable person is someone who is not afraid to make mistakes. An unstoppable person radiates confidence because they believe in their abilities. An unstoppable person perseveres by viewing life's obstacles as opportunities to learn and grow.  They don't just dream the dream; they live the dream" 

I feel like this book needs to be announced on the loud speaker at the drugstore, no, not "clean up in aisle 4"... more like "inspirational life lessons in aisle 4...oh, and while you're at it, you can pick up that favorite eye color you've been wanting."  Lindy Tsang uses the platform of makeup tutorials on her Youtube channel to help bring out your best outer beauty and this girl has major skills!  Her love of all things beauty is infectious!  Not only does she serve as an ultra adorable expert, but she's also realized that beauty is more than just about the face.  You can have a pretty face, but feel broken, unlovable and hopeless inside.  I love how Lindy is using her success to help other women succeed and start to love the image staring back at them in the mirror.  Lindy shares deeply personal insights into how she felt growing up.  When she said she always felt different, I completely and totally could relate, especially with having a physical disability and using a wheelchair. One day she decided to take control and change her mindset about the world around her and not put limits on the extraordinary potential inside her.  Her parents just expected her to follow in her family's footsteps of choosing a career as a doctor, lawyer or engineer, but a love of art was what she really wanted to tap into and see if it could turn into, not just a job, but a passion!  Before becoming the household Youtube star she is today, she had to climb from the bottom to the top, but she took steps to pave the way to being the best version of herself.. being unstoppable!  She worked at her parents Thai Chinese restaurant and when she started earning money and buying makeup, she eventually got up the courage to post a video on Youtube!  The flames of her extraordinary potential were being sparked!  Through this book, Lindy walks you through the process of bringing out your own extraordinary potential that could be hidden inside you!  She becomes your loudest cheerleader throughout this book!  I recommend this book becoming a part of your beauty routine!!  Thank you Lindy for writing this book and helping everyone find their own way to being UNSTOPPABLE!

Learn about this book from Lindy herself! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RIUpOhu0oN8

To purchase the book: https://www.amazon.com/Beautiful-Mind-Life-Guide-Unstoppable/dp/1945293624/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=&sr=

Michelle Fischer is host of A View from My Window a podcast produced, by The Arc of Indiana

Breaking News: I am a Panic Attack Sufferer!

I started experiencing panic attacks around the age of 18, about the same time I started experiencing depression. Depression and cerebral palsy were horrible enough, but then these attacks that have no trigger whatsoever? Yeah, now I'm at the peak of weirdness, I thought. I have never really talked about panic attacks until the last couple of years. I felt like if I talked about them, not only would people not understand, but I would be looked at as the most selfish person in the universe!  The real hard truth is, Ladies and Gentleman... Panic Attacks ARE REAL!  They do make me feel super out of control, mine come out of nowhere...literally I'm sitting by myself or lying in my own comfy bed in my own house!  I may go out to eat with friends and I'll have 2 small ones and a large one that shakes my body so much inside that I just want to curl up in a tight ball and cry until there are no more tears to cry! These attacks don't care that you want to enjoy life to the full with the ones you love, enjoy the act of actually taking air into your lungs, going shopping, going to a bookstore, going to a movie or just running errands. Everyday life is taken from you when these attacks show themselves... not to mention your self-esteem takes a MAJOR hit!  After many attempts at trying to be "Rosie the Riveter" about the toll that these were taking on my body, and that I could ''handle it", I found that it was difficult to deal with these alone. Seeking support makes everything more bearable! I wasn't too much of a fan of being that vulnerable at first, but the more I got used to the idea, the easier it became. As I talked about my anxiety, I found that many people suffer from the same thing. Then it occurred to me... the more you express what you are going though, the more other people feel free to express themselves. You never know how long they've felt the same fear of expressing their feelings, but because you are doing it, they may realize it's ok for them as well. What a gift to give to someone! In the years since, I have been to many doctors with no success. Then I found the sweetest doctor that has done wonders for me in helping control these monsters! Granted, I still struggle with them, and we have a rocky complicated relationship, but, I'm certainly glad I haven't giving up in showing them who's in control! I realized I'm worth it, and I'm certainly not alone.. No one is ever ALONE, my dear reader...NO ONE!

Michelle Fischer is host of A View from My Window a podcast produced by The Arc of Indiana

Looking through my writing archives...A piece written for the HandicapThis Team!

This is a #Throwback post! I wrote this piece a couple of years ago for the HandicapThis Team! Hope you enjoy!

Emotions are what connect us.  We can speak to each other through emotions.  When someone cries, they need comfort.  When someone is angry or upset, they need a listening ear.  When someone is so happy they can’t hold it in, your heart bursts out in happiness with them!  What helps motivate you to connect with others through your emotions?  Understanding and fellow feeling.  These two qualities help you to put yourself in another person’s shoes.  You remember that, at certain times in your life you have also felt the weight of heavy emotions - the ones where you feel like you could break and shatter and not be able to go on...  You have also felt the feel good emotions, happiness and contentment, feeling so good that nothing will stop you!   You may say to yourself, “Negative thoughts, what negative thoughts? I’m ecstatic” ...as you bask in your happiness.  As you go through these emotions in your lifetime, who is there for you?  Whoever the person is, you no doubt feel so much better after you talk about how you feel.  Whether it’s pouring out your heart or getting set to accomplish something you have always dreamed of, someone you love, respect and care for is and was there, for...YOU.

