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Braille! - January is World Braille Month!
by MistyMagic
Last post
January 13th
...See more January is World Braille month Louis Braille was born on January 4, 1809 and this year we celebrate his 206th birthday!   Born in Coupvray, France, Louis became blind at the age of 3 while playing with tools in his father’s shop.  When he was 10, he was sent to the school for the blind in Paris, but there were very few books available at that time for people who were blind.  Inspired by a system of tactile writing created by French army captain Charles Barbier, Louis Braille spent two years trying to simplify and perfect the code.  When he was 15, the new code was ready, and was easier to learn and quicker to read. It took many years before the Braille code was adopted widely.  The first book in braille was published in 1827 and in 1878, the World Congress for the Blind voted to make Braille the system of reading and writing for people worldwide who are blind.  There ensued a War of the Dots and it was not until 1932 that Standard English Braille was established for all English-speaking countries. Braille is a tactile writing system used by individuals who are visually impaired or blind. The system enables users to read and write through touch, empowering them to access information independently. Structure of Braille Braille is based on a matrix of six raised dots arranged in a rectangular block called a "cell," with two columns and three rows. Each cell represents a character, letter, number, or punctuation mark. The dots are numbered 1 through 6: 1  4 2  5 3  6 By raising specific combinations of these dots, different characters can be formed. For example: * The letter "A" is represented by a single raised dot in position 1. * The letter "B" uses dots 1 and 2. * Numbers, capital letters, and special characters are indicated by specific prefixes. Types of Braille * Grade 1 Braille: A basic system where each Braille cell corresponds to a single letter, number, or punctuation mark. It is typically used by beginners. * Grade 2 Braille: Includes contractions and abbreviations for common words or letter groups, making reading and writing faster and more efficient. * Grade 3 Braille: An advanced system used for shorthand, often in personal notes or informal writing. Applications of Braille Braille is used in various formats and devices to enhance accessibility: * Books and Documents: Printed Braille materials are essential for education and leisure. * Labels and Signage: Many elevators, ATMs, and public spaces include Braille signage to  * provide information. * Digital Braille Devices: Refreshable Braille displays and notetakers allow users to access digital content, including emails, websites, and e-books, through tactile feedback. Importance of Braille Braille is vital for literacy and independence among people who are blind. While audio technology is increasingly available (such as screen readers), Braille remains indispensable for developing spelling, grammar, and tactile literacy skills. It ensures access to a wide range of fields, from education to employment. Challenges and Advancements Challenges include the high cost of producing Braille materials and devices, as well as limited availability in some regions. However, advances in technology, such as affordable refreshable Braille displays, are helping to bridge this gap. Braille's impact extends beyond language; it is a tool of empowerment, inclusion, and equality, ensuring that individuals who are blind can fully participate in society. Read more about the story of Louis Braille [http://www.pathstoliteracy.org/story-louis-braille]. Learn the song for celebrating Louis Braille’s birthday! [https://www.pathstoliteracy.org/resource/celebration-ideas-happy-birthday-louis-braille/] Play the Louis Braille Timeline Game [https://www.pathstoliteracy.org/louis-braille-timeline-game/]. Written as part of the Disability Support Community Articles. More can be found here  [https://www.7cups.com/forum/disabilities/ArticlesResourcesConditionSpecificInformation_458/ArticlesResourcesAlphabeticList_233701/] If you have a condition or 'Awareness Campaign' that you feel we should recognise please message either myself @MistyMagic [https://www.7cups.com/@MistyMagic] (teens and adults) or @AffyAvo  [https://www.7cups.com/@AffyAvo](adults)
