News and Events

See notes below from the January 25 Coffeebreak session. The panel featured adult siblings and was called “Learning from the Past to Prepare for the Future”:

Facilitator: Ann Palmer
Panelists: Beth McCauley, Chuck Lamothe, Katie Honeycutt, Sarah Palmer

Four panelists talked about their experiences growing up with siblings with developmental disabilities, and shared with us what, in their view, helped them prepare for the future.

Their advice to parents and care givers:

• Put marriage first.
• Do not establish a buffer between the child with DD and the other sibling(s), so each can develop a personal relationship.
• Have family discussions about DD.
• Prepare for financial future as much as possible.
• While growing up, many siblings of children with DD felt pressure to overcompensate with high expectations from their parents. Data also shows the following concerns: guilt about not having a disability, embarrassment, fear, anger or jealousy, isolation, concern about the future for their disabled sibling.

However, our adult presenters seemed to reflect the positive aspects acquired in being the sibling of a person with DD, also shown in data: maturity, sense of responsibility, self-confidence, patience, independence, altruism, understanding and sensitivity, greater leadership skills.

• And, as evidenced by the members of our panel, maintain a sense of humor.

The inaugural "Coffee Break" discussion during the October 2007 Coffee House at Good Shepherd launched a series of informal discussions for parents and caregivers. The topic on October 26 was "Understanding Sexuality Issues for Adults with Special Needs." Dr. Lisa Hayutin, a psychologist at Family Psychiatry and Psychology Associates in Cary, moderated the discussion, which was very informative and quite lively. You can download Dr. Hayutin's Powerpoint presentation below. About 30 people attended, eager to share their concerns. Participants were able to ask for or share advice about very delicate and personal matters. We'd be happy for you to continue this discussion on our forum.

Parents of children with special needs face many difficult tasks, and must navigate waters still unknown. It is our hope that this opportunity for parents to compare and share information and experiences is helpful for all involved. We hope you will come to the next Coffee Break discussion, time and date TBA. In the meantime, please feel free to suggest topics for future Coffee Break discussions that would interest you. Post them on the Community Forum, or email us at info@servingcup.org.

The Coffeehouse at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church is happy to announce that it will be holding a new series of periodic, topical group meetings during Coffeehouse hours.

These “Coffee Break” meetings will allow the Coffeehouse community of parents, caregivers, and friends of adults with developmental disabilities to come together and discuss specific life issues regarding their friend or family member. Topics may include marriage, sibling relationships, adult sexuality, and safety. We’re also open to your suggestions!

Please join us on Friday October 26 from 7:30 to 8:30 in Underwood Hall at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church to inaugurate this new program.

“Understanding Sexuality Issues for Adults with Special Needs” A guided discussion led by Dr. Lisa Hayutin of Family Psychiatry and Psychology Associates

Questions? Contact info@servingcup.org.