Those who love you, may have taken the time to share insights into what helps them get through certain situations without letting their emotions take over and keeping a level head.  Then you may decide to pay it forward and share it with someone else.  For example, let’s say you try to give encouragement and positive help to someone and you walk away feeling like you helped them.  However, the next time you see them, they seem guarded and closed.  Within yourself, you may feel like the help or advice you gave, didn’t help at all.  Here’s something my mom has always said to me, “People can only give you what they can give you on that day”.   Everyone, disabled or not, deals with stresses, emotions and disappointments in different ways.  These things weigh on people, and there are days when it would just be easier to stay in bed!

A good thing to remember, though, is that the time you take to be there for someone will always be remembered.  When something is on someone’s shoulders, it sometimes takes time for the advice to sink in.  At the time, they may not be able to see how your advice will help them, but in the long run, it can have an impact on that person for the good - helping them to keep moving forward!  That’s such a wonderful gift you can give to another person - using what’s in your power to help.  A kind word or a gentle hug, can help that person to recharge and become resilient again!  

I often talk about how people with disabilities should be included in groups with those without disabilities so that each can benefit from the other.  People with disabilities are often thought of as needing something.  However, we can give something, as well.  Since there is more happiness in giving, I propose that we start something new.  All those who have disabilities (I’m included in this group:), can make an effort to give of themselves everyday.  Talk to someone without a disability.  Talk to someone with a disability!  Say hello and put on a warm smile. If you are able to have a longer conversation, you might be surprised by what you find out about them.  You may find out that you have more in common than you first thought and you might just be the person that makes their day a bit brighter.  Practice makes perfect and the more you practice relating to people, the more you can give of yourself to them.  People will observe the way you view the challenges and obstacles that come up in your daily routine, and how you handle them.  As you work on your perspective and your positive emotions, you will become a person who can be there for others.  As you give back for all the times others have given to you....the impact will be lasting and priceless!

Emotions are powerful for the good or bad, building up or shattering to pieces.  Ask yourself: What part do I want to play in how far Disability Awareness rolls on?  What kind of ripple effect do I want to make for those around me?  Emotions are what connect us.  Putting our heart into our emotions - the motivation behind how we use our emotions - will help keep us together!

Michelle Fischer is host of A View from My Window a podcast podcast produced by The Arc of Indiana www.arcind.org/podcasts/

#FeelgoodFriday Wordless Post...Celebrating #NationalSmileDay

Behind the Mic Book Review: Wonder by RJ Palacio

As I was reading this book I was thinking about someone inspecting an apartment to rent, only to find that the apartment is in poor repair.  Despite the bumps and bruises, though, you can see that it has real potential to be a modern, chic, up and coming place to call home.  You start to take steps to give it the care and attention it needs, and in the end, it really does become the most perfect place to establish a life with those you love.  You saw the potential it had when you started to put the effort in to get it how you wanted it.  Anyone dealing with a challenge knows that it takes real effort sometimes to see your own value and potential.  To feel comfortable in your own skin and view yourself as a place you want to call home.  Especially when your particular challenge or obstacle obscures your view.  But the first step to seeing anything, maybe even something you may not like about yourself, is to look at it straight on.  This mindset is developed and worked on over time because it's never easy to accept something that takes so much energy to not let it prevent you from enjoying life.  This funny, uplifting and incredibly moving novel teaches a wonderful lesson about getting out of your comfort zone, pushing the envelope and preparing yourself for growth.  Growth can hurt and sting, but at times, humor can make it less painful.  The star of this book is a boy named August and he has a facial deformity.  His parents knew they couldn't protect him forever by keeping him home schooled.  While they understood why August wouldn't want to go to public school, they also knew that they had to prepare him for life in the real world.  So, his mom and dad started talking about memories of their school days, and before you know it, August was able to contemplate attending his own school.  Three students named Jack, Charlotte and Julian were assigned to take August on a tour of Beecher Prep middle school.  Before August meets these students, the comparison is made through August's past experiences, between younger kids and older kids.  Younger kids usually say things innocently, but older kids say things with greater intent to harm someone.  People spend less and less time being empathic towards each other and it has had, and will continue to have disastrous emotional effects.  On the other hand, it's a two way street.  To help people understand, maybe even to have a better reaction, you have to put away the selfish emotions and put yourself in someone else's shoes.  Jack really helped August in that regard...acknowledging that Julian could be a jerk, but it was important for August to talk and interact so that he could diffuse a potentially uncomfortable situation for himself and everyone else.  When all is said and done, not everything in life, or with people, will be how you want it.  The important thing to get straight in your mind is how to not let it stop you from moving forward or changing who you are.  Situations like what August found himself in, trying to help his classmates see he's just like them, also makes you see who your friends are.  August found out that Jack and Charlotte wanted to be true friends with him and their actions showed it.  Another classmate, Summer, whom August ends up eating lunch with everyday, made meeting August fun.  She didn't assume that August was weird!  Instead, she sought to get to know him by asking him his name and then pointing out that their names had a common theme, so their table turned into the "summer" table.  Only kids with summer names could sit there!  Then she looked around the room showing August the kids who fit the criteria to potentially sit at their table, a non-awkward introduction of sorts!  Way to go Summer!!  Summer, Jack and Charlotte all chose kindness...which ultimately led to them seeing beyond Augusts' face and seeing who he truly was deep inside.  Simply, a boy who wants to be like everyone else.  Support from the people you care about most can make the difference in whether you survive and thrive, or completely crumble. The first step is an easy one: #ChooseKind

Everyone goes through times that seem to be never ending and seem to have gigantic obstacles everywhere you turn, but if you stay with your face to the wind, on the other side you will be forever changed and it will shape the person you eventually become. August's mom was right, through it all, he became a true Wonder...You have that ability to become a Wonder, too...a tried and true WONDER!!