AffyAvo profile picture
Listeners with a Disability - Supporting those with Disabilities (2024-2025)
by AffyAvo
Last post
January 7th
...See more We had one of these before, but many of the listeners are no longer using 7cups. So here's an updated one. Are you a listener with a disability willing to support others with a disability? Please share here! Also note what your disability is or give as much detail as you're comfortable wtih so that members can find someone with similar issues.
MistyMagic profile picture
Saying Goodnight to 2024! and Good Morning to 2025!
by MistyMagic
Last post
January 5th
...See more Saying Goodbye to 2024 and Hello to 2025! Disability Support Community Yearly Review! Over the past year I have had the privilege to hold the roles of Community Mentor Leader (leading the forums), and Group Support Mentor, (leading the rooms) of the Disability Community. We have grown from strength to strength. We have covered many topics and had many discussions, promoted many Awareness Days, as well as interviewed many different people about their disability or illness. Team - We are a small Team and I would like to recognise @AffyAvo as our Community Mentor who has been a pleasure to work with. Also @compassionateMoon4024 joined us as a Room Supporter.  We are always actively seeking more people to join our Team, member or listener, so please ask us if you are interested or for more information please read more about us here:- Join Our Team! [https://www.7cups.com/forum/disabilities/CommunitySpace_227/JoinTheDisabilitySupportCommunityTeam_325009/] Interviews - We are looking for more people to be interviewed about their disability or condition and how it affects their life so that others may learn more. Feel free to pm myself https://www.7cups.com/@MistyMagic [https://www.7cups.com/@MistyMagic]  or https://www.7cups.com/@AffyAvo [https://www.7cups.com/@MistyMagic] or fill in our form here https://forms.gle/Hcgt979FuFLnL4gy7 [https://forms.gle/Hcgt979FuFLnL4gy7]  The interviews are anonymous for listeners and can be anonymous for members too if you do not wish to be recognised. It is a fun experience so please join in. Here is a list of some of the content we have posted so far to help support those with disabilities and to raise awareness and understanding of many conditions:- Living with Multiple Sclerosis [https://www.7cups.com/forum/disabilities/ArticlesResourcesConditionSpecificInformation_458/InterviewDiariesGrabaCuppaandLearnaboutMultipleSclerosis_325500/] Living with Cerebral Palsy [https://www.7cups.com/forum/disabilities/DisabilityDiary_2664/InterviewDiariesLivingwithCerebralPalsy_326155/] Living with Meniere's Disease [https://www.7cups.com/forum/disabilities/DisabilityDiary_2664/LivingWithMenieresDisease_327897/] Living with CFS/ME [https://www.7cups.com/forum/disabilities/DisabilityDiary_2664/InterviewLivingwithCFS_328938/] Severe ME [https://www.7cups.com/forum/disabilities/PhysicalDisabilities_261/SevereMEAwarenessDay_334207/] Living with RA (Rheumatoid Arthritis) [https://www.7cups.com/forum/disabilities/InterviewsDiaries_2664/InterviewDiariesLivingwithRA_333251/?post=3610799] Being a wheelchair user [https://www.7cups.com/forum/disabilities/InterviewsDiaries_2664/InterviewDiariesBeingaWheelchairuser_336321/?post=3653342] Living with hED and POTS [https://www.7cups.com/forum/disabilities/InterviewsDiaries_2664/InterviewLivingwithhEDSandPOTS_336838/?post=3659993] HAE Raising Awareness [https://www.7cups.com/forum/disabilities/ArticlesResourcesConditionSpecificInformation_458/HAEAwarenessDay2024_327339/] Boom Or Bust [https://www.7cups.com/forum/disabilities/ArticlesResourcesConditionSpecificInformation_458/BoomorBustAllaboutpacing_327034/] - Breaking through pain! Learning About Self-Advocacy [https://www.7cups.com/forum/disabilities/ArticlesResourcesConditionSpecificInformation_458/SelfAdvocacy_332639/] Meditation and Self-care [https://www.7cups.com/forum/disabilities/ArticlesResourcesConditionSpecificInformation_458/MeditationandSelfCare_337264/] Cataract