Ability Radio

Voting Accessibility and Engagement in the Virgin Islands - Episode 43 with Guest Carolyn Fawkes, Supervisor of Elections

As the upcoming election day on November 5th approaches, we are pleased to have Caroline Fawkes, the Supervisor of Elections, as our guest to discuss essential voting information. Caroline shares updates on voting centers across St. Thomas, St. John, and St. Croix, emphasizing the new accessibility features and the importance of early voting.

In this previously recorded episode, we discuss the absentee ballot process, early voting opportunities, and accessibility measures to ensure that individuals with disabilities can participate seamlessly. Caroline highlights the voting equipment designed to assist disabled voters, underscoring the significance of ADA compliance in voting centers.

We also explore the importance of engaging younger voters and the roles of different elected positions, such as the Board of Education and the Constitutional Convention. Caroline emphasizes the power of every vote and encourages listeners to participate actively in shaping the future of the Virgin Islands.

Join us as we discuss the qualifications for voting, the significance of various elected roles, and the resources available for voters to stay informed. Don't miss this informative episode as we encourage everyone, especially individuals with disabilities, to exercise their right to vote.

Exploring Audre Lorde's Legacy and Impact - Episode 44 with Guest, Dr. Alexis Pauline Gumbs, Author of "Survival is a Promise: The Eternal Life of Audre Lorde"

In this captivating episode of Ability Radio, host Amelia Headley-Lamont from the Disability Rights Center of the Virgin Islands welcomes a special guest, Dr. Alexis Pauline Gumbs. Dr. Gumbs, a renowned author and self-proclaimed queer black feminist love evangelist, discusses her latest work, "Survival is a Promise: The Eternal Life of Audre Lorde."

The conversation delves into Dr. Gumbs' unique perspective as an "aspirational cousin to all life," emphasizing the interconnectedness of all beings. She shares insights into her writing process, inspired by the multifaceted life of Audre Lorde, a literary icon known for her profound exploration of diverse life forms, from marine life to outer space.

Listeners will be intrigued by stories of Audre Lorde's life, her influence on Dr. Gumbs, and her enduring legacy. The episode highlights Lorde's journey of self-preservation, activism, and her vibrant life in St. Croix, where she became an integral part of the community.

Join us for an enlightening discussion that celebrates the profound impact of Audre Lorde's work and the ways in which Dr. Gumbs continues to honor her legacy through her writings and advocacy.

Navigating Healthy Gaming and Related Insights on ADHD and Autism - Episode 42 with Guest Dr. Alok Kanoja, author of "How to Raise a Healthy Gamer"

In this episode, host Kishma B. Francis dives into the topic of healthy gaming with special guest Dr. Alok Kanojia, a psychiatrist and founder of Healthy Gamer.

Dr. Kanojia, a recovering video game addict, shares his insights on how gaming can become an addiction and offers valuable advice on how parents and teachers can help children develop a balanced relationship with video games. He discusses the impact of gaming on individuals with ADHD and autism and highlights the importance of understanding the underlying reasons behind excessive gaming.

Throughout the conversation, Dr. Kanojia emphasizes the significance of communication between parents and children, the benefits of gaming, and how to foster self-regulation in kids. He also provides a glimpse into his book, "How to Raise a Healthy Gamer," which offers practical steps for parents to manage their child's gaming habits effectively.

Join us for an enlightening discussion on creating a healthy gaming environment and nurturing a positive relationship with technology.

Suicide Prevention and Building Bridges for Veterans' Health: A Community Approach - Episode 41 with Guest Caribel Leyva-Romero

Welcome to "Ability Radio," hosted by Angus Drigo and brought to you by the Disability Rights Center of the Virgin Islands. In this episode, we sit down with Ms. Caribel Leyva-Romero, Community Engagement Program Coordinator for the Veterans Health Administration. Together, they discuss the importance of suicide prevention and the broader healthcare needs of veterans in the Virgin Islands.

Ms. Romero shares insights into the structure of the Veterans Administration and her role in creating community coalitions aimed at improving veterans' access to services. She highlights the collaborative efforts between local organizations, families, and the VA to address gaps in care and support systems for veterans.

Tune in to learn more about how you can get involved in these crucial initiatives and help make a difference in the lives of veterans in your community.