For more on author RJ Palacio, go to: http://rjpalacio.com/

This book is becoming a MAJOR MOTION PICTURE!! Watch the Trailer: http://www.wonder.movie/#

Michelle Fischer is host of A View from My Window, a podcast produced by The Arc of Indiana

Boost your Self-esteem... go ahead! Its good for you!!

I wish I had known about Boost your Self-esteem Month when I was going through my self-defeating teenage years.  Now that I know that there is such a thing, I'm advocating for you to click on this post, to boost your self-esteem now!  It will benefit you now and in the long run, as you navigate life's ups and downs.  Self-esteem is the confidence in ones' own worth and abilities.  Having a physical disability clouded my view of any abilities I had, yet in the same breath, I was developing the not so attractive trait of feeling entitled to something.  Feelings of having everything under control, yet, falling apart at every seam!  As I woke up from being so consumed with myself and started to be more aware of GIVING to others, I really started to see what positive things I could give to others!  Now, when I look in the mirror, I'm loving and smiling at the girl staring back at me!  The greatest gift you can give to yourself is never allowing anyone or anything to dull your sparkle!!  Who should determine that?  You, you, you!  Make the determination to not allow the seeds of negativity to become entrenched in your mind, heart and outlook! You don't deserve to lose all sense of your identity!  You deserve to be who you are, no apologies required!  I remember not too long ago, shopping with my mom, and I was having a good self-esteem day.  That day I looked into the mirror and I was so thankful that even though it is a daily effort to work on my emotions, it is worth the effort!  Fighting the urge to give in to my less than positive emotions is an uphill battle, but I'm glad I've put up the fight.  The mirror doesn't lie, it will show you the positive changes you've made, but it will put a BIG glaring light on the things you need to change.  When you put in the hard work, you will see someone who glows and that glow has a ripple effect....You may have been beat down at one point, but you got back UP!!  You are beautiful, strong and ready to pay it forward to others!  I have found that my faith has really been a stronghold for me in working with my emotions.  Even when I deal with the days when my self-esteem is a little lower, I know my heavenly father, God and friend will always see me in the most positive light possible even when I can't see it myself!  One of my favorite scriptures I always have in my memory bank is Isaiah 40:29 "He gives power to the tired one And full might to those lacking strength"  Remembering these words and many other scriptures as part of my daily routine does wonders for my outlook!  As one of Jehovah's Witnesses, tending to my spiritual needs as well as giving to others, keeps my outlook bright!

There you have my prescription for boosting my Self-Esteem, now, its your turn! Now, Go Forth and Conquer low self-esteem!!

To read more ways to Boost Your Self-Esteem, Check out this article from The Positivity Blog! http://www.positivityblog.com/index.php/2013/09/11/improve-self-esteem/

Michelle Fischer is host of A View from My Window, a podcast produced by The Arc of Indiana

A look back through the Window of the past year!

It's hard to believe that another year has come and is almost gone.  What has never left, though, is the love I have of interviewing, meeting new people, hearing their stories and bringing them to you... It truly never gets old or boring!  If my Grandpa Applegate could see me now... he would be beaming with pride!  He was my mom's dad.  He was always such a stable, caring man in my life! I was proud to call him one of my grandparents!  He was the one I was sitting with in my living room the day I decided I was going to be in news. When I looked back at him and said: "Grandpa, I want to be a news anchor", I knew that I would have his support.  He's been gone for 22 years and still to this very day, I wish I could call him or sit with him and celebrate the achievement of the goal of doing what I love!  He was my loudest cheerleader and my most sought after support...just like my mom is....her daddy taught her well!  How I was raised and how my family treated me and others around them, really shaped not only myself as a person, but also the kind of anchor I have become.  I was always included in family activities, never excluded, but loved, and very much embraced.  In all the interviews I do, that is the mindset I come in with, striving to make the person feel at ease.  An interview style that allows the the person's voice and story to shine through, showing them dignity and empathy, as the story takes shape and starts to unfold.  Reflecting over this past year, my emotions and heart are always touched to see the resilience of the human spirit and the determination of those whom I have the pleasure of meeting.  I want you to know that all the interviews I've done this year and for the past 7 years, have all had a great impact on me.

Another major milestone of the Arc of Indiana, was the opening of the Erskine Green Training Institute and Teaching Hotel in Muncie.  It's been the first year for the training program to teach students a variety of skills in the hospitality industry.  It's been amazing to see what this institute has done for all those who have taken the leap to climb out of their comfort zone and realize what they are truly capable of.  It's been incredible to see!

THANK you so much to all of you who have listened to the podcast over these last seven years.  I'm truly grateful for all of you!  Thank you for allowing me to bring you the important issues and inspiring stories that the podcast covers.  Thank you for taking the time to meet me and telling me why you listen to the podcast and how it has brought a smile to your face!!

Thank you to ALL of the Arc staff and especially my team... my producer Sally Morris and my sound engineer Bryce Dickerson.  Thank you for making my work so rewarding...we are truly a team!  I can't imagine this podcast without you!  You bring stability to me when I'm nervous and a pat on the back when I'm unsure of myself (which happens more often than not..right? haha!!) The best medicine we throw in though, is laughter!!  Thank you as always...The Arc is VERY special to me!!

To my Mom: You had the hardest job: raising me!  Your love, confidence and hilarious humor has always gotten us though!  I will always be forever grateful for your support!

Here's to more podcasts and much more in 2017!

