On today’s episode we are talking about navigating the IEP/504 process, which can be very overwhelming as parents navigate the world of special education. We discuss the difference between and IEP and a 504, early resources and interventions, medical and academic advocacy, and the biggest challenges and gifts of this process.
Our guest, Jillian, is mom to three girls, one of which was diagnosed with muscular dystrophy. In addition to advocating for her own child, Jillian began lending her voice to help the disabled community as a whole. She has championed for children with special needs on the local, state, and national level. Jillian was the 2021 recipient of the Special Needs Advocate of the year by the National Parents Union and sits on a variety of panels, including the Mayor’s Committee for Peoples with Disabilities. Jillian believes that advocacy and support is a vital function for the disabled community and hopes that her unique perspective of raising a child with physical disabilities, positively influences as many people as possible.
Connect with Jillian
Jillian RainingBird is a resident of Kansas City, Missouri. She is a Cash Operations Manager at a local casino, as well as a wife and mother of three girls (18,9, and 4). Jillian’s middle child, Jaelah, was diagnosed with muscular dystrophy and is wheelchair bound. This experience lead Jillian to advocacy and lending her voice to help the disabled community.
To connect with Jillian, follow her on Facebook and Twitter.
What We’re Loving In Kansas City
Deanna Rose Farmstead’s Night of the Living Farm
One of Megan’s all time favorite fall events! Join us at the Farmstead for this annual fun-filled event on October 21 and 22; 28 and 29. Tickets go on sale on October 1. Tickets $15 | $14 for Friends of the Farmstead members. A limited number of tickets are available for each night. Tickets are available online only. Experience the Farmstead after dark if you dare! Dress up in your favorite costume for a night of spooktacular fun. Enjoy both scary and non-scary hayrides and live entertainment. Play games and activities including the superhero obstacle course and dance with a princess. Roast marshmallows by the fireside, gathered under the October moonlight!
Johnson Farms
Johnson Farms Plants and Pumpkins is a locally owned/working farm that you could easily spend an entire day at with your family. U-pick vegetables, apples, sunflowers, and zinnias, as well as a tractor ride out to a real pumpkin patch! A huge play area, farm animals, games, concessions and more await. Save a few dollars by buying your tickets in advance here!
Connect with Megan and Sarah
We would love to hear from you! Send us an e-mail or find us on Instagram or Facebook.
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