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STANDING EYE TO EYE
BY RHONDA CLARK
 I got my stander on January 31, 2006 after it
was recommended by my PT Kim McPhail as
an alternative to sitting in my power chair all
day. After consulting with my friend and
excellent OTR Teresa Plummer, we all agreed
that I needed to get one. I can no longer walk
with crutches due to the stress on my
shoulders. So, when I got my EasyStand 5000
Youth I really saw the benefits, almost
immediately. For me, it was just awesome to
have another option besides sitting. Not to
mention, the fact that when I stand, I can
actually tell that blood is being circulated to
my feet and I get a prickly sensation. My goal
is to be able to get in and out of the stander
independently. I can get out of it independently
now.
Check with your insurance provider to see if
standers are covered. If not, I would contact
Altimate Medical’s funding hotline or contact some
local groups in your area. Remember, there is
always a way!
I contacted two DME vendors in town and found
out which one would give me the better value,
since this would be a cash deal and the stander
was not covered through my insurance at my job. I
also called Nancy Perlich at Altimate Medical and
she sent me the funding guide. Once I found out
how much it was going to cost I started to save
money. I also asked my friends (instead of giving a
lot of Christmas gifts) if they could give me money
to put towards the stander. I also contacted a
non-profit organization called MusiCares, they help
folks who make a living in the music industry who
may need assistance. They also gave a donation,
and I got some money from some of the nurses at
the Summit Medical Center where I volunteer on
Saturdays. With all of the money put together I
was able to get my first stander!
 All of the money came together the week before
Christmas. Once the stander was ordered from
Williams Medical Supply in Nashville, TN, I had it
within one week. Bob Brake, CRTS at Williams
Medical Supply was great to work with and I got
great service. Bob and one other staff person
came out and set it up at my house while at the
same time Teresa Plummer, OTR was at my home
and made sure that it was adjusted properly and
would be safe for me to use. So, not only did I get
a great product from EasyStand, but I also
received great service from the vendor.
I love the fact that I don’t have to spend all day (16
hours a day) in my chair anymore. It helps my hips,
back and trunk muscles. The great thing the
stander does for me is gives me a chance to
stretch out my very tight hips. The stander helps
with my breathing as I have Asthma and when I’m
standing my lungs aren’t smashed. I am currently
getting to stand in it twice a week, sometimes
three times a week. It depends on if I can get help
standing in it since I live independently, but can’t
get in the stander myself yet. However, that is my
goal.
My hips are stretched out more often now. So
when I’m standing I try to reach across the table
in front of me to stretch my arms out. I also do my
shoulder blade squeezes while I’m standing
because they are much easier to do standing,
rather than sitting in the chair. After having two
shoulder surgeries, doing shoulder blade squeezes
are very important.
One night I was talking to my friend Paul on the
phone and he said, “So, what are you doing?” I
replied, “I am standing in my stander holding the
phone with my hand talking to you.” He said,
“That’s awesome.” For 8 years Paul has only
known me sitting in my chair. I was holding the
phone with my right hand, and until my shoulder
surgeries, my right hand was drawn up and
tightly-fisted shut.
 It gives me a sense of freedom from my chair and
a sense of pride that I can still stand even though I
can’t walk with crutches anymore. It’s really neat
to be able to look people in the eye when you’re
talking with them rather than having them look
down at you because you’re sitting. One of the
other really cool things was when I was
standing and had my picture taken with Teresa
Plummer, OTR. Teresa was also the one who fit me
for the stander. Talk about making a difference!
Everyone that I have worked with in the past 10
years has truly made a difference and helped me
become completely independent!
To parents/caregivers: It is very important that if
you have a child with a disability, to love your child
as a child first, and then if they can’t advocate for
what they need, you can be their best advocates. It
is also extremely important to work with a good
OT or PT to make sure that the correct product is
purchased and used in a safe manner for your
child’s benefit. You also want to make sure that
that someone (the OT, PT, etc.) can monitor the
standing program.
To PT/OT’s: I believe that a standing program is a
supplement to therapy services. They are both vital
to the user. You too, can be an advocate for your
student and/or patient which was my case. If
anything, beside the therapeutic aspect, standing
also may give the user a sense of belonging or
even build self-esteem. So, please make a
difference for others in the same way it was done
for me.
Adults Users: If you own a stander, you already
know the benefits of standing. If you don’t have
one, I highly recommend that you work with a PT
or an OT to get a stander that meets your needs.
The benefits of having one far out way not having
one.
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Read Rhonda's Athena Award Winning Scholarship Essay!