Behind the Mic at the Movies: Finding Dory

"Hi, I'm Dory and I suffer from short term memory loss!" Oh, Dory, sweet, lovable Dory...yes you do!  Despite her disability, she has an excitement and zest for life that is undeniable!  The Disney crew has done it again with this vividly colorful aquarium world that draws you into the adventure to come.  One day, while she was being a helper to Mr. Ray, (who is always in the mood to break into song and happens to be Nemo's teacher), someone asks Dory if she has a family.  She looks puzzled, and with a hault to her voice, answered that she didn't know, but then saying that she must have a family because she had to come from somewhere! That triggers her memory and you are taken back into a dreamlike sequence where her mom and dad tell her she can do anything because she's smart and she will remember things.  They lovingly told her that they would help her by leaving a trail of shells for her to get home.  So, the adventure begins to find her family!  As with any endeavor, there are those who try to dissuade her by planting seeds of doubt.  Enter, Hank the Octopus. Hank is just trying to get to Cleveland to make his home there and get out of the Marine Life Institute.  He has bad memories of the ocean so he doesn't want to go back there. All Hank needs is Dory's ID tag and he'll help her find her parents.  He has a grumpy disposition, but he ends up helping Dory get one step closer to her parents.  Marlin, whom she helped find Nemo in "Finding Nemo", starts out being very supportive, but at one point, with his irritation at a breaking point as he's dealing with her short term memory, says: Go over there and just forget...it's what you're good at!  Would Dory just throw up her fins and say, "I'm done!" Nope!! Her motto is always, "just keeping swimming!"  Because she never wavered from her positivity, all those who were roped into her journey, came around and actually wanted to help her accomplish her goal.  There are several more dream sequences that show mom and dad instilling in Dory confidence to do whatever she wanted.  The things that her parents patiently and lovingly reminded her of throughout her life sustained her!  This is a must see for anyone who feels like they can't accomplish what they want because their obstacles are just too tall to overcome!  NONSENSE, I say!  Remembering to focus and be grateful for those who choose to go with you on a journey will give you the motivation to NEVER give up...No matter what obstacles come your way!!  I could go on and on in this review, but I promise, I won't.  I do HIGHLY recommend this movie though!  You'll meet many more characters that through helping Dory, help themselves.  The one huge lesson I went away with is: JUST KEEP SWIMMING!! I intend to keep at it with all my goals and endeavors and I really hope you do too!!

Michelle Fischer is host of A View from My Window, a podcast produced by The Arc of Indiana

Disability Awareness Month 2016: Where am I now?

March is Disability Awareness Month each year.  I have to admit, I actually kinda geek out during this month! Yes, we do get covered on the news a bit more and I get to see the cool things that others do to celebrate the month.  I especially love the the humorous and empowering t-shirts! Most importantly though, I reflect on how far I've come in my life.  From the day of my birth and my parents wondering if I would survive the first couple days of life, to being a journalist in the field of my choice! Of course, there was a lot of hard work in between.  I've come to realize that I'm the same as everyone else, but drastically different. Goals and aspirations are slow to come, at times.  My brain, I say, is able-bodied, but my body is slow to follow!  Giving up, though, would never do anything good for me so I refuse to give any time to the idea.  Instead, I look to build up! The key to helping myself is helping others. Whether it's a warm hello with a smile, spending time with friends and family, shopping for gifts for friends, sending cards, writing, working with my team on my podcast and interviewing incredible folks...all this builds me up and gives me the strength to continue to shine and be the happiest I can be everyday! So, this year for Disability Awareness Month, my advice to you is something that Scott Chesney said, an international speaker from Verona, NJ, recently interviewed on my podcast: "Don't let something life changing happen to you before you make a change". There are always going to be challenges, emotional ups and downs, bumps in the road, things that can cloud your vision, but always ask yourself: "Would you want it to be worse?" It could be worse in an instant. You have the power to choose your attitude toward whatever situation you find yourself in. Happiness is where it's at, people! :)  You are more than your disability tells you you are!  I want you to be able to look back on 2016 Disability Awareness Month and be able to say: Where am I now? I'm farther than I ever thought possible! What a GREAT choice....Right? :)

Organization Profile: IPAS

IPAS, or the Indiana Protection and Advocacy Services, was recently featured on "AView from My Window".  I love profiling "new" (to me) organizations who work hard to give people with disabilities a life that is full and meaningful.  IPAS simply wants everyone to be treated the same, which means having the same human, legal and civil rights as everyone else.

The team at IPAS, Executive Director Dawn Adams and Director of Communications Jessica Trimble, plus the dedicated interns on staff are very dedicated to their mission and responsibility of providing the needed support to the disability community in navigating the legal and human rights system, which can be very lengthy and confusing.  What's impressive about Jessica and Dawn is their motivation in helping the folks they serve.  They seek knowledge from other organizations like The Arc of Indiana and the imput from others, including myself, regarding what protection and advocacy mean to us.  The concept of advocacy wasn't even something I could have wrapped my head around, until I started my job at The Arc of Indiana, and saw how much it was promoted and encouraged.  The more confidence I 've gained in coping with my disability, the more appealing advocacy has become to me.  I found that I could implement advocacy in different ways and in different areas of my life.  Advocacy is a gift that is to be shared, so that not only you can live the life that you want, but more importantly so that others can live the life they want and deserve!  

If you or someone you know would benefit from the services IPAS offers,  feel free to contact Jessica Trimble at IPAS  phone: (317).719.3944
                            (317).722.5564 (fax)
                         Email: jtrimble@IPAS.IN.gov

Michelle Fischer is host of A View from My Window, a podcast produced, by The Arc of Indiana www.arcind.org/AViewfromMyWindow

Listen to Dawn and Jessica talk about what IPAS offers in our interview here:  http://www.arcind.org/a-view-into-ipas/

Being Thankful: It's all about perspective...an everyday effort.