Awareness [https://www.7cups.com/forum/disabilities/ArticlesResourcesConditionSpecificInformation_458/CataractAwareness_334738/?post=3633552] - Learn more Finding Serenity within Disability [https://www.7cups.com/forum/disabilities/ArticlesResourcesConditionSpecificInformation_458/FindingSerenityusingCourageandWisdom_334315/] Sign Languages [https://www.7cups.com/forum/disabilities/ArticlesResourcesConditionSpecificInformation_458/AllAboutSignLanguages_337087/] 2024 Paralympics! [https://www.7cups.com/forum/disabilities/ArticlesResourcesConditionSpecificInformation_458/ParalympicsParis2024_335558/?post=3643787] World Mental Health Day [https://www.7cups.com/forum/disabilities/ArticlesResourcesConditionSpecificInformation_458/WorldMentalHealthDay_338207/?post=3679866] and Disabilities Learning Disabilities [https://www.7cups.com/forum/disabilities/ArticlesResourcesConditionSpecificInformation_458/The7typesoflearningdisabilities_338754/] Digital Awareness [https://www.7cups.com/forum/disabilities/CommunitySpace_227/DigitalAccessibilityAwarenessDay_329154/?post=3556386] for Disability Inclusive Trick or Treating [https://www.7cups.com/forum/disabilities/CommunitySpace_227/InclusiveTrickorTreating_339078/] Tips About Waiting For Surgery [https://www.7cups.com/forum/disabilities/ArticlesResourcesConditionSpecificInformation_458/WaitingForSurgeryTipsandinformation_339526/] CRPS -Complex Regional Pain Syndrome [https://www.7cups.com/forum/disabilities/ArticlesResourcesConditionSpecificInformation_458/CRPSWhatisComplexRegionalPainSyndrome_339787/] Epilepsy - Let’s talk [https://www.7cups.com/forum/disabilities/ArticlesResourcesConditionSpecificInformation_458/WhatisEpilepsy_340034/] Asthma - Learn more [https://www.7cups.com/forum/disabilities/CommunitySpace_227/WorldAsthmaDay_328693/] Disability and Mental Health [https://www.7cups.com/forum/disabilities/ArticlesResourcesConditionSpecificInformation_458/MentalHealthandDisabilities_328550/?post=3546967] Are there topics or Awareness Days that you would like us to cover? Let us know on this form! https://forms.gle/Hcgt979FuFLnL4gy7 [https://forms.gle/Hcgt979FuFLnL4gy7]  2024 has been a long year for many of us so what are you looking forward to in 2025?
applexie profile picture
Redefining Limits!
by applexie
Last post
2 days ago
...See more After an accident at the age of 20, I’ve had to use a wheelchair for the rest of my life. Never feel inferior—there’s so much more we can accomplish than you might think! I plan to document my journey of overcoming obstacles on YouTube! (Now I'm 50 years old)
jesusredeemedme2425 profile picture
What is POTS Like?
by jesusredeemedme2425
Last post
Friday
...See more What Is Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome? Postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS) is a disorder in which most of your blood stays in your lower body when you stand up, and in response, your heart rate jumps. Your blood usually flows at a steady rate whether you're sitting, standing, lying down, or hanging upside-down from a tree branch in the backyard. But if that rate changes when you change positions, that's a condition called orthostatic intolerance. It's the most common symptom of POTS. It can make you feel dizzy, lightheaded, or faint. For those of you that have it, or know people who do, what is it like? Not just the clinical description, but what does your day-to-day life look like? How does it feel? How does it affect you? Thank you in advance <3
SmollPeridotsBreakdown profile picture
Coping with chronic pain/illness
by SmollPeridotsBreakdown
Last post
Friday
...See more I've had a lot of issues with POTS (postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome), chronic pain, fatigue, and more along with mental issues. I was only diagnosed with POTS very recently, which it has been a bit of a help to have the diagnosis because I am better believed when I talk about my issues and I have a bit more access to help. However it has also been incredibly hard, I only got diagnosed because my symptoms have gotten increasingly worse (main thing that led to actually being believed and getting the diagnosis was fainting at school) and I'm not sure how to deal with it, I have terrible pain in my hands and legs almost constantly, I can't stand without moving a lot for more than maybe 10-15 minutes or else pain becomes worse and I get very lightheaded. I'm trying to work with people to make life feel liveable again but the pain alone has become almost unbearable. So that's why I'm reaching out here, I'm open to any ideas to help cope mentally with it all as well as any sources of pain relief. 
