dignity:

creative expressions from the inspiration project

Spring 2013, Volume 3 about: table of contents:

The Inspiration Project is a volunteer collaboration between the University of Rochester and CP Rochester, a Toni’s Gift--Toni Montgomery page 5 nonprofit organization that supports individuals with physical and developmental disabilities. During the spring of 2013, six writing students from the University of Rochester met weekly with six writers from CP Rochester. The Volcano Story--Latrice Person page 9 Through extensive one-on-one conversations, the UR students and CP Rochester adults have produced the cre- ative works assembled here. Memoirs of my Life and Family--Jeff Yarmel page 13

Clara’s Secret Wish--Victoria Bement page 18 acknowledgments: Introducing Patrick Hurley--Patrick Hurley page 22 Marsha and the Beast, Letter--Geraldine Copeland page 25

This project was made possible by the hard work and generous support of many people: Thoughts from the Inside--Thaun Nguyen page 29

The consumers and staff at CP Rochester, the students at the University of Rochester, Joanna Scott (Professor of English, University of Rochester), Glenn Cerosaletti (Director, Rochester Center for Community Leadership, University of Rochester), Deborah Rossen-Knill (Director, College Writing Program, University of Roches- ter), Richard Feldman (Dean of the College of Arts, Sciences and Engineering at the University of Rochester), Saundra Peters (Reservation Coordinator, Wilson Commons Student Activities, University of Rochester), Jenny Boyar (Department of English, University of Rochester), John Michael and the Department of English at the University of Rochester.

dignity: 2 3 :dignity preface: Toni’s Gift

“When you read these stories, I want you to hear what we have to say, and be Inspired for yourself.” Latrice Person, ByToni Montgomery April 22, 2011 In Collaboration with Kelsey Burritt

