Just outta curosity what exceptions would you make for a cadet with Cerebal Palsy.. No mental issues, just trouble with the left arm and left leg. has to wear a leg brace?
Whatever he can do, he does.
No big deal. I've seen cadets in wheelchairs, blind, deaf... Whatever he needs to succeed and be a part of the program and most importantly, have fun.
I'm sure there's a reg that covers this stuff, but to me it's a no brainer.
There may be obvious limitations like not being able to go on ground searches.
would you make him radio coms?
Quote from: Daniel L on February 23, 2009, 04:00:13 AM
would you make him radio coms?
I wouldn't
make him do anything. If he wanted to do comms and met the qualifications, sure. Why not? All you need is a hand and voice.
http://members.gocivilairpatrol.com/news/cap_news_online/index.cfm/minn_member_overcomes_disability_to_serve_succeed_5047
Enough said.
No exceptions. Except for CPFT.
I would have them participate as fully as possible, and not treat them "special". A good majority of those with disabilities don't want any special treatment especially where it can be avoided.
Quote from: IceNine on February 23, 2009, 04:41:29 AM
No exceptions. Except for CPFT.
I would have them participate as fully as possible, and not treat them "special". A good majority of those with disabilities don't want any special treatment especially where it can be avoided.
I don't really think you mean that.
"No expections"....why give them a pass for PT and not one for marching?
I wouldn't give them an automatic pass on marching. First thing would be to see how they do. Then, if necessary, give them a pass on marching. CPFT has exceptions built in. What I have done is have the cadet's doctor tell us in writing what their limitations are. If the cadet wants to attempt the CPFT even if they are excepted, let them.
I've known several disabled people in CAP; wheelchair bound, blind, chronologically advanced, etc. All of them were happy to find a organization that would accept them as they are and treat them with respect. None wanted any special treatment (unless absolutely necessary). All gave a great deal back to CAP, and have been great assets to our organization. A side benefit is that they provide inspiration to others.
I'd recommend any commanders that have a disabled person join, sit down with the person and find out what they would like to do, what background they have that will help CAP, and what challenges they foresee, along with what you can do to help them reach their goals.
Actually... you commanders should already be doing this with every new/prospective member. Even "normal" people have challenges (work, family, education, time, etc.) that you should identify early to make sure where to best place this person in your unit so we can all help each other best.
I'm always happy to have anyone join that's willing to dedicate part of themselves to the group.
I think that people with disabilities that join our organization bring a lot to the table. In another thread, I mentioned that we had a cadet go to encampment that was partially retarded and epileptic. Not only did the experience give him a huge boost, but he served as a motivator to the 'normal' cadets who were just spoiled and took everything for granted. He even went down the rappel tower.
I've served with people who are deaf, blind, wheel-chair bound, mute, burned, diseased, and just generally sick and they have all made great contributions to our organization.
While they might not be able to do everything, I'm sure you'll find that the majority don't use their disability as a crutch. They typically teach me a few things about perseverance, determination and personal achievement.
I'll accept anyone that is willing to do their best to do whatever they can to help.
Quote from: PlaneFlyr on February 23, 2009, 02:26:01 PM
chronologically advanced,
And another unnecessary euphemism rears its ugly head...
But accurately descriptive! ;D
Quote from: lordmonar on February 23, 2009, 05:31:10 AM
Quote from: IceNine on February 23, 2009, 04:41:29 AM
No exceptions. Except for CPFT.
I would have them participate as fully as possible, and not treat them "special". A good majority of those with disabilities don't want any special treatment especially where it can be avoided.
I don't really think you mean that.
"No expections"....why give them a pass for PT and not one for marching?
Sure I do. It's not my place as a commander to make exceptions simply because I see that a cadet has some disability. The way I take the OP is that the unit is attempting you pre-plan the level of activity that the cadet can handle which is in no way our place.
The cadet/parents will tell you what exceptions are necessary, I would never tell a cadet what they are incapable of.