Transition Conference Provides Information and Inspiration
April 6, 2010
Julie Marks and April Dixon with Timothy Shriver
Several staff from The Advocacy Center joined others from the region at “Planning and Living the Transition Years” on March 24, a conference sponsored by the Golisano Foundation. The event featured keynote speaker Timothy Shriver, Ph. D., Chairman and
Many in the audience were inspired by a story told by Dr. Shriver which recounted a conversation about role models. Shriver had been asked why anyone would want their son or daughter to look up to a Special Olympian as a role model. Dr. Shriver said that he hopes that his children consider a young man he knows as their role model. He said that this young man is a most kind, compassionate, "full of life" human being. He is a wonderful friend, he has a wonderful sense of humor, and has overcome many illnesses and obstacles in his life, all while keeping a positive attitude - and he happens to have Down syndrome.
In addition to Dr. Shriver, the presenters included members of the medical community and other service provider from the upstate region. There was a focus on health and fitness and conference attendees heard suggestions on how to select a doctor who knows how to treat individuals with developmental disabilities.