Composed by consumers from CP Rochester and transcribed and edited by students from the University of ear Reader, myself. my staff. She gives me some pocket Rochester, the pieces in this anthology provide multifaceted insights into the joys and challenges of life. There are I have my big TV, my God is good, special, love, and money to go out for Christmas and fictional stories populated with invented characters who, like their authors, find creative ways to turn their dreams bed, my white desk, my peace. I think about people. I think birthdays, and holidays. into reality. There are poems and memoirs. There are letters inviting readers to think about the issues of gun control Dcloset with clothes, my laptop which about faith. I think about selling my I had to memorize my lines. I and Medicaid funding. isn’t working, and my mom’s dishes. books about my story. missed one line, and got so nervous You’ll read about a deaf boy who is encouraged by his brother to befriend an angry schoolmate. A modern day beast I sit at my desk and write journals because there were a lot of people. is turned back into a prince with the help of a determined young girl, her brave mother, and a clever eagle. A woman about my past. I use pencils and Dear Reader, I had to do it over again. I first imagines a perfect cake for her next party. A girl wishes on a star and wakes the next morning to find her wish has pens. My journal is painted like a I played Gertrude in Hamlet. I memorized my lines with other come true. A man remembers being a child in Saigon in 1975 and hiding under his bed while planes fought overhead. kitty cat. I get into bed between 9 loved acting because it felt good. I people. A boy is amazed by the technology of his friend’s DynaVox and then comes to accept it as something that “came along and 9:30 and watch TV. had a crown because Hamlet is the We had different actors. We saw with my friend, like being tall or having brown hair.” I went to Get Real today. After king’s son and I played his mother. I a movie of Hamlet where Hamlet is These are a few of the many treasures gathered in this anthology. Each piece is unique, but they share a spirit of that, I came back and ate lunch. liked playing the queen because I’m mad crazy. He’s crazy. He hated his candor and are offered to readers in friendship. As Toni Montgomery says at the end of her piece, “My gift for you is Then we had groups. We did math beautiful. The crown was gold. The mom; his father married her. We my storybook.” and spelling. Then we talked and cup was gold; there was poison in the watched the movie before rehearsals Here is the new storybook from the Inspiration Project. It is vivid evidence of the truth that every person matters. went on the computer. cup. I drank fake wine. started. It helped me understand My mom’s name is Christine I decided to do the play because the story. I was able to identify with Joanna Scott Williams. She is beautiful. She of JP Simpson, one of my staff. We Gertrude. She is pretty too. I felt University of Rochester is special. She likes cooking. She had different days. He liked music, pretty when I played her. April 22, 2013 taught me how to cook fried different shows—Beauty and the We rehearsed in the dance room. chicken, greens, pies, and cakes. She Beast and The Grinch. Susan Ware The dance room is big and has goes to church sometimes. Bernard asked me to do the play. Susan Ware pictures in it. At first, we rehearsed Williams is my brother. He goes to helped me with my lines a lot. She with scripts. Susan Ware directed it. church. He’s short. He looks good. taught plays. She is my best friend She taught us Shakespeare, to think Dad was a fisher; he had a boat. so much. Susan Ware is a very, very about Hamlet, to read a book, to He was deacon in the church, and good teacher. watch Hamlet movies. She taught us an usher. He was tall, like a man, We performed for the ARC to speak clearly, she taught us about handsome. He was a good parent. of Monroe. People liked it. In emotions. I went to church with my dad. My rehearsals, we talked about Hamlet. When I was playing Gertrude, I favorite part about church was the We had swords; they practiced with had to go through different emotions; singing. My dad sung at church in fake swords. I liked dying. “The King I had to change. It was a challenge. the choir. He had a good voice. Did It!” I liked it because I toasted There were a lot of actors. We used My parents read the bible to me. my son; I drank. I said, “My Son, my fake roses, red and black, a black They’re up in heaven thinking about son, I drink my son: Cheers.” scarf, and that’s it. The performance me. I was never nervous before was two or three hours long. Every day I think about God. a performance. I felt good. My God is an angel. I thank God for my stomach was a little bit tight. My staff Dear Reader, family and friends, my sisters and came and saw me. Chrissy Powers, I looked on the computer at my brothers, my niece and nephew, and one of the staff, is a good lady. She is workshop. My staff helped me look dignity: 4 5 :dignity up an article about Lauren Potter. lesser than you. be a star with their name on it. I’m She stars in Glee and she has down Do I want an apartment? Yes. making the placemats this weekend. syndrome like me. I want to write If I had a dinner party in my There will be a cake with my name her a letter. The letter would say: apartment, I would want beef stew on it. It will also say “Hollywood.” My name is Toni Montgomery. I with vegetables, potatoes, onions, There will be pink stars around am 45 years old. I live in Rochester, and garlic. No bread. Pies with cool the cake, just like my journal. My NY. What’s your favorite color? I whip, double-layered cheesecake. name will be in stars, just like in want to meet you because you are Drinks: Diet Coke, Sprite, sherbet Hollywood, because I’m a star! my role model because you have the punch. I need dishes, pots and pans, The cake will be buttercream, my same thing as me: down syndrome. and a toaster. I need cups. I don’t favorite, with pink frosting. I like pink, I love movies, I love know if my plates are big or small My birthday is on May 20, which cooking, I love Oprah, and I love yet. is a Monday. I would like to have Tyler Perry. I love puzzle books. In my apartment, different walls LOTS of presents! Maybe you could I love shopping for clothes. I like have different pictures with stars. I bring me a gift card. I would like going out to lunch and dinner. My have not seen my bathroom, and I an iTunes gift card (maybe three…I favorite food is fried chicken and don’t know whether it’s big or small. REALLY like music!). If I had some salad. Rochester is big. Advocate The tub is small. I get a towel next iTunes gift cards I would buy some yourself. to my bathroom: a different kind church music. What do you like? Do you have of pink, pink and purple together. I There will be no party hats at my any favorite shows? Can you drive need soap and shampoo. party. People can dress up. a car? Where are you working? Do I don’t know if there is a couch you go to school? Do you dance? yet. I have my TV and my TV is Dear Reader, Do you like music? I go to the mall. big. I have a full-sized bed. I need I got a letter from Suzanne, my What are your parents like? Do you to buy sheets and a pillow. That’s it. friend, on March 23, 2013. I met live in an apartment? Do you have a My dresser is big. I have a desk in my Suzanne last year. She wears glasses. boyfriend? Are you married? Do you room, also big. My mom gave me a She’s a nice, sweet person. We wrote have any pets? chest with dishes in it, my knick- stories together. She helped me a lot; I had a fish. His name was knacks. I keep it in the living room. we talked about my stories and she Goldfish. No more. He died. He’s in I need a vacuum and a duster. taught me a lot. She taught me how fish heaven. My kitchen is small too. to read my stories about my life. We Why do people bully? Bullies pull had a good time. With the story, there was a picture see a lot of stars, like Tyler Perry dogs a long time ago. They didn’t your hair, and hit, and call you bad Dear Reader, She taught me how to write stories of me. The friends chosen are family. and Oprah. I want to go to LA too. have tails. They were black and names. Bullies are not good. A guy I would like to invite you to my on the computer. I like her; she’s my Good friends are never close enough. There’s lots of shopping! I want to brown. They were big with big teeth. on TV said that bullying is not safe. birthday party. It is “Ladies Only” good friend. I want her to send me a The true story: God is good, special, buy everything. There are pretty I’ll get Oprah to read my story. I think about things in life like my tonight. The time is six to eight picture of her in New York City for love, peace. I think people think lights, and there are a lot of stars and I will put the copy of my book and family. I want to write a story about o’clock on Saturday the 17th of May. my birthday. She just moved there. I about faith. restaurants. pictures of me in a box and send it to my life. I think about good every We will go to Chili’s. will write her back soon. When I get I’ve never been to New York I’ve never thought about being a Oprah. I’ll meet Oprah. It’ll be like day. I will be the hostess. There will my stories done, I will send them to City. I saw the 9/11 attacks in New movie star because it’s a lot of work a prize. I’ll wear a pretty dress with be lots of balloons. They will be her too. I will say Happy Easter to York City on television. People lost and money. I want to send Oprah my hair done, with make-up, and a Dear Reader, pink because pink is my favorite Suzanne! And have a good spring! I families and friends. People were my books. I want to be an author. purse. I’ll look good! I’ll say, Oprah If you constantly compare yourself color. There will be balloons on keep your letter in my heart and in crying. Last time I saw that was a Oprah is a nice actor. She has two is special in my heart. Thank you so with others, you may become either chairs for you and all of my other my prayers. long time ago. I felt sad. That’s what dogs. They’re cute! I don’t want any much. unhappy or boastful, proud. For guests. Everyone at the party will Love, Toni. I think about when I think of New more dogs. They’re a lot of work. You Love, Toni. there will always be people greater or have a placemat—the placemat