The experience of helping loved ones in need can be both rewarding and trying. Over the last ten years 1800wheelchair.com has helped tens of thousands of care givers with mobility related issues. We often hear the same questions and struggles. Using Meetup.com’s Everywhere platform we hope to bring people together to discuss what they’ve learned, share stories and maybe inspire each other.

The first meetups will all take place on the same day - July 28th, 2010.  You can sign up for the caregiver Meetup here. These events are for you, by you, so meet wherever you like. If you find these meetings helpful, feel free to organize more. Meetup.com can help with that.

After July 28th, we'll open it up, allowing you to create events for any date and time you prefer.

 

 

 

FAQs

Can anyone be involved? I don't live in the U.S. Can I still participate?

Yes, the 1800wheelchair cargivers meetup is all about connecting with other local cargivers in your community to share and learn, no matter where in the world you live.

Do I have to be a 1800wheelchair customer to join?

No, this event is open to everyone to attend.  

Do I have to have an Meetup account to join in these meetings?

No, you can RSVP with your Facebook sign-in, if you don't have a Meetup account. If you don't have a Facebook account or a Meetup account, you'll need one or the other to RSVP and/or step up as an organizer for a cargivers meetup. It's free and easy to sign up.

Can we change the time of the event?

Yes. The event organizer can change the time and set the location of the event.

Can I add a new Meetup to the map, even if my town already has one?

Yes, pick a convenient location.  The idea here is to foster face to face connections.  And, if the current Meetup is too far away, feel free to schedule another.

Does using the Meetup Everywhere tool cost money?

Nope. The Meetup Everywhere site is free and creating a Meetup.com account is free. You might want to pitch in for refreshments and drinks.

What do we do at the cargiver meeups?

That is up to you to decide. We hope you'll all share stories, propose new ideas and ask questions. It's an open forum.  

What's the difference between Meetup Everywhere and Meetup Groups?

Meetup Everywhere is not a Meetup Group. A Meetup Group is a local community group. Meetup Everywhere is a simple way to spark Meetups all over the world.

This sounds great. How can I help get the word out?

Help us spread the word. Email, Facebook, tweet, call ... anything.  Just invite your friends to this link: http://www.meetup.com/caregiver/

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Quad rugby is a sport that was developed for individuals and athletes who have upper body disabilities. The event typically takes place on a basketball court in which the players are in wheelchairs. Originally known as “murder ball”, quad rugby has transformed into a popular Paralympic sport practiced in over twenty countries. Established in 1993, the sport of quad rugby is governed by the International Wheelchair Rugby Federations.

• United States Quad Rugby Association: Official website of the USQRA with information about the game, photos and videos, news and events and sponsors.
• Wheelchair Sports Federation: Information about the history of quad rugby, eligibility requirements, equipment and the Quad Rugby Point System.
• United Cerebral Palsy Foundation: Learn about the benefits of playing quad rugby, classification information, general rules and court regulations.
• Quad Rugby Video Fact Sheet: Detailed overview of the sport of wheelchair rugby and videos of a quad rugby team and game.

Wheelchair, or quad, rugby was developed in 1976 in the country of Canada by five Canadian wheelchair athletes. Jerry Terwin, Randy Dueck, Chris Sargent, Duncan Campbell and Paul LeJeune created quad rugby to be a sport for quadriplegics. The sport required its players to dribble and shoot baskets. Each team is made up of four players and allowed unlimited substitutes. Quad rugby is played with a volleyball which is carried, batted or passed with the object of the game being to get the ball across the 20 meter goal. Chair contact with other players with or without the ball is encouraged and the player with the ball must dribble or pass the ball in intervals of ten seconds.

• Quad Rugby History: The history of quad rugby (wheelchair rugby), field dimensions and rules of the game.
• How to Play Quad Rugby: Rules and regulations of quad rugby the International Wheelchair Rugby Federation.
• USA Paralympics: Official United States of America Paralympic website with performance plans, selection procedures and team rosters.
• Adaptive Sports Program: Wheelchair rugby as an adaptive sports program as a rehabilitation option with videos of a quad rugby game.

In 2005, a documentary film called ‘Murderball’ was directed by Henry Alex Rubin and Dana Adam Shapiro. The Oscar nominated film focuses on the rivalry between Canadian and U.S rugby teams. The low budget film is about quadriplegics who play the sport of quad (wheelchair) rugby which lead up to the 2004 Paralympics games. The film was nominated in the 78^th Academy Awards for ‘Best Documentary Feature’. The major international quad rugby competitions are held in Zone Championships, or each odd numbered year. In even numbered years, the World Championships are held, opposite the Paralympics Games and the Summer Paralympics Games.

• Murderball Film Overview: Plot overview, cast and release date of the 2005 documentary film, ‘Murderball’.
• Quad Rugby Organization: Resources and guidance dedicated to wheelchair rugby players.
• Team Wheelchair Sports: General overview of multiple team wheelchair sports including quad rugby and official organizations.
• Wheelchair Rugby Athlete Guide: In-depth guide to the sport of quad rugby with player point systems and important rules.

Quad rugby is a competitive, fast-paced sport for individuals with quadriplegia. There are over 50 hard-hitting quad rugby teams in the United States alone and over 20 international teams, making this wheelchair sport one of the most popular Paralympic events.

