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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?
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?
vivelespatates profile picture
International Cat Day - How cats has helped you?
by vivelespatates
Last post
December 8th, 2024
...See more Share here your stories about how a cat is helping you or has helped you to overcome a disability ! What are the benifits from having a cat? How may a cat help a person with a disability? Want to share a picture of you cat? Forum Hunt: Boston, Massachusetts, USA
MistyMagic profile picture
Caring gifts to those that care for us! Cupsgiving!
by MistyMagic
Last post
December 3rd, 2024
...See more Caring gifts to those that care for us This post is part of Cupsgiving Week. Choosing a gift for your carer can be a thoughtful and meaningful gesture to show appreciation for their care and support. Here are some tips to help you select the perfect gift: 1. Consider Their Preferences * Pay Attention to Hobbies: Think about what they enjoy doing in their free time (e.g., gardening, cooking, reading, sports). * Ask Subtly: If you're unsure, you can ask casual questions about their likes and dislikes without revealing your intention. Ask those near to them for ideas. 2. Choose Something Meaningful * Personalized Gifts: Items like engraved keychains, custom mugs, or photo frames can add a personal touch. Remember they may need to be ordered in advance! * Handmade Gifts: If you enjoy crafting or making art, a handmade gift like a card, painting, or knitted item can be incredibly special. Again these take time so it’s important to plan your gift. But these I can vouch for.  3. Practical Items * Useful Gifts: A high-quality notebook, a nice pen, or something they can use daily in their work or leisure. * Relaxation Gifts: Think about self-care items like candles, bath products, or a gift card for a massage or spa day. * Disposable Gifts: Not as in throw-away but something that they can use and enjoy and appreciate and that won’t take up valuable space in the home. Cookies or sweets, chocolate luxury items. 4. Sentimental Options * Thank-You Letters: A heartfelt note expressing your gratitude can mean more than a material gift. * Memory Keepsakes: A small scrapbook or photo album highlighting meaningful moments you've shared. A framed photo too. 5. Experience-Based Gifts * Treat Them to an Experience: A voucher for their favorite restaurant, a cinema gift card, or a ticket to an event they’d enjoy. * Time Together: If possible, plan a simple outing like a coffee date or a park visit. Or organize a tea party in your room or even just a cup of coffee for 5 minutes rest together. 6. Budget-Friendly Ideas * Small Tokens: Flowers, a box of chocolates, or a thoughtful book can be perfect. * DIY Options: Create something with the resources you have—baked goods, a playlist of their favorite music, or a simple drawing or poem that you have taken the time to write for them. Perhaps make it funny or rhyming. 7. Accessibility and Delivery * Online Shopping: If mobility or time is a concern, many retailers offer gift wrapping and delivery services. * Help from Others: Ask a friend or family member for assistance if you need help purchasing or delivering the gift. 8. Show Appreciation in Words * Sometimes the best gift is simply taking the time to tell them "thank you" in a heartfelt way. Pair it with a small token to make it more memorable. Maybe even sing to them! By focusing on their preferences, adding a personal touch, and staying within your means, you can give a gift that will truly show how much you value their care. Now some questions for you! Let's pretend we are giving a gift to another person in the World of Cups or in particular the Disability Support Community:- * How do you choose a gift? * Who would you give a gift to? * What would you give them?
AffyAvo profile picture
Inclusive Trick or Treating
by AffyAvo
Last post
November 4th, 2024
...See more More people are becoming aware about how to be inclusive to all Trick or Treaters this Halloween! [A gif where the lighting makes a pumpkin teal] Teal Pumpkin Project  When people put out Teal Pumpkins it means they have non-edible treats available. This started off as being a way to be allergy friendly, and this is also good for trick or treaters who have other dietary restrictions. For some good ideas and some more fanciful ones, check our the on-going A-Z game here  [https://www.7cups.com/forum/disabilities/CommunitySpace_227/AZtreathandoutsfortheTealPumpkinProject_262266/] Treat Accessibility Treat Accessibility offers tips to remove barriers to trick or treaters. Some cities have locations where you can pick up a sign [https://www.treataccessibly.com/free-lawn-sign-2024-version], plus you can print your own [https://www.treataccessibly.com/free-lawn-sign-2024-version] and set it outside before Halloween so people know ahead of time your house will be accessible/ Treat Accessibility also hosts  Halloween Villages - inclusive events for Trick or Treaters where all participating households are accessible. Blue Pumpkins Some families choose to use a blue pumpkin to indicate that their trick or treater is autistic. This may help create some extra patience for children who may have trouble communicating, aren't comfortable wearing a costume or may have additional sensory needs. Some households also put out blue pumpkins to indicate they are friendly households for these children. Questions If you're handing out treats or trick or treating, are you participating in any of these? Is there a Halloween Village near you? Share an accessibility tip for any household or trick or treater (hint check out treat accessibility [https://www.treataccessibly.com/how-to] if you're stuck) Bonus question - share a recipe we can use after carving those pumpkins!