will I gave Suzanne my story to read. York City. I don’t want to go there. have to get the fleas off of them, and I want Tyler Perry to read my story I want to go to Hollywood and clean up poop on the floor. I had too. I’ll meet Tyler Perry. I’ll wear a dignity: 6 7 :dignity pink suit, and pink pants, and a tie. first time meeting her, we were in the worked on it a lot with my friend, I’ll give him my book. I’ll say, I love kitchen. She wrote on a computer Kelsey. I will autograph my name in The Volcano Story your movie Temptation! I’ll scream. and a notebook. She asked me your book. I’ll faint. questions. My gift for you is my storybook. By Latrice Person I feel proud of my work. I want Love, Toni In Collaboration with Cat Sbeglia Dear Reader, to write stories about you. I want to I want more people to read my know about other people’s lives in ichael was new to the But the wheelchair reminded was a freshman at Orange College in story about me. This is a true story. I the community. Other people’s lives Hart Middle School of Michael of his friend at his old school Rolling Spring, New York. Michael like writing. I feel special. Miss Scott are different. People judge people, Learning, and it was his who had Cerebral Palsy, and couldn’t had never been on an airplane or in came to my house two years ago and and judge people’s race. It’s sad. I Mthird day. His mom told him that walk at all. an airport before. He had only been helped me write more stories. She don’t know why. going to this school would make Leaving his classmates, he went in cars. helped put my words together. My Why are you reading my book? I things better, and that he would get over to Brian and said, “Hi.” Michael and his mother and the care he needed. Michael was born But Brian said, “Leave me alone. sister arrived at the airport. It was deaf. Over time, he learned to read Don’t bother me.” really crowded, and that made him lips and to speak, but most people Michael didn’t yet understand uncomfortable. He felt as if the had a hard time understanding him. that Brian didn’t want to talk to him children were staring at his big glasses He could not say his words to their because he didn’t want to talk to and his hearing aids. People were completeness. anyone because he was mad. He was running past him, trying to catch On that third day, two of Michael’s mad at his mom who didn’t really pay their planes. They were holding classmates, Rebecca and Tommy, attention to him, and he wasn’t close their coffees and suitcases. It was offered to show him around the to his dad. His mom was a pediatric chaos. He was able to hear the noise classroom. nurse at the Hope Hospital. Brian of the announcements, but it was “Over there is the chalkboard. thought it was unfair that she spent muffled. His mom had to comfort This is where we do math and so much time taking care of other him because he was panicking. writing. The teacher stands up there children instead of him. His mom signed to him, “It’s okay. and writes on the board,” Rebecca “But I just want to be your friend.” Calm down. The plane is coming.” told him, pointing to the front of the “I don’t have friends,” Brian He tried some of the deep room. responded, looking down at his lap. breathing techniques that his mother “These are the coat hooks. You “Okay, fine. I can go talk to taught him, but that didn’t even relax can put your lunch box and coat someone else,” Michael answered, him. here,” Tommy said. disappointed. When the plane arrived, he boarded Michael asked, “What have you Pretty soon though, Michael was with his mother and his sister. He been learning in school?” having so much fun with Tommy sat between them, so that his mother Rebecca answered, “Math, like and Rebecca that he forgot all about could comfort him. She held him addition and subtraction. And Brian. close to her while the plane left the reading.” ground. He also had his favorite toys Excited, Michael said, “That’s so By the time February break arrived, with him. One was a blue squishy cool. I can’t wait to start learning Michael had gotten used to the Hart ball that he could squeeze when he addition and subtraction.” School and his new friends. The got nervous. He opened and closed Suddenly, he noticed a boy in a Friday before break, all of the students his hand around the ball and it calmed wheelchair. “Who is that?” were eagerly talking about the trips him. Eventually, he fell asleep. “Oh, that’s Brian,” Tommy said. they were going on. But Michael Suddenly, the plane jolted. “He’s mean. Don’t talk to him,” was nervous. They were going to Michael woke up in a panic, his Rebecca added. visit his older brother, Derek, who muscles tight and his stomach dignity: 8 9 :dignity uneasy. His head started to hurt, but of the pit bull mascot on the middle yourself to confront your fear. I’m “Do you still have that ticket?” bully him? threatened him even though he was then he looked over at his younger of the floor. Some of the hoops were proud of you.” He smiled. “Well, Michael smiled, and held up just trying to be nice. His mother sister, Daisy, who was sitting on the taller than others. They decided to that’s kind of like Brian. There might his hand for a high five. Brian just Brian’s threat was still bothering nodded her understanding before other side of him. She was listening play on one of the shorter ones, so be something that he’s scared of, and looked at him. him that night. He hardly ate speaking. to her CD player. Michael guessed that Michael could reach it. he just needs help to overcome it.” “What?” Michael was confused dinner. And he dreamt that all of his “This isn’t about you. Brian is she was probably listening to Pink! “Why are there different size “Well, I don’t really know him.” and a little bit angry. classmates were laughing at him. He obviously troubled. But if he keeps Because that’s her favorite. Daisy hoops?” Michael asked. “You can’t know if you don’t ask.” “I want the ticket.” woke up from this nightmare to find giving you a hard time, you have to was rocking out in her chair, bobbing “Because some students are When they were too tired to play “If you’re not going to be my himself crying. let your teacher know or come to me. her head, and moving her lips to the different than others.” anymore, they went back to Derek’s friend and come with me, you can’t Hearing his sobs, his mother came You can always come to me.” music. He smiled and laughed at her room and met up with their mom have the ticket. You can’t use me like into his room. The following week, during science funny dancing. While they played, they talked. and sister. They had pizza delivered that.” “What’s is it? What’s wrong?” She class, the teacher paired up students Before he knew it, they were “So what’s up? How’d you like right to the dorm. Michael and “If you don’t give me that ticket, sat on the edge of his bed and put her to work together on a project. At first landing in Rolling Spring. your new school and everything?” Daisy were even allowed to sit on I’ll make sure your time at this school arm around him. Michael couldn’t wait because they They took a taxi to Orange College. Derek asked, dribbling the ball. the bed while they ate, which was sucks!” He started to explain the situation were going to make volcanoes! But The small campus consisted of a Michael shrugged. “It’s okay.” something their mom never let them Michael pretended that he didn’t with Brian using words, but then then the teacher said that Brian and handful of brick buildings. Wherever “Have you made any new friends?” do at home. care, but on the inside, he was filled he got so upset that he switched to Michael had to work together. And he looked, students were walking “I have two friends, Rebecca and After a weekend that felt too short, with apprehension. Did Brian mean signing because that made him more what was worse was that Michael had briskly to class, books clutched to Tommy. They’re cool, but there is they boarded a plane and went home. what he said? Would he continue to comfortable. He told her that Brian to go to Brian’s house that weekend their chests. Some students sat on this one kid that I want to be friends Michael wasn’t afraid this time. benches or beneath trees reading with. I tried to be friends with him, books and typing on their computers. but he was mean to me for no reason. Back at school, he told his whole Still others played soccer and football He ignores me. And one day at lunch class about his trip to Orange College. on big, green fields. Michael fell in he called me four-eyes and threw a They all thought college sounded love with college. ball of paper at me.” Michael caught great. During recess, Michael The taxi dropped them off at a pass from Derek, and then threw it spotted Brian and remembered the Derek’s dorm building. The building up at the hoop. He missed. conversation he had with his brother. reminded Michael of an apartment “There’s always a reason for those Taking a deep breath, he walked over complex, which excited him because sorts of things.” to Brian. it was all so grown up. Eventually, he “What do you mean?” “Brian, do you want to come to too would have his own space. Derek stopped dribbling the my house and play video games?” Daisy knocked on Derek’s door, basketball and walked over to a “No, I don’t like video games.” and the three of them waited anxiously wooden bench on the side of the “Well, if you don’t like video in the hallway. Daisy began to bite court. Michael followed him, and sat games, do you like basketball? her nails in anticipation. After a few down next to him. Reaching under Because my family has an extra ticket moments, Derek opened the door the bench, Derek pulled out a water to a game this Friday. Do you want and greeted them with a warm smile. bottle, took a sip, and then handed it to come with us?” He picked up Daisy in a big hug and to Michael. “Leave me alone. Stop bugging spun her around. He then kissed his “Give him a chance. He might me.” mom on the cheek and high fived be struggling with something just Disappointed, but not discouraged, Michael. Michael’s face glowed. like you are. If you’re nice to him Michael left Brian alone. After lunch, Derek took Michael and give him time, he might come The next day, at the end of school, to the campus gym to play basketball around.” He paused and then went while the students were getting their in the basement. The shiny court on, “Mom told me that you were things from the coat closet, Brain