• Wheelchair Rugby Australia: National Wheelchair Rugby League entry pack, rules and regulations, teams, history and sponsorship.
• Therapeutic Recreation: Quad rugby rules and resources for use of the sport in a therapeutic environment.
• 2010 World Wheelchair Rugby Championships: New and championship information and events for September 17-26, 2010.

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When life throws you a lemon, you don’t sulk, complain or feel sorry for yourself. Instead, you just make lemonade. You make the most of the situation that is handed to you, just as Stephen Hawking has done in his lifetime of accomplishments, achievements and deeds while being severely disabled. Mr. Hawking is an extraordinary human being who defeated all odds and stood his ground in maintaining his sense of humor and integrity, despite his physical limitations. Society puts him in the same category as Albert Einstein and Isaac Newton for his knowledge and experience in Physics, Mathematics and Cosmology. He is a man defined not only by his disability, but by his accomplishments and his contributions to science.

• The Early Years

Stephen Hawking is a Physics professor at Cambridge University, located in Cambridge, England. His expertise and passion dwells in that of Cosmology, the study of the universe. He was born during World War II, and given the name of Stephen William Hawking on January 8, 1942 in Oxford England. Although it was his father’s dream for his son to become a doctor like himself, Stephen chose not to follow in his father’s footsteps for his love was in Mathematics, Physics, Science and Astronomy. As a boy growing up, he was enrolled at St. Albans at the age of eleven. Though today, he is noted for his work as a researcher, which details a lot of reading and analyzing, as a child Stephen’s reading was at a low level. He found it to be more satisfying trying to figure out how things work, than it was reading text books. Figuring things out on his own opened doors that put him on his career path.

• The Incurable Disease

Stephen admits that as a child his first challenge was that of being physically uncoordinated. This physical problem led him to shy away from activities dealing with sports. However, the minor set back did not keep him from entering competitions in rowing and coxing at the age of seventeen. It was at the age of twenty-one that he began noticing some more changes in his coordination, more accidents would occur, like falling for no apparent reason. After many tests and hospital visits, he was diagnosed with an incurable disease that would eventually leave him permanently disabled. Today he lives his life confined to a wheelchair and speaking through a voice synthesizer, because the disease has claimed his voice and destroyed the muscles in his body, which leaves him paralyzed. The incurable disease that has taken over his body is Lou Gehrig’s disease, or ALS as it is sometimes called.

• His Published Works

The defining man not only loves doing research, giving lectures and interviews. He has a passion for writing as well. He is an author whose contributions include book publications and essays. His first book published is entitled: A Brief History of Time which was followed by two more published works: Black Holes and Baby Universes and Other Essays. Another book was published in 2001 entitled The Universe in a Nutshell. All of which, shows his enthusiasm and interest in Cosmology. Mr. Hawking has proven that he is unstoppable, even in a wheelchair.

• Conclusion

 Hawking is a man of integrity, strength and determination. He is also humble, because regardless of his accomplishments while living with his disability, he still claims that he is no genius. Though in a wheelchair, Hawking is married and has a family. Besides his accomplishments in research, he has won recognition for being on TV Programs such as Star Trek: The Next Generation and being entertained at the White House. With all the things that this man has accomplished, it goes to show that a disability may slow you down and interrupt your life, but it doesn’t have to mean that your life is over. You can still do great things and prove your worth.

Below are lists of links that will lead to interesting reading on the life and accomplishments of Stephen William Hawking, the man who didn’t let being disabled stop him from living.

Hawkins at the University of Cambridge

The Man and His Contributions

About Professor Stephen Hawking

Cosmology at Cambridge

Talking with Hawking about Lou Gehrig's Disease

A Glimpse into His Personal Life

Facing the Medical Emergency

An Interview with Stephen Hawking

An Essay on Hawking

 Witnessing a Stephen Hawking Lecture                                 

Beating the Odds

 

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Deciding which type of accessible vehicle to drive or use for transportation is difficult. Almost any type of vehicle can be modified to accommodate accessible transportation, but one stands out as the best wheelchair vehicle for families, businesses, or public transportation.

WHEELCHAIR MINIVANS Wheelchair minivans come out on top as the best wheelchair vehicle all around. They offer affordable pricing, lots of interior space, great gas mileage, quick access, and top safety ratings. Buyers can choose from side and rear entry wheelchair vans with a power or manual ramp for easy access in and out of the vehicle. Minivans have a low center of gravity and drive like a car making them very gas efficient and easy to drive. Some minivans such as the wheelchair vans offered by AMS Vans also negate the need for an expensive kneeling system by extending the ramp 4 inches. This saves the customer thousands of dollars versus other national brands.

FULL SIZED VANS Most full size conversion vans use a lift rather than a ramp. Lift systems are significantly more expensive than ramps in addition to the vehicle itself being more expensive than a minivan. Full size vans are built on a truck chassis making driving and maneuverability extremely challenging. Full size vans have either captain’s chair seating or bench seating that forces the buyer to choose less passenger seating or benches that a caregiver would have to crawl over to get to a passenger. Full size vans have very low gas mileage and a high center of gravity making it less stable than a minivan. Most full size vans carry the additional expense of needing the back doors widened to accommodate a lift or ramp and possibly the roof raised. Using a ramp is possible with full sized vans, however a kneeling system is required adding thousands to your accessible conversion.

