Episode 45: The Models and Language of Disability

"What makes special needs, special?" This question is asked and answered during today's episode which is centered on the models and language of disability. The forum includes Dr. Cara Whalen Smith, PT DPT a public health physical therapist from Ohio who works to improve health equity for people with disabilities; Rebecca Renfro, PT a pediatric physical therapist; Drake Box; host of the Box Factor Podcast and Marsh Naidoo, PT and parent raising a disabled child.  02:40  Cara delves into the Models of Disability that shape our biases and perceptions. She talks primarily about the Charity and Human Rights Model 10:00 Disability as seen from the parent's perspective.  15:00 The Balancing Act 19:00 Drake Box talks about his experience of Cerebral Palsy. 21:00 "Nothing about us without us" The Human Rights Model calls for the full participation of individuals with disabilities in all aspects of human life and calls for disability to be seen as a demographic of human identity.  25:00 Language of Disability: person first vs identity first. 30:00 The use of clear-cut language to facilitate awareness and inclusion #say the word movement. Disclaimer: The opinions expressed today are solely those of the individuals. As a warning, some of the conversations on this podcast may be difficult for both parents and healthcare providers however we hope that it ignites meaningful conversation around disability and inclusion.  The resources and references highlighted by Dr. Cara Whalen Smith PT, DPT  and transcript will be housed at https://www.raisingkellan.org/blog/the-models-and-language-of-disability This episode is sponsored by Move Up Physical Therapy