I always love getting to spend time with my Grandma!  For as long as I can remember, she's been one of the biggest influences in my life.  My mom has, over the past couple of years, started to take on the role of caregiver, which involves taking care of everyday things for my grandma - making sure she has meals, new clothes when needed, doctors’ appointments, paying her bills, filling out paperwork, etc. - it’s a never ending list, actually.  Each new day brings the same routine and what has amazed me is my mom’s dedication to her mom.  She's told me countless times she doesn’t want my grandma to feel alone.  I see why she feels that way.  Her parents never left her alone or with nowhere to turn.  When my sister was growing up, she was with my grandparents whenever mom needed someone to watch her.  When I grew up, I was never always cared for, as well.  Both my grandma and grandpa made it part of their routine everyday, like clockwork, to be at my house to get me off the bus...always bursting with love and smiles to greet me.  My grandma would fix snacks as we talked about the school day.  I was always helped with my homework (translation: I am not and never was a math genius!)  No matter what it was, they were always there.  Holding me up, cheering me on and building me up.  Returning the favor is only the right thing to do. Being supportive a thousand times over.  For years, my grandma did well on her own and then we realized for her own safety and well-being she needed a little more assistance.  Transitioning there was rough, so the supportive reinforcements were built up.  Reassuring her that she would be in a safe place and able to do what she wanted so she could find more joy in being in a community that would welcome her with open arms and help her through the tough spots of moving into a new phase of life.  Every once in awhile, she would say she wants to come back to the home she lived in.  I started off by saying that I could really relate to her.  I haven’t done all I want to in my life either, but if we get too focused on what we don’t have, we'll miss out on the blessings we do have.  Mom and I both tell her how much we love her, and that moving her to where she lives now is because we want her to be safe, happy and healthy!  She just happens to be all those things, now that she has gotten settled in her new home!

My grandma continues to teach me that you may not have the most ideal situation, but you can be happy in adjusting to a new situation...and come out smiling on the other side!  That’s what my grandma does every day and I’m determined to do the same. Being thankful is an everyday thing. That way everyday can be sunny and bright!!  Make it part of your everyday routine!

Love you Grandma!! :)

Handicap This: Promoting Cerebral Palsy Awareness and giving you a glimpse into a real deal friendship!

Every interview I do has an impact on me, and when I interviewed Tim Wambach and Mike Berkson of the wildly successful stage show, Handicap This, it was no different. The impact has been a very positive and personal one.  Tim and Mike have a way of inviting you into their company and making you feel like you've known each other for years. They wanted to meet me and I reeaally wanted to meet them, so it was a very easy comfortable flow when we met and said hi and what made it even more unbelievable was that our interview was over the phone!  I really related to one of the things Mike said... he said that he didn't know if anyone outside his family would accept him for who he was.  Enter stage left, Tim, a 27 year old who became Mike's aide when he was 12.  Soon after, Tim began to realize that his job as Mike's aide was turning into a friendship!  This is a friendship that transcends any barriers!  It's inclusion at it's best! Mike and Tim are BEST friends and it doesn't take you long to recognize their unbreakable bond.  In fact, I was honored that I got to hear it with my own ears! Handicap This helps you understand that there is more to a person than just what's on the outside, it's what's on the inside that counts.  Tim decided that he was going to open his mind and his heart and get to know who Mike really was, which meant Tim would see Mike go through rough, painful times and happy, incredible times... But, no matter what, Tim showed that he would be with Mike through it all... He wasn't going anywhere!  He values Mike's friendship and Mike values his!  Now, and since 2010, you can see their journey play out on stage, where you will laugh, cry and be INSPIRED!

This interview will be one of the ones that will stay with me through my career as an anchor!  Improvise. Adapt. Overcome.

Tim- 
Thank you for opening your heart and your mind all those years ago and having a passion for helping those with disabilities and special needs and continuing to make minds "handicap accessible"!  You truly are a one-of-a-kind person!  Thank you for being you!

Mike-
Thank you for showing all of us what having a physical challenge can look like. We don't have to let limitations define the possiblities of what we CAN DO!  Because you ponder the infinite possibilities, all of us who have the privilege of meeting you, also ponder our own possibilties!  Thank you for sharing your positive journey that is the essence of you!

Listen to Mike and Tim on my podcast! We had so much fun! http://www.arcind.org/a-view-into-handicap-this/
Want a sneek peek of the show? Watch Mike and Tim's TEDx Iowa speech! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nfVCgRVMBRc
Michelle Fischer is host of  A View from My Window a podcast produced, by The Arc of Indiana

The Ups and Downs of being a teenager while dealing with Cerebral Palsy: Zach's Story

After I read "Off Balanced" by Zachary Fenell, I was amazed by his writing ability and the way he was able to describe to his readers, the challenges of being a teenager with a disability. I could really relate to his story, since I was born with cerebral palsy, also.  I'm not a teenager anymore, but the frustration resulting from cerebral palsy has no age limit.  It was such a comfort to find this book and know that someone else struggles with the same feelings. He said something when I was interviewing him that I had never thought of when describing cerebral palsy, but after he said it, I knew it was the perfect description!  He said, "cerebral palsy has a way of playing mind games with you."  I thought that was a brilliant statement that should be inscribed on a coaster or cross stitched on a pillow!  Throughout this book, you experience the journey of almost crumbling under the pressure of being different and feeling like an outcast, to feeling liberated and ready to live life to the full!  You will smile, laugh, cry and cheer all at the same time as you read this book!  I appreciate books like this that are so candid and at times, raw.  Zachary Fennell was not afraid to expose the vulnerable roller coaster ride that is called, cerebral palsy.  It's not easy for those of us dealing with this disability to talk about how it really makes us feel.  We are just so used to talking about the happy, less rocky times, but this book shows you that there are two sides to the story and it's perfectly fine to acknowledge both sides, and in turn, help others find their voice and realize that they are not alone.