SUVS SUVs are stylish, popular, and often coming standard with four wheel drive for off road driving. While this feature is nice in the occasional snow storm, the low gas mileage, expensive maintenance, higher insurance rates, and unstable high center of gravity doesn’t really make it worth the trade. Making an SUV accessible is extremely costly by adding transfer seats, kneeling systems and expensive unreliable hitch mounted lifts. While SUVs are as big or bigger than a minivan, most of the cargo space is taken up by bench seating for passengers. Once you transfer a user out of the chair and onto the seat and store the wheelchair in the relatively small space in the back for cargo, your storage space is cut in half.

CARS While cars are typically good on gas, easy to drive, and stylish, using one as accessible transportation can be difficult. Since they are so low to the ground, transferring out of the wheelchair and into the car can put not only the wheelchair user at risk, but the person assisting at risk for injury. Using a car requires the use of a foldable wheelchair, a portable wheelchair that does not necessarily offer the same customized comfort amenities as the user’s wheelchair he/she uses all the time. Once a portable wheelchair is placed in the trunk, it becomes basically useless with all the space taken up from the chair.

MOTORCYCLES Motorcycles are fun, environmentally friendly vehicles that can be customized to a wheelchair user. Wheelchair users can purchase add on packages to either drive from their chair, slide from their chair onto a common motorcycle seat that is stored inside a lift attached to the back of the bike, or ride in their chair shotgun via a side car. While an exhilarating hobby, most area climates are not conducive to year round motorcycle use since you and your chair are exposed to the elements. Motorcycle accidents are among the most horrific on the road since they are not surrounded by a metal frame, and they are less visible to other drivers. Using a motorcycle for your primary accessible transportation only allows the wheelchair user and possibly one other rider to use it at the same time so the versatility of the vehicle is rather limited.

PICK UP TRUCKS Pick up trucks have the same unstable high center of gravity and low gas mileage as SUVs. An expensive transfer chair or robotic system is required to transfer in and out of the cab of the truck. Even with the purchase of high dollar king or extended cab trucks, the wheelchair has to be transported in the bed of the truck which is exposed to the elements critically reducing the life of your chair.

Finding the best wheelchair vehicle for yourself, your family, or your business can be a daunting task, but you are on the right path towards making the right decision and enjoying the mobility freedom you deserve.

Aging is a part of life that nobody can avoid. Whether it's yourself or a family member, it is important to remember there are resources available to help target almost any obstacle or question. An aging person should be treated with dignity and respect. Below is a useful resource guide targeted to help anyone with questions.

Alzheimer's Disease and Related Dementia

Alzheimer's Disease Research Center- Information and different ways to rate cognitive and functional performance related to Alzheimer Disease.

Memory and Aging Center - A list of dementia resources available including websites, books, articles, and videos.

Alzheimer's Association - Learn about Alzheimer's Disease and recent news on it.

National Insititute of Aging - Information on Alzheimer's Disease including symptoms, general information, coping, and treatment of the disease.

Alzheimer's , Dementia, and Driving - Information, resources, and support on Alzheimer's Disease.

Assistive Technology and Aging

Assistive Technology Information Links - Resources and information about assistive technology.

Sage Advice - Information and help with assistive technology.

CODI - Information on assistive technology resources for people with disabilities.

Online Resources - A resource for assistive technology and disability information.

Intellectual Disabilities, Aging &Dementia – Information and help for people with disabilities, including research and training.

Caregiver Resources

The Family Caregiver Handbook – Information and help to find caregiver support and resources based out of Massachusetts.

Caregiver Resources- A collection of various links for caregivers on topics from resource materials to finances.

Patient/ Caregiver Resources- Guidance and a list of websites on how to find the proper help after receiving a diagnoses.

Other Resources- Various websites with caregiver information.

Resources for Caregivers of Elders- Educational resources for caring for the elderly.

Consumer Protection & the Elderly

Resources for Topics on Aging- Information on fraud and abuse targeted towards the elderly.

Elder Consumer Protection Program- A progressive and educational program for professionals on general and legal topics for the elderly.

Internet Resources for Gerontology – Information on The Elderly Abuse and Exploitation Project.

Family and Consumer Sciences- The evaluation of public and private consumer protection agencies and resources for the elderly.

Molly Bish Center- Information on a center focusing on the protection of the elderly.

Disability and Aging

Maine Aging Resources – A wide variety of resources and links for adults, seniors, and children with disabilities.

Aging Resources Available at the Center for Disabilty Resources Library- Resources available for elderly with disabilities.

Aging and Disability – Resources available promoting aging and disability resources.

Disability Programs – Information for people who are on disability through social security.

Disability Research Institite – A page of various resources of online information for elderly people with disabilities.

Elder Law

Elder Law- A resource page of links of elder law information and research guides.

Aging with Dignity- A medical directive in 20 languages giving the patient 5 wishes the elderly patient wants to have made.

Older People Work Longer for Less- A resource available that helps older people claim their rights and challenge discrimination.

International Federation on Ageing – Information on an international non-governmental organization who believes in positive change for older people throughout the world.

Global Aging- Helpful web links and resources about elder laws.

Exercise and Fitness

The Age Antidote - Information on the effects exercise has on the brain.

Welcome to Resources for Exercise Science Indivividuals- Informational resources on health and fitness for the elderly.

Physical Exercise Protects Your Brain as it Ages- Statistics – Information on how physical exercise helps an aging brain.

Wellness Activities for Older Americans- Research on diet and exercise for the elderly and aging.

Regular Exercise Helps Protect Muscles in Elderly From Soreness, Injury- An article wrote on the evidence of why exercise is important and beneficial to the elderly.