MistyMagic profile picture
Braille! - January is World Braille Month!
by MistyMagic
Last post
January 13th
...See more January is World Braille month Louis Braille was born on January 4, 1809 and this year we celebrate his 206th birthday!   Born in Coupvray, France, Louis became blind at the age of 3 while playing with tools in his father’s shop.  When he was 10, he was sent to the school for the blind in Paris, but there were very few books available at that time for people who were blind.  Inspired by a system of tactile writing created by French army captain Charles Barbier, Louis Braille spent two years trying to simplify and perfect the code.  When he was 15, the new code was ready, and was easier to learn and quicker to read. It took many years before the Braille code was adopted widely.  The first book in braille was published in 1827 and in 1878, the World Congress for the Blind voted to make Braille the system of reading and writing for people worldwide who are blind.  There ensued a War of the Dots and it was not until 1932 that Standard English Braille was established for all English-speaking countries. Braille is a tactile writing system used by individuals who are visually impaired or blind. The system enables users to read and write through touch, empowering them to access information independently. Structure of Braille Braille is based on a matrix of six raised dots arranged in a rectangular block called a "cell," with two columns and three rows. Each cell represents a character, letter, number, or punctuation mark. The dots are numbered 1 through 6: 1  4 2  5 3  6 By raising specific combinations of these dots, different characters can be formed. For example: * The letter "A" is represented by a single raised dot in position 1. * The letter "B" uses dots 1 and 2. * Numbers, capital letters, and special characters are indicated by specific prefixes. Types of Braille * Grade 1 Braille: A basic system where each Braille cell corresponds to a single letter, number, or punctuation mark. It is typically used by beginners. * Grade 2 Braille: Includes contractions and abbreviations for common words or letter groups, making reading and writing faster and more efficient. * Grade 3 Braille: An advanced system used for shorthand, often in personal notes or informal writing. Applications of Braille Braille is used in various formats and devices to enhance accessibility: * Books and Documents: Printed Braille materials are essential for education and leisure. * Labels and Signage: Many elevators, ATMs, and public spaces include Braille signage to  * provide information. * Digital Braille Devices: Refreshable Braille displays and notetakers allow users to access digital content, including emails, websites, and e-books, through tactile feedback. Importance of Braille Braille is vital for literacy and independence among people who are blind. While audio technology is increasingly available (such as screen readers), Braille remains indispensable for developing spelling, grammar, and tactile literacy skills. It ensures access to a wide range of fields, from education to employment. Challenges and Advancements Challenges include the high cost of producing Braille materials and devices, as well as limited availability in some regions. However, advances in technology, such as affordable refreshable Braille displays, are helping to bridge this gap. Braille's impact extends beyond language; it is a tool of empowerment, inclusion, and equality, ensuring that individuals who are blind can fully participate in society. Read more about the story of Louis Braille [http://www.pathstoliteracy.org/story-louis-braille]. Learn the song for celebrating Louis Braille’s birthday! [https://www.pathstoliteracy.org/resource/celebration-ideas-happy-birthday-louis-braille/] Play the Louis Braille Timeline Game [https://www.pathstoliteracy.org/louis-braille-timeline-game/]. Written as part of the Disability Support Community Articles. More can be found here  [https://www.7cups.com/forum/disabilities/ArticlesResourcesConditionSpecificInformation_458/ArticlesResourcesAlphabeticList_233701/] If you have a condition or 'Awareness Campaign' that you feel we should recognise please message either myself @MistyMagic [https://www.7cups.com/@MistyMagic] (teens and adults) or @AffyAvo  [https://www.7cups.com/@AffyAvo](adults)