was blue and green for the school nervous on the plane. But you wheeled over to Michael and tapped colors, and there was a large painting wanted to come see me, so you forced him on the shoulder. dignity: 10 11 :dignity to build the volcano. for some time, but then Michael “Here,” he said, putting the ball in When Michael’s mom dropped again thought about his conversation Brian’s hand, “this always helps me.” Memoirs of My Life and Family him off at Brian’s house, the first thing with Derek. So while Michael began to recite that he noticed was that the building “You know, my dad left when I the facts about volcanoes that he By Jeff Yarmel was old and slightly rundown. was a baby.” He didn’t look up from and Brian looked up together, Brian In Collaboration with Taylor McCabe Brian’s Uncle Ryan answered the painting the side of the volcano red. squeezed the stress ball to calm door and showed him inside. Brian looked up, squinting his himself down. “Brian’s in his room. Right back eyes. “Why should I care?” Halfway through the presentation, y name is Jeff Yarmel, and I her chair. Since he had messed up trips was my favorite. there,” he said, pointing down a “I’m just letting you know Michael turned to Brian. “Do you was born on June 3, 1973. her chair she couldn’t stop him, so We were at our regular fishing hallway. something about me,” Michael have anything you want to say?” I grew up on Long Island, I rushed over to help. As soon as he spot, which was near my uncle’s Mwhere I lived with my brother, Peter, saw me approaching, the bully start- house, which meant, of course, that Brian was facing a television. responded, shrugging, “we might as “Well,” Brian began, looking Michael recognized the images on well talk since we have to be here.” around the room at his classmate’s who is five years younger than I am, ed to run away, since he was only my uncle was there with us. It was the screen. When Brian failed to respond, he faces, “we made the volcano by and my wonderful parents. I had a interested in picking on people that a beautiful day. The sun was shining “I thought you don’t like video continued, “Where does your mom putting newspaper in flour and happy childhood, because I loved couldn’t help themselves. but it wasn’t too hot, the lake was a both my family and my school, My friend in the chair was re- beautiful blue, and the air smelled games.” work?” water and then putting it over the which was called Carmen Road. lieved to be away from the bully and like spring. Without taking his eyes off the “At the hospital,” Brian answered, cardboard that made up the structure When I was about twelve, I was in grateful that I’d chased him off. I was When we first got there and got of the volcano. Watch this!” Brian game, Brian answered, “I really and then after a moment, added, a program at the school for kids with happy to have helped her, because I all our equipment set up, all three of wish we didn’t have to spend time “she works a lot.” then put vinegar and some drops different kinds of special needs, and knew that when it was me in trouble, us were excited, standing on the edge together.” “Oh, that must be hard.” of food coloring in the top of the was friends with a girl who talked she would be there for me, too. of the dock, looking out over the wa- “I don’t know what you’re saying if “Yeah. I’m usually home with my volcano. with her eyes. She also had cerebral ter, eager for our first catch. As time you’re not looking at me. It’s easier uncle and sister. Why did your dad Michael added baking soda, and palsy, so she had a large DynaVox. One of the things I remember went on, and no fish were biting, I when I can read your lips.” leave?” then suddenly the volcano erupted, It was attached to the side of her fondly from my younger years is started to get bored. But we waited Brian turned around. “I said I Michael thought for a moment. splattering red bubbles all over the wheelchair and stretched across her playing video games with my broth- and waited until we couldn’t stand it really wish we didn’t have to spend “I don’t know. My mom says he table. The students clapped and lap. It could follow her line of sight er. Between the two of us, we owned anymore, and finally we went home. time together.” wasn’t ready to be a dad. He couldn’t laughed. and would say aloud the name of a whole bunch of games, but my fa- Even though we never caught any- “Well, I don’t like it either. I just handle it.” When it was over, they looked to whatever she looked at. She looked vorite was a car racing game. Play- thing, it was still the best fishing trip want to get a good grade.” “Oh.” the teacher to see how they did. She up, it said yes. She looked down, it ing video games was our after school I ever had, because I loved just hav- “Okay, good,” Brian put down The boys didn’t talk much after smiled and said, “That was great. You said no. ritual, and even though he was much ing a quiet day with my brother and the controller and wheeled passed that, but a sort of calm developed guys worked really well together.” At first, I was amazed by this cool better than me at video games, it was my uncle. Michael, who was still standing in between them. Without thinking, Michael held technology, but as time went on and always a great way to relax after a the doorway. “Let’s just start so we up his hand towards Brian. To we had class after class together, the long day at school. Often, when I was young, I can finish it.” The two boys stood together at his surprise, Brian returned the DynaVox just became another thing Even though the games were helped my aunt cut her grass. She Uncle Ryan was able to help the the front of the classroom, their gesture and his hand met Michael’s. that came along with my friend, like still fun when I lost, nothing was lived in New Jersey, and our whole boys with their project. He cut out completed volcano on a table in Together, they returned to their seats being tall, or having brown hair. as much fun as beating my little family would go see her often. She the newspaper for their papier-mâché front of them. to watch the next presentation. The two of us were close for years. brother. Whenever I won, I would had two children, one boy and one volcano. While they spent a lot of Just as they were about to begin Because we both had cerebral palsy rub it in his face that I was the older girl, Matthew and Jena. They were a time with him, Brian’s mom was only their presentation, Michael noticed we understood each other, and un- brother, and he had better not forget lot younger, but I played with them derstood the difficulties of commu- it! Although I hate to admit it, even a lot. Unfortunately, I don’t get to there just long enough to say hello. that Brian’s hands were shaking. He nicating with other people. though he was my kid brother, he see them too much now, since they She had to run to work, and wouldn’t bent down and whispered in his hear, We got through school together, was still pretty cool. live far away. “Stop shaking. It’s going to be okay.” be back until late. like the one time where another kid When we were young, however, She kissed Brian on the forehead, Brian just nodded, opening and from our class, who was a terrible Another, less competitive thing I whenever my aunt and uncle needed but Michael noticed that he resisted closing his hands. Suddenly, Michael bully, took advantage of the fact that did with my brother when we were help outside, I would help them. a little, pulling back as far as the head had an idea. He reached into his my friend couldn’t use her hands, younger was go fishing. We used to Anything they needed, I would do— rest of his wheelchair would allow. pocket, and pulled out his favorite and started playing around with go fishing regularly, but one of the cutting the grass, pulling weeds, rak- After that, they worked in silence stress ball. dignity: 12 13 :dignity ing leaves,anything. I loved being City. well, and it is always a time I will as- outside. My mom and I sat glued to the sociate with my mom. TV, shocked and horrified, as my Being a family means getting In fact, the most memorable time aunt frantically tried to get in touch through both the good and the bad, I ever had with my mom was on one with a friend to live in the city, to and I know I couldn’t have gotten of the trips we made to New Jersey make sure she was okay. through that week without my mom. to visit my aunt, uncle, and cousins. We were too shocked to do any- We drove down from Long Island thing, and just sat, feeling over- My family decided to move when to spend a week helping my aunt whelmed and scared, as we watched I was about 30, and we wanted to go tame her wildly overgrown yard. the second plane hit. It felt like we to Rochester, because we have other My mom and I were shocked to watched for hours, though I can’t say family living here, my dad’s brother see what used to be my aunt’s yard for sure how long it actually was. and his family. transformed into a jungle. The grass I almost wanted to stop watching, When my parents first told me was short and well-maintained, but but knew that I couldn’t. The one we were moving, I felt excited to weeds had sprouted up all over the thought that kept running through be somewhere new and be near my place, and the branches that were my mind was that we had to get family, but I also felt a little nervous strewn everywhere snapped under home, but of course we couldn’t. about leaving everything I knew to our feet. Thankfully, my brother called, and live in a new city. Rather than deter me, however, let us know that he and my dad were Before my family ever moved the magnitude of the mess was excit- okay, but in the aftermath of some- up to Rochester, we visited here a ing, because my uncle had a riding thing so horrible, I just wanted to be lot, looking for a place to live. The lawnmower that I was determined to with my family. Late that night, my trips here made me feel a little better try out. My mom wasn’t as excited as aunt’s friend arrived at her house. about moving. Each time we came, I was, but she was still good-natured We were all downstairs together, eat- it was a six hour drive in each direc- about it, and happy to help. ing and trying to distract ourselves tion, and I hated sitting in the car Even though during that week we from the terrible thing that was go- that long, so I was happy when we had a lot of work to do, my mom ing on. The doorbell rang, and my finally chose