 I DIDN’T GET HERE BY MYSELF
by Rhonda Clark
I believe that my worthy purpose is helping people and making a difference in their lives, just as many people have made a difference in mine.
I was born prematurely with cerebral palsy and not expected to live past the age of one. My parents never accepted the fact that I had a disability. My maternal grandparents assured me that anything was possible, instilled self-confidence in me, and reminded me that I was the only person who could deter obstacles. Teachers, friends, physical therapists, occupational therapists and faith shaped me into who I am today.
I have been living independently since I was a senior in high school and only needed assistance with the daily living chores of dressing and bathing. After college I moved from Green Bay to Nashville to pursue a career in the music industry. A physical therapist taught me the art of independence which allowed me to continue working. Her influence and belief in me left me with a powerful impression which I continue to reflect upon.
After many years of self-discovery and following my dream, I have a position in the music industry. My next goal is to enter the medical field with a desire to help people just as I was helped.
 Recent shoulder surgeries have enabled my right hand to open after being tightly-fisted for 34 years, and don my own socks, braces and shoes, achieving total independence. I am grateful for the people who made my lifestyle change possible, and certain that they were dedicated to helping me, knowing that I would somehow return the favor to others who need help.
Some people ask “Why do you think you have cerebral palsy?” I believe that my purpose is to educate people and make a positive impact on everyone I meet. My worthy purpose is very clear.
Consideration for the ATHENA Scholarship is an honor. If approved, I plan to finish my current educational goals and ultimately create a foundation designed to assist people who do not have insurance and other basic human needs. The individuals I envision helping are people with permanent physical disabilities as well as temporary conditions.
I am currently enrolled at Nashville State Technical Community College in Anatomy and Physiology pursuing a medical certificate. The additional courses that I need to take are: ICD-CM Coding, CPT Coding, Medical Insurance, and Pharmacology. Once I complete the courses and earn the certificate it will make me a valuable asset in the healthcare industry and the idea of starting a foundation to help others become a reality.
My worthy purpose is to help people in need achieve their goals and dreams just as others have helped me. I am grateful for my grandparents, teachers, physical therapists, friends, financial advisor, and real estate agent who have helped me along the way. This scholarship would be a wonderful beginning, not only for me, but also for those that I intend to help.
 My intention is to create a fund which can be accessed through an application process to assist with financial aid and advocacy. I plan to serve as an advocate for people with physical disabilities to help them navigate the maze of agencies, healthcare providers, resources and companies who provide the items or services people need to live their lives more independently. This includes information regarding housing, durable medical equipment, physician referral, therapy referral services, transportation services, social security and the like.
Once I was employed full-time, I attended Financial Peace University. Through application of those principles I was able to pay off my college debts.
I went from being a person with a disability on government assistance to a productive tax paying citizen. I took great pleasure in calling the Social Security Administration and telling them that I had a full-time job and no longer needed the SSI assistance. I told them they could use it for some else.
Through careful planning, educating myself about real estate and severe budgeting (I even cancelled my cable TV contract); I was finally in a position to purchase my first condominium. That was a huge step; however, a local real estate agent held my hand and assisted me through the entire process of becoming a homeowner.
In 2003 I was able to purchase a new full-size van with a wheelchair lift, through the process of setting up a budget, kind donations, and fundraisers from friends.
Many people helped me realize that my goals and dreams are just like the goals and dreams of others. I am not the person I am because of anything I have said or done. I believe that I am who I am because of the kindness, generosity, patience and commitment of others.
If I am chosen to receive the scholarship I will pay it forward and make a difference for others.
CANINE
COMPANIONS FOR INDEPENDENCE - TEAM TRAINING
by Rhonda Clark
 When
most of us think of team training we think of sports. Well,
I am here to tell you about two weeks worth of team training
of another kind; One that will forever change my life.
In January, I received a call from Melinda at Canine
Companions For Independence (CCI) in Orlando, Florida saying
that they may have a dog for me. You may be wondering, “Why
go all the way to Florida for a dog”? Well these aren’t just
any dogs. These dogs are highly trained service dogs and
skilled companion dogs that assist people with disabilities
in their daily lives.
After some quick planning
and arranging to be in Orlando for 2 weeks, I was driven in
my van to Florida on February 3rd to begin two
weeks of intense, but also fun training. We were in class
listening to lectures, learning commands, working with
carpet dog, (not a real dog) and then we worked with real
dogs. This was all in the first week. By the end of the
first week we went on our first field trip to Best Buy to
see how we, as well as the dogs, would do in public. The
entire second week was filled with field trips to Target,
Olive Garden, Pet Smart, etc.