AffyAvo profile picture
A-Z treat handouts for the Teal Pumpkin Project
by AffyAvo
Last post
October 31st, 2024
...See more It's back for 2022! The Teal Pumpkin Project is a way for those who have allergies or other food restrictions to be able to enjoy trick or treating too! People who have non-food treats put out a Teal Pumpkin to show they have non-food goodies! So let's get some virtual non-food treats going! We'll go through possibilities alphabetically, try to not skip letters but if you're really stuck move on to the next letter. Hopefully we can get from A-Z more than once! Check the end of the thread to see what letter we left off at and click post to thread to add your treat for the next letter! The great thing about this online is these treats can get quite extravagant! [A teal jack 'o lantern sits on the grass] @777Bre777 @adaptablePomegranate1587 @adequatelyInadequate @adventurousBranch3786 @AffyAvo @Arsalanahmed @Ashleylovescats @AttentiveEar @Averayne93 @Azalea98 @azuladragon34 @BeyondTheInvisible @BlindGrapefruit @bouncyVoice4149 @Breezy2013 @CaringBrit @CheeryPotato @CheerySandi @ChildGoddessFlute @Colorfulcatsofhope @considerateParadise6717 @Disneywoman @DoISayIt @DylanMark @Edobre399 @Emiliako @enthusiasticTortoise6681 @Fireskye13 @friendlyEars8792 @goldenSpruce1512 @InfiniteThoughts2k19 @Jamesjones10123 @jovialButterfly6752 @JoyfulUnicorn @JoyIntoDarkness @K87 @killaj0ule @lightTriangle7748 @LikeABirdWithoutWings @lovelySun2900 @LoveMyRotty @magnifiedfaith @ManinblacK @MikuoniandBlueCheese @MistyMagic @mnhtx3 @moosprbrk @MyNameIsNicole @NaomiR @NevaehRose @OneErased @pinkbunnywabbit @Pixiechu @PotFullOfSky2020 @Raysofsunshineandrainbow2005 @redGrapes1822 @Redheadmadeofglitter94 @repen13 @sabeyesofblue3535 @SmolBurrahobbit12 @specialPurple1582 @StarsOrchidsOwls @sunshinegiraffe123 @TimidBear @turquoiseHemlock900 @u2canwin @wahmbrenda @WeedyGarden @wonderfulRainbow817 @xandia
Dolit profile picture
Diabetes
by Dolit
Last post
October 1st, 2024
...See more Hi there! Would love to chat with anyone who struggles with diabetes also!
AffyAvo profile picture
Back to School with a Disability
by AffyAvo
Last post
August 25th, 2024
...See more [A small class of kids in school, sitting at desks with a teacher at a board with a map] Many schools have started back recently or will soon. Are you in school this September? Do you have any concerns due to a disability? For everyone, even if not in school now - what did you struggle with in school? What tips do you have for current students?
Sunisshiningandsoareyou profile picture
What are 3 things about yourself, that make you feel good ?
by Sunisshiningandsoareyou
Last post
July 28th, 2024
...See more 💚 What are 3 things ( feel free to add more if you'd like to ) about yourself , that make you feel good ? 💚
MistyMagic profile picture
Digital Accessibility Awareness Day!