Nursing Homes

Resource Page for Nursing Home Social Workers- Information about nursing homes and social work services.

Family Resource Center- A list of skilled nursing home resources.

Nursing Homes- Resources on nursing homes and different units available.

Before Moving into a Nursing Home- An article about what you should consider before moving into s nursing home.

Resource Center on Aging – A center providing information and education on the elderly and nursing home resources.

Mental Health and Aging

Mental Health and Aging- A resource for mental illness and the aging web links.

Center for Mental Health and Aging- A center for education, testing, and disseminating information on the aging and mental health.

Mental Health & Aging Project- A program offering education, training, and consults for clinicians.

Center for Mental Health and Aging- A center dedicated on improving lives of older people living in the community.

Mental Health & Aging – A project devoted to educating and strengthening networks for older adults with mental problems.

National Social Life, Health, and Aging Project- A study geared towards finding ways to improve health as people age.

Transportation and Mobility

The Mobility Needs of Older Americans: Implications for Transportation Reauthorization- An article about the importance of transportation for the elderly.

Safe Mobility for Older Persons- Information on effects elderly driving has on society and the negative consequences for older people.

About the Center for Excellence in Rural Safety- Information on the travel needs and basic mobility for the elderly person.

Healthy Aging Column- Transportation for the Aging Population – Information on the increased number of traffic accidents caused by the elderly.

Pedestrian Mobility Aids for the Elderly- Information on the elderly and how important it is to have mobility.

Workforce & Aging

Aging & Work- Information on the aging in the workforce.

Economics of the Aging Revolution- Information and web links in defense for the elderly at work.

Workers Affected by Chronic Conditions: How can workplace policies and programs help?- An article on workplace policies and chronic conditions and the effects on elderly people.

AGS Foundation for Health in Aging – Resources for the elderly in the workplace.

Programs- A program from the School of Labor & Industrial Relations dealing with laws against discrimination of the elderly in the workplace.

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Multiple sclerosis, commonly known as MS, is a disease that affects the nerves of the central nervous system. An insulation to the nerves known as myelin improves the impulses that maintain the health of the nerves. When an individual has multiple sclerosis, inflammation in the nervous system (spinal cord and brain) causes the myelin to degenerate. These nerves then become damaged, which can affect a person's vision, walking, speech, memory and writing. The cause of multiple sclerosis is unknown but researchers have narrowed the reasoning down to genetics and disorders of the immune system. Common symptoms of MS include tingling, loss of balance, blurred or double vision, numbness, weakness in limbs, slurred speech, cognitive problems, lack of coordination, and sudden paralysis. While there is no one test to diagnosis multiple sclerosis, a series of criteria is used to diagnosis the disease.

Criteria used to diagnosis multiple sclerosis: 

• Onset of MS typically occurs between 20 to 50 years of age
• Symptoms and signs are present
• Two or more lesions are found during an MRI scan
• Evidence of brain or spinal disease is found during an examination
• Two or more episodes of impaired function that lasts at least 24 hours
• No other explanation is found for the patients symptoms

• National Multiple Sclerosis Society: Learn about MS, living with MS, frequently asked questions, and get involved with an online community.

• Multiple Sclerosis Foundation: Official foundation for individuals living with multiple sclerosis, programs and activities, publications and more.

Living with and Managing MS

Multiple sclerosis is a life long disease that can affect many aspects of daily life and present challenges to those who have it. Symptoms of MS typically come and go and therefore cause a certain ‘lack of control’ to sufferers of the disease. A treatment plan that includes medications, therapy, and lifestyle changes can help control MS. Every case of MS is dramatically different and can affect individuals in various ways. While some cases remain benign and patients only suffer small infrequent attacks, others can progress rapidly and cause intense degenerative symptoms that become worse with each attack.

• Living with Multiple Sclerosis: Learn what it’s like to live with MS and how to cope with everyday life.

• Healthy Living with MS: Tips and advice to healthy living for those suffering from multiple sclerosis.

• Disease Progression: Living with multiple sclerosis and how to stay healthy as the disease progresses.

• Learning about MS: Find information about multiple sclerosis, how it affects aspects of your health, and conventional treatments.

• Multiple Sclerosis Association of America: Learn about MS, associated programs and services, and how to manage the disease.

Treatment

Both drug therapy and rehabilitation techniques have been extremely effective in managing multiple sclerosis. Avonex, Copazone, Betaseron, Extavia, Novatrone, Tysabri, and Rebif are some of the most common agents used in medications to reduce disease progression. Physical, occupational, cognitive, and vocational rehabilitation can be used throughout all stages of MS to help control symptoms. Lifestyle changes including change in diet and exercise, relaxation techniques, naturopathy, and herbal healing have all been used in place of conventional treatments.

• Multiple Sclerosis Overview: Causes, symptoms, exams and tests, treatments, and complications related to MS.

• Bee Sting Therapy: Learn how bee sting therapy, or apitherapy, can be used as a treatment for multiple sclerosis.

• The Best Bet Treatment: How a mixture of therapy, medications, and lifestyle changes can act as an effective MS treatment plan.

• Multiple Sclerosis Relapse Guideline: National guideline on treatment of MS relapses.

• Treatment and Diagnosis: MS treatment options for children and adolescents involving medications and rehabilitation methods.

• MS Research Center: Information on the multiple sclerosis research center of New York.

