Author: Shari Cooper

July 21-27 is Ohio Service Dog Awareness Week.  Unless you have a service dog, you’ll never understand the depth of the relationship between a service dog and its handler. Today, welcome guest-blogger Linda Pelfrey as she gives you an inside look at this unique bond. Shari In February of this year, my 7th Seeing Eye... Read more »

Hooray, hooray, today is Social Media Day! Because of social media outlets, my life has transformed tremendously! Social media outlets allow people to not only reach out to loved ones and friends, but it’s also a good way to find out what’s going on in the community and to see what events I may like... Read more »

Toy mega mogul, Mattel, is at it again! Barbie now has a service animal! For years, I’ve been blogging about how I wished there were more opportunities for Barbie to showcase more disabilities and inclusion.  For a long time, there were no barbies representing girls with disabilities. No matter your color, age, or disability, you... Read more »

I love watching ducks. When my favorite guy and I were first dating, he used to take me downtown to the Riverscape and we would sit on the swing near the water, talk, and watch the ducks. Ducks are cool creatures, and they seem to be very laid back. One thing a duck needs to... Read more »

June is Pride Month! Welcome guest blogger Donna Lavoie as she shares how acceptance enhanced her family’s dynamics. Shari It seems like this year is flying by.  Here we are at the beginning of June. Pride Month is celebrated here in the U.S. and across the world. Recognizing those who identify as LGBTQ+. For my... Read more »

Goodwill Easterseals Miami Valley Miracle Clubhouse has helped many people who suffer with mental illness. On June 4th, a nationwide Day of Giving will be take place for Clubhouse International around the country. Welcome guest blogger, Buddy as he shares how the clubhouse has helped him. Remember, awareness is key. Shari   The sign on... Read more »

I love bands! A few of my favorites are Kool & the Gang, The Gap Band, Journey, Earth Wind & Fire and Dayton’s own funk band, The Ohio Players. Usually, when a band forms, members come together because of a common thread of the love of music. Other bands have been formed because of similar... Read more »

Today, young people have a lot to deal with and they need somewhere to destress and have people who’re willing to lend a listening ear. They also need somewhere they feel safe and can feel a sense of belonging. The A.L.L. Club on main is that place. It is a program offered by Goodwill Easterseals... Read more »

As we approach Mother’s Day, I’d like to say what fun it is to be a mother to my fur baby, Tiny. Tiny (a 130-pound Rottweiler) who is now six and who I affectionately call, Moo Moo, has really enhanced my life. Although she’s huge, she’s very gentle with me. I liked dogs before she... Read more »

The Joystick for many means’ independence; be it a modified wheelchair or the ability to drive an automobile. For people with disabilities who have drivers’ licenses opens many doors of opportunities professionally and personally. When a teen reaches the driving age, which is typically around 16, all he or she can think about is driving.... Read more »