by MistyMagic
Last post
May 22nd, 2024
...See more Global Accessibility Awareness Day (GAAD) has become a pivotal event in raising awareness about digital accessibility and the needs of people with disabilities. Since its inception in 2012, it has grown into a global movement, celebrated annually on the third Thursday of May. GAAD aims to foster discussions, promote understanding, and encourage actions to make digital content and technology accessible to all. The significance of GAAD lies in its ability to bring together individuals, organizations, and communities to advocate for inclusivity in digital spaces. By highlighting the challenges faced by people with disabilities and promoting best practices in accessibility, GAAD plays a crucial role in advancing a more inclusive society. At 7 Cups we take accessibility very seriously and as such we have guidelines in place to help our users navigate and learn about our standards and expectations. This post explains more about the Disability Support Community guidelines on AI use which can allow many of our users to integrate and adapt to our community. AI Guidelines for Disability Support Community [https://www.7cups.com/forum/disabilities/CommunitySpace_227/AIGuidelinesforDisabilitySupportCommunity_326180/]  There are also the 7 Cups guidelines which can be read here Forum Guidelines on Artificial Intelligence [https://www.7cups.com/forum/7cupsleadership/SafetyGuidelines_1374/ExpandedForumGuidelines13ArtificialIntelligence_326857/] I am hoping that this post will also encourage everyone to post their tips and tricks that make digital accessibility easier for them. 💡  For instance, how do you access the internet? Is there an easier way? ⌨ Do you find a specific program that makes it easier? 👍Do you use, a voice-activated or adapted keyboard? 💰How much does having digital accessibility mean to you? * Global Accessibility Awareness Day (GAAD) [https://globalaccessibilityawarenessday.org/] * Why Global Accessibility Awareness Day Matters [https://www.w3.org/WAI/standards-guidelines/wcag/resources/gaad-matters/]
MistyMagic profile picture
Some Disabilities Are Invisible!
by MistyMagic
Last post
May 15th, 2024
...See more Some disabilities are invisible to the eye! Please don't assume - that makes an ass of u and me! Pain can't be seen but it can disable someone just as much as any other disability. Imagine having tooth ache in your leg or having bee stings all over your back.
Disneywoman profile picture
Mattel's Disability representation with two of his brands-Barbie and American Girls
by Disneywoman
Last post
May 10th, 2024
...See more Barbie brand: Hearing Aid ken (there's a Barbie version but I couldn't find a picture of her) New Wheelchair Barbie: (and yes there *is* a ramp for both Wheelchair Barbie and Ken dolls to use with the Dream House) Prosthetic leg Ken (I'm pretty sure there's a Barbie version of this but I couldn't find it at the moment) and Down Syndrome Barbie: heck, they even went so far as to have a disabled Pet for Barbie to take care of American Girls brand will be in the following post to this 
AffyAvo profile picture
World Asthma Day
by AffyAvo
Last post
May 7th, 2024
...See more May 7, 2024 is World Asthma Day Asthma is a chronic disease of the airways,  and causes increased mucus, inflamed and narrowed airways. This results in shortness of breath, coughing, chest tightness, difficulty breathing, wheezing and fatigue. Asthma, especially if poorly controlled may result in damage such as scarring to the airways. There are a number of know asthma triggers including dust, smoke, volatile chemicals, strong emotions, infections, exercise, humidity extremes, cold air, and allergens such as dander, pollen and foods. There are various asthma treatments. Someone may be prescribed one or more medications that helps control asthma long term and a medication that helps quickly with attacks, or to use before exposure to a trigger. Asthma awareness often focuses on proper diagnosis, having airway healthy environments and appropriate treatment including action plans for managing the condition. Those with asthma should be supported with recognizing when their symptoms are too frequent, severe or a fast acting medication is being used too often so they can discuss adjusting treatment with their physician. Asthma can take an emotional toll. An attack can be scary and may result in anxious about when one may occur. Someone may have to make changes to their home to reduce triggers. There may be grief related to a decrease in health, forgoing certain activities or limiting exposure to triggers. Asthma can also result in someone feeling isolated if they are not able to be where friends and family are or participating in the same activities. References: https://ginasthma.org/world-asthma-day-2024/ [https://ginasthma.org/world-asthma-day-2024/] https://asthma.ca/ [https://asthma.ca/] https://ablung.ca/lung-health/asthma/ [https://ablung.ca/lung-health/asthma/] https://www.lung.org/lung-health-diseases/lung-disease-lookup/asthma 1. How has asthma impacted you or someone you know? 2. How could you support someone struggling with asthma? 3. What is something you could do (or are already doing!) to help with a  healthy air environment?

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







Community Leaders
Community Mentor Leader
Community Mentor / Teen Community Star
Group Support Mentor / Teen Star