Cognitive Functioning

More than half of patients with multiple sclerosis experience cognitive problems that include defects of the memory, attention, and abstraction. Mood disorders, such as bipolar disorder and depression, are also frequently found in those with MS. Factors that exacerbate the cognition processes include sleep problems, heat, fatigue, stress, depression, and external distractions. A strict MS treatment plan as well as avoidance of these factors can be excellent coping strategies.

• Cognitive Thinking with MS: How motor and sensory skills, vision, coordination, speech as well as other factors can be affected by MS.

• Cognitive Function in Patients: Learn about the mild cognitive impairments found in a large percentage of MS patients.

• Multiple Sclerosis Study: Cognitive function study of multiple sclerosis to investigate impairment of intellectual patterns.

• Rehabilitation Research: Cognitive dysfunction in patients with multiple sclerosis.

• Cannabinoids and Cognition: How cannabis has been used for decades to provide therapeutic relief in MS patients.

• How MS Affects the Mind: Science news on how multiple sclerosis can cause damage in normal brain tissue.

Multiple Sclerosis Research

New treatment options and important information is presented through multiple sclerosis research organizations, medical centers, and individuals researchers. Current research projects by various medical universities develop programs to study secondary conditions of multiple sclerosis, compare levels of pain, and conduct self-management trails and training. Clinical trails for MS patients are constantly being conducted by the Multiple Sclerosis Foundation to find new medical therapies for treatment plans. Government-funded clinical research is also being presented at various National Institutes of Health.

• Rehabilitation Research and Training Center: Learn about current MS research projects and associated training and development.

• Research in Multiple Sclerosis: Research information used to find the cause of MS and develop an understanding of the progress of the disease.

• Women’s Hospital Research: Researchers will be conducting trails on various medications for MS patients.

• Multiple Sclerosis Research Laboratory: Research program focuses on autoimmune methods for multiple sclerosis treatment.

• MS Research for Veterans: Developmental program and research dedicated to veterans with multiple sclerosis.

• Studies & Participation: Multiple sclerosis genetic studies and participations featuring new statistical methods for patients.

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The study of science changes everyday with the growing prevalence of technology and continuous progress being made in a variety of different fields in science. Scientists have discovered new ways to approach, and information relating to, medicine and the human body. Pharmacology is studied by scientists who help to determine how drugs and different types of medication may heal and aid the body in resisting diseases and infections. Pharmacology is broken down into many divisions pertaining to a variety of subtopics, including a drug's affect on living cells to the chemicals that may be dangerous to our bodies. The information and links provided will ensure a better understanding of pharmacology and the way it has developed and grown in it's significance in recent years.

All About Pharmacology

Pharmacology is the scientific study of drugs, including what different types of drugs do, how they work, and specific types of drugs that are used for different ailments. The study of pharmacology also relates to how the human body adapts and reacts to different drugs. Pharmacology and Pharmacy, while they may uphold some of the same principles, are still very different studies. Pharmacy is the scientific study of preparing and dispensing medications for human consumption. Pharmacy reports the chemical interactions between a given medication and the human body. Both studies share similarities in reporting the study of physiological reactions of the body to a medication. Another aspect within the study of pharmacology is how drugs are metabolized within the body.

• Pharmacology: Explore and learn more about pharmacology.

• Study of Drugs: More information relating to pharmacology and a PDF file to Nobel Prize Awards given to scientists in physiology and medicine.

• Timeline: Learn about the history of pharmacology from 1790 to the 2000s.

• Definition: Learn more about what pharmacology is.

Pharmacology Origins

Oswald Schmiedeberg is credited as the founder of today's modern pharmacology. Schmiedeberg showed that the vagus nerve and heart were both effected by muscularity. His studies launched the pharmaceutical beliefs in Germany up until World War II. Prior to this mankind used natural elements, including animal parts and plants to treat injuries and wounds. In thebirth and creation of pharmacology, Germany's Friedrich Wohler changed the theory of that time that stated living compounds were only established in organic cells. Wohler became known for his works and established the first compound of pharmacology.

• History: Obtain a brief history of pharmacology and early scientists.

• Origins: PDF file of the origins and history of pharmacology in the 16 ^th century.

• EBPS: The history of the European Behavioral Pharmacology.

• Friedrich Wohler: A brief biography of the German chemist.

• Oswald Schmiedeberg: A brief biography of German pharmacologist.

• Discoveries: An article giving great detail about very important early studies of pharmacology and the people who performed early studies.

• Drug History: Learn more about how drugs were developed.

Divisions of Pharmacology

There are several distinct divisions in the field of pharmacology, each with a specific focus. Clinical pharmacology addresses the scientific clinical use of drugs. Neuropharmacology is the study of how drugs affect the nervous system. A third division is characterized as the study of pharmacogenetics, which means the testing of genes and how they interact with drugs, while pharmacogenomics relate to combining gene information to a drug's damage organism. Pharmacoepidemiology studies drug substances and the way they affect numerous groups of people. Toxicology also falls into the greater field of pharmacology and addresses chemicals and how they affect living organisms in the body. Theoretical pharmacology is a study of theory or an idea relating to the study of drugs.Posology deals with the amount of drugs capable for the body. Pharmacognosy studies the properties of drugs in the natural stages such as the medicinal benefits of plants and other types of organisms. The last division is behavioral pharmacology which studies the way drugs affect the way a person acts or behaves. As one can see, there are many different branches of pharmacology, each is very specialized and is creditedwith a variety of different contributions to the scientific community.

