We know from history that in times of crisis, people with disabilities and their families are at a very high risk of being isolated, abandoned and forgotten. They and their families are at risk of being denied equal access to healthcare services and social support when they need them most.These present times that we are living can be deemed a of crisis. The COVID-19 pandemic is of great concern to everyone. It is of even greater concern to our loved ones with disabilities who are most vulnerable in so many ways at this time.We at the Nathan E-banks Foundation take this opportunity to remind each of you that our families are strong. We are resilient. We know how to survive if we have to without much help from our governments. We encourage you to continue to protect yourselves and your loved ones by ensuring that you are being safe. Teach and model the practice of handwashing, and social distancing to family member with disabilities.
Please know that your voice matters. Especially now. You bring the best perspectives of how COVID-19 is impacting your family and your household. So speak up. Please ensure that your voices are being added to the conversation.
Information as to what’s going on and what you can do is important at this time. We take this opportunity to share this resource with you – Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management for Persons with Disabilities – which provides useful information on some of the things you can consider at this time to protect yourself and your loved one(s) with disabilities.
We will get through this… together. Keep the faith.

Sincerely,
Christine Staple Ebanks