Thank you Zachary for sharing your story! Cerebral palsy may make you feel "Off Balanced", but your book shows that you can regain that balance and achieve more than you could ever imagine!

Listen to Zachary Fenell's interview here: http://arcind.org/view-zachary-fenell-author-balanced/

Michelle Fischer is host of  A View from My Window, a podcast produced, by The Arc of Indiana

Perserverence despite unforeseen obstacles: in the words of Jay Ruckelshaus

When I first started doing research for Jay Ruckelshaus' interview, a mix of emotions welled up inside me. On the one hand, I asked myself what I had to complain about and then the feelings of shock and sadness for him because of the complete suddenness of his situation and how it unmistakably changed his everyday life.  He was in a diving accident that caused a spinal injury.  Then the interview came, and you know what?  When I met Jay, all I could do was smile!  His demeanor is positive and happy.  Period.  Getting to the happy and positive part took some time, but what helped Jay was the support he received from his family, his community and the college he eventually attended.  You may have heard of it...Duke University!  Jay kept his eyes fixed firmly on what was ahead and was determined to reach his goal of going to college!   I learned so much from Jay!  One lesson I learned is, if plan A doesn't work, ask yourself: What's plan B?  Plan B may have more twists and turns, and in Jay's case a few more obstacles to jump over, but, it's a plan nonetheless and a plan that has given Jay the motivation to reach out and lend a hand to other spinal cord injury patients who are wondering what their plan B looks like.  Showing others that going to college is attainable, led Jay to create his website The Ramp Less Traveled providing scholarship opportunities, mentorship and financial support to those dealing with these injuries, to succeed.  Yes, SUCCEED in going to college and really succeed in life!  Jay Ruckelshaus is proof that Plan B can work!  If Jay can do it so can YOU!  Always remember, when life gets tough or something doesn't go just exactly the way you planned....What's YOUR Plan B??

Listen to Jay's interview here: http://arcind.org/view-jay-ruckelshaus-ramp-less-traveled/

Michelle Fischer is host of A View from My Window, a podcast produced, by The Arc of Indiana

There are more "doors of opportunity" that need the right "key" to open them!

The title of this blog was one of the first things John Dickerson said to me not long after the first episode of "A View from My Window" was done.  I was beyond thrilled!  I was actually doing the thing I thought I could only imagine doing or see being done on TV.  With ecstatic gratitude, I thanked him a thousand times over for giving me the job and he said, "Sometimes, you just need to find the right "key" to unlock your door of opportunity."  That statement rang so true.  I had been trying so hard to get noticed for my abilities as an anchor, writer and interviewer, that I told everyone and their brother about it.   I wanted to get my foot in the door of the broadcast journalism field.  When I met John, I was a clerical assistant at Wabash Center in Lafayette.  I was also the Honorary Spokesperson which allowed me to do various media work and TV spots for them.  Yes!  A stepping stone to my goal with the added bonus of gaining confidence in my ability to say how I really felt about my dream - that of being an anchor.  John and I started talking about my clerical job and several other subjects...and then the weighter matter: "So, what is your DREAM job?" John asks.  I remember pausing for a moment, trying to somehow avoid the subject, not wanting to hear, "Well, I really hope that happens for you" or "I wish you all the best in your endeavors."  I had always heard through my job search that it's all about the people you know and your connection with them.  At this point, I was unaware that John was the Executive Director of the Arc of Indiana!  So, I thought, "Maybe this guy knows the right people!"  If I didn't say something, I knew I would regret it.   So, I told him about my dream and felt happy I had talked to him about it, but then I put it out of my mind.  Two weeks later, I got an email from John saying that he really enjoyed meeting me and really appreciated me telling him about my dream of becoming a journalist.  He then explained that he had been thinking about doing a radio type program about issues facing people with disabilities.  I will never forget the very next sentence for the rest of my life..."I think you would be the perfect person to be the host".  I BURST into tears and couldn't contain my happiness!  I may have even screamed! That day, in November 2009, my life was changed.  As I got to know John and interview him over the past few years, I found that he has worked for decades, helping others like me, change their lives for the better!  We all love him for it, too!

So, now, it's my turn to be John's cheerleader as he goes on to accomplish more great things for people with disabilities in his next venture.  Being the "key" to many more doors of opportunity that need to be unlocked, and more hearts and lives being touched through his willingness to lend a hand to a person in need of a dream realized!


Michelle Fischer is host of A View from My Window, a podcast produced, by The Arc of Indiana

It's always a Great day on Sarah's Great Day!

Cooking and eating food is central to every gathering of friends and family.  Memories are made, laughter is heard and good times are always had by everyone!  That is how the hosts of the online cooking show Sarah's Great Day want you to feel, like part of their family and part of their Great Day!  What is remarkable about this online show is that nothing is scripted, everything is captured in real time.  Casual conversation, tips and tricks, delicious food that warms you from the inside out and hosts that invite you to sit, stay and be in their company!  Val is Sarah's mom and talk about someone who is a champion for those with special needs! This show is very much proof of that.  Sarah, who just happens to have Down Syndrome, was just tired and needed a break from school for a time, so they decided to homeschool Sarah...there was just one problem....Val was not a teacher.  How could she teach Sarah the things she needed to know?  She knew she loved cooking and there are so many skills that cooking teaches you.  It can help you sharpen your math skills, fine motor skills, reading skills and personal interaction with others.  For Val, developing this cooking show has really allowed Sarah to come out of her shell and is one of the best things for a mother to see.... her once shy, quiet girl, developing confidence and beaming with pride and blossoming!!   When I met both of these girls I fell in love with them!!  I saw that they have a relationship like my mom and I do!! Support and love are the foundation of success that allows Sarah to enjoy life and to see her disability as a motivation to inspire others around her to see their disability in a positive way, too!   Another cool aspect to this show is how food and friends are brought together.  In many of the episodes, Sarah's friends and people who have had a major impact in Sarah's life, are with her in the kitchen!  Sharing food among friends is one of the most personal ways to give of yourself... Food is your heart on a plate.  Sarah's Great Day proves that disability doesn't ever define your ability to achieve your dreams.

