"Don't let Your Handicap, Handicap You."
Speaking up for yourself is important for anyone, however, it is especially necessary for a person with a disability. This booklet offers tips for getting your point across tactfully and effectively. It looks at reasons why people hesitate to advocate and ways to overcome those fears. It may be important to enlist the assistance of another, but make the effort to do as much of the initial work yourself.
When considering getting help, ask yourself some questions:
1) What have I done thus far to improve this situation?
2) What still needs to be done to resolve the matter?
3) What are some parts of the problem that can be fixed?
4) Is the person helping me treating me with respect?
5) What are the other resources that could be helpful?
Everyone can improve a situation in some way
Be positive, persistent, and patient.
Remember you're the expert!