There were eight other families besides myself, so we all
hung out in the Great Room and talked or quizzed each other
on what we learned that day. There were definitely special
friendships made by all.
After working with three different dogs the program manager,
Lori, made matches for everyone. I was matched with Art II
or Art for short. After much trial and error Lori and her
staff realized that it would be best for me to use a gentle
leader collar on Art so that it would be easier for me as
the handler. Art is a cross-breed lab retriever. His
nickname is “Handsome Man”. He has already done some great
things for me, like picking up my checkbook from under the
table. I could go on just like any new parent. Art is very
smart and gentle. He reminds me of George Burns because he
is slow and easy. The best thing is that he is right there
when I need him and he loves me unconditionally.
A little information
about CCI: CCI is a 501c3 non-profit organization. They
receive no government funding and rely solely on individual
and corporate donations and countless volunteers. If you
would like to learn more about CCI just visit my recommended
links or you may go directly on the web at
www.cci.org. You may also make a
donation online. If you would like to contribute to the SE
Region specifically, let me know and I will send you the
address.
To the Southeast Regional Training Staff:
-
Monie: Thanks for hard work and
dedication. You were awesome to work with and thanks
for making me believe I was going to go home with Art.
-
Jennifer: Thanks for working so hard with
me and Art with the automatic doors etc. He sure is a
Handsome Man!
-
Summer: Thanks for your patience and
encouragement during the Public Access Test.
-
Emily: Thanks for being so willing to
help everyone.
-
Lori: It takes a special person to deal
with the personalities of the people and the dogs and
you are the perfect person for the job. Thank you is
not enough to express my gratitude for you dedication
and love for what you do! Always remember even on the
rough days “You Rock and I Roll.”
The entire CCI Staff and Volunteers are Exceptional People
raising and training Exceptional Dogs!
Lastly, the breeders, the puppy raisers, the staff and
the many volunteers - Thanks for making a difference for
so many people!
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CLICK HERE
to read the new article from Rhonda
Clark -
"My Life With Art II …A Canine
Companions Success Story" |
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Rhonda Clark
Nashville, Tennessee
Phone (615) 944-8509
If you are interested in contacting Rhonda Clark for a
Speaking
Engagement, please fill out the information below
and hit the submit
button.
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PREVIOUS & FUTURE SPEAKING ENGAGEMENTS
-
 Making
Miracles Happen Breakfast for Canine Companions for Independence
– April 24, 2008 at Old
Natchez Country Club in Franklin, Tennessee
- St. Edward Catholic Church -
Nashville, Tennessee
- Gansel’s Home Church Prayer Group
- Antioch, Tennessee
- United Cerebral Palsy Association National
Conference - Tampa Florida
-
Belmont University - Nashville, Tennessee,
Spoke to Occupational And Physical Therapy Departments and their
students
Nashville State Community College - Nashville, Tennessee
- Spoke to students in the Occupational Therapy Assistant program
Tennessee State University - Spoke to
Occupational Therapy Department
The ARC of Tennessee - Nashville, Tennessee
- Statewide Conference
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If you know Rhonda, you will understand my words when I say “my life has been blessed for knowing her”. I remember the first time I ever saw her, she was 9 or 10 years old beaming from ear to ear. My wife, Cheri, and I were Chairmen of the N.E. Wisconsin CP telethon and Rhonda was the face and personality of all those with Cerebral Palsy. She was and still is dynamic with her presence filling a room to this day, just like it did that night.
 I have seen a young person fight every obstacle at home and at school to find a way to win. I will never forget the day she graduated from college. I had such a sense of pride for her.
As a Green Bay Packer I remember playing at Lambeau Field in the dead of winter. Snow was piled 10 feet tall around the edge of the field and seeing Rhonda in her wheelchair wrapped in a blanket watching the game from ground level. CP has never been a roadblock for Rhonda, simply a detour. Her tenacity and will power are beyond my words – simply look at her life as a testimony to “true grit” and “determination”. Her faith and love for Jesus Christ shines His light in a dark world.
I love Rhonda Clark, I always have and I always will.
Rich Wingo
I have known Rhonda for about two years, and have found her to be a very intelligent, driven and passionate individual who is entrenched in her faith. Her devotion to maintaining an independent lifestyle is very strong. Rhonda’s outgoing personality and perseverance make it easy to work with her as a client and also to call her a friend. As the saying goes, you can accomplish anything if you set your mind to it, and Rhonda is a prime example.