a house and could get and I had lots of time just by our- aunt jumped out of her chair to an- ready to move. selves. We would sit and chat out in swer. I remember the look of relief my aunt’s yard, watching the prod- on her face when she saw for sure After we moved, I lived with slow getting used to it. the group home. It was 2004. I talk- I was used to having my own room uct of our labors, enjoying the warm that her friend was safe. my mom and dad for about a year. One of the disappointing things ed to my parents and we decided I and suddenly I was living with a to- sun. We would be across from each Even though it had only been one When we had moved, my brother about Rochester was that there are needed a change of scenery because tal stranger. A lot of the time he had other at my aunt’s big picnic table, day, when I went to sleep that night, had stayed on Long Island, so it was so many hills and it was harder to I was getting older. Before I moved the TV and the radio on and it was and I can still picture how my mom I felt as though the whole world had only the three of us. The first change ride my bike, and someone had to in, my parents took me to see several so loud I couldn’t think. It was very looked, sweaty and dirty from all our changed. I don’t know how we ever I noticed about our new house is come with me to make sure I would different homes so we could choose frustrating. I also missed my family a yard work, but still really happy. went back to normal after that, but that we had a lot more room. be safe. the best one. It was very hard for me lot since I didn’t know anyone. Mak- eventually we managed. Also, when we lived in Long Is- Back in Long Island, it was very to move into the group home be- ing friends at the group home was a As happy as the week started out, land we had a tiny back yard, but flat and it was lot easier and more fun cause I had a lot of adjusting to do. slow process. however, it was interrupted by some- Even though we finished out our now we had a huge one. I wished to ride my bike. I have a blue three- It’s hard for me to write about it, On the second day, people started thing shocking and terrible. After week at my aunt’s house, we couldn’t that I had had that kind of a yard wheeler but I don’t ride it as much even though it was so long ago. It to be more friendly with me, and ap- a few days at my aunt’s, I woke up go back to the happy and peaceful to play in when I was a kid. Best of anymore because over the years it’s was challenging to move to such a proached me to talk to me. For the to the sound of my mom shouting times we had had before. We were all, I had a room to myself, because gotten harder to do it. I like riding different environment, where there most part, they seemed friendly and downstairs. I jumped out of bed and doing the same yard work, and sit- when I lived in Long Island, I had to my bike because it feels really good were always staff members supervis- kind, and they showed me around. I ran downstairs. As I skidded into ting at the same picnic table, but it share with my brother. Even though to use my legs; it feels free because ing us. I had a roommate but unfor- started to feel much better, and some the living room, I saw the appalling simply didn’t feel the same. I mostly got along with my brother, it’s a lot easier than walking for me. tunately he was a lot older than me of the first friends I made were Jane news on tv: a plane had crashed into Even though parts of the week it was great to have my own space. I and he couldn’t see very well so I had and Betty. I help them with com- the World Trade Center in New York were terrible, parts were good, as liked my new home, but it still was I remember the year I moved into to help him do things. puters because that’s something I’m dignity: 14 15 :dignity good at, and we get along really well. Every day there’s a different fun ac- good to know everybody had missed One of the things that I love do- ways been there for me. Although I My dad and I were both excited tivity there, but I really love the art me, but it felt even better to be back. ing is anything that has to do with don’t live with them anymore, wher- and elated to have taken something I still live there today. The house and music classes, and the dances. After I had said hello to everyone, art. For about the last four years, I’ve ever they are feels like my real home. as big and complicated as a car from has 12 rooms, and one of those The camp lasts two eeks,w but I had to eat something. The food been taking art classes through CP Sometimes, living in the group broken to working. When we took rooms is mine, which I share with I only got to go for the first week. was only okay, but I needed some Rochester that I attend every Friday home, I really start to miss my old a test drive to make sure our handi- my roommate Tom. I work with However, every year there is a dance fuel for dancing. As the dance went for an hour. room back in my parents’ house. I’m work would hold, it felt like more him. He’s funny and I like him be- at the end of the second week, and on, I tried to dance with everybody Although I’ve tried other kind of really fortunate that we only live fif- than a regular drive. It felt like an ac- cause it’s easy for me to talk to him, nobody knew it yet, but I was going there, which was pretty easy because art, my favorite medium is painting, teen minutes apart, because I can go complishment. Building something and we laugh a lot together. He’s a to be at that dance. They hold the everyone was just dancing in a big, and my favorite thing to paint is ani- home to see them whenever I want. with my dad was not only fun, it lot closer to my age and he’s a great dance outside, and everybody gets fun group. mals, especially the cats, dogs, and All I have to do is call them. Talk- was something that he and I share, a roommate for me, so things have im- really dressed up. Song after song played, but no- birds that are people’s pets. ing to them is the only thing that can memory just for us. proved a lot since I first moved in. When I got there, one of the staff body wanted to take a break from One of the best pieces I’ve done cure my occasional homesickness. members saw me, and yelled to the the fun, so that when the night end- is an etching into glass of a dog. If I As far as my family goes, I’ve been Two summers after I moved into crowd of my friends that I was there. ed, we were all completely worn out. could pick any kind of pet to have, it My best and strongest memory of lucky. My parents and my brother the group home, I started going to While my friends looked up in sur- All of camp was fun, but that final would definitely be a dog. a time spent with my dad is the time have always been there for me, and camp, which was similar to the one prise, all five of the staff members dance was easily the best part. we spent fixing his old car, which was I know they always will be, and for I had gone to back on Long Island. ran over and gave me a hug. It felt Whenever I think of pets, I can’t an old-fashioned bug like the car in that, I am grateful. help but think of my brother. When the Herbie movies. This was the car Sometimes when I reflect back on we were younger, my brother had an that my dad drove every day and he my past, I miss being younger, and iguana that he kept in a tank in our knew it well, so he could tell when miss the people, places, and times I bedroom. I remember the first time something started to go wrong. know I can never go back to. There my brother brought the lizard home. One warm morning, my dad are some completed chapters in my I looked at that thing he was called me down to the driveway, to life that I wish I could live through bringing in and wondered what help him test and try to figure out again. weird creature he was planning to what was going on, since it obvious- But at the same time, I know that keep in the room where we had to ly wasn’t going right. Sure enough, I have to move forward, and am sleep. when he turned the key, the car excited to see what the future will “What is that?” I asked, staring at would not start. I was baffled, but bring. I have dreams and aspirations, the scaly, green thing. My brother my dad immediately knew what was and I hope they will come true. But I explained that this was new pet liz- up. know that whatever may come, I can ard, let me look into the tank, and The battery was dead. get through it, and anything, with then put it on his desk. The lizard Even though we knew what the help from my family. lived on that desk for the next two problem was, we didn’t know how years. to fix it. So we settled down on the If I remember one thing about curb behind the car, and turned on that lizard, it was that my brother Car Talk on NPR, and pretty soon had to feed it live bugs every day. we had our answer. I’m glad it wasn’t my lizard, because We hooked up my dad’s set of I would have been much too grossed jumper cables, attaching them to out to touch those bugs. You know the dead battery and the battery in how I said I would like a dog? Well, my mom’s car. We turned my mom’s the last pet I would ever want to have car on to charge my dad’s battery. is a lizard. We waited a few minutes in anxious anticipation, hoping that this would My parents have also always been work. When we turned the car on, it important to me because they’ve al- worked! dignity: 16 17 :dignity pink sparkling unicorn could be alive. In a tiny voice, Clara says. “I’m fairies watch the clouds in their Clara’s Secret Wish At night when she goes to sleep sorry, I had a bad dream.” world and see what’s happening in there is a storm. It is really windy. Clara had quickly hid Pinky under this world. One fairy was interested The next day when she wakes up, her blanket. She is warm and soft in you because you still believe in By Victoria Bement the new rain smell feels great. Clara against her skin. magic.” Pinky scraped the edge of the In Collaboration with Zarah Quinn is surprised to hear something clip, The nanny leaves, grumbling, blanket with a soft hoof. clopping on the hard floor. Then shutting the door. Clara quickly takes “Oh, I love fairies!” says t is midday in August in a small windowsill. She opens the window, Beast. She likes fairytales because she starts calling out, “Who’s there?” Pinky out from beneath the covers, Clara. town. In the center of the town, and the bird jumps on her finger. It they take her away, away from her Suddenly, her