Panelists offer their personal and professional lessons learned in a discussion of what healthy independence looks like in families with disabilities, including: the importance of helping each person grow more independent, with attention to their unique gifts and developmental trajectory, advice for keeping expectations for independence realistic and hopeful, and suggestions for practical communication and physical supports.

Moderator: Presvytera Melanie DiStefano -Resource Developer for the GOA Center for Family Care

Panelist: Summer Kinard, M.Div., Th.M., - Autistic Orthodox Christian author

Panelist: Annie V. Konidaris - Co-author of the book and CD “Sing Along with Thea Annie"

Panelist: Presvytera Nikoletta Livingston - Occupational Therapist