Bob Brake, CRT
Williams Medical Supply, Inc.
Rhonda----"I got my stander at Williams Medical"
I first met Rhonda Clark at a CP Telethon in Wisconsin almost 20 years ago. I was struck then by her perseverance and never say "never" attitude. From that first meeting, we became good friends and I have watched in awe as she has gotten her college degree (with great physical challenges and barriers) and has moved herself across the country from Wisconsin to Nashville, TN. where she beaten the streets to land herself challenging jobs. Never one to sit back and collect government assistance. She has always prided herself on paying her own way and living independently. She has a huge network of friends and spiritual supporters and I count myself very blessed to be among them.
Holly Dunn
Country Singer/Artist of Southwestern themed art
 Rhonda Clark has never met a challenge she didn't like! Her life is motivational...While most people are complaining about their designer shoes, Rhonda's working hard to put hers on. While most people are complaining about their jobs, Rhonda is getting up at 4 am, just so she can get ready (on her own) and get to her job (which takes lots of scheduling of transportation). And she still manages to give out free smiles...all day long! While most people are complaining about the everyday hassles of life, Rhonda is embracing every day with enthusiasm and heart-felt dedication in everything she does.
Get to know her...and you'll be inspired by her spirit! I know I have been!
Stacey Angello
Music Minister
St. Edward Church
Rhonda----"I sang at St. Edward for nine years that’s where I met Stacey"
Rhonda was a great motivator to have in class - she was always on time, always had her homework complete, and participated in class discussion. Normally I have students who complain about an 8:00am class, the weather is too cold to come in, or a variety of other excuses. Rhonda goes for her dreams and encourages others to do so as well. Even on a "bad" day Rhonda is upbeat.
Nanci Cross, M.Ed., RHIA
Department of OAD/Medical
Nashville State Technical Community College
615.353.3431
Rhonda Clark is one of the most inspirational people I know. I am constantly amazed at her courage, tenacity and persistence! If she decides to do something it becomes a goal. Once a goal, it’s just a matter of time before she’s accomplished the task! I met Rhonda several years ago while on the road with country artist, Holly Dunn. At that time, Rhonda wanted to be in the music business in Nashville. She eventually did move to Nashville and secured a job at Country Music Television (CMT) and was there for several years. While at CMT Rhonda decided it was time to go from assisted living to independent living. To make that dream a reality, she was able to purchase a condo in the Nashville area. As a Realtor, I was able to assist Rhonda with her purchase and share the excitement of her new-found independence! Rhonda currently has a new dream! She hopes to build a totally “accessible” home; hopefully, close to her church in Mt. Juliet, TN. I know it’s just a matter of time…I’m just happy to be part of the dream!
Lisa Lethcoe ABR, CRS, GRI
Coldwell Banker Lakeside Realtors
530 W. Main St.
Hendersonville, TN 37075
Office: (615) 824.5920 x339
Direct: (615) 590.1339
Fax: (615) 826.7784
Toll-Free: (800) 933.5920 x 339
Email: Lisa@LisaLethcoe.com
URL:
www.LisaLethcoe.com
Rhonda----"She helped me find my first home to purchase"
Rhonda was a student of mine. She was a pleasure to teach as she was eager to learn and had a positive attitude. I nicknamed her my little ray of sunshine because of her dazzling smile.
Eli Alvarado
Nashville State Community College
Program Coordinator/Assistant Professor
Office Administration - Medical Concentration
Rhonda---"She pushed me harder because she knew she could get
more out of me for which I’m grateful "
 Rhonda
has consistently provided the students a candid and thoughtful
presentation about all aspects of disabilities. She represents those who
overcome difficulties. She is very open and realistic. She empowers and
encourages the OT students to become compassionate and energetic
practitioners who advocates for the needs of others.
Teresa Plummer
Occupational
Therapist/Instructor Belmont University
Rhonda Clark’s personal experiences as a young woman with a disability and her determination to live an independent life make her a strong advocate for people with disabilities. She is able to captivate and motivate an audience by using her speaking skills, outgoing personality, and sense of humor.
Mary Hildebrand
Director of Family Support for The Arc of Davidson County
A couple of years ago we invited Rhonda Clark to speak to our home church group about her life. My wife and I have known Rhonda for several years and have been personally inspired by her courage and determination and felt that others may benefit from her story as well. She was engaging and personal in her talk with our group and was well received. Her humility in sharing difficult experiences from her past and how God has brought healing to her life had a positive impact on our group. We had some time of Q/A with her and that led to some more good conversation. Rhonda has an inspiring way of helping you avoid self pity. She motivates you to just get on with what you need to do in the circumstances you may be facing. We really appreciated our time with her and would recommend her to others.