The Impact of the Mobile Integrated Healthcare Team: Episode 40 with Guest Jacqueline Greenidge-Payne

Join host Kishma B. Francis on Ability Radio, presented by the Disability Rights Center of the Virgin Islands, as she delves into part two of an insightful conversation about the Mobile Integrated Healthcare (MIH) community program. This episode features Jacqueline Greenidge-Payne, the 2024 Vanguard Award recipient and Director for the State Office of Emergency Medical Services, nurse practitioner Kami Mead, and advocate Dawn O'Brien.

Discover the incredible work of the MIH team, a dedicated group of four professionals who go above and beyond to provide essential healthcare services to those in need. Hear heartwarming success stories, learn about their challenges, and find out how to get involved as a volunteer or donor to support their mission.

Please tune in to understand how this program is making a difference in the lives of patients and their families and why community support and awareness are crucial for its continued success.

From Caregiving to Trailblazing: The Heart of Mobile Integrated Healthcare - Episode 39 with Guests Jacqueline Greenidge-Payne, Kami Mead, and Dawn O'Bryan

Welcome to a special episode of Ability Radio, brought to you by the Disability Rights Center of the Virgin Islands. Join host Kishma B. Francis as she sits down with three extraordinary women: Jacqueline Greenidge-Payne, Kami Mead, and Dawn O'Bryan, to discuss the impactful Mobile Integrated Healthcare (MIH) program.

Jacqueline Greenidge-Payne, the Director of the State Office of Emergency Medical Services and a Vanguard Award recipient, shares her inspiring journey from a nurse to a paramedic, highlighting her exceptional 35 years of service. Kami Mead, a dedicated nurse practitioner with over 25 years of experience, and Dawn O'Brien, an advocate with the Disability Rights Center, also share their experiences and roles within the MIH program.

The conversation delves into the inception of MIH post-Hurricane Maria in 2017, its mission to provide holistic healthcare services to the community, and the extraordinary lengths the team goes to ensure the well-being of their patients. From medical care to home safety and even yard maintenance, the MIH team truly exemplifies community care.

Learn about the critical support from organizations like Pafford EMS and the community health clinic and discover the future aspirations for expanding this state-of-the-art program. Don't miss out on this heartwarming and informative discussion!

For more information, visit the Disability Rights Center of the Virgin Islands on their YouTube channel or at www.drcvi.org.

Understanding Hygiene and Health: Episode 38 - Insights from Dr. Trisha Harris

Welcome to this episode of Ability Radio, brought to you by the Disability Rights Center of the Virgin Islands. Join hosts Kishma B. Francis and guest Dr. Trisha Harris as they delve into the crucial topic of hygiene and its various aspects.

Dr. Harris, a medical provider serving St. Croix and St. Thomas, provides a comprehensive overview of personal, environmental, and sleep hygiene. Learn the importance of proper hand washing, dental care, and maintaining a healthy routine to ensure overall well-being.

Discover the connections between hygiene, nutrition, and mental health, and gain valuable tips on creating a bedtime routine, managing stress, and improving sleep hygiene. Dr. Harris also emphasizes the significance of addressing mental health openly and seeking professional help when needed.

Tune in for practical advice and insights to help you enhance your hygiene practices and improve your health. For more information, contact the St. Thomas East End Medical Clinic or Frederikstead Healthcare Center in St. Croix.

Elections Unveiled: Insights from the Virgin Islands Board of Elections: Episode 37 with Alecia Wells

Join Amelia Hedley-Lamont from the Disability Rights Center of the Virgin Islands as she hosts Alecia Wells, Chairwoman of the Virgin Islands Board of Elections. This episode of Ability Radio dives into the critical role of the Board of Elections, the voting process, and exciting changes aimed at making voting more accessible and engaging for everyone.

Learn about the structure of the Board, the importance of voter registration, and the various ways voters, including those incarcerated, can cast their ballots. Ms. Wells also shares her vision for the future of voting, including the potential for voting via mobile devices, and highlights upcoming voting expos designed to educate and energize the electorate.

Don't miss this enlightening discussion on the intricacies of the election system and the efforts to enhance voter participation in the Virgin Islands.