This is a must see online cooking show! Check it out here: /www.youtube.com/user/sarahsgreatday

I got to interview these two lovely ladies, and that was a fun day!  Listen into our interview here: http://arcind.org/view-sarahs-great-day/

                                                         Val-
                                                         I love your drive and determination to promote Disability Awareness!!  Thank you for being a cheerleader for all those with disabilities! You are Awesome!!  I'm quite a fan of yours', and also want to thank you for your very kind words about "A View from my Window"!  I really love hearing how listeners' feel about the show!  It made my heart feel so good!  Sarah's Great Day is such a great resource for everyone!  You have shown families that love, support and delicious food is a perfect recipe to reach the dreams they maybe never thought were possible! xoxoxo!


Sarah-
You really are a ROCKSTAR!!!! :) :) :)  Hugs girlie!! xoxoxoxo!!


Michelle Fischer is the host of  A View from my Window a podcast produced, by The Arc of Indiana

An Autism Awareness story that is close to my heart....

Autism Awareness Superheros!

Paul Howell and I first met when I wrote him an email telling him that I really liked how he delivered the news on our local television station. I could tell that he owned the anchor chair and was concerned about giving viewers what they needed.  I wrote the email, read through it about 100 times, had second thoughts about 100 times.... and then finally decided to send it!  I wanted to reach my dream of being a journalist, and who better to help than TV news anchor extrordinaire, Paul Howell!!!  I was confident that he could point me in a direction that would start the ball rolling.  I sent the email, relieved I had written and told him about my dream.  I expected that I would get a very generic "Thank You for watching, and best wishes in achieving your career path" reply.  I was totally wrong!  The reply I got was a list of steps that I could possibly take to start on the path of getting my foot in the door of the journalism field.  He suggested that I look into taking a journalism writing course and other college courses that may include an internship.  In addition to a list of steps to take, he also said that if he could help me in anyway, he would be happy to!  I was delighted!  We met a few weeks later at our local Barnes and Noble bookstore.  I couldn't believe that my favorite local anchor was sitting down with me and I was actually able to talk to him about my dream!  So, after calming down and realizing this was really happening, we settled into a conversation ranging from topics of how he got started in the news to his travels abroad.  I felt that he understood where I wanted to go, that my dreams were real, and that he really wanted to help me get there.  After that, it was full steam ahead on the dream train!  Having a disability meant nothing to Paul, but, helping me reach my dream did.  Even to this day, there aren't words to describe how much he motivated me to have the confidence to achieve my passion!  Years passed and Paul went on to marry his wife, Adriana, and they started their family with their bouncing baby boy.  Every parent's happiness is a healthy baby, but then Paul and Adriana started noticing that things weren't quite the same with their son.  The diagnosis of autism followed.  I was able to connect with Paul and interview him about his family's story.  It was incredibly moving for me.  Not only was I sitting across from the person who so patiently gave his time and energy to teach me, but I got the opportunity to show him that his efforts were never lost on me!  I felt honored that he was telling me of their amazing story of courage and resilience!  I was so proud that I could give back to Paul in this personal way.  I was proud that he and Adriana, even in the darkest days after diagnosis, didn't let the darkness last too long.  They wanted their son to live life to the best of his ability and be happy while doing it!  Their family is well on their way to that goal!  First grade in a mainstream classroom was accomplished with lots of hard work and determination!  Paul is still the same guy I met nine years ago.  Disability meant nothing to him then, and it means nothing now.  Helping the son he so deeply cares for and to reach the dreams he dreams of... that is what means the most to Paul and his family!  Autism doesn't define this family at all.. the ability and confidence to achieve dreams does!

                The first day of first grade! Lookin' super! :)            

This family and their heart warming experience is very close to my heart!

Swimming like fish! :)

Michelle Fischer is the host of A View from My Window, a podcast produced by The Arc of Indiana

For more information on Little Star Center click here: http://www.littlestarcenter.org/carmel/
there are also Little Star Center locations in Lafayette and Bloomington.

Hear my interview with Paul here: http://www.arcind.org/view-autism-father-mentor/

A Behind the Mic Book Review: Jewel Kats

  

When I started reading the books you see pictured here by Jewel Kats, all I could keep thinking was, these books are so valuable in teaching young women and girls to be ok in their skin and to make their disability fabulous!!  Jewel and I have yet to meet in person, but as we started talking, it quickly became apparent that she walks to the beat of her own drum.  She warmly weaves into her writing the idea that it's ok to be who you are and to be proud of how far you've come despite circumstances that may have beat you down.  Jewel has had her share of challenges.  At the tender age of nine years old, she was in a very serious car accident and spent months in the hospital.  She endured eight surgeries after this terrible ordeal.  Since then, arthritis and osteopenia have made it extremely painful to move and function in everyday life.  All of these things could bring her down, but part of Jewel's success is her positive outlook and her desire to help others.  One of the ways she does this is by writing about her experiences and then getting out and meeting her readers through speaking engagements and book signings.  We had the pleasure of meeting virtually through Facebook and I could sense that she really connects with her readers and when they are in her presence, she enjoys taking the time to chat and getting to know them!