theboymoana profile picture
Is this Ableism ?
by theboymoana
Last post
January 10th
...See more If someone know you disabled and say and do this stuff is that ableism ? They NOT disabled * Tell me they rather starve death then have feeding tube like me * tell me robot technology be good to fix disabled people so we stop be so lazy * They make joke about be disabled when them and someone else talk who life worse * Make fun me get frustrated people break so much rules something can’t even participate * Say nahoa hard to deal with * Tell me anyone need help with basic things because disability not live complete life * Make fun me spell something wrong one letter  * act like do nothing wrong make people think am making stuff up even when got proof  This stuff ableism ?  
AffyAvo profile picture
Listeners with a Disability - Supporting those with Disabilities (2024-2025)
by AffyAvo
Last post
January 7th
...See more We had one of these before, but many of the listeners are no longer using 7cups. So here's an updated one. Are you a listener with a disability willing to support others with a disability? Please share here! Also note what your disability is or give as much detail as you're comfortable wtih so that members can find someone with similar issues.
gentleClementine3139 profile picture
Rheumatoid Arthritis
by gentleClementine3139
Last post
January 6th
...See more Hi! I just got diagnosed with RA and I was wondering if anyone has any tips/tricks/advice for dealing with it
MistyMagic profile picture
Saying Goodnight to 2024! and Good Morning to 2025!
by MistyMagic
Last post
January 5th
...See more Saying Goodbye to 2024 and Hello to 2025! Disability Support Community Yearly Review! Over the past year I have had the privilege to hold the roles of Community Mentor Leader (leading the forums), and Group Support Mentor, (leading the rooms) of the Disability Community. We have grown from strength to strength. We have covered many topics and had many discussions, promoted many Awareness Days, as well as interviewed many different people about their disability or illness. Team - We are a small Team and I would like to recognise @AffyAvo as our Community Mentor who has been a pleasure to work with. Also @compassionateMoon4024 joined us as a Room Supporter.  We are always actively seeking more people to join our Team, member or listener, so please ask us if you are interested or for more information please read more about us here:- Join Our Team! [https://www.7cups.com/forum/disabilities/CommunitySpace_227/JoinTheDisabilitySupportCommunityTeam_325009/] Interviews - We are looking for more people to be interviewed about their disability or condition and how it affects their life so that others may learn more. Feel free to pm myself https://www.7cups.com/@MistyMagic [https://www.7cups.com/@MistyMagic]  or https://www.7cups.com/@AffyAvo [https://www.7cups.com/@MistyMagic] or fill in our form here https://forms.gle/Hcgt979FuFLnL4gy7 [https://forms.gle/Hcgt979FuFLnL4gy7]  The interviews are anonymous for listeners and can be anonymous for members too if you do not wish to be recognised. It is a fun experience so please join in. Here is a list of some of the content we have posted so far to help support those with disabilities and to raise awareness and understanding of many conditions:- Living with Multiple Sclerosis [https://www.7cups.com/forum/disabilities/ArticlesResourcesConditionSpecificInformation_458/InterviewDiariesGrabaCuppaandLearnaboutMultipleSclerosis_325500/] Living with Cerebral Palsy [https://www.7cups.com/forum/disabilities/DisabilityDiary_2664/InterviewDiariesLivingwithCerebralPalsy_326155/] Living