• Neuropharmacology: Basic principles of neuropharmacology.

• Pharmacogenetics: Basic understanding of pharmacogenetics and ethical issues.

• Pharmacogenomics: Detailed information and how pharmacogenomics is used today.

• Pharmacoepidemiology: Medical school that is known for its biomedical research.

• Toxicology: An article about why tests are done and how tests are performed.

• Posology: More information about what is posology.

• Pharmacognosy: More detailed information about pharmacognosy.

• Behavioral Pharmacology: Organization that helps members learn more about how drugs affect a person's behavior.

Pharmacology Research

The study of science is constantly changing and progressing at an unprecedented rate of growth. The accelerated rate at which the field of sciences progresses poses unique challenges to the scientific community as we continue to develop “before their time” methods of research and explore the unknowns of the science community. Scientists continue to perform numerous tests and experiments on newly developed drugs to analyze their effects on the human body and their viability as quality medical resources. A variety of different reviews and analysis have been created within the medical community to critique experiments on the effects of experimental drugs to protect the global community and to ensure that harmful drugs are unknowingly prescribed by physicians.

• Drugs: Online drug source updated daily about recent drug information and news for over 24,000 prescription drugs.

• Review: a PDF review of the pharmacology of lysergic acid diethylamide.

• Pathological Conditions: PDF file of pharmacological research of antioxidants in pathological conditions.

• Pharmacology: PDF review of the myths and claims about cocoa being healthy for the human body.

• Research: PDF analysis of pharmacological research.

• Principles: PDF file of the study of the basic principles of pharmacology. 377 pages of detailed material.

Medicine Development, Drug Legislation and Safety

Medicine first began with the practice of using plants and animals to heal wounds, injuries and sores, from the earliest development of the New Stone Age Period. But over time, it has morphed into the form of pills, pure liquid and other substances. An example of the profound pharmacological developments that have taken place in recorded history is the first study that proved that blood maintained a continuous flow, which came from the Chinese emperor Huang-Ti. It wasn't until 750 BCE whenSusruta , a Hindu surgeon first practiced eye surgery. Long before the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved such procedures and their accompanying drugs, they were being used medicinally, a testament of the commitment to experimentation and development that has been evident in medical community. All drugs are not legal for use due to safety rules and regulations, and ways it could affect the human body. The Prescription Drug Marketing Act of 1987 ensures the safety of prescription drugs, while the 1988 Anti-drug Abuse Act prohibit abusive drug use that may harm the body. Regulations of safety issues are done from inspections and properly using labels approved by the FDA.

• FDA: Links that provide information to learn more about the process of drug safety and drug approvals.

• Drugs: A complete full list of the FDA approved drugs in alphabetical order and links to provide more information on each drug.

• Recall Drugs: A list of approved and recalled drugs from 1980 to 2007.

• History: A timeline of the history of medicine from 2600 BC to 2006.

• Drug Marking Act: Detailed information about the Drug Marketing Act of 1987.

• Anti-Drug Abuse Act: Detailed information about the Anti-Drug Abuse Act of 1988.

• FDA: More information about the FDA and what it is.

• Herbal Remedies: Information on some of the Chinese scientists who discovered and experimented with herbal medicine.

Glossaries and Drug Lists

One of the challenges that the medical community has consistently encountered is that each human body reacts differently to each drug introduced into the system. If a patient reacts unusually or out of the scope of the anticipated reaction, it would be very important to document the drug reactions and seek treatment immediately. Further testing may be necessary to determine the cause of the abnormal reaction and to detect any possible allergy. If you recognize symptoms you're having that relate to some diseases or illnesses after taking drugs, then it's best to document the drug reaction and seek medical attention. To prevent patients from experiencing unanticipated side effects to medication, numerous organizations and publishers have released drug indexes and guide books to help both medical professionals and consumers better prescribe and understand the complexities behind each manufactured drug. Understanding the chemistry, the intended use, and the effects of experimental drugs is critical to achieving a positive outcome and correctly providing medical attention to patients.

• Glossary: A list of links of all the glossary terms and symbols used in pharmacology.

• Pharmacology: A list of terms listed on one page in alphabetical order.

• Symbols: A list of commonly used terms and abbreviations along with their meanings.

• Drug Lists: A list of drugs in alphabetical order along with their uses, side effects, and components.

• Review: Clinical pharmacology and medical reviews of 88 terms in PDF form.

• Abbreviations: A full list of pharmacological abbreviations.

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Disabled citizens have faced hardships in trying to live everyday lives. From having difficulties accessing buildings to difficulties using transportation to having difficulties in being incorporated into regular life, the disabled have had to overcome long odds.

Over the course of history, disabled people have had to face adversity in their everyday lives. Because of these difficulties, the U.S. Government adopted the Americans with Disabilities Act in 1990.

The Americans with Disabilities Act was signed into law on July 26, 1990 by President Bush. The ADA is a wide-ranging civil rights law that prohibits, under particular circumstances, discrimination based on a disability. It affords related protections against discrimination to Americans with disabilities as the Civil Rights Act of 1964, which made discrimination based on race, religion, sex, national origin, and other characteristics illegal. Disability is defined by the ADA as "a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits a major life activity." The determination of whether any specific condition is considered a disability is made on a case by case basis. Certain specific conditions are barred as disabilities, such as current substance abuse and visual impairment which is correctable by prescription lenses."