pink sparkling unicorn eyes wide with excitement with a Clara does everything with Pinky. there is a new house, with lots of is a bluebird, with a short beak, and wheelchair. comes walking out and says, “Hi, huge grin. Clara asks, “Is this real?” Clara and Pinky play tea party in the Iwindows and white flowing curtains. it sings for her, with whistles and Her mother is about to leave for Clara.” Clara screams, waking up “Yes,” Pinky says, “it’s very real, room with a Beauty and the Beast tea Clara is looking out one of the chirps. She is surprised. She listens. work. The nanny arrives at their the nanny. The nanny comes in the Clara.” set. They watch TV together. She windows of the house on the second She strokes the bird on its head with house. She is about the age of Mother. room. She has messy hair and her face “How?” Clara asks. makes Pinky a box of blankets and floor. Her hair bun is messy. She is the tip of her finger. The bird stops Clara doesn’t like the nanny. She’s is a mess. “A fairy from another world heard pillows underneath her bed where twirling a strand of hair around her singing and closes its eyes. stern with Clara, like a drill sergeant. “Clara. It’s too early for this.” your wish and came to grant it. These Pinky sleeps. finger. There is a knock at the door. Clara She fixes foods that Clara doesn’t like There are people below walking on flinches, and the bird flies away. Her that look like slop. But when Clara the sidewalk. She sees a man with a mother says dinner is ready. Clara tells her mother about this, she says, brown jacket talking on his phone. watches the bird. It flies into the sky, “Nonsense. It’s your imagination. She sees a woman with long blonde disappearing into the clouds. She’s just trying to take care of you.” hair riding her bike, her dog running “I want you in bed by nine,” her along behind her, the leash tied to the Last June, on a sunny day, Clara mother says, hugging her and kissing handlebar. was running through the flowers in her forehead. “Goodnight.” She has just finished reading with the field behind her house. She was Her mother leaves. Clara goes to her mother, and she is tired. Her just having fun. She was playing hide her room to listen to soothing music. mother is cooking dinner before she and seek with her friend Erica. Erica She hugs her swirly, sparkly pink goes to work at the hospital. Her was counting. Seven, eight, nine.... unicorn, Pinky. She carries Pinky all mother is a nurse. Her father is never Clara ran toward a willow tree. over. She is a good friend to Clara. there because he travels for work. He She tripped over a root. She fell. She She talks to Pinky because she always plays the organ and piano, travelling hit her head on a rock sticking out listens. all over the world, to Paris, London, of the ground. It felt like someone She tells Pinky about what she and Rome. was slicing her head. She lay on the learns in her homeschooling. She Her crystal blue eyes are full of ground, not moving. tells her how she’s feeling, like how sadness. She watches the birds soar A few minutes later, her mother she doesn’t like the nanny, and Pinky through the sky. She is thinking how came out of the house. Cookies and listens, and doesn’t argue with her. beautiful the sky is. And she wants milk were ready for the girls. Suddenly The nanny comes bursting into the a friend. A friend like in her books. her mother heard screaming. Erica room. “It’s time to go to bed.” A friend who is courageous and kind. was running through the field Clara feels what most kids feel A friend who will protect her from towards her. when adults yell at them. She feels anything. Someone who is there to scared. She goes to bed. She sees a talk to, her own age. She hurt her Clara doesn’t like being in a shooting a star. She cries because her back last summer and she can’t walk. wheelchair. She can’t walk or run mom’s not there. The nanny scares She is wheelchair bound and she feels or play with other kids. Instead, her. far away from other kids. she reads. Fairytales like Rapunzel, Clara lies in bed after the tiring As she watches, a bird lands on the Sleeping Beauty, Beauty and the day. She wishes on a star that her dignity: 18 19 :dignity with a rose that lights up inside. Clara unicorn that I always carry around? I before she can go, the nanny rips They find her, sew her together, says to Pinky, “I wish I could walk.” made a wish that Pinky was real, and Pinky out of Clara’s hands. and leave her on a coffee table with a Pinky says, “Turn around.” it came true.” “You’re too old for this stuff.” She sheet over her for the night. Clara says, “Why?” Her mother joyfully shouts, pushes Clara to her room and locks Clara goes to bed. Her mother sits Pinky says, “Turn around so your “Pinky!” Then she says, “You know the door. on the couch looking at Pinky for a back is towards me.” we are going to have to keep her from The nanny goes downstairs and long time, whispering and crying, Clara turns around. Pinky puts the outside world.” takes Pinky with her. She screams at “Please come back.” The mother her horn on Clara’s back. Clara feels Clara says, “But why?” the stuffed animal. “I don’t know if finally goes to her bed. a shock. “Everyone will be interviewing her you’re real or not, but I don’t know Something happens that night. “What was that, Pinky?” she asks. and worst of all cut off her horn, so it what you’ve done to her. I’ve seen Pinky’s heart starts to beat, and all her She says, “You will find out in the will be Mommy and Clara’s secret.” Clara carry you around and talk to scars are gone. She slowly opens her morning, Clara.” you. And now Clara can walk. If you eyes. She looks around. She pushes Pinky hops up on the bed and It is night and Clara is watching are real, better hope you have a few the sheet back and wanders up to curls up next to her. Clara holds TV. She is lying on the ground on lives.” Clara’s room and opens the squeaky Pinky tight. her belly, her hands supporting her The nanny rips her legs with her door. Clara suddenly wakes up and When she wakes up, Pinky is gone! chin. Pinky is next to her, frozen like sharp nails. Pinky stays frozen. Then says, scared, “Who’s there?” She sits up by herself, surprised. She a stuffed animal. Her mother is at her horn lights up. Clara gets up and goes over to the turns to put her feet on the floor and work. The nanny is making dinner. Clara is in her room, crying and light switch. When she turned it on, stands up. “They are magical!” She Clara whispers to Pinky, “I wonder talking to herself. “Why did I do that her eyes get wide and she shouts, stands there for a minute just looking what kind of slop there is tonight.” to myself?” Then Clara hears the front “Pinky!” Clara kneels down, crying, at her legs with amazement. Then Pinky says, “Tell her then. It’s all door open and slam shut. She hears and gives her a big hug. Clara hears some wrestling coming right. I’m here. I will never leave.” yelling downstairs. Then the mother “Mom! Come and see!” from the closet. Clara puts one foot The nanny calls dinner. When opens her bedroom door. Still in her The mother comes running out in front of the other and crosses Clara walks in, the nanny says harshly, coat and hat, with her keys in her in her nightgown, saying, “What’s the hardwood floor. Walking feels “How can you walk?” hand, they hug affectionately. Then wrong?” amazing. She goes over and opens “I’ve been taking physical therapy,” the mother says, “Let’s go get Pinky.” “Mom, Pinky has come back to the white door and finds Pinky with Clara says. “Walking a little every They go downstairs and find Pinky life!” jewelry on and a hat. Clara stands at day.” all over the place. The mother yells They all hug. That night they all Clara keeps Pinky a secret because on her skin; it made Pinky sparkle. the closet with her hands on her hips, The nanny grunts. She tells Clara at the nanny, “What have you done fall asleep on the couch together. she doesn’t want her mother to be Clara likes Pinky because Pinky stays smiling. Giggling she asks, “Pinky, to sit down at the table. Clara peaks here?” scared; it’s not everyday that you see put, she doesn’t leave. Pinky listens what are you doing?” down at Pinky, who she set down on The nanny says, “A child that age a sparkly pink unicorn that’s alive. to Clara talks about girl stuff, like Pinky says, “There is a lot of the dining room chair next to her. shouldn’t be carrying around a stuffed Clara imagines that her mother crushes, or how she wishes her dad beautiful stuff in here. You should Pinky gives her a wink. Clara takes a animal.” would scream and take Pinky away were home. Pinky talks about being wear a pretty sun dress and surprise deep breath and says, “What kind of The mother says, “If she likes it, from her, call the news or police. able to walk or trot and run wherever your mom.” Clara puts on a pink slop did you make?” she can carry it around! What’s the Whenever her mother comes, she wants to go. Clara thinks she’s sparkling dress with flowers on it The nanny says, “Excuse me?” problem with that, she’s not hurting Pinky freezes in her pose. During lucky. and goes down to surprise her mom. Clara stands up and pushes back anyone!” the day, when her mother leaves for Clara said softly, “Even though When she walks in, her mother is the chair. “I don’t like your food. I “Well, it’s not appropriate.” work, Pinky comes out from under you’re a stuffed animal, you’re my making breakfast. haven’t been happy with you for a The mother glared at her, and said the bed and Clara lifts her onto the friend. I love you, Pinky.” “Hi, mom” she says. while. I don’t like how you hurry me, sternly, “You’re fired.” bed with her. “I love you,” Pinky said. “You’re Her mom says, “Hi, dear,” and or talk to me like a drill sergeant.” The nanny mumbles on her way One day they are in the backyard my best friend.” does a double take. She screams and The nanny says harshly, “Go to out the door and slams it on her way looking at the clouds. Pinky was on hugs her and whispers, “How did this your room, young lady!” out. her lap. The sun was out, and it felt One night they build a tent in the happen?” Clara feels scared. She goes to her Clara starts crying. Her mother good to Clara to have the sunlight room. Their light is a little flashlight “Remember the pink sparkling room, and takes Pinky with her. But says, “Let’s go pick up Pinky.” dignity: 20 21 :dignity Introducing Patrick Hurley