with Meniere's Disease [https://www.7cups.com/forum/disabilities/DisabilityDiary_2664/LivingWithMenieresDisease_327897/] Living with CFS/ME [https://www.7cups.com/forum/disabilities/DisabilityDiary_2664/InterviewLivingwithCFS_328938/] Severe ME [https://www.7cups.com/forum/disabilities/PhysicalDisabilities_261/SevereMEAwarenessDay_334207/] Living with RA (Rheumatoid Arthritis) [https://www.7cups.com/forum/disabilities/InterviewsDiaries_2664/InterviewDiariesLivingwithRA_333251/?post=3610799] Being a wheelchair user [https://www.7cups.com/forum/disabilities/InterviewsDiaries_2664/InterviewDiariesBeingaWheelchairuser_336321/?post=3653342] Living with hED and POTS [https://www.7cups.com/forum/disabilities/InterviewsDiaries_2664/InterviewLivingwithhEDSandPOTS_336838/?post=3659993] HAE Raising Awareness [https://www.7cups.com/forum/disabilities/ArticlesResourcesConditionSpecificInformation_458/HAEAwarenessDay2024_327339/] Boom Or Bust [https://www.7cups.com/forum/disabilities/ArticlesResourcesConditionSpecificInformation_458/BoomorBustAllaboutpacing_327034/] - Breaking through pain! Learning About Self-Advocacy [https://www.7cups.com/forum/disabilities/ArticlesResourcesConditionSpecificInformation_458/SelfAdvocacy_332639/] Meditation and Self-care [https://www.7cups.com/forum/disabilities/ArticlesResourcesConditionSpecificInformation_458/MeditationandSelfCare_337264/] Cataract Awareness [https://www.7cups.com/forum/disabilities/ArticlesResourcesConditionSpecificInformation_458/CataractAwareness_334738/?post=3633552] - Learn more Finding Serenity within Disability [https://www.7cups.com/forum/disabilities/ArticlesResourcesConditionSpecificInformation_458/FindingSerenityusingCourageandWisdom_334315/] Sign Languages [https://www.7cups.com/forum/disabilities/ArticlesResourcesConditionSpecificInformation_458/AllAboutSignLanguages_337087/] 2024 Paralympics! [https://www.7cups.com/forum/disabilities/ArticlesResourcesConditionSpecificInformation_458/ParalympicsParis2024_335558/?post=3643787] World Mental Health Day [https://www.7cups.com/forum/disabilities/ArticlesResourcesConditionSpecificInformation_458/WorldMentalHealthDay_338207/?post=3679866] and Disabilities Learning Disabilities [https://www.7cups.com/forum/disabilities/ArticlesResourcesConditionSpecificInformation_458/The7typesoflearningdisabilities_338754/] Digital Awareness [https://www.7cups.com/forum/disabilities/CommunitySpace_227/DigitalAccessibilityAwarenessDay_329154/?post=3556386] for Disability Inclusive Trick or Treating [https://www.7cups.com/forum/disabilities/CommunitySpace_227/InclusiveTrickorTreating_339078/] Tips About Waiting For Surgery [https://www.7cups.com/forum/disabilities/ArticlesResourcesConditionSpecificInformation_458/WaitingForSurgeryTipsandinformation_339526/] CRPS -Complex Regional Pain Syndrome [https://www.7cups.com/forum/disabilities/ArticlesResourcesConditionSpecificInformation_458/CRPSWhatisComplexRegionalPainSyndrome_339787/] Epilepsy - Let’s talk [https://www.7cups.com/forum/disabilities/ArticlesResourcesConditionSpecificInformation_458/WhatisEpilepsy_340034/] Asthma - Learn more [https://www.7cups.com/forum/disabilities/CommunitySpace_227/WorldAsthmaDay_328693/] Disability and Mental Health [https://www.7cups.com/forum/disabilities/ArticlesResourcesConditionSpecificInformation_458/MentalHealthandDisabilities_328550/?post=3546967] Are there topics or Awareness Days that you would like us to cover? Let us know on this form! https://forms.gle/Hcgt979FuFLnL4gy7 [https://forms.gle/Hcgt979FuFLnL4gy7]  2024 has been a long year for many of us so what are you looking forward to in 2025?
audienta profile picture
Severe ME Awareness Day
by audienta
Last post
January 3rd