The ADA has subsequently had additional amendments to the Act in September 2008, which went into effect on January 1, 2009. The ADA Amendments Act of 2008 gave workers some broader protections than what was in the original Act.

The ADA was a very broad piece of legislation that covered various aspects for the lives of disabled people. In addition to provisions for disabled workers, the ADA also gave guidance on public entities and transportation, public accommodations and commercial facilities, telecommunications and other provisions. The ADA not only gave guidance for implementation, but also provided for anti-discrimination provisions.

While the ADA’s requirements to level the playing field for all workers was difficult for employers to implement, it has provided for ways to give all workers the opportunity to earn a living. In regards to workers, the ADA states that a covered entity shall not discriminate against a qualified individual with a disability. This applies to job application procedures, hiring, advancement and discharge of employees, workers' compensation, job training, and other terms, conditions, and privileges of employment.

The Americans with Disability Act of 1990 and subsequent amendments have given disabled workers the chance to work in a safe and non-discriminatory environment. To learn more about workers and the ADA, we have gathered a collection of resources:

• Americans with Disabilities Act home page
• ADA Regulations and Technical Assistance Manuals
• Job Accommodation Network ADA Resources
• ADA Accessibility Guidelines
• Civil Rights and the ADA
• Employment Rights Under ADA
• Employer Responsibilities Under ADA
• ADA Employment FAQ
• Job Discrimination
• ADA Amendment of 2008
• ADA Amendments Act of 2008
• ADA Employment Handbook
• Disability Resources
• Disability Discrimination
• ADA Guide for Small Businesses
• Business Size and ADA
• DOJ Civil Rights
• Laws and Regulations of the Disabled

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Legal Links

• Special Ed Advocate: A wealth of information on special education advocacy.
• COPAA: Council of Parents and Attorneys.
• Disability Rights and Educational Defense Fund: Disability Legal Defense
• The Bazelon Center for Mental Health Law: Legal advocacy for the civil rights people with mental disability

US Educational Links

• The (GEM) project : The Gateway to Educational Materials
• US Department of Education: The Offical Site of the US Department of Education
• US Office of Special Education: OSEP

Therapeutic Links

• Institute for Community Inclusion
• Sensory Integration International: A Occupational Therapy Site
• Fast ForWord: Training program focused on recognizing sounds, understanding words, and comprehending language
• Project Read: A Multisensory Reading Program used all over the country
• Wilson Reading Method

Disability Links

• Westchester Arc: Our Neighboring ARC's site
• LD Online: A Learning Disabilities informational Site
• C.H.A.D.D.: ADD Site
• International Dyslexia Association: The Orton Website
• Family Voices: Children with Special Health Care Needs
• Counsil for Exceptional Children: Clearinghouse for information on disabilities and gifted education

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Cerebral palsy (CP) is a group of conditions caused by medical abnormalities in the development of a fetus or the early life of a child. These lead to damage or delayed development in the brain. The disorder is permanent and, though it does not worsen with age, the level of functionality of a person with cerebral palsy varies widely: in some cases, effects may be very minor, while in others, movement is impaired to the extent that a wheelchair is required. Common complications associated with CP vary by the type of CP disorder but can include vision problems, seizures, learning disabilities, and issues speaking, writing, and performing other tasks related to motor control.

 

Causes of Cerebral Palsy

Cerebral palsy is generally caused by developmental issues during pregnancy which lead to abnormal conditions in the brain. During the birth process, lack of oxygen caused by premature delivery or delivery-room errors can cause brain damage that facilitates cerebral palsy. Cerebral palsy can also be caused by recognizable brain injuries sustained by the developing child up to an early age after birth. Medical research continues to uncover the many risk factors that may be associated with CP cases. Effective maternal care, ensuring a healthy diet and environment for the mother, is vital for ensuring that preventable cases of CP do not occur.

Developmental Disabilities: Cerebral Palsy: Referenced fact-sheet on cerebral palsy compiled by the Centers for Disease Control.

Cerebral Palsy at Medline Plus: Information from the online medical encyclopedia of the National Institutes of Health.

What Are The Causes of Cerebral Palsy?: A compendium of information on a huge number of topics related to CP, with a particular focus on the health and future of children with the disorder, from the nonprofit organization 4MyChild.

Causes of Cerebral Palsy: Information about the types and causes of CP as provided by Lawyers, Inc., a national medical malpractice law firm.

Origins, Etiology, Forms, Associated Conditions: Detailed, cited information about the causes and types of cerebral palsy.

Types of CP Associated With Muscle Tone

Cerebral palsy comes in several types, which may be associated with muscle tone or specific body parts. Those associated with muscle tone include: spastic CP, where abnormally high muscle tone causes problems with movement, usually in the legs and hips; ataxia, which is marked by involuntary muscle movements; athetoid, which prevents sufferers from maintaining a fixed muscle position (for example, grasping and holding); and mixed, where symptoms of both spastic and athetoid CP occur.

Cerebral Palsy: Hope Through Research: Detailed information from the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, including facts on the causes, risk factors, warning signs, and types of CP.

Definitions and Accommodations for Cerebral Palsy: Information on the types of CP and how to accommodate and interact with severe sufferers. From Kentucky’s Office for the Americans With Disabilities Act.

United Cerebral Palsy Association: Nonprofit organization that offers a nationwide network of affiliates aimed at expanding the rights, freedoms, and opportunities of those with cerebral palsy.