By Patrick Hurley In Collaboration with Ripa Chowdhury

bout Patrick: We took the plane to fly there. Unfortunately, nothing was being Hello, there! My name is Tim, my older brother, missed the filmed there when I went. But hey, Patrick Hurley. I was born on flight but was able to join us later. It they had one of those yellow trucks MarchA 14th in 1964. Oh boy, I am was summer there, very warm and on the beach just like they did in getting old. Can’t help it! When ladies sunny, which was definitely a change the show. I am so glad I was able to ask me how old I am, I just smile. from Rochester. take this trip to California. Luckily, I just turned 49 a few weeks ago. After getting off the plane we went I have been able to travel to other I had a really good birthday. My to pick up our rental car. We stayed at places as well such as Ireland, Miami, family wished me happy birthday the Coast Hotel and it was lovely. We Florida, Canada (Niagara Falls) and and my mom gave me a birthday card had comfy beds, nice furniture, and Washington D.C. I wish to keep that sang Rock & Roll music when I a big TV with too many options. We traveling so that I can see all parts of opened it. I have a BIG family, ten also had hot tub where I would relax the world. siblings, and I love them very much. I when I got tired. But I really had fun also love my group home and the staff swimming in the pool while the sun An Interview with Patrick about Gun members that are always there for me. shined brightly. Control They took me out to Applebee’s During the evenings, we went out for my birthday dinner. I had steak to various restaurants and tried new Patrick is a great individual. and home fries and to add to the dishes. I definitely enjoyed doing Apart from traveling with his family, awesomeness, we had ice cream that, who doesn’t like eating out? he works part time at his family sundaes. I also got to drink two glasses The fun part about this trip was business. In his free time he likes to of Bud light beer which got me a little all the wonderful places we got to go bowling, work out at the gym, bit tipsy. Oh yeah! visit. We went to the wax museum, go out to eat, go shopping with his But my favorite part of the night the Irish Pub, and Universal Studios mom, and take part in fun activities was when all the beautiful ladies came (Hollywood). I also got to see some with his group home members. Most I was very impressed at his insight country. campus shootings coverage on TV. up to our table and sang “Happy celebrities. I saw the country singer interestingly he likes to stay in tune regarding this matter. I asked, so The recent incident of the Newton Next I asked, so what do you think Birthday” to me. Wait, it gets better… Keith Urban when we went to see the with the current news. what is it that you want to write shooting massacre is another prime should happen? What you do think one of them gave me a kiss on the Jay Leno’s tonight show. Yes, I got to about and convey to your audience? example of how important it is to about guns? cheek. After the wonderful dinner, see it live! Keith was there as a guest Dialogue between Patrick and Ripa He answered: gun control. Like find a solution to regulating guns. Patrick responded, I want shooting we got cupcakes for others at our artist!!! He is a great singer; I like his many, the recent news regarding the Patrick said it saddens him to even to STOP. Stop killing people. group home which everyone loved! I songs. On our first meeting, he asked me: mass shooting in public places such think what those little kids must have Government should pass laws to was very happy I got to celebrate my The next exciting and memorable have you seen the news about the as schools, malls, college campuses, gone through and what their families prevent anyone from gaining access birthday. thing for me was visiting the beach. I Olympian who shot his girlfriend? and the movie theater makes him and loved ones are faced with. It is to guns. They can have it if they use This reminds me of the time when got to visit a particular one where the I said, no, but that sounds terrible. demand for the president to take a tremendous loss for the family, he it for the “right” reason. By right I I went on a trip with my sister Irlene 90’s TV show Baywatch was filmed. It Patrick’s immediate response was… strong action to stop individuals from said. mean, not shooting someone for just and my brother Tim to California. is one of my favorite TV shows about that should have not happened! He gaining access to guns so easily. He continued by saying, he has the sake of killing. th It was during my 27 birthday. a couple of lifeguards who patrolled continued to say that it is not safe Patrick says he fears going outside nieces and nephews going to college People can have it if they are Yeah, it was long time ago but I still the beaches of Los Angeles County in anywhere. People live in fear not and he is concerned for his family and sometimes he worries for them protecting themselves. Anyone remember it. California. knowing what the future holds. members who are living all over the when he sees all the recent college purchasing guns should go through a dignity: 22 23 :dignity psychological evaluation to make sure stop such incidents from happening school with their academic or with that they are not some “crazy” people by increasing security in buildings their social circle. Marsha and the Beast, Letter thinking of harming themselves or and schools, by installing cameras others. to keep an eye out for outsiders, and Narrated by Ripa By Geraldine Copeland Then I asked, so why do you think by installing scanners like the ones In Collaboration with Sarah Winstein-Hibbs people kill one another? they have at airport which will stop As it can be seen from our above He replied, because they are mean, students or adults from bringing in conversation, Patrick is one of the nce upon a time, there was freckles. In fact, these freckles were windows, and beautiful chandeliers they want to take revenge, and maybe harmful weapons. Parents should also many individuals who are affected by a beast named Bobby, and all over his body and they looked like that hung down from the ceiling. they want attention. He continued be more cautioned about what their the daily unfortunate incidents that a beauty named Marsha. chicken pox. Marsha thought they They all sat down at the table and the saying we as a society should look out children are doing. take place here in our country. His OMarsha had curly, bright gold hair. looked strange together, and almost waitress asked what kind of drinks for people that are psychologically or How so? concerns are valid and provide some But Bobby was ugly: he looked more felt embarrassed. they’d like. Dennis and Clara each emotionally disturbed and get them Patrick replied, well kids should excellent insight into the matter. Our like an animal than a person, very Bobby took Marsha’s hand and led ordered a glass of red wine, and Bobby the help they need so that they don’t not be allowed to play violent video conversation came to an end with furry. They met for the first time at her over to where his parents were. and Marsha ordered Mountain Dew. commit such violent acts to get over games that have to do with shooting, Patrick stating… though we can’t a church at an evening service. They “Hi Bobby! Who’s this?” Clara The soda bubbled in the clear glasses, their frustrations. killing, and hurting others. reform the system or the mentality each were by themselves at church asked. Her voice was beautiful, and and the wine was a dark red. Marsha Do you think we can stop these Parents should always focus on of the individuals carrying out such that Sunday, but when Marsha went songlike. thought it was very funny to see events from happening? I asked. their children and talk to them weekly acts, we definitely can pray and hope up to take Communion, Bobby “This is my good friend, Marsha!” furry beasts drinking beverages like He says off course! It won’t hurt to and make sure they are not upset or for the best for ourselves and others. joined her at the wooden pew, and Bobby said. this: they had to use a straw so they try at least. He continued…we can going through any tough times at AMEN! whispered, “Let’s go on many dates “Hi! Nice to meet you, Marsha,” wouldn’t get their whiskers all wet! together!” Dennis said. “Would you like to go Marsha decided to get a straw, too, The minister overheard this, and to a restaurant with us?” to be polite – and so that the soda he was not very pleased. His face “Oh, that would be wonderful!” wouldn’t spill on her clothes. became very red, and he said, “Would Marsha said. They ordered steak, blooming you please go somewhere else if you’re They all got into Dennis’s car, which onions, fish, and cheesecake. They going to talk like that in my church?” was a red and white limo with flags. shared this food and talked with each So Marsha and Bobby left that church. Marsha knew that something weird other and felt very happy. Soon, they They stopped on the sidewalk. They was going on. “What a wonderful were making plans to go bowling were admiring the grass and the trees, car,” she exclaimed, “I’ve never seen and to go to more restaurants. After and then there was a blue moon. It one like this before!” Marsha noticed dinner, they went outside. It was was all round, and a dark clear blue. that Clara had to curl herself up to dark, nighttime, with another blue Then, Clara and Dennis, Bobby’s get into the car because she was so tall moon in the sky. You could see all the parents, wandered out of the church. and big. stars, and the planets. They looked at Clara was a strange woman: she was On the way to the restaurant, the beautiful planets together. They furry all over, like Bobby. But she they passed through the countryside, wanted to go on more dates. had a dress on, with pink polka dots which was dotted with farms. Marsha The next week, Marsha and Bobby – the pink dots next to her brown saw the animals on the little farms, went another date, and they went to fur looked very bizarre. It was hard such as cows getting milked, and a Friendly’s. This time, Marsha started to even imagine her putting a dress few yellow cats. wondering why Bobby was so furry. over such a tall, hairy body – almost They arrived at the restaurant, She looked and looked at him, even six feet in total! Dennis, on the other which was fancy. A waitress met them though she was sitting next to him. hand, was only 5’4.” He wore a blue and said, “Follow me to your table.” Bobby noticed she was looking at pantsuit, and his blonde hair was very Their table was round wood, with him and said “Why are you staring at long. This man had a very peculiar a bouquet of roses, and a red plaid me?” Marsha responded with another face because it was covered with tablecloth. There were stained glass question: “Why are you so furry?” dignity: 24 25 :dignity “Well, I’m furry because my mom is My name is Clara. I am Bobby’s tall houses and apartment buildings, beak. Inside the castle, multicolored amazed, to find Marsha standing with on her too. She changed back into a furry. She’s under a magical spell, and mother. As you know, I am very furry. and then they came to the witch’s floral wallpaper covered all the walls. the wand in her hand. Bobby stood beautiful queen, with a long white so am I. The wicked witch came to our For two years, I have been this way, hut. It was made out of hay, and one They found themselves in a beautiful before her as a handsome prince, dress and an imperial cape. Then castle and put a spell on us by making because of an evil spell by a witch window was lit up with a candle. dining room, where Bobby was smiling. “Marsha, thank you so Marsha waved her wand over Bobby’s us drink an evil potion. The curse of named Wanda. The only way to break Marsha, Karen, and the eagle crept seated at a long, gleaming wooden much!” he exclaimed. “How did you father, Dennis, and cured his chicken this spell can only be broken if you this spell is if Marsha kisses Bobby. up to one of the windows. Luckily, banquet table. He looked tired and do this?” Marsha told him the story pox. “Thank you, Marsha,” Bobby’s kiss me.” After he said this, Marsha But – there is one other thing you the window was cracked open just sad, holding his heavy, furry head in of how the eagle came to help her get mother said, “I can’t imagine a better said, “Ew! I’m not kissing you!” “But can do to break the spell. It is very a little bit, and the eagle puffed his his paw. The eagle silently passed the the wand to rescue him. Karen, her woman for my prince to marry.” you have to,” he protested, “or else dangerous, however. The only thing breath and blew out one of the wand to Marsha, and she tiptoed up mother, came up and said, “Bobby, And so the story goes. Bobby I’ll stay furry forever! Please kiss me! besides a kiss which can break the candles. They all peered carefully into behind Bobby. She grinned widely it’s very nice to meet you. You have and Marsha got married, went on Then I’ll turn into a prince, and you’ll spell is the witch Wanda’s wand. To the window, and they saw the witch as she took the wand and performed my permission to marry my daughter a honeymoon to Bahamas, and had be my princess, and my mom will be get this wand, you must sneak into asleep inside the hut, wrapped up in the magic spell on Bobby so he could if you want to!” Marsha laughed. five children, named Cindy, Greg, our queen!” Marsha tilted her head to her hut in the White Forests. Witches a white fur coat to keep herself warm. become a prince again. His woolly Suddenly, Bobby’s parents strode into Jan, Lynne, and Jinny. They all lived the side, looking at Bobby, imagining hate darkness, so you must extinguish Her entire face was green and wrinkly brown fur suddenly evaporated, the room from a door on the other happily ever after in the castle. And as what he would look like as a prince. all her candles. Then she won’t be able and scrunched up into a frown, even rising into the sky and changing into side. Marsha went up to Bobby’s for the witch Wanda, well, she never He definitely didn’t look so good to see. But don’t let her catch you first! though she was asleep. Her straight sparkly gold dust. He turned around, furry mother and performed the spell woke up. right now. “Hmm….I’ll think about Good luck on your task! blond hair was messy and all over it,” she