...See more Hello everyone, I wanted to post here today as August 8th is Severe ME Awareness Day. (Source [https://worldmealliance.org/2022/08/severe-me-day-august-8th-2022/]) ME is a neuroimmunological multisystem disorder. The main symptom is a severe intolerance to any form of exercise, stress, and stimuli. It also comes with a lot of other symptoms including pain, fatigue, brain fog, orthostatic intolerance, gastroenterological issues, neurological symptoms and so on. ME is categorised into mild, moderate, severe and very severe. Today, we think of those who have severe and very severe ME and of those who have already died of this disease. People with (very) severe ME are mostly or completely bedbound, often have to lie in a dark and quiet room for most of their time, and some are even completely dependent on carers and a feeding tube to stay alive. So far, there is no treatment for ME. The only recommended strategy to deal with it is pacing, which means, staying within your boundaries to not trigger the bad response to exercise, stress and stimuli that I've mentioned before. Healing from ME completely is unlikely at the moment. We can only hope that research finds a solution for all ME patients soon.  Therefore, let's think of the severe(st) ME patients around the world today, hope for a better future for them, and grieve those who we have lost.  Thank you for reading the post. If you want to learn more about ME, here's a link [https://www.meresearch.org.uk/what-is-me/]. MistyMagic has also interviewed someone with ME in the past, so here's the link to the interview [https://www.7cups.com/forum/disabilities/InterviewsDiaries_2664/InterviewLivingwithCFS_328938/]. Take care, audienta
colorfulOasis1483 profile picture
Totally blind
by colorfulOasis1483
Last post
December 28th
...See more Hi everyone :) I'm Jess, 40, living in Aus, and totally blind. Just reaching out to see if anyone else here is blind or visually impaired?
MistyMagic profile picture
Festive Greetings!
by MistyMagic
Last post
December 26th
...See more Hey everyone! Festive Season's Greetings! On behalf of the Disability Support Community Team @MistyMagic, @AffyAvo and @compassionateMoon4024  I just wanted to send to you all, members and listeners, lots of warm cheer, fleecy blankets, hot drinks and comforting fun for this festive season. Does the prospect of the next week send you into a turmoil, or do you love all the lights and Christmas spirit? Is your life feeling like A, B, or C? and Share with us your thoughts and wishes for 2025! A. Everything just falls apart at this time of year and seems out to get you?  B. It is hard work but fun! C. I love it all! Yayyyyyyy! Fun! Fun! Fun!🎄🎄   . . . for being party of our Community, for posting and replying in the forums, having 1-1 conversations and joining in with the chat and discussions in the Disability Support room 💛💙 💚
Disneywoman profile picture
Youtube discrimation against Deaf Youtubers
by Disneywoman
Last post
December 23rd
...See more So I had a Youtube channel for 13 years now (2011-present).  Up until this fall I had it on private  but I wanted to make a long video of my Planet Coaster 1 theme park (back then there was only one Planet Coaster but now there's two)  -which had three lands- Waltville (Fantasy/Magic Kingdom)  Roys' Claim (Western) and Lillian's land (No theme)- but I couldn't have all of them in one video, due to the fact I only have "Standard Eligibility feature"  which limits me to only 15 mins videos. I'm Deaf in one ear and Hard of Hearing in the other.    That's where the problem is If I want to make longer videos aka "Immediate Eligibility " level of videos  I need  either a)to have a smart phone/cell phone with SMS to get a verification number or b)I can have a phone call.      There's 0 options for email to be an option the excuse most people use is "because of Spam bots".   Because there's no option for email it's basically discrimination against Deaf Youtubers who might want to make longer videos.  I certainly do NOT want to have to use my parents' home phone number to get this one-time call.  I have tried everything already-I tried "Free" SMS websites and none of them worked for me.  Either the number's already been use, or nothing showed up or "Please use an actual number".   Google Voice isn't avaible in Canada unless I had a "business account"    I tried contacting Youtube but they just told me to tell feedback. So as a last resort today I tagged on Twitter (I am not calling it X) some disabled Content Creators on Youtube,  and in 2 hours after I tagged them on Twitter  I got 5 replies for people who could help me.   So we will see how that works for me. 

