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I have been reading the PD Listserv for about a week now, and realize that if it has not happened extensively already, there is great potential for individuals with PD to be discriminated against in any number of circumstances, (employment, access to government services and programs, (especially local ones), problems in public accommodations such as restaurants, theatres, malls, medical facilities --almost anything you can think of). I am a disability consultant with more than 25 years experiences in management, consultation, clinical work, training and regulations for the civil rights of people with disabilities. My firm addresses all issues from a cross-disability perspective, along with integrating state-of-the-art technology, whenever it can be useful. While we work with diverse regulations, I think that those with PD are most likely to be confronted with violations of the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990), about which I have received extensive, Federally sponsored training. If you think you or someone you know is being discriminated against, feel welcome to e-mail me with a "simple" question at: [log in to unmask] Basic information is provided PRO BONO. Anything you wish to be confidential will remain that way. Should your situation require substantial technical assistance from one or more experts from our team, I will advise you accordingly. If you are in an area where there are a number of people with PD or other disabilities who might be interested, we present workshops and seminars about your rights as a person with a disability. Our workshops can also be oriented to government services or employers, with information and materials about their responsibilities to you. Or workshops can target diverse entities within the whole spectrum - PWDs, employers, architects, attorneys, medical practitioners, landlords, contractors, etc. Workshops will be held at sites which are architecturally and programmatically accessible, and documents are available in alternate format upon request. Similarly, arrangements for qualified sign language interpreters and professionals from other disciplines can be made if requested. We also have specialists in assistive technology, including adapting computers, home and workplace modifications. Fees for extensive technical assistacne, site reviews, and workshops are determined individually in order to meet the needs of the specific individual or audience, geographical location, etc. It is obvious from the more than 300 Listserv communications I have seen in less than 5 days that the main concern of people with PD is symptomatic treatment. While I certainly understand why, I am surprised that equal access, accommodations, and disability awareness also have not been a problem, as with so many other special interest disablity groups. However, if we can be of assistance in the areas I have mentioned, please feel welcome to contact me at: [log in to unmask] In turn, I will reply to your personal address, so please be sure to include it. PS In case you wish to know, one of my parents has PD; I, and many of the professionals who do technical assistance and training with me, also have one or more disabilities. ---------------------------------------- Gale R. Gross Director Disabilities Organizational Development Services Columbus, Ohio [log in to unmask] ---------------------------------------- Gale R. Gross Director Disabilities Organizational Development Services Columbus, Ohio