said. Sincerely, the place. There was no heater or Bobby dropped her off at home, Clara fireplace inside the hut, just two stray and she immediately went to her P.S. This eagle may be of some help candles burning right next to her bed. mom, Karen, to ask her advice. to you. Marsha decided to tiptoe indoors “Mom, I think I love Bobby, but he’s and blow out the candles. She was under a spell. He says I can only break After Karen and Marsha read shaking all over, looking at the witch’s it by giving him a kiss. His mother is the note, they felt very afraid. But horrible face, but she managed to do under a spell, too, and he says that the eagle suddenly spoke, and said, it. “Pfff!” she blew out the flames her spell will be broken as well , if I do “Don’t worry, I’ll stay with you and gently and quietly, and then tiptoed this. But I don’t want to do it!” Her take care of the candles. I’ll make back outside. “Good work, Marsha! mom said, “But you have to. Bobby sure they’re all out and extinguished That was very brave!” her mother and and his mom will stay furry forever so you can get the wand and bring it the eagle said. Marsha gasped all of a if you don’t do it.” Marsha sighed. back to the castle.” Karen and Marsha sudden. “I saw the wand while I was “What should I do, mom? I think felt a little better after this. “And you inside, but I forgot it!” she whispered I’m in love with a beast, but I know can sit on my back and I’ll fly you loudly. “Shh! You’ll wake up the that he’s a real person underneath. there,” he offered. Marsha grinned witch!” her mother hissed. “Don’t So is his mother, but – “ All of a really big, excited by this possibility. worry, I can do this,” said the eagle, sudden, a bald eagle burst into the Her mother, however, was horrified. as he reached through the window open window, cutting off Marsha’s The eagle said, “I’ll sit down so you crack with his claws and snatched sentence with a loud, screeching can get on my back.” Marsha quickly the wand off of the shelf. Marsha and “Caw, caw, caw!” and dropped a piece climbed on, but Karen hesitated. She Karen then quickly clambered on his of paper on the floor right in front of felt quite reluctant, but she decided back and they flew directly back to her mother. The letter was addressed to face her fears and slowly mounted the castle. to Karen, and was written in fancy the eagle. The eagle swooped down to the cursive ink. She unfolded the letter. The eagle gently lifted off the castle, and before Marsha knew it, Here is what it said: ground so that Marsha and her mom she was inside Bobby’s home. Her could hang on. They passed over mother followed her inside, as well Dear Karen, evergreen trees, fuzzy green grass, as the eagle, with the wand in his dignity: 26 27 :dignity Dear Vice President Biden, Thoughts from the Inside My name is Geraldine. I live in a Cerebral Palsy group home, on Elmwood Avenue in Rochester, NY. I like computer games, baseball, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing , cats, plays, and movies. I was born with a cord around By Thaun Nguyen my neck and it made me have epilepsy with seizures. As a child, I struggled in school, and as I became a teenager, I In Collaboration with Jamie Kurtz had to do all kinds of tests to figure out what was wrong with me. I felt upset, but I was hoping for the best. Today, I work at CAC and I’m very happy. I get to do lots of things, like music, crafts, art, quilting, and many other activities. Medicaid makes this all possible. was born in Vietnam in 1966. at home. I felt sad. My whole family moving in with strangers. We became As it is, there’s a problem in the U.S. with Medicaid, Medicare, and MVP. I depend on all three of these forms of My father was in the United was okay. So were my friends. Many friends. In 1992, I moved again to insurance for my livelihood. I feel upset and concerned that these forms of welfare might be cut or reduced. Medicaid States Army and met my mom in of them left Vietnam with the US another program with 15 people. I IVietnam during the war. My father Army when the fighting started. The moved so that I could be in plays. At provides transportation, a place to live, enough food, a cane, and safety for me. I’m disabled and it would be very hard for me to get around and to live without these things. was the captain of an aircraft carrier North won Saigon the first time. The the program, they taught me how to I’m going to Albany to help advocate for Medicaid and to see Joseph Robock. I’m very excited and happy to go. It’s stationed in Saigon. My father went South won Saigon the second time. write and act. I learned how to work a great honor for me, because I’m going to help other people advocate for themselves. I’ll be able to meet other people back to the United States, and I was I felt sad because everything was not on the computer, and I learned how and attend workshops about Medicaid, Medicare, and MVP. Going to these workshops is very important because it born shortly after in Saigon. how I wanted it to be when the US to paint pictures. I sold the pictures; will help me, as a person with disabilities, learn to help myself, and to help others. I’m looking forward to going to My father traveled all over Asia, Army left. When the Army left, a lot they gave me 17% of the profit. 83% Albany, and I know that seeing Senator Robock will make a great impression on me and inspire me. including Thailand, the Philippines, of people did not have homes to live went to the program. It didn’t make I want to help people with disabilities in our community. I played volleyball at St. John’s as a volunteer, and also Singapore, and Cambodia. My moth- in. There were more than 300,000 me mad because I was helping the went to a nursing home to play bingo with the elderly, and help them with their wheelchairs. Doing things like this is er stayed home in Saigon with me US children because their fathers program. I sold A LOT of paintings. important, because others need our help. Nursing homes, disabilities group homes, and ARC group homes, all depend and my two sisters. My father went were US soldiers; they were taken to Every month I made between $100 on Medicaid. Without Medicaid, we wouldn’t have a place to live, or any healthcare. off on the ship for 30 days. I felt like the United States after the war. My and $200 from 1992 to 2009. I saved We need to help our people, to push the wheelchairs, to spread more learning in the community about disabilities, I wanted to see him every day, but I father was in Thailand in when the the money. Also, I would go out to and make sure that they’re safe. Please talk to President Obama about not taking Medicaid away. And please talk to couldn’t. I was sad when he went to war ended. He couldn’t come back the community with some new peo- Joseph Robock. My workplace, C.A.C. (Arc Community Connections), is supported by Medicaid. Many people like another country. I felt happy when I to Vietnam because he went to the ple to go to dinner or go to the mu- me will be disadvantaged if Medicaid is reduced. I will have to be supported by my mother and father again if these saw him again. United States. The last time that he seum. At the museum, I saw pictures. funds are cut. We need your help. Funds are already being cut, and as a result, some of our programs and supplies have I heard about the war. My cousin saw my mother, he told her that he They were better than mine. I lived been taken away. I have hope for the future, and I know that if we work together then we can do it. died because of the war. He served in would come back. My sisters went to in independent living from 2000 to If you can, please pass this on to President Obama and Senator Robock. the Vietnam Army and fought with the United States first for five years. 2009. Thank you for your support, and please write me back. South Vietnam. He was on the other Then, I came with my mom. I have In 2009, I moved to New York. Sincerely, side. I don’t remember when this hap- not seen my dad since he was in Viet- They didn’t let me stay in the act- th Geraldine Copeland pened, but it was before the attack on nam: April 9 , 1975. It makes me ing program because I was moving Saigon. Saigon was attacked in 1975. sad. to New York so I lived with a friend. There was airplane fighting. South I was twenty-four years old when When I got to New York, I broke my Vietnam shot the airplane. I heard the I came to United States in 1990. I hip. I fell. They took me to the hos- airplanes every day and every night didn’t know English for the first year pital. I was there for a long time. I when I was little, and I saw them while I lived with my sister. In 1991, couldn’t talk. I almost died. I went to in the sky. I was not scared because I moved out to Los Angeles because I a nursing home for two months. The I knew that the people in the planes wanted a bed to sleep on; I didn’t have doctor and the nurse took care of me. were my father’s friends. I didn’t have a bed at my sister’s house, and I don’t I liked them. When I left the nursing to leave my house. I hid under my know why. I started to learn English home in 2010, I came to the home bed. I wasn’t scared, though, because in Los Angeles through a program a that I live in now. I was able to talk I knew that everything would be half an hour away from where I lived. again. Someone talked to me, and I okay. I was with one of my sisters; my I lived with 150 people in a commu- could talk back. I went back to the other sister was at her friend’s house. nity, but I shared a room with three hospital so many times because I fall I was worried about her. I saw lots of people. The three people were strang- out of bed a lot. They know me by people fall to the ground on the TV ers when I moved in. I wasn’t nervous name. dignity: 28 29 :dignity I like Rochester. Rochester keeps there is no one to take care of me er. me moving forward. I go out to work there. Two of my sisters have gone I go out with you in the ship by the in the community. I sort the mail for back to Vietnam, and one lives in the sea. the postal service. I also put food in United States. If I could, I would go I’m always looking for the window. boxes for food pantries, but I never back to Vietnam. I would go back I look to see inside. eat the food out of the boxes. to see the people I left there. I miss There are different windows to see, to I am in plays, too. One time, I my sisters, my nieces, and all of my hear, and to talk. yelled “Falling!” in a play. They told friends. Talk from the heart. me to. “The wall is falling!” I sing in I started writing poetry in 1992. the plays. I dance. I learned how to The program taught me how to write We talk through the night. dance in a play. The play was “Joseph poetry. I write a lot of different po- When the morning comes, the ship and the Amazing Technicolor Dream ems, not only about the flowers. goes to the ocean. Coat.” I was in the chorus. I had to Everything comes from my heart. I I look out. wear a costume; I wore a loose shirt. think of everything on my own. Po- I hear the ocean song that the whales I had to wear make-up. In California ems are different ways to talk to peo- sing. I wore make-up for plays, so I was ple from the inside, not the outside. I They are singing a love song. used to it. The play was three hours also read poems. long. I sang the whole three hours, The ocean goes up and down. but I didn’t lose my voice. I have writ- The day I met you Looking up, I see the blue sky. ten a lot of plays. I like writing out I see the moon, the stars, and the how people should act, and it is fun. When I met you, you looked like a light of the kingdom Sometimes I write my poems into the red rose. Where we live forever. plays. Everyone gives something to I looked for the window to see from the group. I give my writing. Some- the inside if the sun was shining. We hear the voice in the sky. times my plays are political. In 2011, It was in the blue sky. It says, “Come to me! I give you the I wrote “The Angel and the Devil.” It I went to the garden with you. The power to heal people.” is about the end of fighting with the garden is a good time. We answer the voice. devil. Some of my plays are musicals. The flower opened when we came. We say, “I hear you, Father. When I met you, you made me happy One song from play is “Goodbye, I talked to you through the day, and You call me to do something. my friend. I’ll see you again.” So far I felt happy. We give you our faith. When I met you, you made me happy. I have written 32 songs. They are fun You opened my heart when you We thank you for all you’ve done.” I go out with you to the morning blue sky. to write. I have also been in concerts. opened the door. I open the door to The morning sun rises. I sing with 45 people. We practice I feel happy with you. You give hap- The Father, the Son, and the Holy You give me happy from the inside out. every Monday and Wednesday. On piness. Spirit. You look like the beautiful red roses. Tuesday I go to play practice. I like When night came, I sat by the table I talked with you all through the night. them both. I like singing any kind of with the candle When the morning came, song. They taught me how to use my I said I love you. We went to the garden holding hands. mouth for singing. I can sing low and I smelled the pretty roses in the garden, high. There is a band that plays at the I open the door And they smelled like you. concert. I like all instruments. I know When the sun sets again, how to play the drum. I open the door for you to come with We will sit by the table in the garden. I haven’t been back to Vietnam. happiness. The table will have a brightly lit candle that lights up your eyes. My sister said I can’t go back to Viet- I’m always thinking about you. You make me full of joy. nam because the ticket is $2000. And I remember whenever we get togeth- We will sit there till we sleep. dignity: 30 31 :dignity The Inspiration Project:

Project Director Joanna Scott

Project Advisers Deborah Rossen-Knill Glen Cerosaletti

Project Coordinator Jenny Boyar

Consumer Guide Latrice Person

Consumer Advocates Marilyn Argenta Tina Bennett Gretchen Young-Zeh Kristi Powers

Anthology Design Taylor McCabe

Consumers Tori Bemant Geraldine Copeland Patrick Hurley Toni Montgomery Thaun Nguyen Latrice Person Jeff Yarmel

Student Collaborators Kelsey Burritt Ripa Chowdhuy Jamie Kurtz Taylor McCabe Zarah Quinn Cat Sbeglia Sarah Winstein-Hibbs

Dignity: 30