Welcome to the Disability Support Community!

This is an inclusive community where people can seek and provide support and post about topics related to learning disabilities, chronic pain, chronic illnesses and conditions, physical disabilities and developmental disabilities. You are welcome to join in even if you don't used disabled as a label for yourself.

There are a number of ways to get involved and be supported. We have a pop up teen chatroom and a 24/7 adult chatroom.

There are guides for Chronic Pain and T2 Diabetes
There are Q&A sections for Disabilities and Chronic Pain

Members may connect with a listener who has disabilities, chronic pain, cancer, diabetes, adhd or autism listed as a topic and there are listeners with disabilities supporting people with disabilities

We encourage people to post new threads and respond to others in the forums! Some good ways to get started are to introduce yourself and to join our tag list to be notified of weekly check ins and events. We also have an Interview Series: if you would be open to sharing more about yourself and want to be interviewed.

Looking to be even more activity in the Disability Community? Join as a leader!

*Note we are inclusive of all disabilities but ADHD and Autism each of their own communities which may be of interest to some of you.

Community Guidelines

🌟 Please be respectful of everybody's thoughts and opinions.

🌟 Don't think you are alone, so please share

🌟 Please be patient if you feel like your concern hasn't been addressed yet; we are working hard to add more leaders and supporters.

🌟 If you have any concerns, reach out to a leader or make a post.

🌟 For Listeners only - please remember that you are here to give support, if you are seeking support then please switch to your Member account.

🌟 Most of all - don't forget to be awesome! You are loved and accepted here, no matter what!

Guidelines For Using AI 


We all want the Disability Support Community to be a safe place where people are able to be their authentic selves and receive support. We understand that AI tools can be helpful in reducing barriers, allowing people to better express themselves, and allowing those with some disabilities to be able to read, write, and post, but excessive, or complete use of AI can feel robotic and reduce supportive person-to-person interactions. It can also lead to false impressions of the poster. We want to try and avoid this and help our Community to be as inclusive and as welcoming as possible to all users.


What is AI?

AI is short for ‘artificial intelligence’ which is software, a program or algorithm that works to sort, order, and combine data to give a response or answer to a question or input. Artificial intelligence is the ability of a computer, software, or computer-controlled robot to perform tasks that are commonly associated with the intellectual processes characteristic of humans, such as the ability to reason. As yet no AI’s match full human flexibility over wider domains or in tasks.

Some of the most common examples of AI in use today include: 

  • ChatGPT: Uses large language models (LLMs) to generate text in response to questions or comments posed to it. 

  • Google Translate: Uses deep learning algorithms to translate text from one language to another. 

  • Netflix: Uses machine learning algorithms to create personalized recommendation engines for users based on their previous viewing history. 

  • Tesla: Uses computer vision to power self-driving features on their cars.



If using AI tools please adhere to the following:


  • Include some of your own personal expression. This could come from a detailed, personal prompt to the AI tool or include some of your own words with a post.

  • Cite which AI tool(s) you used, which applies both to AI-generated and AI-edited text as well as images too. For instance, if you use Dragon to voice type then say so and if the text is AI-edited include that fact too.

  • Avoid posting misinformation. AI sometimes creates personalized anecdotes, facts, or references. If you are sharing an experience, don’t post an AI-fabricated one. If posting information check that it is correct and aligns with trustworthy sources.

  • Cite the source of your information. It can be important to know and understand the source of information posted, AI-generated content may draw information from their database so try and use factual sites that can be checked and that aren’t misleading.

  • Don’t make threads in excess. AI can make it fairly quick to create a lot of content. We want to give everyone’s posts a chance to be seen. Please don’t post a large amount of threads in a short period of time, this is called ‘flooding’ and can prevent other posts from being seen.

  • If you do feel like there’s a lot you want to state on one topic, consider making multiple posts within the same single thread. Or create your own ‘Disability Diary’ thread and post there, this will increase your visibility, and those who reply will be notified when you add another post.

  • Follow the guidelines. You are responsible for what is posted from your account, even if AI was used in the creation of the post, so please double-check what you write and post!


For more information please read this post by @Heather225 - 7 Cups Community Director.


Do’s ✅  and  ❌ Don’t List:


Do - Humanize your post with your own expression and words

Do - Cite the AI tool(s) you use

Do - Make ONE thread and post to it if there are several posts you want to make

Do- Read things over and ensure the guidelines are being followed

Don’t post something that is entirely AI-generated with little input from yourself

Don’t post misinformation

Don’t flood the forums with AI threads, or multiple threads


If in doubt please ask @MistyMagic  (Adults and Teens) or @AffyAvo (Adults) or consider joining the Disability Community Support Team. More information Here







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