What I found exciting about these books was, in every single one of them you are taken on an adventure or taught a very important lesson.  I LOVED Cinderella's Magical Wheelchair because as you are taken into Cinderella's world, you feel every emotion that she goes through.  As she sees her dream of going to the King's Costume Party dwindle, Monique from Enchantment University comes and restores Cinderella's faith in how beautiful she is...and she also helps her to see that beauty is in the eye of the beholder.  The prince thought that Cinderella was beautiful because she was confident in herself and in her wheelchair....That wheelchair was a help to her, it wasn't all of her.  Assistive equipment is a part of life for those with special needs. You know what Jewel does??  She puts her own twist on her equipment.  Whatever it is, the equipment becomes a glam accessory - something to make her happy when she uses it!  Cinderella's Magical Wheelchair  teaches everyone to embrace their glamour!!


The Princess and the Ruby - An Autism Fairytale.

This book teaches the value of putting yourself in another person's shoes.  We are all unique, and people with autism are unique, as well.  They just have to learn, work and live in a way that works for them.  We all do that.  It's important to embrace our differences and appreciate them.  Ask anyone who has autism what their goals and dreams are... You'll be delighted to find that you may have more in common than you thought!

DitzAbled Princess - A comical Diary, inspired by real life

You get to be a fly on the wall with this book!  I love it when a book allows you to do that!!  Jewel invites you into her life as a woman who juggles all her different roles in life - rockin' a funky 80's look, being a wife, sister, daughter and mom to her dog Snowie, an award winning author, motivational speaker..(this girl is super woman) ...all the while showing the challenges she faces who's the boss!  The most important thing to learn from this book is finding a way to smile and laugh at yourself... Life is too short to focus on what you don't have.  Instead, focus on the positive and always look to help others.  Don't be afraid to allow those who support you to lovingly push you to your greatest and sometimes undiscovered potential!

Jewel - Thank You for showing girls and women of all abilities that there is beauty and glamour in all of us and that embracing it is what makes our disabilities FABULOUS!! <3 <3


Michelle Fischer is the host of A View from My Window, a podcast produced by The Arc of Indiana

A fellow Journalist's humble request.

                              

Dear Anderson,

Today,  I am writing to fulfill a dream.  I've been keeping this dream private for several years now, and I finally have the confidence and professional skills to give it light.  I am writing to request an interview with you!!  I've watched your show since 2004, and it would be an incredible experience to be in the studio...interviewing you!  On the flip side, you may be able to gain some unique insight into a part of society that you may not often encounter - the disability community.

My name is Michelle Fischer.  I live in Lafayette, Indiana and my childhood dream is to be a journalist like you.  I was born with cerebral palsy and had a very normal childhood.  My parents never treated me differently - neither did friends or schoolmates.  My life was cruising along and I had the same plans as most people my age.  I thought I'd get married, have kids, and maybe live in a foreign city in Europe somewhere.

My dreams of a normal life ended one day so quickly.  Out of the blue, I woke up HATING my disability.  I was angry and lost.  I felt as if I was given the wrong person's body somehow!  I beat myself up over not being normal and I was angry at how long it took me to do simple tasks such as getting myself ready in the morning or cooking a meal for myself.  My struggles all came into perspective when I read your book, "Dispatches from the Edge."  I related to everything you felt while going through the devastating loss of your father and brother,  as I was dealing with a profound loss I felt inside of myself.  Since third grade,  I had a dream of pursuing a broadcast journalism career, and through watching and modeling myself after you, I am beginning to realize my goals.  Journalism allows me to cope with my pain and push my worries and anxieties into the background.  Instead, I focus on the art of storytelling and shining a big light on my subject.

At the State House in Indianapolis IN with Arc of Indiana  Executive Director ,  John Dickerson at a Developmental Disabilities Commission meeting

At the 2012 Special Olympics Indiana State Games in Terre Haute  IN.
Interviewing a star athlete,  Andrew Peterson and his Dad Craig
He doesn't let his disability of Fetal Alcohol Syndrome stop him
from being a top notch runner and public speaker!!

I have started what I consider phase one of fulfilling my dream of becoming a journalist.  In November 2009, I became the podcast show host for the Arc of Indiana, a non-profit organization that helps people with disabilities be all they can be, through many supports.  Since this time,  I have conducted 55 interviews with a variety of people, including parents and volunteers,  Executive Directors, CEO's, authors and bloggers.  Spanning topics from Autism and  Self-Advocacy to Employment and Epilepsy. There are no words to describe how much I love my job and I honestly think of you every time I do a show.  I believe I am a voice for people with disabilities and I am the one, through my interviews, that let's them see that although they may feel forgotten, they are not.

On Location at the Special Olympics with Laura, whose son Tom is in
Special Olympics. That's my producer Sally filling in for my sound engineer Bryce!
I have a great team behind me!

Please don't hesitate contacting me.  I know that this request is one you probably haven't seen before. It's taken me a while to build the confidence to reach out to you.  While you're considering this, I have a question for you to think about:  Have you ever met a journalist who has cerebral palsy?  My response to you, if your answer is what I think it will be, is simple: Don't you think its time?

Your fellow Journalist,

Michelle Fischer


I'm ready to work with you! <iframe width="560" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/qgU9oE80Qfc" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>


Check out my podcast episodes, I think you will like what you hear!  http://www.arcind.org/category/a-view-from-my-window/