Health Encyclopedia: Cerebral Palsy: Facts on the types, causes, prevalence, and accommodations related to cerebral palsy. Provided by the Florida Agency for Health Care Administration.

Cost of Cerebral Palsy: Information on the human and economic impact of cerebral palsy, presented in the form of an academic report composed by the Environmental Protection Agency.

Types of CP Associated With Body Parts

Certain types of cerebral palsy are associated with specific body parts rather than with the general condition of the muscular system. These types include: quadriplegia, in which all four limbs suffer severe motor dysfunction and a general inability to work together; hemiplegia, in which the limbs on one side of the body are severely affected, with the impact more pronounced in the digits; and diplegia, which causes problems with muscle development, balance, and coordination in both legs.

Cerebral Palsy Syndromes: Detailed “manual” of information about the diagnosis and treatment of cerebral palsy, including rarer forms of the disorder.

National Organization for Rare Disorders: Information and a large compendium of quality Internet resources for sufferers of cerebral palsy and other movement disorders.

PubMed Calculated Links: Publicly-accessible database of published scholarly research on cerebral palsy, from a database of the U.S. National Library of Medicine.

Hemi-Kids: Support group for parents with children suffering from hemiplegia and hemiplegic cerebral palsy.

Children’s Hemiplegia and Stroke Association: Another, similar nonprofit organization focusing on support for youth hemiplegia.

Living with Cerebral Palsy

Cerebral palsy can create severe problems that persist throughout the sufferer’s day-to-day life. Many cases of CP involve at least some involuntary movement that can disrupt normal activities. Others involve a persistent lack of muscle control that makes walking, standing, or manipulating objects difficult or impossible. Those with CP may have problems talking, eating, or breathing. They may also have learning impairments, seizures, or other major neurological problems. Those with the most serious cases of CP require intensive, lifelong medical attention, and cannot effectively care for themselves independently due to cognitive disruptions or reliance on medical equipment.

KidsHealth: Cerebral Palsy: Information on coping with cerebral palsy aimed at children.

Cerebral Palsy Family Network: Information on living with CP and networking with other sufferers and their families. Aimed at parents and planning long-term care for children with severe CP.

Living With Cerebral Palsy at NOAH: Verified Internet resources about dealing with CP complications at various stages of life. From New York Online Access to Health, a nonprofit information service.

Whispers of Hope: Living With CP: Even more electronic resources for networking and overcoming life challenges related to cerebral palsy.

Laurent Clerc National Deaf Education Center: CP: Information focused on potential accommodations for various forms of CP in a classroom environment.

Equipment

There is a vast and growing body of products aimed at restoring independence and fullness of life to sufferers of CP. Wheelchairs are available that can accommodate the needs of a wide variety of CP patients; walkers, canes, and other assistive devices are also available. For those with impaired fine motor control, small objects such as pencils and silverware have been designed in accessible forms. Patients who are unable to speak may use communication devices that interpret the movements of the throat or the input of a small keyboard in order to create recognizable vocalizations – much in the same way as noted physicist Stephen Hawking. For all of the daily challenges associated with CP, in whatever form, some assistive measure exists or is being researched.

Cerebral Palsy Association of British Columbia: Detailed Frequently Asked Questions sheet including information on assistive technology.

Ontario Federation for Cerebral Palsy: Information packet that covers a variety of topics related to all aspects of living with CP.

New Horizons Un-Limited: Resource page focusing entirely on adaptive equipment for various issues often associated with CP.

Cerebral Palsy Accessories and Equipment: Impartial, nonprofit review website for all categories of assistive equipment related to the lives of CP sufferers.

Therapy

Those with cerebral palsy can benefit from several kinds of therapy. Physical therapy focuses on helping patients attain greater muscle control, coordination, and balance through basic physical tasks. Using physical therapy, it may be possible to enhance a CP patient’s ability to walk or balance. Speech therapy is used to overcome problems with enunciation, including secondary issues such as lisping. Occupational therapy focuses on the improvement of cognitive function through a variety of simple tasks, and recreational therapy contributes to the development of social and independent living skills in recreational environments.

Center for Cerebral Palsy Spasticity: Information on treatment and the latest research from an advanced medical center at the Children’s Hospital of St. Louis.

Cerebral Palsy Guide for Care: Excerpt from an extremely detailed medical analysis (much of which is available on the same site) focusing on diagnosis and care for those with CP. Somewhat technical but extremely thorough.

Cerebral Palsy Treatment Overview: One portion of an extremely comprehensive guide from the University of California, San Diego, offering information on cerebral palsy from diagnosis to late-life treatment. This section focuses on treatment options for lifelong mitigation of some symptoms, with particular depth of information on physical therapy.

American Academy for Cerebral Palsy and Developmental Medicine: Large amount of information from the frontiers of the latest CP research.

Bobath Center Cerebral Palsy Treatment: Charity in the United Kingdom offering resources related to occupational therapy, specifically for cerebral palsy.

Research Resources: Collection of resources on the use of music therapy in treating complications related to CP.

Conclusion

Cerebral palsy is the focus of a large amount of medical research every year. Though much of this research deals with younger patients, more and more attention is being paid to CP sufferers as they age and seek fuller opportunities and more integration with the rest of society. Living with CP is a daily challenge, but paths to a richer and more fulfilling life are being found. There is not, and may never be a “cure” for CP, but greater understanding by clinicians and the daily success stories of those who overcome their limitations are making.

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