Steve Gansel
Rhonda Clark is truly an inspiration to me. She is an extremely determined, courageous lady and friend that is always honest, caring, and uplifting. Her love for God and others is evident, and her accomplishments are amazing. I have never met anyone that has such determination. I am always motivated by Rhonda's winning spirit as she truly lives what she says when she says, "Don't ever let anyone ever tell you that you can't accomplish something." I am blessed to call Rhonda my friend!
Sara Moore
Rhonda----"My friend and
previous physical therapist"
Ms. Clark is an extremely well versed professional woman, who clearly speaks her thoughts and opinions. She has specific goals and objectives that she is not afraid to work towards. She currently is working full time and is preparing to take the National Board exam for Coding.
Ms. Clark is driven to ensure others, as well as herself, is treated fairly and respectfully. She has addressed several issues regarding equality and accessibility. She has been an advocate for others, as well as herself, in receiving the adaptive equipment she has needed to be independent at home and in the community.
Her heart is always giving to others, and she holds herself to very high expectations to do what is “right”. I am thankful I have had the opportunity to befriend such a caring and giving person. Thanks Rhonda, for teaching us all something about “life”.
Dawn
Occupational Therapist
Rhonda was able to provide a personal, humorous and realistic perspective about individuals living with disabilities. Rhonda was a great speaker. It truly benefited me to hear her comments
about the therapy process. She is educational, uses humor to get her point across and is open to questions.
From OT students at Belmont
 I met Rhonda almost 14 yrs as a new grad physical therapist. She came
to me having never been able to dress herself let alone live by herself.
As a fresh P.T. I was very optimistic and had all the confidence that I
could rehab any patient to independence. Rhonda and I were a great
match. We both believed that she could improve to the point of living
by herself and neither of us were going to settle for any less. Well
through many struggles, sore and tight muscles and believe it or not
lots and lots of laughs she did it. Rhonda tends to give me lots of
credit for her accomplishment but in truth the huge majority of it was
her. I realized during the next 14 years that I can't "fix" anyone, I
can only give them the tools and assistance they need to get better.
During these years I have realized my llimitations. The most wonderful
thing about Rhonda is that she turns her "limitations" into her next
goal to accomplish or struggle to conquer. Most would accept these
things and move on and Rhonda continues to not to settle for any less
than her ideals and optimism. I wish I could put her heart and soul
into every patient that I treat. The world would certainly be a much
healthier place, physically and spiritually. I hope she knows how much
those around her really admire her.
Jennifer Etheridge
Physical Therapist
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www.easystand.com -
The company that gives wheelchair users the option to stand
www.nustep.com
- a recumbent bike for people with all types of
disabilities and is great for anyone to use as well
www.williamsmedicalsupply.com - Locally
owned and operated DME company that helped me get my stander as well as
other assistive devices
www.ucpa.org - United Cerebral Palsy
National website you can also find your local office on this site
www.arcdc.org - The Arc of Davidson County
assisting families with disabilities throughout the county through
education and various programs.
www.hanger.com - Hanger is the parent
company of Nashville Orthotic & Prosthetic Services, Nashville, Tennessee.
Scott Thrash is the best brace maker in Nashville.
www.sjri.com
- Southern Joint Replacement Institute - Dr. J. Craig
Morrison is the surgeon that operated on my shoulders and gave me use of my
right hand
www.lisalethcoe.com - Real Estate Agent I
work with in the process of buying my first condo
www.hollydunn.com - country music
artist/painter of southwestern-themed artwork
www.staceyangello.com - St. Edward Catholic
Music Minster and solo artist
www.daveramsey.com - The teacher of Financial Peace University - What
he teaches REALLY works – He also believes that one does not have
financial until one walks with the "Prince of Peace"
www.devonoday.com - Author/motivational
speaker
www.caninecompanions.org -
Canine
Companions for Independence is the organization which provided a new
assistance dog for Rhonda
www.lindadavis.com - Country Music Artist/motivational speaker
www.belmont.edu - Belmont University - Nashville, Tennessee
www.nscc.edu - Nashville State Community
College
www.gourmettoyou.com. - Personal Chef Service - I
use them and the food is great!
www.dioceseofnashville.com - Catholic
Diocese of Nashville
www.faverwebs.com - Web designer
www.vanderbiltchildrens.com
- Vanderbilt Children's Hospital (where
Rhonda works) |
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